Sono Motors has announced the termination of its Sion solar electric passenger car project, citing a need to focus on a capital-light business model in light of current market conditions. The Munich-based company will now pivot its business model to “exclusively retrofitting and integrating its solar technology onto third party vehicles.” As a result, Sono Motors plans to lay off approximately 300 employees and reimburse the 45,000 paid reservations for the Sono Sion in various installments including a bonus over the next two years.
Despite the termination of the Sion program, Sono Motors is optimistic about its future. The success of the Sion’s 18-vehicle series-validation program proved that the concept of a solar electric vehicle (SEV) works, and the company intends to sell the program. Additionally, Sono Motors will continue to utilize patented technology developed in the Sion program in its ongoing integration and retrofit business.
The company is now focusing on buses and third-party OEM cars, in addition to refrigerated trucks and recreational vehicles. It is currently working as a development-partner and supplier with 23 companies across ten countries in Europe, Asia, and the United States. Customers include Mitsubishi Europe, Chereau, Scania, and MAN Truck & Bus.
Sono Motors is now scaling up its technology, starting with the introduction of the next generation of its mass-market-ready retrofit solution for cleaner public transportation – the ‘Solar Bus Kit’ – planned for the second quarter of 2023. The company’s solar solutions also include hardware such as power electronics and software.
Despite the termination of the Sion program, Sono Motors is confident that its shift to a capital-light business model will allow it to continue creating innovative products in the solar space. The company’s solar technology applications on third-party vehicles will help reduce emissions and create a cleaner future.
FAQ
Q1: Are electric car batteries recyclable?
A1: Yes, electric car batteries are recyclable.
Q2: Are electric car chargers free?
A2: It depends on the charger and the location. Some electric car chargers are free, while others may require a fee.
Q3: Can electric car batteries be rebuilt?
A3: Yes, electric car batteries can be rebuilt with the right tools and knowledge.
