Anyone who invests in new Fiat deals in the coming months may find that their vehicle has an energy advantage over older models.
The vehicle manufacturer has said it is collaborating with an Irish renewable technology firm to begin installing photovoltaic panels on car roofs.
Onboard devices such as air conditioning and heating – which have previously been particularly power-hungry – will be operated by the solar panels.
It is thought they could reduce fuel consumption in new Fiat deals by up to 15 per cent, while also acting to keep the car cool while it is stationary.
Researchers from University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin and Imperial College in the UK have all been involved in the development of the low-cost devices.
Although it has not yet been revealed when the solar panels will be introduced and for which models, industry experts have speculated that the Fiat 500 could be the ideal vehicle for the new technology.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Fiat had won an accolade for its FPT 1.4-litre turbo engine at the Engine Technology International awards.
Posted by Perry Murray
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