Aptera publishes solar data

[Kerbe]

Here's a link to Aptera's official solar data press release: Powered by Sunlight: A Look at Solar Performance | Aptera Solar EVs

 

[insightman]

Here's a link to Aptera's official solar data press release: Powered by Sunlight: A Look at Solar Performance | Aptera Solar EVs

I've wondered if Aptera would recommend orienting their vehicle with the front, back, or side presented to the sun. I expected the way to maximize solar charging would be with the front facing the sun and the hatch opened. Aptera could offer an extra-cost option to raise or lower the hatch to achieve maximum charging (and to close the hatch during rainfall).

Now that Aptera's revealed side exposure is the way to go, I need to find backers so I can produce this solar-charging aid

 

[insightman]

I expected the way to maximize solar charging would be with the front facing the sun and the hatch opened.

Oh, after watching the video you linked in your other post, @Kerbe , I see that raising the hatch IS the best way to maximize charging.

 

[Kerbe]

I've wondered if Aptera would recommend orienting their vehicle with the front, back, or side presented to the sun. I expected the way to maximize solar charging would be with the front facing the sun and the hatch opened. Aptera could offer an extra-cost option to raise or lower the hatch to achieve maximum charging (and to close the hatch during rainfall).

Now that Aptera's revealed side exposure is the way to go, I need to find backers so I can produce this solar-charging aid
View attachment 28816

Tee Hee! Internally, Aptera's term for aiming the vehicle solar south and lifting the hatch is "Solarmaxxing" - but, of course, you're leaving the vehicle open and exposed...

 

[JWiley]

Tee Hee! Internally, Aptera's term for aiming the vehicle solar south and lifting the hatch is "Solarmaxxing" - but, of course, you're leaving the vehicle open and exposed...

If you're going to be opened and exposed for solarmaxxing, why not throw some solar cells on the doors? You could then harvest a lot more of the sun's energy by also opening the doors. Granted, it might detract from the side view when the doors are closed.

 

[Kerbe]

If you're going to be opened and exposed for solarmaxxing, why not throw some solar cells on the doors? You could then harvest a lot more of the sun's energy by also opening the doors. Granted, it might detract from the side view when the doors are closed.

I believe it's about maximizing what's already there - not about adding as many cells as possible. They did just add another dozen or so cells to the rear hatch by packing the cells more closely together.