Solar-powered Electric Vehicles  - Batter EV & Fuel Cell EV: A Review

The transport sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to its dependence on fossil fuels. Electrifying transport through Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) is widely recognized as a key pathway to reducing emissions. While both BEVs and FCEVs are zero-emission during operation, they still require electricity to function. Sourcing this electricity from solar energy presents a promising opportunity for sustainable operation. The novelty of this work lies in exploring how solar energy can be effectively integrated into both BEV and FCEV systems. The paper examines the potential, scope, and infrastructure requirements of these vehicle types, as well as innovative charging and refuelling strategies. For BEVs, charging options include fixed charging stations, battery swapping stations, and wireless charging. In the context of solar integration, photovoltaic (PV) systems can be mounted directly on the vehicle body or used to power charging stations. While current PV efficiency and reliability are insufficient to meet the full energy demand of BEVs, they can provide valuable auxiliary power. For FCEVs, solar energy can be utilized for hydrogen production, enabling the concept of solar-powered FCEVs. Refuelling options include onsite and offsite hydrogen production facilities, as well as mobile refuelling units. In both cases, land requirements for PV installations are significant. Alternatives to ground-mounted PV, such as floating PV or agrivoltaics (agriPV), should be considered to optimize land use. While solar-powered charging or refuelling stations are technically feasible, complete reliance on solar power alone is not yet practical. A hybrid approach with grid connections, energy storage, or backup generation remains necessary to ensure consistent energy availability. For BEVs, the cost of charging particularly for long-distance travel where rapid charging is required remains a barrier. For FCEVs, challenges include the high cost of hydrogen production and the limited availability of refuelling infrastructure, despite their advantage of fast refuelling times. Government policies and incentives are playing a critical role in overcoming these barriers, fostering investment in infrastructure, and accelerating the transition toward a cleaner transport sector. In summary, integrating solar energy into BEV and FCEV infrastructure can advance sustainable mobility by reducing lifecycle emissions. While current PV efficiency, storage, and hydrogen production limitations require hybrid energy solutions, ongoing technological improvements and supportive policies can enable broader adoption. A balanced renewable energy mix, with solar as a key component, will be essential for realizing truly sustainable zero-emission transport.