Swiss Tour Kickoff: Solar Campervan Hits the Road

The innovative Soleva campervan, powered entirely by solar energy, has embarked on a tour across Switzerland to showcase the capabilities of its cutting-edge photovoltaic panel technology.

Equipped with state-of-the-art PV solar panels developed by CSEM, the Swiss technology innovation center, the Soleva campervan can meet all its energy requirements and travel up to 150 km per day. With a battery and motor setup providing an impressive autonomy of nearly 250 km, this eco-friendly vehicle is setting new standards in sustainable transportation.

During its journey, the solar campervan will make stops in 100 towns, including key locations such as Lausanne, Zurich, Davos, Lugano, and Sion, allowing people to witness firsthand the potential of solar-powered mobility.

The Solera project, initiated in 2021 by engineer Curdin Wüthrich and a group of friends, involved the transformation of a 1987 campervan originally fueled by diesel into a zero-emission vehicle. By replacing the internal combustion engine with an electric motor and batteries, and installing a deployable solar array on the roof, the campervan now operates entirely on solar energy. The interior has also been revamped with eco-friendly materials, offering three berths, a kitchen space, and a bathroom.

“This project not only represents a remarkable technical achievement but also serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through passion, innovation, and perseverance,” stated Wüthrich, the Co-Founder and CEO of Soleva.

The technological core of the Soleva campervan lies in its advanced solar panels, developed in collaboration between CSEM and the EPFL’s PV-Lab. These lightweight panels are adjustable, ensuring optimal energy production throughout the day, further enhancing the vehicle's efficiency and range.

Another notable project in the realm of solar-powered mobility is the Stella Vita camper van created by students at the Eindhoven University of Technology. This mobile home harnesses energy from solar panels on its roof to power both its driving and living functions. Stella Vita can travel up to 730 km on a sunny day, enabling activities such as driving, showering, watching TV, charging devices, and brewing coffee solely through solar energy.

“Initiatives like Soleva provide valuable insights into the application of lightweight solar panels for mobility and electric stations, driving innovation and sustainability in the transportation sector,” remarked Matthieu Despeisse, Group Leader of Solar Modules at CSEM.

The ongoing Swiss tour marks a crucial testing phase for the Soleva campervan prototype, allowing for the evaluation of its performance under real-world conditions. The knowledge gained from this expedition will guide future enhancements to the concept and open up opportunities for potential partnerships to advance industrialization.

“Our collaboration with CSEM has been instrumental in transforming the Soleva campervan into a tangible example of the possibilities that sustainable mobility can achieve through advanced technological solutions,” emphasized Tobia Wyss, Solar Integration Manager at Soleva.

For more information about the Soleva project and updates on the campervan's journey, visit www.soleva.org.