The following versions of the Toyota Prius, the world’s first eco-car produced in series, will be equipped with solar panels. Solar panels, supplied by Kyocera Corp., will provide a part of the energy necessary to the air conditioning functioning. According to Reuters, company representatives have explained that “is more a symbolic gesture, and is very difficult to produce more energy than using solar panels,” said one source. Toyota intends to launch a third generation Prius next year.
Great car manufacturers are advance to provide alternative and ecological solutions while the use of fossil fuels. “But the use of solar panels is not considered a viable solution for cars propulsion”, said Toyota officials.
According to them, the panels are expensive, and energy storage is difficult. For now, is not known how much will cost solar panels for new versions Prius or how many cars of this type will mount such panels. Toyota Prius appeared on the Japanese market in 1997, and on other markets in 2000.
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