Never need an EV charging station again with these rooftop solar power panels
Omid Sadeghpour is a visionary inventor who is making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) industry with his groundbreaking rooftop solar panel system, DartSolar. His innovative design is specifically tailored for his Tesla Model Y, harnessing solar energy while the car is parked to potentially add up to 20 extra miles of driving range each day without the need to plug in.
The concept behind DartSolar is simple yet effective – why not utilize the sun’s energy to charge EVs while they are stationary? This innovative approach is practical and environmentally friendly, making EVs even greener. The rooftop solar panels are aerodynamic, weatherproof, theft-resistant, and easy to use, opening in just 10 seconds with the same effort required to open a car door. These panels are built to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring reliable performance at all times.
The initial prototype, Beta 1, was developed in collaboration with Jeran Bruce at California’s Forged Makerspace. It features nine flexible solar panels, each rated at 175 watts, which can be deployed when the vehicle is parked. The structure is lightweight, weighing under 165 pounds, and is designed to fit within a standard U.S. parking space. Beta 1 can generate approximately 6 kWh of power per day, translating to about 20 miles of additional driving range.
As Sadeghpour prepares to roll out the next iteration, Beta 2, the system is set to undergo significant advancements. Beta 2 features a carbon fiber structure, reducing its height for improved aerodynamics. The wattage capacity has been increased to a potential 4,000 watts, providing up to 45 miles of range per day under optimal conditions. Additionally, Beta 2 introduces dynamic charging capabilities, allowing the panels to charge the car while driving or in different configurations for better efficiency.
The DartSolar system has the potential to serve multiple practical applications, including providing a viable charging solution for remote areas and acting as a backup energy source during power outages. While the project is currently a DIY initiative, Sadeghpour plans to share blueprints and build files on the DartSolar website to inspire others to explore similar innovations in solar technology.
In conclusion, DartSolar is not just about charging cars – it’s about reimagining how we use renewable energy in everyday life. With advancements in the Beta 2 prototype, Sadeghpour’s work has the potential to revolutionize electric vehicle charging and drive sustainability forward. Whether you’re commuting, adventuring off-grid, or preparing for the unexpected, DartSolar could be the key to driving into a greener future.
