Named the C-Max Solar Energi, the new Ford concept discards a hybrid’s usual reserve fuel tank for a solar array built atop the car. Using a 1.5 square meter SunPower X21 solar array, the new C-Max concept will track and magnify the sun’s energy to deliver a four-hour battery charge throughout the daytime hours.
When coupled with the car’s already stellar 108 mpg city performance, the C-Max hybrid is a monumental step toward making most commutes not only fuel-efficient, but completely carbon neutral.
Even though the C-Max Solar Energi is thus far only a concept, the fact that a major auto manufacturer is pushing the boundaries of fuel efficiency beyond the hybrid range is quite inspiring. Without any really pricing behind the vehicle or its delicate rooftop solar array, however, it’s hard to say if Ford is truly dedicated to the Solar Energi concept.
If the automaker is interested in pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation, they’ve certainly come to a great starting point, and I for one would love to see how the C-Max Solar Energi performs on the open road.
Image and Video Courtesy of Ford