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Solar Prius on the way?

Discussion in 'Prius, Hybrid, EV and Alt-Fuel News' started by clett, May 17, 2006.

  1. clett

    clett New Member

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    Toyota have just announced that they are developing dye-sensitized (ie not silicon) solar cells for use on cars and homes.

    http://www.greencarcongress.com/2006/05/ai...i_and.html#more

    They can be any colour, so could be mounted all over the car. Graetzel cells are also 60% cheaper than silicon cells but still reach 12% efficiency in sunlight.

    Could recharge the batteries of a PHEV Prius very nicely indeed - up to 4 kWh per day I reckon, which would be enough for 16-20 miles EV range per day from solar alone.

    They intend to have a practical version in use in 4-5 years time.
     
    #1 clett, May 17, 2006
  2. TonyPSchaefer

    TonyPSchaefer Your Friendly Moderator
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    This technology would be great to have on many levels. If painting my house turned it into a huge solar collector you'd better believe I'd do it. Just not hot pink.
     
    #2 TonyPSchaefer, May 17, 2006
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