Introducing its first solar-powered EV earlier this year, the Lightyear 0, Dutch company Lightyear is now using its second model. Aptly named Lightyear 2, the sophomore’s take on self-charging EVs was teased at this year’s CES. More importantly, a waiting list has been opened by the company ahead of the model’s arrival in the next few years.
Judging from the teaser provided, it doesn’t look like the Lightyear 2 strays far from the Lightyear 0 coupe silhouette. The notable differences are the sleeker black pillars on the four-door model, along with additional black accents on the body. . The second model also noticeably has more ground clearance, almost making the vehicle look like a crossover coupe.
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“Lightyear 2 will accelerate our mission to provide clean mobility to everyone, everywhere. It is the first EV that enables consumers to prioritize sustainability, without compromising practicality,” said Lex Hoefsloot, CEO and Co-Founder of Lightyear.
Like the Lightyear 0, the Lightyear 2 will require less charging from the grid than a conventional EV. In fact, the company claims that it could be the other way around, with the car having the ability to provide power harnessed from the sun.
Speaking of which, the provided teaser shows visible solar panels mounted on the roof, hood, and rear of the vehicle.
The company states that Lightyear 2 should cut the driver’s lifetime CO2 emissions in half. The car should be able to offer a range of over 800 kilometers (497 miles) between charges, which is more than the Lightyear 0 for which the WLTP is rated at 625 km (388 miles). Finally, the solar panels are claimed to provide an additional 70 km (44 miles) per day in ideal, sunny conditions.
The Lightyear 2 has no initial specs for now other than what has been mentioned. Production is set to start in late 2025, with the US, UK and EU among the first regions to receive the vehicle. Estimated price is under 40,000 euros or around $42,000 at current exchange rates.
