Nissan has revealed a new solar-powered Ariya concept, showcasing how future electric vehicles could tap into the sun to reduce reliance on traditional charging infrastructure.

Developed by engineers from Nissan’s Advanced Product Planning team in Dubai and its Powertrain Planning team in Barcelona, the concept integrates 3.8 square meters of high-efficiency photovoltaic panels into the vehicle’s hood, roof, and tailgate. The panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) power, which is managed by an advanced controller designed to optimise energy use and supplement the vehicle’s battery.

According to Nissan, real-world testing highlights the system’s potential to meaningfully extend driving range. Under ideal conditions, the solar setup can generate up to 14.3 miles of additional range per day. In sun-rich cities such as Barcelona, average daily gains reach 10.9 miles, while year-round testing shows averages of 6.3 miles per day in London, 11.7 miles in New Delhi, and 13.2 kilometers in Dubai. Depending on driving habits, this could reduce charging frequency by as much as 65%.

Nissan says even short trips can contribute. A two-hour, 50-mile journey could produce around 0.5 kWh of clean energy, enough to add approximately 1.8 miles of zero-emission range.

The implications could be significant, particularly in regions where charging infrastructure is limited. By generating power while parked or driving in sunny conditions, drivers could benefit from greater autonomy, lower running costs, and fewer charging stops.

Nissan says the concept also supports its broader environmental ambitions. The solar-powered Ariya aligns with the company’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality across the life cycle of its products and operations by 2050, marking another step toward what it describes as a cleaner, more connected future of mobility.