Dutch automotive startup Squad Mobility took advantage of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) to market the Squad Solar City Car vehicle in the United States (US) market with prices starting at 6,250 euros in 2023.
The sun-powered vehicle is shaped like a tiny golf cart, in contrast to the trend of the US market which favors large-bodied cars.
The solar-powered vehicle isn’t a car, but a four-wheeled scooter with solar panels on the roof that provides a range of up to 20 km (12 miles) per day (tested in the Netherlands).
In Europe, solar-powered vehicles can be driven without a license. This must be accompanied by a certain threshold, starting from the top speed and also the power of the vehicle itself.
The vehicle will be offered in two different versions as a two-seater variant with a top speed of 45 km/h (28 mph) and a four-seater with a top speed of 70 km/h (43 mph).
Both vehicles are each powered by a 3.2 horsepower (2 kW) motor that uses up to four individual, easily interchangeable batteries with each battery having a capacity of 1.6 kWh.
When all four batteries are installed, the vehicle has a combined power of 6.4 kWh which allows it to reach its maximum declared range. The vehicle gets heating as standard, but buyers will have to pay extra for doors and air conditioning at an additional price of 6,250 euros.
The basic version of the vehicle is equipped with only two of the four battery modules, with a range of only 50 km (31 mi). Consumers can also opt for the Limited Edition variant for 9,300 euros which comes with all four batteries, but this version can only be ordered with an initial payment of 5,000 euros.
Squad Mobility announces “Solar City Car” mini electric vehicle
