SOLAR-ASSISTED ELECTRIC MOBILITY: DESIGN FRAMEWORK AND PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF SUSTAINABLE HYBRID VEHICLE ARCHITECTURES

Abstract

Solar-assisted electric mobility has emerged as a promising pathway toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing transportation sustainability. This paper presents a comprehensive review and conceptual framework for sustainable hybrid vehicle architectures integrating photovoltaic systems, battery storage, intelligent energy management, and electric propulsion. Drawing on recent developments through 2026, the study synthesizes findings from major research streams including vehicle-integrated photovoltaics, hybrid energy systems, battery optimization, artificial intelligence-based control, and lifecycle sustainability assessment. A structured review methodology and framework development approach are employed to identify critical trends, technological barriers, and opportunities. Results indicate that solar-assisted systems can contribute meaningful auxiliary energy, improve vehicle range under favorable conditions, reduce charging frequency, and support decarbonization objectives. However, limitations associated with photovoltaic efficiency, weather variability, battery degradation, system integration complexity, and economic viability remain significant challenges. The paper proposes a conceptual model linking solar energy harvesting, intelligent energy management, battery performance optimization, and sustainable mobility outcomes. Practical implications are discussed for automotive manufacturers, policymakers, fleet operators, and energy planners. Future research directions include advanced materials, AI-driven optimization, vehicle-to-grid integration, digital twins, and circular economy approaches. The study contributes theoretically by integrating fragmented literature into a unified framework and technologically by outlining next-generation design principles for solar-assisted mobility systems.