staff reporter. SUPPLIED

The UAE has unveiled the world's first long-range solar electric vehicle. Hussain Mohamed Al Mahmoudi, CEO of Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park), unveiled the first version of the solar electric vehicle produced by the Dutch company Lightyear. According to Al Mahmoudi, the company initially produced 500 units of its first version, "Lightyear O," which were sold out. The company's website lists the vehicle for 250,000 euros (nearly Dh900,000). Buyers in the UAE and the region interested in purchasing the car can do so through the company's website. The vehicle can reach a top speed of 160km/h and has a battery range of 625km. Extra daily solar range of up to 70km and annual solar yield of up to 11,000km are possible. The vehicle's interior is made of plant-based leather, recycled PET bottle fabrics, and sustainably restructured rattan palm. According to the company's website, the driving range will vary depending on driving habits, location, and season. "There are other models that the company is producing. The other version – Lightyear 2 – will be more affordable in the range of $30,000 to $35,000 and will soon be introduced here," he said after launching the first model in Sharjah on Thursday. The company's website states that Lightyear 2 will be rolled out in 2024-25 at an affordable price. BKM/ Expat Media
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