At first, solar-powered vehicles and heavy loads sound like a mismatch. People assume these vehicles can’t possibly haul serious weight. But is that really true?
There are plenty of misconceptions surrounding solar transport. Some claim they’re weak, unreliable, or only useful in sunny weather. But these myths are nothing but plain assumptions. Here through this blog, we attempt to uncover some of the most common myths surrounding solar-powered vehicles and help you know them a little better.
Common Myths About Solar-Powered Vehicles
The number of people choosing solar-powered vehicles has risen because they present a sustainable transportation option. Public perception about solar vehicles mistakenly assumes limitations in all three aspects of efficiency together with durability and capability. Many people question the utility of solar vehicles since they perceive them as weak devices with performance issues. Current innovations in solar technology have transformed solar devices into stronger and multi-use systems.
Myth 1: Solar-powered vehicles can’t carry heavy loads
Reality: It’s simple; the strength of a vehicle lies in how efficiently the fuel used to run it is being used. Not in the type of fuel being deployed.
During their initial years, solar vehicles in India were designed for lightweight efficiency. Cargo hauling was not intended for them. But today, companies are designing solar vehicles in India with dynamic capabilities, which means weight handling is something that they can easily do.
TUX mobility has designed solar vehicles in India that are capable of carrying over 600 kg of load with a range of 255 km. The range of vehicles by TUX mobility absolutely debunks the myth that solar-powered vehicles can’t carry heavy loads.
Innovations and experiments with solar-assisted commercial vehicles are also ongoing around the world.
Myth 2: Solar panels bulk up the vehicles
Reality: This issue has been solved by advances in materials and design used for manufacturing
In their initial days, the solar panels were indeed bulky. But gone are the days. Now modern, lightweight, high-efficiency panels are here. Thanks to research, ultra-thin, flexible solar panels are being developed that add minimal weight while maximizing energy absorption.
There are innovations ongoing for solar paint—a technology that could generate electricity from the vehicle’s surface. Mercedes-Benz is working on solar paint with enough potential to generate power to drive 12,000 km/year, that too without adding any extra weight to the vehicle. With rapid improvements, solar panels will become even lighter and more efficient.
Myth 3: Solar powered vehicles need constant sunlight to work
Reality: Solar-powered vehicles do not need constant sunlight. They can store energy, just like their electric counterparts.
It’s obvious to assume that solar vehicles would need 100% constant sunlight to operate. But that’s not the reality. Solar vehicles in India rely heavily on sunlight, but they can very well function in dynamic light conditions, at night, and even on cloudy, rainy days. They’re armed with batteries that can store solar energy. This is very similar to regular EVs that store power obtained from charging stations.
Innovations like high-efficiency photovoltaic panels and solid-state batteries are enhancing the reliability factor of solar vehicles. With discoveries like solar paint, the solar powered vehicles will be able to generate electricity in the sun and in the rain.
Myth 4: Solar-powered vehicles can’t cover longer distances
Reality:
No, with the right tech, solar vehicles can travel long distances
The fear of running out of power is pretty common with EVs. But solar powered vehicles in India have an advantage: they generate their own energy while on the move.
Cargo trucks with integrated solar panels supplement their battery power while driving. Cities are also adopting solar-assisted electric buses, reducing reliance on charging stations and increasing operational range.
TUX Mobility’s delivery vehicles, for instance, can cover up to 255 km on a single charge—perfect for last-mile logistics.
As more manufacturers invest in solar hybrid models, combining traditional EV batteries with solar power, the range will continue to expand.
Myth 5: Solar transport burns a hole in the pocket
Reality: It’s actually economical in the long run.
Solar-powered vehicles require an initial investment, but their operating costs are significantly lower than fossil-fuel alternatives. By the end of their lifecycle, they end up saving more, not counting the environmental costs that they cut down on. Here’s why:
Free energy: Solar panels provide a steady source of power at no additional cost once installation is completed.Sunlight costs nothing.
Lower maintenance: Electric and solar-powered vehicles have fewer moving parts, reducing wear and tear.
Government incentives: Many countries, including India, offer subsidies and incentives for solar and electric transport. This is done to encourage adoption of greener transit that is more affordable.
Myth 6: Traditional cargo trucks are better than solar-powered vehicles for transport
Reality: Solar powered cargo vehicles have proved their mettle in real-world applications.
Solar-powered trucks are already being tested for long-haul freight. Logistics companies are experimenting with solar-integrated truck roofs. They help charge batteries on the move, thus reducing dependence on external charging infrastructure.
In India, TUX Mobility is leading the charge with solar-powered delivery vehicles, making last-mile transport greener and cheaper. Meanwhile, solar rickshaws and buses are being piloted in cities to cut down on pollution and fuel costs.
The Future of Solar Transport
The road ahead for solar vehicle India looks promising. Latest innovations are helping improve their efficiency, and ensuring practicality in all areas of operation. Here’s what the future could hold:
Solar-powered cargo trucks capable of long-haul transport.
Solar-charging roads that power vehicles as they drive.
AI-driven energy management to optimize battery usage.
Government policies pushing clean transport through incentives and infrastructure.
Greater adoption in urban logistics, especially for e-commerce and supply chain management.
India, with its abundant sunlight, is perfectly positioned to lead the solar transport revolution. With support from initiatives like FAME-II and companies like TUX Mobility, solar-powered vehicles are set to become a mainstream solution.
The solar transport wave is here. Are you ready to ride it?
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