Electricity is genetrated from solar energy using solar panels. Solar panels are made up of smaller solar energy-capturing devices called solar cells. Each solar cell generates electricity. These solar cells and panels can cause some problems, though.
Solar has some good points. The sun's energy is free, so there is no cost for fuel. After purchasing the car, you only have to pay for maintiainence. Solar energy has no emissions. Many solar cells/panels are made right here in the USA.
Solar cars have numerous disadvantages, though. Solar cells are very bulky, very, very expensive, and fragile. In addition, they are not very efficient. Some of the best solar panels are only 14% efficient. Also, the amount of room and electronics required for solar panels leaves little space for passengers. Most of today's solar cars are one-seaters. Finally, it would be somewhat difficult to run a solar car at night- no sunlight!
Numerous efforts have been made to improve solar vehicles. Most have either failed or ended with a small improvement in panel efficiency. However, a new technology seems especially promising. Today's solar cells are made from silicon and some other rare metals. Organic solar cells are made from readily available materials, such as carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen. This makes them much, much cheaper than traditional solar cells.
Solar is a technology that has great benefits but is implausible for vehicles with today's technolgy. Perhaps with the technology of tomorrow, we can obtain solar's extraordiary benefits without the disadvantages.