Munich-based Sono Motors recently debuted its first solar electric vehicle (SEV), the Sion, in its production design.

“Production of our series-validation fleet and presenting the Sion in its production design is a further step towards delivering on our promise of an affordable solar-electric passenger vehicle” said Laurin Hahn, Sono Motors co-founder and CEO.

The outer shell of the family-friendly Sion will comprise 456 seamlessly integrated solar half-cells powering short journeys. The energy generated by the solar cells is expected to extend the estimated 305 km range of the Sion's 54 kWh LFP battery by an average of 112 km / 70 miles (up to 245 km/152 miles) per week.

Bidirectional charging technology complements the car’s solar integration and is designed to turn the Sion into a sustainable power plant on wheels, capable of powering electronic devices, the home or other electric cars with an output of up to 11 kW, according to Sono Motors.

In its final production design, the Sion’s exterior and interior feature fewer lines and clearer surfaces than previous iterations. The Sion’s revamped exterior design includes new headlights and rear lights, bottom sideline design, door handles, and charging lid, and a streamlined rear with camera and 3D lines.

Inside, the Sion features a more spacious, cleaner interior with more storage, newly designed front seats and rear bench, and a new steering wheel. The Sion will also offer new color and trim for interior surfaces.

Over the next few months, the Scion will undergo practical tests under extreme conditions in both Europe and the U.S.  Testing includes series validation, homologation, crash tests, testing in different climates, optimizing solar technology and safeguarding, as well as refining driving dynamics on test tracks and on public roads.

At an estimated net sales price point of €25,126, Sono Motors expects the Sion will offer one of the lowest TCOs in the medium-size segment since the proprietary solar technology considerably reduces vehicle charging requirements.

Sono has partnered with Finnish manufacturer Valmet Automotive to begin Scion production later this year. After a ramp-up period, the partners aim to produce approximately 257,000 Sion vehicles within seven years.