Electric vehicles (EVs) have become synonymous with innovation, but solar-powered EVs remain a rarity. DartSolar aims to bridge this gap by introducing a rooftop solar power system that can be retrofitted onto any EV, providing an alternative method for on-the-go charging. Developed by California-based inventor Omid Sadeghpour, the DartSolar system is now available as a polished production model after months of prototyping and refinement.
A closer look at the system
At its core, the DartSolar system features a 960-watt solar array comprising six 160-watt photovoltaic panels. These fiberglass-backed panels are coated with durable ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) and housed within 4-mm-thick aluminum frames. The panels are arranged in three pairs, mounted on telescoping stainless steel tubing.
When parked, the panels can be extended by hand to maximize sun exposure. Before driving, the system compacts, with the front and rear panels sliding into the middle, leaving only two panels exposed. This design ensures functionality without compromising aerodynamics.
The panels connect to a compact power unit located at the rear of the vehicle. This unit converts solar energy into 120-volt alternating current, providing approximately 5 kWh of charge per day. This translates to an estimated 10 to 20 miles (16 to 32 kilometers) of solar-powered driving, although factors like weather and driving habits may influence performance. The power unit also includes an integrated outlet for charging devices like power tools.
Improved aerodynamics and versatility
The production model is significantly sleeker than earlier prototypes. While the original system added 11 inches (279 mm) of height, the latest version is just 1.5 inches (38 mm) tall, reducing wind resistance. Tests conducted with a Tesla Model Y revealed a modest drag increase of 1 to 2%, making the system suitable for highway use.
Weighing approximately 90 pounds (41 kg), the system is light enough for most EVs to handle without significant performance loss. It can support up to 50 pounds (23 kg) of additional cargo via an adapter, ensuring that drivers do not lose rooftop storage capacity.
Practical and cost-effective
Sadeghpour emphasizes the system’s practicality, stating it offers a “5X return on investment” within its expected 10-year lifespan. At a price of $2,950, the DartSolar system is marketed as an economical choice for EV owners, with the potential to pay for itself in two years under optimal conditions. For those interested, preorders are open on the company’s website.
Source: DartSolar
