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    Solar Powered Vehicle Market

    ID: MRFR/AM/6474-HCR
    100 Pages
    Swapnil Palwe
    October 2025

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Research Report Information By Solar Panel (Monocrystalline Solar Panel and Polycrystalline Solar Panel), By Battery Type (Lithium-ion battery, Lead-acid battery, Lead-carbon battery and Others) and By Propulsion (Battery vehicles and Hybrid electric vehicles), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest Of The World) - Forecast Till 2035

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    Solar Powered Vehicle Market Infographic
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    Solar Powered Vehicle Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Solar-Powered Vehicle market was valued at USD 0.9 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow to USD 4.1 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 21.00% from 2022 to 2030. The market is driven by the increasing demand for emission-free vehicles, government incentives for electric vehicles, and the rising popularity of self-charging vehicles. The Asia-Pacific region accounted for USD 0.4 billion in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 43.90%. The market is characterized by advancements in solar panel technology and battery efficiency, particularly with monocrystalline solar panels and lithium-ion batteries leading the segments.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Key trends driving the Solar-Powered Vehicle market include environmental concerns and technological advancements.

    • The market is expected to grow from USD 1.1 billion in 2022 to USD 4.1 billion by 2030.
    • The Asia-Pacific region is projected to grow at a CAGR of 43.90% during the forecast period.
    • Monocrystalline solar panels are anticipated to dominate the market due to their higher efficiency.
    • Lithium-ion batteries are expected to lead the battery segment, offering better performance and lower maintenance.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2021 Market Size USD 0.9 Billion
    2022 Market Size USD 1.1 Billion
    2030 Market Size USD 4.1 Billion
    CAGR (2022-2030) 21.00%
    Asia-Pacific Market Size in 2021 USD 0.4 Billion

    Major Players

    Major players include Guangzhou Jcar Industrial Company Ltd, Hanergy Holding Group, Venturi Eclectic, Sono Motors GmbH, Ford Motor Company, Mahindra & Mahindra, Cruise Car, The Solar Electric Vehicle Company, Kiira Motors Corporation, and Immortus.

    Solar Powered Vehicle Market Trends

    Low Fossil Fuel Supply and Declining Air Quality Index to Propel the Market Growth

    According to estimates, 135 million Americans would reside in counties with dangerous levels of air pollution in 2021. The US, one of the largest economies in the world, consumes around 25% of the coal, 27% of the natural gas, and 26% of the oil that is accessible worldwide. Every year, pollution causes the deaths of around 100 million people worldwide. Governments are offering incentives on electric vehicles to combat these problems and enhance the area's air quality. 

    In the event that there is no solar energy available, solar-powered cars would also be equipped with a charger so that they may still function. The growth of the electric car market has been significantly influenced by government subsidies for the adoption of electric vehicles. Additionally, all of the subsidies are probably applicable to solar cars as well, which is anticipated to boost the market for solar-powered vehicles. Thus, this factor is driving the market CAGR.

    Solar-powered vehicles are automatically charged by ingesting sunshine. It has a powertrain that is quite comparable to the one in electric cars. Solar-powered automobiles are different from electric cars in that they don't need a charging station. It has to be charged at a charging station only when it is dark outside. Due to the significantly low maintenance and operating costs of solar-powered vehicles, the market is anticipated to grow at a considerable rate throughout the projected period. 

    The number of solar automobiles is anticipated to reach 1,646 in 2022 and is projected to increase at a 15.2% CAGR. Solar-powered vehicles operate virtually silently, reducing noise pollution. The market for solar-powered vehicles is forecast to grow as it is anticipated that solar-powered vehicles would be even more cost-effective than electric vehicles.

    This is predicted to increase demand for solar-powered vehicles relative to fuel-powered vehicles, which would support the market's expansion over the forecast period. Thus, it is anticipated that this aspect will accelerate solar-powered vehicle market revenue globally.

    The transition towards solar-powered vehicles is poised to reshape the automotive landscape, reflecting a growing commitment to sustainable energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions.

