Nissan Transforms Sunlight into Complimentary Miles with Its Intelligent EV Enhancement | Carscoops

      The Ao-Solar Extender features two panels that can potentially deliver nearly 2,000 miles of range each year.

      Nissan will present the Ao-Solar Extender at the Japan Mobility Show.

      The dual solar panels can generate as much as 500 watts of eco-friendly energy.

      It adds approximately 1,864 miles of driving range to Sakura electric vehicles annually.

      Several automakers and suppliers have explored the concept of utilizing solar panels to charge electric vehicles. This concept is logical since cars are often parked outdoors, providing ample opportunity for solar charging.

      Nissan aligns with this idea and will showcase a Sakura EV equipped with an Ao-Solar Extender at the Japan Mobility Show. The device consists of a roof-mounted box on which a 300W solar panel is positioned.

      The standout feature is an extendable section that unfolds from the front to reveal an additional 200W panel when the vehicle is parked.

      This allows users to easily deploy the panel upon arrival at their office and retract it when it's time to head home.

      Although the effectiveness of the Ao-Solar Extender might differ based on location and weather, the company estimates that owners could harness enough solar energy to drive 1,864 miles (3,000 km) within a year.

      While this may not seem substantial, considering the average American drives less than 40 miles (64 km) daily, this could equate to over a month and a half of range sourced from sunlight alone.

      Nissan conducted research on Sakura drivers and discovered that many customers make short trips. For some users, the Ao-Solar Extender could "virtually eliminate" the requirement for external charging.

      This is quite impressive, and Nissan highlighted that when the panel is deployed, it serves as a sunshade, helping to keep the Sakura's interior cool and thereby reducing air conditioning power consumption upon return.

      In a true Japanese spirit, Nissan has added another layer of functionality, enabling the Ao-Solar Extender to serve as a backup power source in emergencies.