So much stuff to research. I'd like to avoid doing everything twice
Here's an interesting item I found:
JEGS Performance Products 51810 | Buy JEGS Remote Mount Electric A/C Compressor at JEGS
9-30v electric remote mount A/C compressor. One of the Prius' best tricks is being able to run the A/C with the engine off. $1200 is a lot, but I think I'll pay it. On previous cars, I've had massive hits in MPG during 110*F+ days because not only does the A/C take a lot of power, but the engine has to idle just to run the compressor.
I'm a bit surprised such a thing exists, I'd previously given up on the idea of running the A/C off a 12v battery. As it stands, I think I'd go with a dual battery hybrid 12/24v set up. I think the step up to 24v wouldn't gain a whole lot of efficiency, but if I'm running the A/C off it it will likely prove worthwhile. Solar panels on a hard tonneau will mean I can use excess power to keep the cabin cool when parked.
The rated 31A draw (at which voltage?!) means the solar panels (around 400W, rated) won't keep up with it of course, but that all depends on the duty cycle on the day, the F1 cab is tiny, with small near vertical windows, so all things considered the A/C shouldn't have to work too hard. Good insulation will also be a priority.
Remote mount means it can go low and further back, as ideally I'm hoping to get close to 50/50 weight distribution (probably won't happen with a flattie).