This isn't necessarily something I'm looking for but it occurred to me looking at photos of the prototype with the passenger doors open that they too largely face the sky and sun when open. More PV cells could be added to the doors, perhaps enough to bump the total wattage to 1000?
Of course they would only make a significant contribution when left open, so really only workable in a secure location; like maybe when you are camping and have the back hatch open also.
I imagine them being a cosmetic detractor. Think I prefer the current smooth egg shell look now. Still some folks might want to push that envelope and 1000 watts would be another catchy sales point.
Potentially they could get solar from the windows too.
https://www.solarwindow.com/
can anyone tell me about their batteries?
who are they supplied from?
can anyone tell me about their batteries?
who are they supplied from?
It is brilliant idea, the cells are buried, therefore the drag will not change. Besides, the sun may shine at the door even while we are driving, depends on the angle. I will vote for Yes, LOL
Interesting concept, since solar arrays work best perpendicular to the suns rays. Because of the bulbous shape of the Aptera, not all panels on the existing design would be in the right position during the daytime. As anyone who has worked with solar knows, any partially shaded panel actually acts as a resister and partially blocks the functioning panel's output. Personally, this would not pertain to me since I keep my cars protected indoors or under covers to protect from the sun, wind, and the sand here on the So. Cal coast. Composites and cloth really suffer here from direct ocean air and sun exposure. It is really not worth it for me for the issues with the solar positioning and care to sacrifice the 25 cents of electricity generated by the sun per day under ideal conditions. That's why a larger battery easily overshadows any solar generation. It will also lend to a better paint scheme not worrying about the panel's color and issues with de-lamination. Just my individual thoughts based on my usage and location. Your plans may certainly vary.
The door panels may have too much curvature for the solar cells.
if you were driving east or west, panels on the doors would get sun.