Fundraising FoxLightyear
4 known investors
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Lightyear develops solar charging systems integrated into vehicle exteriors to enable electric vehicles to generate their own power and operate with reduced grid dependence. The company serves the automotive industry by offering scalable solar integration technology that increases EV range and reduces charging frequency.
Founders & leadership
LH
Lex HoefslootCo-founder, CEO2016–2024Lex Hoefsloot founded Lightyear, which developed solar charging technology for electric vehicles, raising €250M and bringing a solar car to production before pivoting to a technology supplier model for the automotive industry in 2024. He now advises hardware and deep tech founders on fundraising, manufacturing scale-up, and governance challenges.
DB
Dr. Bonna NewmanChief Executive Officer (CEO)
Investors · 4
Funding
SEC filings, press & company announcements$23M disclosed across 1 of 3 rounds · 2020–2026
- $23MraisedJul 2025 · 2 sourcesSource ↗
- Undisclosed amountseed roundOct 2020
Amplo (lead), Ludlow Ventures, Susa Ventures
Source ↗
Source: company announcements and press reports — follow each round's link for the claim.
Frequently asked questions
- What does Lightyear do?
- Lightyear develops solar charging systems integrated into vehicle exteriors to enable electric vehicles to generate their own power and operate with reduced grid dependence. The company serves the automotive industry by offering scalable solar integration technology that increases EV range and reduces charging frequency.
- Who founded Lightyear?
- Lightyear was founded by Lex Hoefsloot.
- Who are Lightyear's investors?
- Lightyear's investors include BOM, Amplo Ventures, Ludlow Ventures, Susa Ventures.
- How much funding has Lightyear raised?
- Lightyear has disclosed $23M raised across 1 of its 3 known rounds.