Mercedes develops 'Solar Paint' tech to charge EVs on the go

Once launched, the tech will reportedly be as durable as regular paint.

According to reports, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new 'Solar Paint' technology. The report claims that the new solar paint tech could be introduced on production models within 5 to 10 years.

The latest version of the tech was recently unveiled in Germany after being first experimented with on the 2022 Mercedes Vision EQXX Concept. The carmaker initially thought the tech had limited scope until the experiments seemed to prove otherwise. Scientists reportedly hardwired the body panels to the EQXX Concept's high-voltage battery, resulting in the paint's performance being well beyond the brand's expectations.

Reports state that over a period of 12 months, the solar paint provided enough energy to cover an average of 32 km daily in Stuttgart, Germany. This average range further increased in the summer months. A second trial in Los Angeles, USA, had the car averaging 47 km of range thanks to the solar paint.

Mercedes states that though the 'Solar Paint' will be available in all colours, an engineer did admit it works best in darker shades. Once launched, the tech will reportedly be as durable as regular paint, since the photovoltaic surface is protected by at least two layers of lacquer finishes.

Source: EVCentral