Lightyear has opened a waitlist for its second solar-powered EV model, aiming for a lower price tag and something closer to mass-market appeal.
Directly called the Lightyear 2, the new model is expected to begin production in late 2025 with a base price of around $40,000, according to a Lightyear press release. The company confirmed that the US will be one of the first markets, along with the UK and the European Union.
Waitlist announced for Lightyear 2 solar cars due to launch in 2025.
The waitlist is free to join, and those on the list will get priority once retail pre-orders open, according to Lightyear. However, retail customers may have to line up behind commercial fleets. Lightyear said it had 21,000 pre-orders from rental and carpool customers LeasePlan, MyWheels, Arval and Athlon.
Light year Revealed plans for Lightyear 2 in late 2021 and insists it will have a smaller battery pack than the $170,000 Lightyear 0, but the next model seems to take a similar approach by aiming for a “leap-to-the-grid” goal. electricity” with integrated solar panels and reduce dependence on high-power fast charging. The company claims the Lightyear 2 will have a practical range of about 500 miles.
Waitlist announced for Lightyear 2 solar cars due to launch in 2025.
Lightyear 0 is being built by Valmet of Finland. The company has yet to confirm who will build the Lightyear 2.
Also unconfirmed is whether the Lightyear 2 will use an in-wheel motor like the 0, which Lightyear claims to have. Most efficient production drivetrain right away. With Lordstown Endurance and Aptera coming soon, Lightyear 0 is part of a growing family of in-wheel vehicle manufacturers.
