Former Saab Factory to Make First Production Solar Car

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

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17th April 2019

The first production version of a solar power EV will be constructed in the former Swedish factory of the now defunct Saab brand.

The Trollhättan production plant run by the National Electric Vehicle Sweden (NEVS) has been chosen by German innovator Sono Motors as the base for its Sion solar powered vehicle aimed at the urban car-sharing market. The vehicle will be equipped with integrated sharing options allowing owners to share the vehicle itself, individual journeys, or even energy through a smartphone app.

A bidirectional charging function enables the Sion to both receive and supply electricity, power electrical devices independently and feed energy to other vehicles or into the electricity grid. Using the vehicle’s full-surface array of solar panels, it can be charged with enough energy for a range of up to 21 miles per day in addition to its regular WLTP range of 158 miles.

For its market launch, the Sion will be rolled out in one single variant version costing €25,500 ($28,800). Thomas Hausch, chief operating officer of Sono Motors, said: “In NEVS, we found the perfect partner for us. Together, we share a vision of intelligent and resource-conserving mobility. We also value our partner’s specific expertise based on their many years of experience in traditional automobile development and production in combination with proven expertise in the area of electromobility.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_