    U.S. Department of Energy

    Solar Powered Vehicle Market Drivers

    Increasing Fuel Prices

    The escalating prices of conventional fuels are driving consumers towards alternative energy sources, notably solar-powered vehicles. The Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry is benefiting from this shift as individuals seek cost-effective and sustainable transportation options. With fuel prices fluctuating and often rising, the economic appeal of solar vehicles becomes more pronounced. This trend is particularly evident in regions heavily reliant on imported oil, where solar-powered vehicles present a viable solution to mitigate fuel dependency. As awareness of this economic advantage grows, the market is likely to see increased adoption rates, further solidifying its position in the automotive sector.

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a market value of 1.48 USD Billion in 2024 and an anticipated increase to 10.6 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory reflects a compound annual growth rate of 19.64% from 2025 to 2035, highlighting the increasing adoption of solar-powered vehicles. As technological advancements continue to enhance vehicle efficiency and government policies support sustainable transportation, the market is likely to expand significantly. These projections underscore the potential for solar-powered vehicles to become a mainstream choice in the automotive industry.

    Technological Advancements

    Technological innovations play a crucial role in the Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry. Advancements in solar panel efficiency and battery storage technology are enhancing the viability of solar-powered vehicles. For example, the development of lightweight materials and improved photovoltaic cells is enabling vehicles to harness more solar energy. Companies are increasingly integrating these technologies into their designs, which could lead to a more competitive market landscape. As these innovations continue to evolve, they are likely to attract investment and consumer interest, further driving market growth towards an anticipated value of 10.6 USD Billion by 2035.

    Rising Environmental Concerns

    The Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry is experiencing growth driven by increasing environmental awareness among consumers and governments. As climate change becomes a pressing issue, there is a notable shift towards sustainable transportation solutions. Governments worldwide are implementing stringent regulations to reduce carbon emissions, which is propelling the demand for solar-powered vehicles. For instance, countries like Germany and the Netherlands are investing heavily in solar technology for vehicles, aiming to decrease their carbon footprints. This trend is expected to contribute to the market's expansion, with projections indicating a market value of 1.48 USD Billion in 2024.

    Government Incentives and Subsidies

    Government incentives and subsidies are pivotal in fostering growth within the Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry. Many governments are offering financial incentives to consumers who purchase solar-powered vehicles, thereby reducing the overall cost and encouraging adoption. For instance, tax credits and rebates are common in various countries, making solar vehicles more accessible to the average consumer. These initiatives not only stimulate demand but also support manufacturers in expanding their production capabilities. As a result, the market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 19.64% from 2025 to 2035, reflecting the positive impact of these policies.

    Growing Urbanization and Population Density

    Urbanization and increasing population density are significant factors influencing the Global Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Industry. As cities become more congested, the demand for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions rises. Solar-powered vehicles offer a practical alternative, particularly in urban environments where traditional vehicles contribute to pollution and traffic congestion. The integration of solar technology into urban planning initiatives is becoming more common, with cities exploring ways to incorporate solar infrastructure. This trend is expected to drive market growth as urban populations seek cleaner and more efficient transportation options.

    Market Segment Insights

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Solar Panel Insights

    The Solar-Powered Vehicle Market segmentation, based on solar panel is divided into Monocrystalline Solar Panel and Polycrystalline Solar Panel. The monocrystalline solar panel segment dominated the solar-powered vehicle market revenue in 2021 and is projected to be the faster-growing segment during the forecast period, 2022-2030. The electrons required to produce electricity have greater room to flow in these cells since they are made of a single crystal.

    Due to the fact that monocrystalline solar cells are more efficient than their other counterparts as a result of this feature, the market for these solar cells is anticipated to grow over the next few years.

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Battery Type Insights

    The Solar-Powered Vehicle Market segmentation has been segmented by battery type into Lithium-ion battery, Lead-acid battery, Lead-carbon battery and Others. The lithium-ion battery segment dominated the market growth in 2021 and is projected to be the faster-growing segment during the forecast period, 2022-2030. When compared to other types of batteries, lithium-ion batteries have a high charge density, are lightweight, and have an efficient charging-discharging system. When compared to other battery types, lithium-ion batteries perform better, require less maintenance, and are better for the environment.

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Propulsion Insights

    The Solar-Powered Vehicle Market data has been segmented by propulsion into Battery vehicles and Hybrid electric vehicles. The battery vehicles segment dominated the market in 2021 and is projected to be the faster-growing segment during the forecast period, 2022-2030. The size of the global market for solar-powered vehicles has been influenced by battery-powered cars, and this trend is anticipated to continue. Sales of battery and hybrid electric vehicles throughout Asia during the anticipated period may boost the propulsion segment's contribution to the expansion of the worldwide market.

