webcontrol Posted April 2, 2014 Report Share Posted April 2, 2014 I heard that there are new models with solar panel for plug-in C-max this year. I would suggest also have that as an option for hybrid C-MAx.For plug-in cars, roof solar panel would not provide enough charge for fully charging EV battery. However, for hybrid, that may be enough for a full charge on EV battery. After parking outside for a day, car is fully charged, so that user can drive couple miles on EV only, that would be a great plus. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fotomoto Posted April 2, 2014 Report Share Posted April 2, 2014 I heard that there are new models with solar panel for plug-in C-max this year. You heard wrong. The solar panel(s) are part of a separate structure that the Energi model would plug into NOT built into the roofline of the vehicle. Secondly, this is just a concept and not part of any new model coming out. Thirdly, they would be prohibitively expensive for the 1 or 2 miles you might get. For example, I had a Prius with a $4,000 solar roof option (nav included too in that pkg). It only provided 22 watts of electricity which powered the interior fan to help keep the inside a little cooler (yes it worked). It would take days to get enough juice out of that to propel a car. Many prius owners would like the solar roof to help charge the 12V battery to keep it topped off. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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