Lex Hoefsloot, CEO and co-founder of Lightyear, explained in an interview with Dutch media that there is currently a significant demand for solar panels for cars. However, developing and launching its own solar cars would take longer than expected. Hoefsloot also confirmed that some employees will have to be laid off as a result of the restructuring, but did not give any specific figures.
Interestingly, despite this new strategy, Lightyear has not completely abandoned its plans for the Lightyear 2 solar car model. Hoefsloot emphasized that the company continues to negotiate with potential partners to move the project forward. Discussions are underway with South Korean investor Sunbo regarding potential funding. The final decision on whether and when to resume the development and production of solar cars will depend on the outcome of these negotiations.
Earlier this year, Lightyear abruptly halted the production of its first car, the Lightyear 0. Only a handful of this premium model had been produced by that time. Shortly after halting production, Lightyear declared bankruptcy. In April, it was announced that the company would undergo a relaunch in a reduced form, with the then-curator deciding to sell several demonstration vehicles of the initial model. A group of loyal investors injected 8 million euros into the company, facilitating its revival.
Following the company's relaunch, Lightyear was expected to focus on producing its mass-market model, the Lightyear 2. The plan was to price it at around 40,000 euros and introduce it in 2025. However, it is now uncertain whether this schedule can be met.
Source: NL Times