The Renault 4 E-Tech electric has successfully completed a remarkable 1,000-mile journey across the UK using nothing but solar-generated electricity, demonstrating the growing potential of renewable energy to support everyday electric mobility.
Timed to coincide with the summer solstice, the Easee Sun Run saw a Renault 4 E-Tech electric ‘Plein Sud’ travel from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats in northern Scotland. Rather than simply testing the EV’s endurance, the journey highlighted how solar power is already transforming businesses, communities, and research projects across Britain.
A Solar-Powered Journey Across Britain
Along the route, the Renault 4 E-Tech electric ‘Plein Sud’ charged exclusively using electricity generated by solar installations and portable solar-charged battery storage. Energy was delivered at designated charging points via an Easee Charge Pro three-phase EV charger, allowing the vehicle to complete the entire journey without drawing electricity from the national grid.
The expedition showcased a variety of real-world solar applications.
In Cornwall, Roskilly’s Ice Cream relies on rooftop solar panels to help power its daily operations, while Chard Junction—home to the UK’s oldest commercial solar farm—provided the Renault’s first recharge after leaving Land’s End.
Further north in Derbyshire, Whaley Bridge Cricket Club demonstrated how renewable energy can enable complete energy independence by operating entirely off-grid using solar power.
Showcasing the Future of Solar Innovation
The trip also explored emerging solar technologies that could reshape the future of renewable energy.
At Swansea University, Power Roll is developing lightweight, flexible solar films designed for installation on surfaces where conventional solar panels are impractical. Meanwhile, researchers in Durham are working on ultra-efficient vehicles capable of running directly on solar energy, reducing the need for energy storage and bringing solar-powered transportation a step closer to reality.
In Scotland, the journey passed a striking solar pyramid near Edinburgh before visiting off-grid homes and businesses on the east coast that combine solar generation with battery storage to operate independently of traditional electricity infrastructure.
Renault 4 E-Tech ‘Plein Sud’ Brings Open-Air EV Driving
Adding a unique dimension to the trip was the Renault 4 E-Tech electric ‘Plein Sud’, distinguished by its full-length electrically opening canvas roof. The 80 x 92 cm opening provides passengers with an unobstructed view of the sky while preserving the vehicle’s practicality.
Powered by a 52 kWh battery and a 150 hp electric motor, the crossover completed the cross-country drive entirely on solar-generated electricity collected throughout the journey.
Project leader Jeremy Hart said the expedition quickly evolved beyond a simple point-to-point drive, becoming an opportunity to discover the many different ways solar energy is already being used across the UK—from commercial solar farms and off-grid sports clubs to cutting-edge university research.
Pricing and Availability
The Renault 4 E-Tech electric ‘Plein Sud’ is offered in techno+ and iconic+ trim levels and is currently available to order in the UK. Eligible for the full Electric Car Grant, the model starts from £27,445 OTR, making it one of the most distinctive compact electric vehicles on sale, thanks to its combination of open-air driving, everyday practicality, and zero-emission performance.
The Easee Sun Run demonstrates that solar-powered EV travel is no longer just a concept. By combining existing renewable energy infrastructure with portable solar storage, the project illustrates how clean electricity can support long-distance electric driving while showcasing the expanding role of solar power throughout the UK.
