Mercedes-Benz unveils revolutionary innovations for the future of mobility

From solar paint to sustainable materials, Mercedes-Benz is aiming for the future: clean energy, innovative technologies and a concrete commitment to the environment

Mercedes-Benz has been giving a sneak peek into its advanced research and has revealed some of the technologies that will push the conventional boundaries of automotive design. Other highlights include the use of leather alternatives made from recycled plastics and biotechnological solutions, while augmented reality glasses take driving to a more intuitive level.

Efficiency and durability are the main focus of these developments. Among them is a regenerative braking system integrated into the motor and transmission, designed to be maintenance-free and resistant to wear. Besides, the company has developed cell-level battery management systems that improve range and lifespan.

The solar paint: cars powered by sunlight

 

The most revolutionary of all the new technologies Mercedes-Benz has come up with is solar paint, a photovoltaic coating that turns vehicles into energy generators. This system uses ultra-thin solar modules, 0.0002 inches thick, applied directly to the car’s body as a lightweight, flexible paste. The protective coating, made with nanoparticles, allows 94% of the sun’s energy to pass through, converting it to clean energy with 20% efficiency.

This innovative panel stands apart by its lightweight and flexible nature: It weighs only 0.01 pounds per square foot, so it can be applied to almost any external surface of the vehicle, regardless of shape or angle. In the case of a mid-sized SUV, with about 118 square feet of photovoltaic surface, the system could supply energy for up to 7,500 miles per year with nothing but sunlight.

Practical examples? A Mercedes fitted with this technology in Stuttgart, Germany, would be able to travel as far as 32 miles daily, 62% of which distance would be covered by the sun. In Los Angeles, California, the entire daily energy consumption can be provided just by solar energy thanks to the favorable sun conditions in the region.

Another amazing thing about this technology is its ethical approach: solar paint doesn’t contain rare elements or silicon; it’s made of nontoxic, widely available, and fully recyclable materials. Moreover, the production process is much cheaper compared to traditional photovoltaic panels.

Mercedes-Benz has a history of ambitious solar projects. Three years ago, the brand cooperated with the Fraunhofer Institute to develop the “Vision EQXX” concept, embedding silicon-based solar cells into its photovoltaic roof. This solar paint represents the next step towards even higher sustainability and accessibility.

Source: Mercedes-Benz