Mercedes' Solar Paint Might Extend EVs' Range by Thousands of Miles Annually | Carscoops

      The electric cars of tomorrow may be quieter, safer, and more efficient.

      April 23, 2025, at 20:38

      By Michael Gauthier

      Mercedes is developing a solar ‘paint’ that could provide electric vehicles with thousands of miles of range each year.

      Under optimal conditions, this could amount to approximately 24 miles per day, thereby reducing the frequency of recharges.

      The company is also pursuing various projects aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of future vehicles.

      Electric vehicles have made considerable progress, yet there are still substantial challenges to address. One of the primary issues is the recharging process, and Mercedes is working on an innovative solution to tackle it. Referred to as “solar paintwork,” the company is investigating new kinds of solar modules that could be seamlessly integrated into the bodies of electric vehicles.

      These initiatives could ultimately lead to the creation of a thin layer of paint that generates enough electricity to cover over 8,699 miles (14,000 km) annually.

      Although this is a significant development, the figures are based on “ideal conditions” in Beijing. It’s also important to note that this translates to less than 24 miles (39 km) per day, which likely means it wouldn't completely eliminate the need for conventional recharging.

      Nonetheless, the idea of obtaining a charge simply by parking outside is quite appealing, prompting many companies to explore this possibility. In the case of Mercedes, they are investigating an active photovoltaic surface featuring solar cells with a 20 percent efficiency rating.

      In addition to this, Mercedes is developing a programmable micro-converter that can be installed at the battery-cell level. This technology would enable individual cell regulation, enhancing electric vehicle performance.

      The automaker described, “Current research indicates it is feasible to provide a stable high-voltage (HV) output of 800 volts, regardless of the charge level and health of the individual cells.” This advancement could lead to extended ranges, improved energy flow for bidirectional charging, and new opportunities for modularization.

      Moreover, brakes are also being reimagined, as the company is investigating an “innovative, more sustainable brake” that is integrated into a closed motor-transmission unit instead of being located at the wheel.

      Details were scarce, but the automaker noted that the new brake “hardly wears out and is virtually maintenance-free.” This configuration also resists rust, does not emit particulate matter, and does not fade under heavy loads. It promises to be quieter and beneficial for both range and efficiency.

      Finally, Mercedes is collaborating with the University of Waterloo in Canada on neuromorphic computing, which emulates human thinking and could make artificial intelligence computations significantly faster and more energy-efficient.

      Mercedes is particularly interested because this technology could enhance safety systems, enabling them to better recognize traffic signs, lanes, and other road users, and to respond more quickly even in low visibility. These efforts could also increase efficiency by as much as tenfold.