Solar-powered EVs edge closer to reality
According to a report published by The Wall Street Journal, solar-powered electric vehicles (EVs) are transitioning from concept to commercial reality, with startups claiming that a daily driving range harvested directly from sunlight could soon cover typical commutes.
The report also highlights Aptera Motors’, a US-based electric-focused automotive startup, plans to ship a highly efficient, solar-assisted EV as early as 2026, alongside add-on solar systems for other cars and compact electric trucks from makers like Telo Trucks.
What the new tech promises
- Daily range from the sun: Aptera’s upcoming three-wheeled EV integrates approximately 700W of onboard solar power, claiming 24–48 Km of solar range per day in sunny conditions. WSJ also states that the company aims to sell its curved, automotive-grade panels to other manufacturers.
- Aftermarket options: U.S. startup DartSolar plans roof-rack kits (roughly 500–2,000W) that could add approximately 16–48 km/day to common EVs when parked in the sun.
- Small trucks with panels: Telo Trucks Company says integrated panels could add approximately 16–48 Km/day to its compact electric pickup.
Why this matters for Pakistan
Pakistan sits in a high solar resource belt; large parts of the country receive strong year-round solar irradiation, making solar integration on vehicles and parked-car add-ons especially promising for daily top-ups.
At the policy level, the Federal National Electric Vehicle Policy aims to achieve 30% of new vehicle sales to be electric by 2030 and 90% by 2040, providing a supportive long-term signal for EV technologies that reduce grid dependence.
Incentives already include low GST on EV categories, which have helped kick-start local electrification in four-wheelers.
What’s next
The startups behind these systems are still ramping up to the US market, with the first models and accessories expected in 2026.
For Pakistan, the key questions will be cost, durability in local conditions (heat, dust, hail), and certification, plus whether customs/tax rules for EV parts will encourage local assembly of solar body panels and power electronics.
If costs fall and policies remain in place, solar-assisted EVs could become a pragmatic bridge technology, cutting fuel and electricity bills and charging anxiety for everyday driving in a sun-rich market.