Looks like the economic crisis hasn’t spared even the superlatives. The ace car manufacturer, Toyota Motor Corp. has suffered its first-ever operating loss in 70 years because of the slashing U.S. market and mounting yen. To make up for the loss, Toyota is reportedly working on a secret solar vehicle to accompany its former hybrid Prius and Camry models.
The solar vehicle project on which Toyota is alleged to have been working on consists of two stages. Firstly, an electric vehicle designed by the company will gain a part of its power from solar cells set on the car that can be recharged from the solar panels fitted on residential rooftops. Later, it plans to develop a mold that is powered by solar cells in-toto. The project is now using solar panels enough to power 500 homes and occupies an area equivalent to 60 tennis courts. According to Toyota, this would cut down carbon dioxide emissions by 740 tons an year and save about 1,500 barrels of crude oil.
Though considering the present scenario the car would years to make its first appearance on roads, Toyota doesn’t desire to cut back on its environmental research and is proving to be a leader in green technology. I appreciate its act of courage and concern for environment and wish the project became a success.
