Quote:
Originally Posted by Vwbeamer
I want to run a total loss on the charging system. To get current for the electrical system I want to mount a solar panel on the 40% cover, and have it charge a deep cycle battery. The deep cycle would charge the factory battery via a DC to DC convertor. I think cost would be 400 hundred, with a 2 MPG gain. I would use a Ardunio to control the system so that the factory alternator would kick in under braking or if the deep cycle battery voltage dropped below 12.2 volts
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Keep in mind lead acid batteries have poor cycle endurance and cost quite a bit of money over time if used that way (per cycle, LiFePO4 batteries are cheaper than lead acid). The alternator can be used not just when braking but also when the load on the engine is very low.
A solar panel tonneau cover is a good idea though :thumbsup: