Solar Vehicle Market Size - By Vehicle, By Electric Vehicle, By Battery, By Solar Panel, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Solar Vehicle Market Size

The global solar vehicle market was valued at USD 450 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.7% between 2025 and 2034. The adoption of solar vehicles is being driven by government initiatives promoting clean energy and carbon neutrality, as well as investment into ‘green’ infrastructure and renewable energy. There has also been an ecosystem development for solar-powered transportation from the creation of clean mobility corridors, solar charging stations, and zero-emission zones.
 

The viability of solar vehicles has been furthered with the construction of solar-integrated roadways and smart city projects that allow for continuous energy harvesting and better energy management. Other supporting moves include sustainable urban mobility plans and legally mandated solar energy usage for fleet operators which provide passive adoption incentives while ensuring the solar powered, low-emission, energy efficient transportation solutions vital for future needs are readily available.
 

In September 2022, the German government provided support for the launch of Sono Motors’ Sion solar electric vehicle aimed at providing affordable, urban-use solar-powered mobility. The project also received support in line with EU climate objectives as part of a plan to encourage decarbonization of the transport sector and the use of renewables in transport infrastructure, thereby demonstrating government support for the promotion of solar vehicles.
 

The development of the solar vehicle market is primarily attributed to the global movements for adopting sustainable mobility solutions and decarbonization. With the emergence of new solar-powered vehicles, the incorporation of solar power into transportation aspires to hit net zero goals sought out by industries and governments. Solar cars provide a renewable source of energy since it reduces dependency on electricity from the grid as well as fossil fuels. Charging solar powered electric vehicles (EVs) can be done whilst driving, notably during fleet operations, peak conservation fuel periods, and cost reduction in operational expenditure.
 

The landmark achievement endeavor was in July 2023 when Aptera Motors unveiled its production-intent solar electric vehicle in the U.S., which can travel an additional 40 miles in a day using solar energy. The accomplishment further demonstrates the viability of solar-integrated transportation, particularly for commuters and fleet users as the surge in demand for energy-independent, zero-emission mobility solutions continues.
 

Solar Vehicle Market Trends

• Electric vehicle manufacturers have added solar panels to cars to improve driving range and auxiliary solar power charging. In 2020, Hyundai was the first to integrate a solar powered roof on a car with the Hybrid Sonata that had the potential to enhance range by roughly 2 miles a day. This move was a clear indication that conventional automakers are trying to experiment with solar power.
   
• In May 2023, the adoption of solar powered delivery vans for fleet operators by Scania and other associated logistics companies was started by Sono Motors for trials with the goal of decreasing fuel expenses and achieving emission targets by reducing energy consumption and emissions during last-mile delivery.
   
• Solar mobility technologies are supported by integrated energy networks, other smart city projects include solar-powered EV charging hubs. In February 2023 the city of Amsterdam added solar powered EV charging hubs across the city to their urban sustainability objectives which enhances the environment for solar powered cars while lessening dependency on the grid.
   

Solar Vehicle Market Analysis

Based on vehicle, the solar vehicle market is divided into passenger vehicles, and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger vehicles segment dominated the market accounting for around 85% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 12.6% during the forecast period.
 

• The solar vehicle market is largely impacted by the integrating passenger vehicles sector owing to heightened consumer interest towards purchasing solar-powered cars that aid in personal sustainable transportation. These cars have solar panels which helps in self-charging, decreasing the need for external power and lowering emissions.
   
• Consumers alongside manufacturers are shifting to solar-powered passenger car alternatives to align with solar energy policies and reduce energy costs in the long run. These cars are perfect for city commutes and intra-urban travel, enabling zero emission travel while managing the energy capacity concerns and grid load issues.
   
• For example, in January 2023, Lightyear began production of the Lightyear 0, the world’s first long-range solar electric car, designed for everyday passenger use. With integrated solar panels capable of delivering up to 70 kilometers of range per day in optimal conditions, it marked a significant milestone in mainstreaming solar-powered mobility in the passenger segment.
   

Based on electric vehicle, the solar vehicle market is segmented into battery electric vehicle and hybrid electric vehicle. In 2024, the battery electric vehicle segment dominates the market with 73% of market share and the segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 13% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment has the biggest share in the solar vehicle market because of its ability to interface with solar technologies and BEV's capability to store and use harvested solar energy effectively. Solar panels can be integrated with batteries on BEVs which makes the system stable and enhances the vehicle's range while reducing the vehicle's dependency on charging.
   
• Solar powered BEVs are clean, grid-free modes of transport, which makes them appealing to eco-friendly citizens and fleet managers. These vehicles become more attractive in areas of high endemic solar irradiance where they can partially recharge through sunlight, greatly reducing electricity consumption and operational costs.
   
• For instance, in June 2023, Aptera Motors unveiled its three-wheeled solar BEV designed to run up to 1,000 miles per charge with the ability to add up to 40 miles of solar-powered range daily. This highlighted the strong synergy between BEVs and solar tech, enabling long-range, ultra-efficient electric travel in the personal mobility segment.
   

