Aptera-style solar panels in SUV option.

[KevinRS]

A vehicle has to be very efficient to get meaningful range from solar panels that it can fit on it's surface area. The Aptera might be able achieve meaningful range from its panels though I wouldn't be surprised if it falls a little short of the "Up to 40 miles" claim. With 4 wheels, more passengers, and much more weight and less aerodynamics I'd think 10 miles would be pushing it for a Telo or Slate with onboard solar. As long as your EV has a battery there is little need to carry your solar panels and associated electronic components around with you.

Exactly. While with slate, it looks like you could add the roof rack and 2 towers, and be able to easily put on some rails and add a good amount of panels, the added weight and drag would probably negate any charging you'd get, unless you are only driving like 5 miles a day, no freeway speed, and always parking in full sun. Even then if you are parking in the same spot every night, better to leave the solar there, either grid tied or charging batteries that you then charge the truck with.

 

[catiare]

I found this company. They make a Tonneau with solar panels along with some hardware needed (MPPT, Inverter, Battery, etc). Something similar can be done in the Slate and leveraging existing internal hardware so just the Tonneau is needed.

https://www.worksport.com/products/solis-cor

 

[sodamo]

I found this company. They make a Tonneau with solar panels along with some hardware needed (MPPT, Inverter, Battery, etc). Something similar can be done in the Slate and leveraging existing internal hardware so just the Tonneau is needed.

https://www.worksport.com/products/solis-cor

Could be interesting

 

[PuppyRocker]

Sounds like a cool idea, but I’d rather see more efficient panels on the roof than stretching them over the whole body, less likely to get damaged and easier to clean.

 

[KevinRS]

Sounds like a cool idea, but I’d rather see more efficient panels on the roof than stretching them over the whole body, less likely to get damaged and easier to clean.

The problem is the math doesn't work. You need more surface area than a vehicle has to generate enough power through the day to run the vehicle, unless it's a lightweight "motorcycle" like aptera. You are better off putting in a solar carport.