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Published on July 10th, 2008

Prius Goes Solar

by Francine Hardaway

High-end models of the 2009 Toyota Prius, the most popular car in the U.S. and the most fuel efficient, will now have a new claim to fame: solar panels.

The cars’ solar arrays, according to unconfirmed reports, will only produce enough electricity to keep the air conditioner running.

But according to this Prius White Paper, a solar-powered Prius could drive between five to eight miles on solar power alone, which could actually reduce gas consumption by 17 to 29 percent.

Solar-powered vehicles are not a new idea. There are a variety of prototypes of alternative vehicles that have been designed with solar panels to provide extra green power. However, Toyota is a major car maker, and that’s a first.

Francine Hardaway

Francine Hardaway

Working with startup technology companies, entrepreneurs, and social causes. Angel investor, business coach, mom, yoga practitioner, blogger, golden retriever fan, social media junkie. Connected woman.

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