Solar vehicles – a feasibility study toward optimization of energy consumption based on regional insolation and traffic data

The concept of energy optimization in vehicles is typically regarded as reducing the fuel consumption. Designing vehicles running on clean, free solar energy is a novel approach that can fulfill all necessities considered in this idea of optimization. Utilization of solar energy in transportation industry particularly commuter urban vehicles may seem impractical due to low efficiency and output of solar cells in comparison with other power sources. Therefore, performing feasibility studies based on technological limitations, regional insolation data and traffic status is absolutely essential. This paper, besides introducing solar vehicles, describes the general equation of power in terms of insolation, resistances and losses. Based on real solar irradiation and traffic information related to the city of Mashhad, the second biggest city in Iran, the feasibility of designing a solar commuter vehicle is investigated. The results clearly state that the idea can provide reasonable annual range of urban traveling. In addition, the environmental effects of utilizing these zero-emission vehicles for reducing hidden ecological costs are studied.

Keywords:

Feasibility study , Insolation , Power cycle , Solar vehicle , Traffic data