Light Cell Car

Often people discuss good ideas without doing the necessary enginering, or at least trying to make their ideas reasonably possible. For example, I've had people tell me that just putting solar cells on the tops of their cars would eliminate the need for gasoline fuel. Really?? I wonder.

When we visited the Towe Auto Museum on Saturday, we were lucky to see this concept car that is totally powered by solar cells. They found in developing the car that they had to maximize the area of solar cells, minimize the air resistance, and minimize the weight. This led to the design shown here on display Saturday.
This is the vehicle with the roof fully extended and braced in place so that driver and his assistants can work on the car.

Here we see the driver has climbed into his cockpit-like space and is given a good-luck hug and kiss from what appears to be his wife. This is not an idle gesture as the dirver is mere inches from the road when the car is underwway.


Now the driver starts lowering the top while he adjusts his earphones and helmet. He does not move during the drive.

Like the top of a peanut butter sandwich, the top of the car is lowered onto the bse and secured for take-off.

After checking all the systems are ready and making sure the top is secured to the base, the boards blocking the wheels are removed.

And he's ready to hit the road. One expects some kind of space ship sound but like electric hybrids in electric mode, this car's engine is virtually silent.


Without a warning sound, the car turned and smoothy moved out of the crowd and down the street.


Here it waited at the stop sign for it's companion vehicle. Because the car is illegal on most streets and freeways, it has to be accompanied by the van and trailer shown below.

If you'e interested in more information and pictures of the solar cell concept car check it out at www.xof1.com.