Sono Sion Solar Car to Go Into Production in 2019

The Sono Sion, a solar car by German-based startup Sono Motors, is going into production in 2019.

The Sono Sion EV is entirely powered by solar panels, with 330 lightweight solar cells integrated throughout.

Those power supplies are paired with an 80kW electric motor for a 150-mile range and a top speed of 86 miles an hour using standard fast charging. Powered on solar cells alone, the Sion can deliver up to 18 miles of driving range.

Many have already expressed skepticism over its efficiency, envisioning a four-wheeler with spartan energy-saving parts, but that is not the case.

"We have a seat heater, there is air conditioning, there is a large infotainment system where I can also connect my phone interactively, which means I really have a full vehicle which is very simple, has no frills," said Laurin Hahn, Sono co-founder, in a statement to Reuters.

It also includes an air filtration system that uses moss, which does not need to be watered.

Founded in 2016, the small startup has already received roughly 5,000 orders.

NEXT: FINALLY, A 6?—6 JEEP WRANGLER

WATCH