A company based in Yarnton that works on perovskite solar cell technology has joined a Nissan-backed programme exploring how solar panels can be fitted to electric cars to boost their efficiency and extend how far they can travel.

Oxford PV is taking part in the SUITE scheme, which stands for Smart Use of Integrated Technology for EV.

The programme aims to create sophisticated solar panels for vehicles that can improve how electric cars perform and how much ground they can cover on a single charge.

Oxford PV is now involved in a project led by Nissan Technical Centre UK that also includes specialist engineering companies and major British universities, with the goal of speeding up solar technology progress for electric vehicles.

Oxford PV will contribute its expertise, based on more than a decade of pioneering research and commercial work with perovskite-on-silicon tandem solar technology.

David Ward, the chief executive at Oxford PV, said they were eager to work alongside an impressive group of automotive and technology companies on the SUITE project.

He explained that perovskite photovoltaics represented a major step forward in solar capabilities and opened up fresh possibilities for fitting them into vehicles.

This collaboration would allow the company to use its technical knowledge in a fresh category of uses that could deliver real advantages for electric transport.

Ward added that by combining cutting-edge photovoltaic technology with automotive-standard design and manufacturing expertise, the SUITE project represented significant progress in making solar-powered electric vehicles a viable commercial option.

He said they were proud to be part of a programme that supported the UK’s net zero ambitions while enhancing the performance and environmental credentials of future transport.