Lightyear One: the price of the solar car increases by €100,000

After the Pioneer Edition, Lightyear launches a new special edition of its sedan. In the process, the price skyrockets!

Few manufacturers discreetly raise the prices of their models over time. Usually, the increase is limited to a few hundred or a few thousand euros. At Lightyear, it’s a bit different… The Dutch company has just increased the price of the One by €100,000!

New Special Edition

The career of the One began with a limited series called “Pioneer Edition.” With all 150 planned units sold, Lightyear is launching a new special edition, this time called “Limited Edition.” Main differences between the two models: aesthetic details… and therefore the price, which jumps from €150,000 for the Pioneer Edition to €250,000 for the Limited Edition.

The dramatic price increase is explained by the somewhat special nature of the One. The vehicle, which its manufacturer describes as “the first long-range solar electric vehicle”, is the result of extensive development work that required significant investments. Lightyear also notes that the One uses costly materials. But is that enough to justify a price of €250,000? Everyone can form their own opinion!

Over 700 km of range

The Lightyear One captures solar energy thanks to panels installed on the roof and hood. This innovative technology allows for gaining miles of range without plugging in the car, but not enough to do without a traditional charging point. The battery isn’t huge for a sedan of this size (60 kWh), but extensive aerodynamic work has optimized its performance. In June 2021, a Lightyear One traveled more than 710 km on a single charge, at an average speed of 85 km/h.

The production of the Lightyear One will be handled by Valmet. The first units will leave the assembly lines at the end of the year. In total, 964 One cars are scheduled to be assembled.

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