Sion solar electric vehicle on US tour

Gemany-based solar electric vehicle (SEV) manufacturer Sono Motors has launched a multi-city coast-to-coast tour in the United States to showcase its Sion 5-seater passenger vehicle.

The Sion tour started in New York City and Boston last week. Upcoming cities are Detroit (Oct 17), San Francisco (Oct 24-25), San Jose (Oct 26), and Los Angeles (Oct 27-28).

Solar technology extends Sion’s estimated 190-mile battery range by an average of 70 miles per week in typical weather conditions and by as much as 150 miles per week in optimal conditions, according to local news portal The EV Report.

Its 54 kWh LFP battery will allow for a maximum charging capacity of up to 75 kW (DC) and 11 kW (AC). Bidirectional charging up to 11 kW will turn Sion into a solar “power plant” that can charge devices, other EVs, or put energy back into private or public energy grids.

Sono Motors plans to start production in Finland in the second half of 2023 and aims to produce approximately 257,000 Sion vehicles within seven years. With an expected retail price of US$25,000, it has the potential to become the world’s first affordable SEV. 

Photo: Sion SEV (courtesy of Sono Motors)