2019
Lightyear
automotive
Lightyear One
THE PROJECT
CONTEXT
Lightyear set out to rethink electric mobility by reducing dependence on charging infrastructure. The goal was to design a vehicle that integrates solar energy directly into the driving experience, extending range and enabling greater energy independence.
ROLE
Granstudio collaborated as a strategic design partner, shaping the vehicle concept, exterior design, and experience through a phygital development process.
THE SHIFT
Solar mobility changes the relationship between vehicles and energy.
Instead of relying entirely on charging infrastructure, the vehicle becomes part of the energy system, harvesting sunlight while driving or parked. Design evolves to integrate aerodynamics, surface, and solar generation.
“It’s a car that is putting ethics in your daily mobility”
APPROACH
SENSE
We explored how solar mobility changes everyday use, focusing on efficiency, autonomy, and long-distance practicality.
SHAPE
The vehicle’s form was developed around aerodynamic efficiency and solar surface integration, ensuring energy generation without compromising usability.
MAKE
Through phygital development and rapid iteration, design and engineering evolved together to balance performance, efficiency, and manufacturability.
OUTCOME
Lightyear emerged as a solar electric vehicle designed to generate part of its own energy.
Around 5 square meters of integrated solar panels across the roof and hood allow the car to harvest sunlight while driving or parked. Combined with ultra-efficient aerodynamics, this architecture extends range and reduces reliance on charging infrastructure.
WHAT CHANGED
from energy consumption to energy generation
The project reframed electric mobility from energy consumption to energy generation. It demonstrated how solar integration can redefine vehicle efficiency and open new possibilities for sustainable long-distance travel.