Based on battery, the solar vehicle market is segmented into lithium-ion, lead-acid, and lead carbon. Lithium-ion expected to dominate due to their superior energy density, efficiency, and longer lifespan compared to other battery types.
 

• Solar power integrated mobility is enabled by the lithium-ion battery's pertaining to characteristics energy dense capacity, quick charging, and higher life cycle performance which is driving its adoption across the solar vehicle industry. These batteries provide longer driving ranges, better energy storage from solar panels, and aid advanced vehicle management systems in electric mobility ecosystems.
   
• The primary technology prolifically used by OEM and mass market electric vehicle manufacturers is lithium-ion technology due to its unparalleled operational dependability, volumetric power efficiency, and long-term cost efficiency. It is further supported by the innovation of battery chemistries like LFP and NMC, reduced battery prices, and significant funding into giga-scale factories and battery recycling facilities.
   
• In addition, the increasing convergence of smart energy management systems and solar charging technologies with lithium-ion batteries enhances energy predictability, prolongs battery life, supports stand-alone grid-independent operation, and meets environmental and performance standards set by modern EVs.
   

In 2024, China in Asia Pacific dominated the solar vehicle market with around 48% market share and generated around USD 90.9 million.
 

• The solar vehicle market in the Asia Pacific region is spearheaded by China due to its pronounced renewable energy policies, strong base in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, and investments in solar technology. Its commitment to a green economy and mobility has resulted in mass production and adoption of solar integrated electric vehicles at both passenger and commercial scales. 
   
• The market growth is bolstered by national policies such as the increased focus China 2025 initiative, Subsidies for clean energy vehicles, and the infrastructural deployment solar ports including solar charging ports, smart energy grids and advanced metering systems. Further, partnerships between automotive manufacturers and solar technology firms have resulted in strides regarding solar-EV integration and optimization of batteries performance. 
   
• In August 2023, BYD in conjunction with Hanergy brought forward prototypes of EVs for urban transport and delivery fleets integrated with solar power for charging, which is a testament of China’s efforts toward the popularization of solar powered mobility. This further emphasizes the innovation and industrial leadership of China in clean automotive technology and its dominating influence in the solar powered appliances vehicle subsector in the Asia pacific region.
   

The solar vehicle market in Germany is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Europe’s market in solar vehicles is led by Germany because of its historical automotive industry custom, developed renewable energy systems, and industry climate targets. The country’s clean mobility endeavor is facilitated by their policies on the integration of solar energy in transport as well as massive investments into R&D on electric vehicles and green technology start-ups.
   
• Germanys E-mobility shift is supported by the collaboration of the country’s automotive manufacturers like BMW and Volkswagen with VIPV specialized solar companies. The growth towards being self-sufficient in energy and less reliant on the grid has sped up the use of solar electric vehicles, particularly for use in static and last mile delivery urban mobility.
   
• A company based in Munich, Sono Motors, received a powerful grant from the state and the EU in October 2023 to accelerate the marketing of his electric car Sion which is meant for both personal and fleet use. Such actions, alongside the country’s energy transition policies under the Klimaschutzgesetz (Climate protection act), confirm the country’s place at the head of Europe’s race in the innovation of solar powered transport or mobility systems.
   

The solar vehicle market in the U.S. is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The United States leads the global solar vehicle market through a combination of cutting-edge clean energy research, thriving electric vehicle (EV) innovation, and strong federal and state-level support for decarbonization. With a focus on sustainability, energy independence, and innovation, the U.S. provides a fertile environment for the commercialization and adoption of solar-powered vehicles.
   
• Adoption is accelerating in both the consumer and commercial segments, particularly in sun-rich states like California, Arizona, and Texas. The integration of solar panels into EVs is being supported by initiatives for zero-emission transportation, clean energy tax credits, and investments in solar charging infrastructure—fueling the transition to off-grid mobility and energy-efficient transport systems.
   
• A good example is the California based Aptera Motors who, in July 2023, showcased its solar EV that boasts up to 40 miles of solar power fueled driving range per day. This serves as a testament to America’s leadership in the solar mobility tech blend, owing to the active startup culture, federal EV tax credits, renewables backed subsidies, and restable energy incentives making the US a leader in solar vehicles.
   

The solar vehicle market in UAE is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Early solar vehicle technology adoption in the UAE stems from the country's strong commitment on sustainability, transitions to clean energy, and moves toward net-zero emissions through Energy Strategy 2050. The UAE is actively promoting solar-integrated transportation towards its green mobility vision and has abundant solar resources alongside a future-focused outlook.
   
• Innovation in solar-powered transport, particularly for smart urban cities, is being driven by public and private sector collaborations focused on urban mobility and last-mile delivery. Incorporating solar vehicles into public transport infrastructure is aligned with the national objectives of emission reduction, oil dependency, and renewable energy usage.
   
• A significant strategic collaboration in the region is the alliance formed in 2023 between Dubai Expo City and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority with several universities for which construction autonomous solar-powered vehicles designed for transport within Expo City Dubai. This project epitomizes the leadership of the UAE over innovations seeking the integration of solar mobility into envisioned smart cities in the region.
   

