The Lightyear 0 was the first production model to offer a solar-panel roof as standard equipment.
Lightyear developed the 0 as a highly efficient long-range solar electric car. Its roof and hood were covered with integrated solar panels that could add driving energy when exposed to sunlight. The panels were not intended to replace charging, but to supplement energy from the grid.
The vehicle used aerodynamic bodywork, low rolling resistance, and a relatively efficient electric drivetrain to reduce energy consumption. These choices mattered because the amount of energy available from a car-sized solar surface is limited and varies with weather, season, latitude, and parking conditions.
The Lightyear 0 entered very limited production in 2022. It is often confused with solar-assisted hybrids and demonstration vehicles, but its significance was its planned production status and standard integrated solar array.