YOU’RE not likely to see a car powered by solar power appearing in a motorway service station any time soon, but the technology remains fascinating nevertheless.

Earlier in 2014, Ford unveiled is C-Max Energi Concept, which featured a solar power panel system on the roof, with Ford claiming the solar power C-MAX could offer a range of up to 21 miles, by tracking the position of the sun. Clever stuff.

But don’t get too excited. As things stand, we only foresee solar panels being used to provide additional power to in-car accessories, such as the air-conditioning system.