Hyundai and Kia vehicles could soon be powered by new solar charging technology with plans to develop the system announced today.
Incorporated into the roof or hood of the vehicles, the electricity-generating solar panels would provide additional electrical power to hybrid, battery electric and internal combustion vehicles with the aim of increasing fuel efficiency and range.
Solar panels used on the roof of a car isn’t a new idea, the Toyota Prius has already featured similar tech.
Three types of solar roof charging systems are being developed by Hyundai Motor Group; a first-generation silicon solar roof system, second-generation semi-transparent solar roof system and a third-generation lightweight solar-lid on the body of the vehicle.
The first-generation solar roof system is for hybrid models and includes a structure constructed from mass-produced silicon solar panels that are fixed to the standard roof. This system can achieve a charge of 30 to 60 per cent of the battery per day which is dependent on weather and environmental conditions.
Internal combustion engine vehicles will utilise the second-generation semi-transparent solar roof system, which is a world first. These panels are applied to a panoramic sunroof and still allow transparency whilst charging a battery mounted on the internal combustion engine vehicle or directly charging an electric vehicle’s battery.
A pilot study is currently being undertaken for the third-generation lightweight solar-lid system which could be applied to eco-friendly vehicle models. In order to maximise energy output, panels are mounted to both the roof and bonnet of the vehicle.
Three components comprise the solar charging system – the solar panel, a controller and a battery.
When solar energy from the sun touches the solar panel surface electricity is generated. With a 100W solar panel fitted, in 1 Sun standards (Summer noon, 1000 W/㎡ intensity of radiation) 100Wh of energy per hour is produced.
In the controller, Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), voltage and current are controlled to increase the efficiency of the electricity collected in the solar panel, and source transformation happens.
The controller transforms the electricity generated to the standard voltage, then the battery stores or uses it to decrease loads of a vehicle’s Alternating Current (AC) generator.
Vehicles are expected to be fitted with the first generation of the technology after 2019 in an effort to meet global regulations targets and improve vehicle fuel efficiency.
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