Re: PVs on EVs (was: Use Market Forces)

[Lee Hart <leeahart@earthlink.net>]

Rod.Hower@ametek.com wrote:
> Instead of using the solar panels for extra range it seems that a
> small area of panels to charge a 12V battery for accessories would be
> useful. Instead of using a DC-DC converter to power 12V accessories
> you could have a separate 12V battery that is charged eliminating the
> need to charge it separately.
> Has anyone done this before? And if so, how did it work out?

Yes, it has been done, and it works (sort of). I think Solar Car used to
put a small solar panel on their EVs to charge the 12v battery.

The problem is that the amount of solar charging is unpredictable. Maybe
you get enough, maybe you won't. So you need another 12v charger anyway.

And, without a DC/DC, your 12v system's voltage is 12v, not 14v as it is
in a normal car with an alternator (or DC/DC) running. So your
headlights are a little dimmer or your wipers run a little slower.
-- 
Lee A. Hart                Ring the bells that still can ring
814 8th Ave. N.            Forget your perfect offering
Sartell, MN 56377 USA      There is a crack in everything
leeahart_at_earthlink.net  That's how the light gets in - Leonard Cohen