Sono Solar brings solar modules for cars to market

Solar modules for cars instead of cars with solar modules: The Munich-based company Sono Solar is launching a product line of solar modules for the automotive industry, according to its own statements.

Sono Solar is launching “practice-proven solar modules perfectly tailored to the requirements of the automotive industry onto the market.” The company has been “developing solar solutions for the automotive industry since 2016” and aims to position itself as a module supplier, Sono Solar announced.

The solar modules are made of a polymer. They are semi-flexible, lightweight, and frameless. Sono Solar offers them in various sizes. In addition to the modules, the solution also includes the necessary control technology.

The solar systems are designed for different vehicle categories, primarily for commercial vehicles such as vans, trucks, refrigerated vehicles, and buses. Sono Solar also lists motorhomes.

Special test program for vehicles

Solar modules on vehicles are exposed to high stresses. Therefore, intensive tests are necessary regarding performance, safety, and reliability, said Sono Solar CEO Jan Schiermeister. “To ensure maximum durability, performance, and consistently high quality, Sono Solar's team of experts has developed a demanding and probably unique qualification program in the industry.”

Sono Solar emerged from the start-up Sono Motors, founded in 2016, which developed the solar car Sion, an electric car with solar modules integrated into its bodywork intended to charge the batteries. By 2019, the vehicle was largely ready for series production.

But then the company ran into financial difficulties and had to declare insolvency in 2023 after several rescue attempts via crowdfunding. Since then, it has specialized in solar technology that is integrated into vehicles. Last summer, it was renamed Sono Solar.

(wpl)