China’s built a road so smart it will be able to charge your car

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The road of the future is likely to become the brain and nerve center of an autonomous-driving revolution.

The road to China’s autonomous-driving future is paved with solar panels, mapping sensors and electric-battery rechargers as the nation tests an “intelligent highway” that could speed the transformation of the global transportation industry.

The technologies will be embedded underneath transparent concrete used to build a 1,080-meter-long (3,540-foot-long) stretch of road in the eastern city of Jinan. About 45,000 vehicles barrel over the section every day, and the solar panels inside generate enough electricity to power highway lights and 800 homes, according to builder Qilu Transportation Development Group Co.

Continue reading… “China’s built a road so smart it will be able to charge your car”

Solar road is generating more power than expected

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In the six months it’s been in use an experimental bike path that also functions as a giant solar cell has far exceeded expectations – and that has scientists eyeing roadways as possible sources of solar energy to power street lights, traffic systems, and electric cars.   Continue reading… “Solar road is generating more power than expected”

Future of Energy Could Be Solar Panels Built Into Roads

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Solar roads

The Department of Energy just gave $100,000 to upstart company Solar Roadways, to develop 12-by-12-foot solar panels, dubbed “Solar Roads,” that can be embedded into roads, pumping power into the grid. The panels may also feature LED road warnings and built-in heating elements that could prevent roads from freezing.

 

Continue reading… “Future of Energy Could Be Solar Panels Built Into Roads”