Student-Built Solar EV Wraps Itself in Energy-Harvesting Skin

A student-built electric vehicle is turning heads not just for its design, but for its ability to generate its own power. Dubbed “deep orange 17,” the car features an exterior wrapped in a skin of 1,781 photovoltaic cells, transforming its bodywork into an active energy-harvesting surface. According to a report from architecture and design magazine Designboom, this solar-integrated approach allows the vehicle to produce more energy than it consumes during operation. The concept pushes beyond conventional rooftop solar panels, embedding generation directly into the car’s panels and curves. While the source does not specify performance metrics or charging times, the core claim is that the energy yield exceeds usage, making the EV a net-positive energy device under the right conditions. This project highlights a growing trend in student-led design competitions, where efficiency and sustainability meet experimental materials. The photovoltaic skin not only powers the drivetrain but also showcases innovative use of renewable energy in transportation, potentially influencing future automotive design and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in sustainable mobility.