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Get more detailed insights about Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Research Report - Global Forecast till 2030

    Regional Insights

    By region, the study provides the market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The Asia Pacific solar-powered vehicle market accounted for USD 0.4 billion in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a 43.90% CAGR during the study period because of the increase in battery and hybrid vehicle manufacturing and sales in China and Japan. Increased disposable income in some Asian countries, including India, may also contribute to the region's strong market expansion throughout the anticipated timeframe.

    Further, the major countries studied in the market report are: The U.S., Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

    Figure 3: Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Share By Region 2021 (%)

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Market Share By Region 2021

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Europe solar-powered vehicle market accounts for the fastest growing market share. Some of the drivers propelling the market in Europe are the rising popularity of electric vehicles, the use of renewable energy sources to power automobiles, and the increase in government funding in solar energy projects. 

    Every automobile sold in Europe in the near future will be an electric vehicle, according to a report by the financial organisation ING, which is based in Europe. Further, the UK solar-powered vehicle market held the largest market share, and the Germany solar-powered vehicle market was the fastest-growing market in the region.

    North America solar-powered vehicle market is expected to grow at a substantial CAGR from 2022 to 2030 is linked to elements like cheap battery prices and the growing use of solar panels in hybrid electric vehicles. Government investments in solar energy projects as well as the quick commercialization of electric vehicles have given companies in the solar-powered vehicle business multiple revenue sources. Moreover, US solar-powered vehicle market held the largest market share, and the Canada solar-powered vehicle market was the fastest-growing market in this region

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major market players are spending a lot on R&D to increase their product lines, which will help the solar-powered vehicle industry grow even more. Market participants are also taking various strategic initiatives to grow their worldwide footprint, including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, increased investments, market developments and collaboration with other organizations. Competitors in the industry must offer cost-effective items to expand and survive in an increasingly competitive and rising market industry.

    One of the primary business strategies manufacturers adopt in the global solar-powered vehicle industry to benefit clients and expand the sector is manufacturing locally to reduce operating costs. In recent years, solar-powered vehicle industry has provided medicine with some of the most significant benefits. The solar-powered vehicle market major player such as Guangzhou Jcar Industrial Company Ltd (China), Hanergy Holding Group (China), Venturi Eclectic (France), Sono Motors GmbH (Germany), Ford Motor Company (US), Mahindra & Mahindra (India), Cruise Car (US), The Solar Electric Vehicle Company (US), Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) (Uganda) and Immortus (Australia).

    The German start-up Sono Motors is currently developing the Sion, a fully electric automobile that is solar powered. Its solar cells or the electrical grid can both be used to recharge its batteries. In July 2022, the first solar electric vehicle (SEV), known as the Sion, will be produced, according to Sono Motors GmbH, a solar-powered mobility startup. The company has also unveiled a "Solar Bus Kit" for fleets of public transportation that provides a solution to lower fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions in inner cities.

    The headquarters of the American multinational automaker Ford Motor Company are in Dearborn, Michigan. Henry Ford formed it, and on June 16, 1903, it became a legal entity. In July 2021, to go along with its F-150 Lightning electric vehicle and other planned EVs, Ford is getting ready to release a number of solar and smart energy products. Ford stated that high demand, including reservations, for its most recent vehicle introductions, such as the electric Mustang Mach-E crossover and the revamped F-150 SUV, has left it "spring-loaded" for growth throughout the second half of the year and beyond.

    Key Companies in the Solar Powered Vehicle Market market include

    Industry Developments

    September 2023- Students from Eindhoven University of Technology have built the first off-road car solely powered by solar energy. The research group said the vehicle is road-legal and autonomous of charging stations. The "Stella Terra" car has a maximum speed of 145 km per hour, a maximum range of 630 km, and weighs 1,200 kg. It gathers energy from rooftop PV panels.

    The team manager of the student group, Wisse Bos, said that Stella Terra must tolerate the harsh conditions of off-roading while staying efficient and light enough to be powered by the sun. he further added that that is why the company had to design almost everything for Stella Terra on their own from the suspension to the inverters for the solar panels. 

