Question 1

What is Soleva?

Accepted Answer

Soleva is a Swiss nonprofit project that converts an old diesel van into a solar-powered electric camper to demonstrate sustainable mobility.

Question 2

Is Soleva selling vans?

Accepted Answer

Soleva is currently primarily a demonstrator and awareness project. Any future commercialization plans should be confirmed with the team.

Question 3

Who is behind Soleva?

Accepted Answer

A team of young Swiss engineers, mostly EPFL graduates, supported by volunteers, partners and sponsors.

Question 4

When was Soleva founded?

Accepted Answer

The project started in 2021.

Question 5

What vehicle is Soleva based on?

Accepted Answer

A Peugeot J9 from 1987, originally diesel-powered.

Question 6

Does the van run entirely on solar power?

Accepted Answer

The goal is to maximize solar autonomy. In good conditions, the panels provide up to 150 km of charge per day. The van can also charge at standard stations.

Question 7

What is the range?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 250 km on a full charge. (Estimate to be validated.)

Question 8

Is the van road-legal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It has passed electrical safety tests and been certified for Swiss roads.

Question 9

How can I support Soleva?

Accepted Answer

Through donations, sponsoring, volunteering, event invitations, or sharing the project on social media.

Question 10

Is the original crowdfunding still active?

Accepted Answer

The Wemakeit campaign ended in 2022 (CHF 29,583 raised). Donations to the association remain welcome.

Question 11

Can I invite Soleva to an event?

Accepted Answer

Yes, contact the team by email at info@soleva.org.

Question 12

Who developed the solar panels?

Accepted Answer

CSEM (Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology) in collaboration with the EPFL PV-Lab.

Question 13

What batteries does the van use?

Accepted Answer

8 Volkswagen battery modules, 55 kWh total. (To be validated.)

Question 14

What motor powers the van?

Accepted Answer

A second-hand Nissan electric motor. (To be validated.)

Question 15

Can this technology be applied to other vehicles?

Accepted Answer

That's one of Soleva's ambitions: proving that solar retrofit can be applied to other utility and transport vehicles.

Question 16

How is my data handled?

Accepted Answer

Data exchanged via email is used solely to respond to your inquiry. See our privacy policy for details.

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