X

Koenigsegg Quant: Solar-powered, four-seater electric sports car

Koenigsegg, one of the most respected supercar makers on the planet, has just announced an all-electric sports car that could give the Tesla Roadster a run for its money

Rory Reid
dsc00076.jpg
1 of 7

Koenigsegg, one of the most respected supercar makers on the planet, has just announced an all-electric sports car that could give the Tesla Roadster a run for its money. It's called the Quant, and it is -- to our knowledge -- the first all-electric sports car that includes solar panels and space for four adults, not to mention all mod-cons and enough grunt to rival a Porsche Boxster.

The car was devised primarily by solar-electric propulsion company NVL Solar AG, whose stunning design influenced Koenigsegg to help build a prototype. The final model will be powered by twin AC induction motors, developing 512bhp and a massive 715nm of torque. This, according to Koenigsegg, is enough to send it from 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 171mph. Its range, when driven sensibly, is 310 miles, which is impressive considering the Tesla falls off the road at 244 miles.

The secret to its performance is its dual motors, one of which lives in each rear wheel. These draw power from the car's Flow Accumulator Energy Storage system (or battery, in layman's terms), and a thin photovoltaic-coating surface (solar cells) working in tandem. Once power is exhausted, the vehicle can achieve a full re-charge within 20 minutes via a high-amp power outlet, although it'll take mere mortals with ordinary household plugs several hours.

Once you're up and running again, you and three fully-grown friends can slink past the huge gullwing doors and enjoy all the creature comforts: electronic rear-view mirrors, TV screens for all passengers, a sound system with GPS and Bluetooth telephone, leather upholstery, central locking and climate control.

The Quant is still in the prototype stage, but here's hoping Koenigsegg throws its weight behind the project and brings it to fruition sooner rather than later. We'll have video footage in a matter of hours, but in the meantime, hit the 'Continue' link below to look at our lovely pictures.

dsc00106.jpg
2 of 7
It looks a little fatter than anything else in the Koenigsegg range, but it's stunningly beautiful -- and kind to the planet, too.
dsc00095.jpg
3 of 7
The huge side-mounted air intakes are a sign of the car's potential performance. Its maximum (claimed) speed of 171mph is the highest we're aware of on any electric vehicle.
dsc00097.jpg
4 of 7
The Quant is driven by motors mounted in each of the 22-inch rear wheels. Together, they produce a whopping 512bhp, 715nm of torque, and rev up to 14,000rpm. Note the Koenigsegg logo on the bodywork to the left of the wheel.
dsc00109.jpg
5 of 7
Koenigsegg has developed a unique, flexible solar panelling system that can be applied to almost any surface. The final model will probably have these panels mounted on the roof.
dsc00112.jpg
6 of 7
Note the Venturi tunnel on the underside of the car. These, we're led to believe, increase the speed of air flowing underneath the car, which helps improve top speed. They're also there just to look really flippin' cool.
dsc00103.jpg
7 of 7
NLV Solar AG are the boys and girls behind the Quant. Remember the name.

More Galleries

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
A houseplant

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera

20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
magic-v2-2024-foldable-1383

Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra

10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum

23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
The Galaxy S24 Ultra in multiple colors

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design

23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
img-0368.jpg

I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites

34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
Invitation for the Apple September iPhone 15 event

17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About

18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?
img-1599-2.jpg

AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?

17 Photos