New perovskite solar technology can generate 400 kWh of clean energy annually and support electric vehicle functions.
FAW Hongqi has developed what it describes as the automotive industry’s first solar sunroof, integrating advanced perovskite photovoltaic technology into the panoramic roof of its Hongqi EHS7 electric SUV.
The prototype can deliver around 300 watts of real-time power generation under sufficient sunlight. Hongqi says the system can produce approximately 400 kWh of clean electricity each year, potentially helping power several low-voltage vehicle functions.
Perovskite Technology Powers the Sunroof
Unlike conventional solar panels that rely on crystalline silicon, Hongqi’s new system uses perovskite photovoltaic elements. The material is lightweight, thin and flexible, making it more suitable for integration into curved automotive surfaces.
Perovskite technology can also offer high photoelectric conversion efficiency and can be produced in different colours at relatively low cost. However, integrating the material into a vehicle presented engineering challenges because perovskite is sensitive to water, oxygen and ultraviolet radiation.
Hongqi’s research team also had to address the curved structure of automotive glass while developing the solar sunroof.
Hongqi EHS7 Gets the New Prototype
The solar sunroof prototype has been installed on the Hongqi EHS7 crossover, which is sold in China as the Hongqi Tiangong 08. The five-seat electric SUV measures 4,925 mm in length, 1,950 mm in width and 1,680 mm in height.
The EHS7 produces up to 253 kW, equivalent to 339 horsepower, while its WLTP-rated driving range reaches 475 kilometres.
Hongqi says the solar-generated electricity can help operate systems such as air conditioning, refrigerators and vehicle sentry functions, reducing the demand placed on the main traction battery.
Future Solar Range Could Reach 80 Kilometres
Hongqi is also considering expanding the technology beyond the roof. The company plans to explore integrating perovskite photovoltaic elements into other exterior areas, including the vehicle’s hood.
According to Hongqi, a larger solar-generation system could eventually produce around 10 kWh of electricity per day. This could provide up to 80 kilometres of additional daily electric driving range under suitable conditions.
The automaker claims such generation could cover more than 85% of the average daily travel needs of Chinese users. However, Hongqi has not announced a specific timeline for introducing the technology into production vehicles.
Hongqi Pushes EV Technology
The solar sunroof project forms part of Hongqi’s wider strategy to strengthen its position in the battery-electric vehicle market. The company is also developing advanced charging and battery technologies for its upcoming models.
Hongqi previously began testing a solid-state battery prototype with an energy density of 380 Wh/kg, while future vehicles are also expected to adopt faster charging technology.
In July 2026, Hongqi delivered 15,445 vehicles in the Chinese domestic market, highlighting the brand’s continued push to expand its presence in the rapidly developing EV sector.