BASFs develope transparent solar OLEDs for the smart forvision car which are fully transparent, allowing light to enter freely from outside by day. In the dark, the transparency gives an effect of luminous glass.
OLEDs create a pleasant, diffuse light that can be adjusted to suit the lighting situation. It casts no hard shadows and in that way increases passenger comfort.
OLEDs are more efficient than conventional lightbulbs and energy saving lamps. They radiate less heat and in that way add to energy efficiency in the smart forvision. Disposal is environmentally safe.
How are the organic solar cells different from the Si-based solar cells?
Organic solar cells are based on organic-chemical dyes as light absorbers and charge carrier materials and not only exhibit transparent, coloured and flexible product characteristics, but also considerably lower efficiencies and service lives. Organic photovoltaics is in the research phase; Si-based photovoltaics has a high market maturity with over 40 years on the market.
What colours can be realised?
Daimler and BASF consider organic photovoltaics to be a step in the direction of the regenerative, climate-neutral, safe and affordable energy of the future. As an additional energy source solar cells can contribute to the car’s efficiency – in other words, a greater range. They are also deployed in the smart forvision as a unique design element. The coloured, transparent solar cells strikingly convey the cool, futuristic design of the smart brand.
On what substrate materials can the dye-sensitised solar cell be produced?
On almost all substrate materials such as films, glass, metals, provided the requisite barrier characteristics (air-tight and moisture-proof) are ensured.
Dye-based transparent solar cells
Dye solar cells are fully transparent solar cells based on organic chemical dyes. The transparent dyes are stimulated by light and are very effective generators of electricity even in cloudy conditions. Hence, organic photovoltaics may actively help to improve the future performance of electric cars as an additional, sustainable source of energy.
Transparent solar cells can also be manufactured in a virtually unlimited range of colors and act as a signature design element.
The innovation in the smart forvision
Sustainable energy from above
Hexagonal transparent dye solar panels are fitted in the smart forvision roof – the first transparent car roof that generates energy. The organic dyes are fitted into the sandwich roof and create enough energy to power the car’s multimedia electronics and three fans in the interior. When the car stands in the sun, the photovoltaic system powers the fans to keep the inside of the car cool.
Multifunctional panorama roof
The 129 transparent solar panels on in combination with 129 transparent OLEDs under the car roof give a glass roof effect. In daylight, you get a clear view of the outside. The energy generated in the solar panels supplies the organic light-emitting diodes and bathes the interior in attractive ambient lighting by night.
Why BASF use OLED Technology?
Efficient and environmentally safe
OLEDs are more efficient than conventional lightbulbs and energy saving lamps. They radiate less heat and in that way add to energy efficiency in the smart forvision. Disposal is environmentally safe.
OLEDs create a pleasant, diffuse light that can be adjusted to suit the lighting situation. It casts no hard shadows and in that way increases passenger comfort.
