How Do Solar Cars Work

The technology that is used to develop and build automobiles continues to evolve at a rapid pace

. Just think about the advancements that have occurred over the last few decades. Cars and trucks have come a long way and continue to evolve to the point where much of a vehicles operations are automated and have sensors to help us drive as efficiently as possible.

It is this technology that has led to the rise of solar cars. They are no longer just a pipe dream. Solar car technology has been realized. However, just like many other car enthusiasts and consumers alike, you may be wondering just how these cars work.

Solar Car basics

With a growing concern for the environment and the level of emissions that are omitted into the air through car exhausts, solar cars have become a viable option for those who prefer cars with a more environmentally friendly design.

Operating very different from a combustion engine, solar cars operate more like solar panels, which is their main source of power and energy. Compared to other cars, they are much lighter and more aerodynamically designed.

The following are the main design elements that make up solar cars designs:

Power source: The power that is used to operate a solar car comes from the sun. In particular, sunlight is comprised of particles called photons. This energy is collected from solar panels that are on the vehicle. When photons make contact with the solar panels on the car they provide energy for the electrons that are in the solar panels.

Powering the motor: The energy collected by the solar panels is either sent to the motor to be used or it can also be stored in the cars battery to be used when needed. Solar cars can also be charged through an electrical outlet if necessary. So, when the car is in operation, an electric current is used to supply energy to the motor. When the car is not in use, the electric current is redirected to the battery. In most cases the battery is lithium ion.

The key component: Outside of the solar panels, the core component of solar cars is the photovoltaic array. This is what converts the solar power from the sun into electricity that will be used by the motor. These photovoltaic cells can be made from materials such as mono-crystalline and poly-crystalline.

The Car design: Since weight will have a large impact on the functioning of a solar car, they come with lighter design elements such as a lighter chassis and frame. Also, rather than using larger and bulkier solar panels, smaller solar cells are used. Solar cars also do not have a transmission like regular cars. Instead, they have a motor controller and power tracker, which convert the power and manage the electric current that runs through the motor.

Charging: The car battery can be charged in two ways. It can be charges through the solar panels, which takes about one day, or through an electrical outlet in about 3 hours.

Interested in learning more about vehicles, car maintenance or just looking for Ontario auto insurance quotes? Visit InsuranceHunter.ca!

by: Insurance Hunter

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