Sono Motors, an electric solar vehicle start-up, is working with the Rhenus Group, a German logistics company, on the use of smart solar technology in last-mile logistics. Their partnership will collect solar data during real-world operation on the road to further develop Sono Motors’ solar van technology.
The companies stated that they’ll use solar modules developed for vehicular surfaces along with Sono power electronics. Combined, these devices have the potential to achieve an output of up to 8.8-kilowatt peak (kWp) with an area of just under 54 sqm.
“The project with the Rhenus Group provides us with important data to further optimize our patented technology,” stated Jona Christians, CEO and co-founder of Sono Motors.
Innovative technologies such as solar-powered electric vans and trucks could contribute a great deal to the energy transition in the future, the Rhenus Group noted. Solar cells on vehicles could relieve the grid in the process and offer respite for fleet managers by easing the burden on charging infrastructure.
For data collection, Sono Motors has equipped the Rhenus 15-tonne truck with 4 light irradiance sensors on the sides and roof that connect to Sono Motors via an LTE connection. Once there, all data will be analyzed and shared with Rhenus.
