SOLARIS: World’s First Self-Charging Solar Motorcycle
MASK Architects introduces SOLARIS, a self-charging solar motorcycle developed as part of the studio’s ‘Invent and Integrate’ design approach led by founders Öznur Pınar Cer and Danilo Petta. The project explores autonomous mobility through a vehicle capable of generating its own power without reliance on fuel, electrical grids, or commercial charging networks.
SOLARIS operates as a fully solar-powered system. Its defining feature is a set of retractable circular photovoltaic wings that unfold to collect sunlight and supply energy to an integrated lithium storage unit. When parked, the motorcycle functions as its own charging station; in use, it runs as an electric vehicle powered exclusively by solar intake. The concept establishes a transportation model based on energy independence and site-free operation. The design incorporates a biomimetic formal language inspired by the movement and structural proportions of a leopard. This reference informs the elongated front geometry, the structural frame, and the aerodynamic stance of the motorcycle. The formal decisions support balance, performance, and airflow while shaping the vehicle’s visual identity.
the two operational states of SOLARIS | all images courtesy of MASK Architects
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Mechanically, SOLARIS includes a high-torque electric motor, a regenerative braking system that recovers kinetic energy, and a lightweight aluminum–carbon composite chassis engineered for rigidity and reduced weight. The design team integrates an intelligent solar-energy management system that monitors collection, storage, and distribution in real time. A digital cockpit and optional app connectivity provide performance data and solar-charging metrics. The solar-powered configuration positions SOLARIS as a mobility proposal for contexts where access to fuel or charging infrastructure is limited. Potential applications include remote regions, protected landscapes, developing communities, and urban programs focused on low-emission transportation. The absence of fuel consumption and external energy demand also reduces operational costs and maintenance compared to conventional electric motorcycles.
As a research and design case, SOLARIS demonstrates MASK Architects’ ongoing interest in integrating technological autonomy with form-driven expression. The project presents a model of mobility in which vehicles operate independently of external energy networks, emphasizing renewable power generation, material efficiency, and environmental impact reduction.
SOLARIS acts as both an electric motorcycle and a self-charging solar generator with photovoltaic wings
SOLARIS reveals its aluminum–carbon structural frame and biomimetic geometry
with extended solar wings, the bike transforms into a compact solar power station for off-grid self-charging
the circular photovoltaic wings, engineered to maximize solar exposure and autonomous energy collection
symmetry study emphasizes technical transparency, exposed structure, and LED visual signature
the solar wings create a sculptural, halo-like geometry behind the motorcycle
the solar wings deploy automatically when parked, forming a circular photovoltaic canopy
the lightweight aluminum swingarm and carbon-fiber tail structure, designed for structural efficiency
the project’s core principle is total energy independence
SOLARIS in self-charging configuration, where expanded photovoltaic surfaces harvest sunlight
the modular photovoltaic system that enables riders to recharge independently
conceptual visualization of SOLARIS, the biomimetic form draws from the fluid power and muscular elegance of a leopard
project info:
name: SOLARIS
designer: MASK Architects | @maskarchitects
lead designers: Öznur Pınar Cer, Danilo Petta
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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