Helmond, July 29, 2021 - Lightyear, the Dutch solar car pioneer, has found a production location to industrialize its solar cell technology and solar roofs. From the 1st of August, Lightyear will move into the Inalfa Roof Systems building in Venray, Limburg, The Netherlands. This will be an additional production facility, as the company headquarter remains in Helmond, Brabant, The Netherlands.
Lightyear’s patented technology of sunroofs is certified to automotive standards and has been developed specifically for series production. The decision of manufacturing solar roofs in-house is part of a strategic and distinctive part of its business model and an important part of its patent portfolio. Lightyear also gathered unique knowledge about the specific production process. The product meets strict validation requirements (including successfully completed crash-, heat- and vibration-tests) and is ready for industrialization and scale-up.
Meanwhile, Inalfa Roof Systems is the world's second-largest supplier of sliding and panoramic roofs for the automotive market. The company recently decided to move its production to Poland, freeing up office and production space. This space will be partly taken over by Lightyear.
“We are very pleased with this production location, in the Inalfa Roof Systems building, as there is a wealth of test equipment available,” says Hans Heijmans, Chief Operating Officer at Lightyear. “Inalfa has highly qualified automotive personnel, with many years of knowledge and experience with supply chains. Additionally, Lightyear can further collaborate with companies, schools, and universities in the region.”
Lightyear has the mission to make clean mobility available to everyone, everywhere, and is preparing for the industrialization and production of Lightyear One. This solar electric vehicle will offer a huge opportunity to change mobility, as it can be driven for months without recharging. The first model will go into production in the summer of 2022 as an exclusive series.
