Because the experiemental car is so lightweight, it uses less electricity during the commute than it generates via solar panels when parked in sunlight.
Clemson University unveils Deep Orange 17, a solar-integrated, energy-positive electric vehicle. -------------------------------------------------------------- Clemson University has unveiled Deep Orange 17, a solar-integrated, energy-positive electric vehicle prototype designed to generate more energy than it consumes during a typical day of urban commuting. Developed in collaboration with BMW's research and development team, the prototype integrates solar technology, lightweight engineering and intelligent vehicle controls to demonstrate that energy-positive mobility is possible.
Deep Orange 17 is the latest concept vehicle developed through Clemson's acclaimed Deep Orange program, where graduate automotive engineering students design, engineer and build a fully functional prototype alongside industry partners.