Our story
Julian and James Field, a father and son team based in the United Kingdom were inspired by the idea that solar powered vehicles might be a practical possibility for everyday use. In the autumn of 2013 they began to design a proof of concept vehicle stipulating that it had to be practical, affordable and road legal. In early 2014 their design was complete and by the summer a prototype, named SPV1, began to undergo road testing.
SPV1 performed better than expected, achieving workable top speeds and a useful range. Its battery had a re-charge time of 3 hours under normal daylight conditions offering freedom from charge points. Higher top speeds could be reached by increasing motor power and greater ranges achieved by adding battery capacity.
Modelling work carried out demonstrated that in countries where solar irradiation is higher than 5 kWh/m2 throughout the year, solar electric cars can meet much of the transport needs that are currently being provided by highly polluting ICE vehicles.
Encouraged by the performance of SPV1 and recognising the commercial potential of a solar car, the pair founded Solar Transport Systems Ltd and began work on a production vehicle. Nine years and over 5,000 engineering hours later the INTI was born. Named after the ancient Inca sun god, a prototype of the INTI is now in pre-production testing and a commercial launch is planned in 2024.
The INTI in numbers
30 engineers and designers
12 nationalities
Over 5,000 engineering hours
Top speed: 30mph to 60mph (45km/h to 100km/h) depending on local regulations
Range: up to 50 miles (80km) with standard battery
Kerb weight: under 400kg
CO2 emissions: None
Fuel cost: None
The team
We would like to acknowledge our fantastic team of engineers and designers