Solar Vehicle Market Share

• The top 7 companies in the solar vehicle industry are Lightyear, Volkswagen, Rivian Automotive, Fisker Inc., Toyota Motor Corporation, Aptera, and Ford Motor Company who contribute around 33% of the market in 2024.
   
• Lightyear pioneered solar-integrated vehicle technology by developing exploitive designs with detachable high-efficiency solar arrays. Their light flagship vehicle, the Lightyear 0, alleviated commuting woes by enhancing solar solo vehicle light charge capability, hence considerably solar reducing the need for charging infrastructure reliance. In 2024, the Lightyear further advanced their market strategy with affordable solar EVs for urban areas, focusing on environmental sustainability and amplified range via solar harvesting.
   
• Through partnership and R&D efforts, Volkswagen is adding solar technology into the frameworks of its next-gen EV platforms. The company’s VIPV investment indicates that it is further trying its “Way to Zero” vision. In 2024, VW initiated pilot projects for installing solar panels on ID. series models to aid the battery range and support auxiliary systems, most notably in sunny regions.
   
• With the clean energy ecosystem for its off-road and adventure-focused EVs, Rivian Automotive is utilizing solar compatibility. The company’s solar-assisted charging modules for remote deployment came with its R1T and R1S models in 2024, furthering sustainable overland travel. The firm’s vertical integration with renewable energy and commitment to carbon neutrality drove it to be the first mover in solar-enabled electric mobility.
   

Solar Vehicle Market Companies

Major players operating in the solar vehicle industry are:

• Aptera
• Fiat Chrysler Automobiles
• Fisker
• Ford Motor Company
• Lightyear
• Rivian Automotive
• Sono Motors
• Toyota Motor Corporation
• Venturi Automobiles
• Volkswagen
   

As demand increases for solar vehicles, companies are prioritizing the development of sustainable solar mobility, energy-efficient solar, and range extenders through vehicle-integrated photovoltaics (VIPV). There is a surge in the usage of solar powered solutions in passenger, urban, and commercial transportation. OEMs are implementing fuel-efficient softball materials, modular frameworks for EVs, high-thrust solar cells, and lightweight materials to reduce grid reliance and fuel emissions. 
 

Firms are maximizing energy capture through solar enhanced smart design, aerodynamic streamlining, and AI-based route optimization. These changes include implementing regenerative braking and solar-optimized charging systems. New solar subscription plans, fleet electrification service models, and “solar-assisted” last-mile delivery are being introduced to increase ROI and reduce TCO for environmentally friendly consumers and logistics businesses.
 

Moreover, wireless solar charging with battery energy storage systems (BESS) integration offers new infrastructure for solar vehicles. The convergence of decentralized solar charging stations, smart parking, and solar rooftops are forms of multi-modal solar ecosystems which strengthen the shift towards decentralized energy. These shifts are making it easier for companies to form strategic partnerships with EV infrastructure providers, solar technology firms and energy utilities to create a comprehensive ‘green mobility-as a service’ (MaaS) framework that aligns transportation with the broader goals of renewable energy sovereignty and decarbonization.
 

Solar Vehicle Industry News

• In May 2024, Hyundai Motor Group revealed its Solar Roof Technology 2.0, which is being integrated into the next generation of EVs under its Ioniq lineup. This upgraded solar roof system increases energy capture efficiency by 20%, offering consumers extended range and improved battery health, particularly in high-insolation markets like the Middle East and Southern Europe.
   
• In March 2024, Lightyear entered a strategic partnership with Koenigsegg to co-develop advanced solar car technologies focusing on energy efficiency and lightweight design. The collaboration aims to bring Lightyear’s proprietary solar integration technology into high-performance vehicles, combining aerodynamics, solar yield optimization, and cutting-edge drivetrain innovation to accelerate mainstream adoption of solar mobility.
   
• In October 2023, Volkswagen Group Innovation launched a research collaboration with Fraunhofer Institute to integrate next-gen thin-film solar modules into electric vehicle rooftops. The initiative focuses on developing high efficiency, curved solar cells that can seamlessly blend into vehicle design while offering supplementary power for air conditioning, infotainment, and auxiliary systems.
   
• In August 2023, Sono Motors announced the successful completion of its Sion Solar EV pilot fleet deployment across several European fleet operators. The pilot tested real-world applications of integrated solar panels on public roads, showcasing significant savings in energy consumption and reduced grid dependency for commercial users, with up to 34 km of solar range per day under optimal conditions.
   
• In July 2023, Aptera Motors secured a $33 million Series B funding round to scale production of its solar electric vehicle (SEV), which boasts up to 1,600 km range with daily solar charging capabilities. The funds are being utilized to expand manufacturing facilities in California, invest in solar panel supplier agreements, and advance regulatory certification for global market entry.
   

The solar vehicle market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($ Mn/Bn) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Vehicle

• Passenger vehicle
• Commercial vehicle

Market, By Electric Vehicle

• Battery electric vehicle
• Hybrid electric vehicle

Market, By Battery

• Lithium-ion
• Lead-acid
• Lead carbon

Market, By Solar Panel

• Monocrystalline
• Polycrystalline

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa