Electric Cars

Harnessing the Sun: Nissan's Leap in Electric Vehicle Autonomy

Unveiling the Ao-Solar Extender on Nissan's Sakura EV

Next week, Nissan will proudly display its innovative roof-mounted solar system, dubbed the \"Ao-Solar Extender,\" on the Sakura, Japan's top-selling electric vehicle. This advanced technology, according to Nissan, is capable of generating enough solar energy to contribute an impressive 3,000 kilometers (over 1,800 miles) of supplementary driving range annually without any cost.

Nissan Sakura EV: Embracing Solar Power for Enhanced Range

The Sakura, Nissan's celebrated electric kei car, has maintained its status as Japan's most sought-after EV for three consecutive years. Despite being widely acclaimed for its adequate driving capabilities, the vehicle is slated to receive a significant enhancement through the integration of solar power. Nissan has outfitted a prototype of the Sakura with the extendable, roof-mounted solar system, the \"AO-Solar Extender.\" This prototype is scheduled for exhibition at the forthcoming Japan Mobility Show later this month.

Solar Energy Generation: Maximizing Power Output

Engineers involved in the development of the system estimate that it can produce sufficient solar electricity to supply up to 3,000 km (1,864 miles) of annual driving. This innovative extendable panel allows the vehicle to capture solar energy efficiently, whether it is parked or in motion. When stationary, the panel can be expanded to increase its surface area, thereby maximizing its capacity to gather additional energy from the sun. Nissan highlights that, when fully extended, the system has the potential to generate up to 500 Watts of power.

All-Weather Solar Charging Capabilities

Even with the panel retracted during driving, Nissan reports that the system can still produce up to 300 Watts of power. Furthermore, its design ensures continued energy generation even under rainy conditions, where it can yield approximately 80 Watts. This demonstrates the system's robust capability to charge the vehicle through various environmental conditions, whether parked, in motion, or during rainfall.

Future Prospects and Commercial Launch of AO-Solar Extender

While numerous automakers have previously showcased solar roof prototypes, Nissan distinguishes itself by planning a commercial release for the AO-Solar Extender. Further specifics, including the anticipated commercial launch date, are expected to be disclosed in due course. The Japan Mobility Show is set to commence on October 30, 2025, with press previews beginning on October 29. Enthusiasts are encouraged to stay attentive for updates regarding this pioneering technology.

Stellantis, the automotive giant overseeing brands such as Jeep and Ram, has once again adjusted its electric vehicle rollout strategy. The company has decided to push back the launch of the electric versions of Alfa Romeo's Giulia and Stelvio, which were initially slated for next year. This move means that consumers will continue to see the gasoline-powered variants of these popular models available for an extended period in the American market. This strategic shift is part of a broader re-evaluation of Stellantis's electrification plans, which also includes the cancellation of Ram's pioneering electric pickup and modifications to the Dodge Charger EV lineup. While some EV projects face delays or restructuring, the Jeep Recon EV, an electric off-roader inspired by the Wrangler, is still on track for an upcoming debut and sales launch.

Stellantis Reschedules EV Introductions, Retains Current Models

In a recent development, Stellantis, the multinational automotive corporation that owns renowned brands like Jeep and Ram, has announced a postponement in the launch of two key electric vehicle models. The Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio, originally planned for an exclusive electric powertrain introduction in 2026, will now see their EV variants delayed for an additional year. Consequently, the conventional gasoline-powered versions of these vehicles will continue to be sold in the United States until Alfa Romeo fully transitions to the STLA Large platform. This announcement was made by Stellantis CEO Santo Ficili during a presentation for the updated Tonale SUV, as reported by Motor1. The Giulia and Stelvio have been part of the US market for a decade, relying on the Giorgio platform. The delay provides Alfa Romeo with more time to integrate the next-generation Giulia and Stelvio onto the STLA Large platform, which will initially accommodate internal combustion engines, likely featuring the twin-turbo inline-six \"Hurricane\" engine seen in the Dodge Charger Sixpack. This decision follows previous adjustments to Stellantis's EV strategy, including the cancellation of Ram's inaugural electric pickup, the Ram 1500 REV, in favor of a range-extended model. Furthermore, the company has removed the base R/T trim from the Dodge Charger EV lineup and reportedly shelved plans for a high-performance SRT Banshee model. In a move that highlights a diversified approach, Ram and Jeep intend to reintroduce the HEMI engine for the Ram 1500 and Wrangler Rubicon 392, with the 2026 Dodge Durango exclusively offering a HEMI. Despite these shifts, Jeep's CEO Bob Broderdorf confirmed that the Recon EV, an electric off-roader drawing inspiration from the Wrangler, is set to debut soon, with sales expected to commence next Spring.

This evolving strategy from Stellantis highlights the dynamic and often challenging landscape of the automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles. The decision to delay certain EV models while retaining and even reintroducing traditional combustion engines suggests a pragmatic approach to market demands and technological readiness. It underscores the complexities manufacturers face in balancing ambitious electrification goals with current consumer preferences, production capabilities, and evolving infrastructure. For consumers, this means a more gradual shift, offering continued access to beloved gasoline models while eagerly anticipating the eventual arrival of advanced electric alternatives. It also prompts reflection on the pace of innovation and adaptation required from major auto groups in shaping the future of mobility.