Hyundai launches new Sonata, first car with a solar roof

Hyundai has unveiled a new version of its Sonata hybrid car, with solar panels on the roof that allow it to charge the battery even while driving.

Hyundai first started with hybrids back in 2009, and today they have more than half a dozen hybrid and electric vehicles on offer. The next step is to add solar technology. Keep in mind that this is not a fully solar-powered car, but the all-new Sonata Hybrid has an integrated solar panel on its roof.

According to Hyundai, a solar panel can charge 30 to 60% of a car’s battery in one day. Hyundai also estimates that the plate is capable of adding an additional 1,300 km range during the year with 6 hours of daily charging.

Although the first generation solar roof is not a major change, it will still provide a nice boost to the already solid 40 / 46MPG Sonata Hybrid. Perhaps more importantly, it will help to further reduce car emissions. Nature will be grateful to them.

“Solar roof technology is a good example of how Hyundai Motor is moving toward providing clean mobility. Technology enables our customers to actively deal with emissions issues,” said Heui Won Yang, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Motor Group Bodywork. future, Hyundai says the solar roof “opens up perspectives for vehicles that no longer need fossil fuel.”

The Sonata has gone on sale to Korea, with plans to expand to North America soon, but other markets will not see this model in retail outlets. ; you will expect to see other Hyundai hybrids and EVs adding solar roofs in the coming years.

Hyundai is not the only car maker turning to the sun to increase range. Toyota recently re-introduced the roof panels as an option on the Prius Prime.

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