Solar-Powered Cars Might Finally Be Real
With the advent of EVs, the idea of running partly on solar power has been around for decades. There have been prototypes, concept cars, and even a few small-scale projects, but no major automaker has ever fully committed to putting one into production. There have been many challenges, but that hasn’t stopped Nissan from taking another shot at it.
At the center of this renewed attempt is the Nissan Sakura EV prototype, fitted with what the company calls the Ao-Solar Extender. It’s a roof-mounted solar charging system that can top up the battery using sunlight alone. Nissan says it’s designed to reduce reliance on charging infrastructure – something that could matter a lot for urban EV owners who mostly drive short distances. On paper, the setup can generate enough solar electricity for about 1,864 miles of driving each year.
Nissan
A Familiar Kei EV With a New Energy Trick
The Sakura EV isn’t new to Japan. Since 2022, it’s been the country’s best-selling electric vehicle, praised for its small size, smooth performance, and everyday usability. The standard version already offers up to 112 miles of range per charge (based on the WLTC cycle) and can even power household devices during emergencies.
With the Ao-Solar Extender, the Sakura gets more than just a design tweak. The fixed solar panel on the roof captures energy while driving, and when parked, another panel extends outward over the windshield, increasing output to around 500 Watts. The expanded panel also doubles as a sunshade, helping cool the cabin and reducing air-conditioning use. The setup, according to Nissan, is aerodynamically integrated, so it doesn’t add noticeable drag. The weird design is very noticeable, though.
Nissan
A Glimpse of What’s Next
Nissan says the Ao-Solar Extender started as an internal idea contest project back in 2021. The concept has since matured into a working prototype and will make its public debut at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show under the event’s “City Life” zone.
Nissan hasn’t confirmed if and when the solar-powered Sakura will reach production – only that it’s part of its Re:Nissan strategy. If the concept receives the green light, the Sakura could become the first mainstream EV that doesn’t need plugging in – at least for short trips.
Nissan