    The group said the vehicle is "five to 10 years ahead" of the PV-powered automobiles that are at present on the market. The students are gathered under Solar Team Eindhoven, which has already developed other road-only solar cars. The present off-road vehicle has already gone through testing in the Netherlands, as per the statement. In October, the vehicle and its group of creators will move to Morocco, where they will test it under various conditions.

    October 2023: When Tesla introduced the Model X in 2015, the world's first electric SUV rolled onto a stage, dragging an Airstream travel trailer. In what appears to be unintentional foreshadowing, the USD30 billion US recreational vehicle market is now getting the Tesla treatment. A couple of California startups staffed by alums of the electric car company have built the first self-propelled, battery-and-solar-powered travel trailers.

    The vehicles are ready to hit the market in late 2024. Succeeding the Tesla playbook, Silicon Valley-based Pebble and San Francisco's Lightship target to not just electrify a century-old icon of the American road; the organizations are attempting to reinvent it for the EV age.

    Future Outlook

    Solar Powered Vehicle Market Future Outlook

    The Solar-Powered Vehicle Market is poised for robust growth at a 19.64% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by technological advancements, increasing environmental awareness, and supportive government policies.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Develop integrated solar charging solutions for urban infrastructure.
    • Invest in lightweight materials to enhance vehicle efficiency.
    • Create partnerships with renewable energy providers for sustainable energy sourcing.

    By 2035, the market is expected to achieve substantial growth, establishing solar-powered vehicles as a mainstream transportation solution.

    Market Segmentation

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Regional Outlook (USD Billion, 2018-2030)

    • US
    • Canada
    • Germany
    • France
    • UK
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Rest of Europe
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • Middle East
    • Africa
    • Latin America

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Propulsion Outlook (USD Billion, 2018-2030)

    • Battery vehicles
    • Hybrid electric vehicles

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Solar Panel Outlook (USD Billion, 2018-2030)

    • Monocrystalline Solar Panel
    • Polycrystalline Solar Panel

    Solar-Powered Vehicle Battery Type Outlook (USD Billion, 2018-2030)

    • Lithium-ion battery
    • Lead-acid battery
    • Lead-carbon battery
    • Others

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2021 USD 0.9 Billion
    Market Size 2022 USD 1.1 Billion
    Market Size 2030 USD 4.1 Billion
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 21.00% (2022-2030)
    Base Year 2021
    Forecast Period 2022-2030
    Historical Data 2018 & 2020
    Forecast Units Value (USD Billion)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments Covered Solar Panel, Battery Type, Propulsion, and Region
    Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World
    Countries Covered The U.S, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil
    Key Companies Profiled Guangzhou Jcar Industrial Company Ltd (China), Hanergy Holding Group (China), Venturi Eclectic (France), Sono Motors GmbH (Germany), Ford Motor Company (US), Mahindra & Mahindra (India)
    Key Market Opportunities Low Fossil Fuel Supply Propel the Market Growth
    Key Market Dynamics Decreasing air quality index and a limited fossil fuel supply Solar-powered vehicles have advantages over conventional electric vehicles in a number of areas

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Swapnil Palwe
    Team Lead - Research

    With a technical background as Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, with MBA in Operations Management , Swapnil has 6+ years of experience in market research, consulting and analytics with the tasks of data mining, analysis, and project execution. He is the POC for our clients, for their consulting projects running under the Automotive/A&D domain. Swapnil has worked on major projects in verticals such as Aerospace & Defense, Automotive and many other domain projects. He has worked on projects for fortune 500 companies' syndicate and consulting projects along with several government projects.

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    FAQs

    How much is the solar-powered vehicle market?

    The market size was expected to be USD 0.9 billion in 2021.

    What is the growth rate of the solar-powered vehicle market?

    The market is expected to register a CAGR of ~21.00% over the next ten years.

    Which region held the largest market share in the solar-powered vehicle market?

    Asia Pacific held the largest market share in the market.

    Who are the key players in the market?

    Guangzhou Jcar Industrial Company Ltd (China), Hanergy Holding Group (China), Venturi Eclectic (France), Sono Motors GmbH (Germany), Ford Motor Company (US), Mahindra & Mahindra (India) are the key players in the market.

    Which solar panel led the solar-powered vehicle market?

    The monocrystalline solar panel category led the segment in the market.

    Which propulsion category had the largest market share in the solar-powered vehicle market?

    The battery vehicle category had the largest market share in the market.

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