A solar car kit can be used to convert a conventional car to run on solar energy. Not only are solar kits affordable, but they can also help you do your bit for the environment. A solar kit can be installed on virtually any type of car, but it is easiest to convert an electric vehicle to run on solar power. If you intend to use solar panels to power a standard gas-powered car, this will be more complicated.
Benefits of Solar Power
Solar power is brilliant because it makes it possible to run your car for free. The only time you will need to spend money is to maintain your solar panels. Solar panels do not last forever, however, they will last for a very long time as long as they are cared for properly.
Electric vehicles are very popular, but it's only possible to remove all of the emissions associated with using electric vehicles if you use solar panels. Solar panels are one of the few ways of harnessing the energy nature uses every day, and it's one of the only methods that you can use on the move.
Drawbacks of Solar Power
Solar panels were once very expensive and impractical for use on cars. However modern solar panels are much more durable and cheaper. The only problem which really exists with solar panels is the need for batteries. Although solar panels themselves can look after the environment, actually making batteries can damage the environment. Batteries have a limited lifespan and also aren't completely reliable.
Installing a Solar Power Kit
There are two different types of solar-powered kits available depending on what you are trying to do. If you are trying to stop your car from needing another fuel source then this will be very difficult, especially when converting a gas vehicle. Solar panels can also be fitted simply to provide electricity for onboard components, which is very simple.
The easiest types of DIY solar-powered car kit work with electric cars. These cars already have batteries and electric motors, the kits work by charging the batteries up from the sunlight, this should hopefully mean that you never need to worry about charging your car. What's more, you will also be able to charge your car wherever you are, even when it's not plugged into the mains.
Maintaining Solar Panels
Solar panels are waterproof units that covered in glass or plastic. This means that the solar panels do not require any specialist treatment. They need to be kept as clean as possible to maximize the amount of sunlight which can reach the panels to be converted into electricity.
If any solar panels become damaged or cracked then these will need to be replaced. Each solar panel is an individual tile and this means that individual panels can be replaced if required. The batteries will require the most maintenance because they are so delicate. Most solar powered vehicles use lead acid batteries which can stop holding as much charge if not treated properly.