The MASK Architects, a famous Italian design studio, presented a rather curious concept for an electric motorcycle featuring solar panels.
The Solaris, as it’s called, is a self-charging electric bike with circular photovoltaic panels that unfold when the vehicle is parked. In this way, the bike can use sunlight much like a plant performs photosynthesis.
According to the designers at MASK, the idea was built around a lithium storage system powered by these retractable photovoltaic rings.
When you park the bike, the circles expand to form a compact solar panel. While in motion, they close again, and the Solaris behaves like a normal electric motorcycle.
Under the body, there’s a high-torque electric motor, a regenerative braking system, and a frame that combines aluminum with carbon composites to keep the weight low.
Meanwhile, the cockpit provides solar input data and performance metrics, and the optional app mirrors the same information on your smartphone.
Despite its strange appearance, this concept is theoretically not impossible. After all, this technology already exists. So, don’t be surprised if, in a few years, you see one of these beauties on the streets.
Photos: MASK Architects. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
