Theoretical investigation on photovoltaic technologies and the possibility of applying them to vehicles in general

Abstract

"Theoretical investigation on photovoltaic technologies and the possibility of applying them to vehicles in general" A good use on solar energy is the key to save on fuel consumption on vehicles. Therefore, the purpose of this project is to study the implementation of new technologies for solar car roof-tops, together with the analysis of determinant materials for their construction within the automotive sector, focusing on an efficient, economical and environmental friendly vision. The major outcome of the project relates to the deepening on the materials most commonly used to manufacture solar panels for regular use and the "thin films", with emphasis on manufacturing methods, technical characteristics and a brief history of each. In order to establish a criterion for choosing an optimal technology for this project, complete analyses on different aspects are studied for each material. In general this means the efficiency in different situations, retail prices, production costs, market shares, availability, working conditions. Furthermore also intrinsic aspects of each material such as resistance, degradation, flexibility, thickness of the cells, transparency, estimated lifetime or potential recycling have to be observed. Secondly, most important techniques used for implementation today, and some possible techniques applicable in a not very distant future are studied. The results of these studies will be revealed and an economic study of the most suitable solutions will be included in the Business Case. Also, graphics made with a 3D modelling program showing the implementation of the solar roof-top on a vehicle from the SEAT Company, are shown.