Yes, it is possible to use light to push a vehicle forward. This concept is based on a scientific principle called radiation pressure or photon pressure. Radiation pressure is the force exerted on an object by the momentum of photons (particles of light) when they are absorbed, reflected, or transmitted.
One specific method that utilizes light to propel a vehicle is known as solar sailing. Solar sailing involves using the momentum of photons emitted by the Sun to propel a spacecraft or vehicle through space. The vehicle has a large, lightweight sail that reflects or absorbs photons, which in turn exerts a force on the sail, propelling the vehicle forward.
Solar sails work based on the fact that photons have momentum, even though they don't have mass. When the photons from the Sun's light interact with the sail, their momentum is transferred to the sail, resulting in a continuous acceleration. The force exerted by sunlight is relatively small, but it can be effective over long distances in the vacuum of space, where there is no friction to slow down the vehicle.
Solar sails have been considered for space missions and have the potential to enable long-distance travel within the solar system. They offer the advantage of not requiring fuel, which is a significant constraint for traditional propulsion systems.
It's important to note that using light to push a vehicle on Earth, within the Earth's atmosphere, would be challenging due to the much stronger effects of air resistance and gravity compared to the relatively weak force of sunlight. However, solar-powered vehicles that convert sunlight into electricity to drive electric motors are a practical application on Earth and have been developed for terrestrial transportation.