The Lightyear One solar-powered electric car has yet to begin production, but its Dutch manufacturer has plans for a second, more affordable model.
In one Main presentation Earlier this month, Lightyear confirmed its plans to launch a second EV, appropriately named the Lightyear Two, in late 2024 or early 2025. The Lightyear Two will feature a smaller battery pack and low range. than the Lightyear One, but also at a lower price point.
While Lightyear didn’t go into details on size or package range, it says the Two will start at the equivalent of about $34,000, compared with $170,000 for the Lightyear One. Lightyear says LeasePlan has signed a pre-order deal for 5,000 of the two cheaper models.
Lightyear One wind tunnel test
Lightyear said One who will achieve over 400 miles of range, with less battery than any Tesla Long Range. It manages that thanks to a very low drag coefficient and a solar roof can provide electricity for 70% to 90% of mileage annually under optimal conditions, the company claims.
In addition to achieving impressive range without the need for a massive battery pack, Lightyear claims a solar roof will allow drivers to “jump over the net“and less reliance on charging infrastructure. Lightyear believes this could potentially reduce the load on the grid by reducing the need for charging.
Lightyear One will be made by Valmet Automotive of Finland—The company that built Fisker Karma. Lightyear said in July that prototype builds would begin in January 2022, with full production expected to begin in the summer of 2022. It is unclear whether the production contract with Valmet will be valid. extend to Lightyear Two or not.
