Solar panels by IKEA

[solarguy]

photovoltaic panels will make an improvement so small it will be difficult to measure.

Let's say you could strap 50 watts of panel(s) on your car without making the aerodynamics worse (unlikely). That will save a tiny/modest amount of gas (based on reducing the field current to the alternator, and reducing the work needed to rotate the alternator).

But, there are other alternator losses, like belt friction and bearing friction that are still there even if the alternator is completely disconnected electrically.

As cool as pv panels are, they will not help your car any meaningful amount.

You could get more benefit from cranking in five more psi in your tires.

Finest regards,


troy