Oxford PV, a pioneer in perovskite solar technology, has joined the UK-led SUITE project to integrate high-efficiency solar cells into electric vehicles. In collaboration with partners like Nissan and the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK, the initiative aims to boost EV range and efficiency through vehicle-integrated photovoltaics. By leveraging its advanced perovskite-on-silicon tandem cell technology, Oxford PV seeks to adapt its high-performance solar solutions for the automotive sector, marking a significant step toward the commercialization of solar-powered transportation and improved energy density for mobile applications.
The Smart Use of Integrated Technology for EV (SUITE) project represents a major collaborative R&D effort supported by the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) and funded by the British government. The consortium brings together a diverse group of experts, including the Nissan Technical Centre UK, various engineering firms, and leading academic institutions. This partnership is designed to accelerate the development and eventual market entry of solar-enabled electric vehicles by merging automotive engineering with cutting-edge photovoltaic research.
At the heart of Oxford PV’s contribution is its specialized knowledge in perovskite-on-silicon tandem solar cells. The company is tasked with transitioning this technology from traditional applications to the specific requirements of the automotive industry. According to David Ward, CEO of Oxford PV, perovskite photovoltaics represent a transformative shift in solar performance, offering new opportunities for vehicle integration that can provide tangible benefits for modern electric mobility.
Integrating solar technology directly into vehicles allows for the generation of supplementary energy while the car is in motion or parked. This additional power source can significantly enhance overall vehicle efficiency and extend the driving range between charges. Perovskite-based cells are particularly advantageous for this purpose because they offer high power density within a lightweight structure, meeting the strict weight and space constraints inherent in electric vehicle design.
Oxford PV is currently at the forefront of bringing perovskite technology to the global market. The company recently entered into a licensing agreement with the American thin-film solar module manufacturer First Solar and maintains its primary manufacturing hub in Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany. This facility, which was acquired in 2017, began commercial shipments of tandem solar cells in 2024, initially focusing on utility-scale projects before expanding its reach into the automotive sector.