Japan-headquartered Nissan Motor Co., a global automotive manufacturer, has introduced a new prototype electric minivehicle powered by solar panels. The model, based on the Sakura EV, will be shown at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo later this month. It features a roof-mounted solar panel and another foldable one that boosts power generation by over 60%. Nissan said that the setup can generate enough electricity for about 3,000 kilometers of driving each year. This could remove the need for charging from the grid for short daily trips. Project leader Junichi Inoue said the aim is to build a car that needs neither fuel nor external charging. He also noted that trying to make panels more efficient usually increases production costs.