Solar Roof Kit for Prius (Escape, Highlander, RAV4 EV, and more) |
10 Comments | |
| By Steve Balogh in Energy, Green Products, Hybrids, Solar, Tech Innovations, Transportation | May 21, 2008 | ||
Via Greenthinkers (via Jalopnik):
This SEV solar module for the 2004 through 2006 Toyota Prius generates 215 watts of renewable energy and is the first compound convex solar module to be commercially produced
The SEV system provides up to 20 miles per day of electric mode driving range and increased fuel economy by up to 29%.
But more than that it looks schweet.

pics of the Ford Escape Hybrid, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and RAV4 EV kits below
Ford Escape:

Toyota Highlander Hybrid:

RAV4 EV:


MichelleBennett said,
My only disappointment is that they don’t give a price estimate on their web site. You just have to contact them and ask. Does it really cost *that* much? What about installation?
Some sources have said it would pay itself back in 4+/- years… but provide no numbers to qualify that.
Radfahrer said,
Its about frelling time. Next I want to see thin film solar panels that roll down over your windows when you park your car in the sun.
Justin George said,
Only 215w ? Shouldn’t it be more like 400w? Particularly on the SUVs, with their larger surface area.
Kaushal Shah said,
I think its just a really wonderful idea. I am sure it is worth it……
modern sf said,
I like the idea however the claims for the SEV module seem to be a stretch. I’m thinking that the price is likely exhorbanent (at least for now) however it looks like they are trying to get creative in terms of packaging the sale of the SEV with a residential solar electrical system (which would qualify folks for federal renewable energy tax credits.
Hopefully the technology will play out and the price will come down. either way, i like the ingenuity!
Roofing Company said,
Haha interesting idea. With my experience in solar panel tiles and roofing its good to see more environmentally friendly technologies making its way into other things such as cars… solar energy is slowly becoming the way forward.
BJ said,
I have contacted Honda about helping me create a lightweight replacement solar pv hood for my civic, in addition to putting smaller roof array in place. Let’s see how that works. I think it will be striking, not odd-looking, with its Fiji blue color. I get upt to 40 pmg on it normally, am adding a HHO injector with an anticipated mpg of 60 thereafter. The PV arrays will charge deep cycle batteries that can be used to power accessories independent of the car’s engine. I have to do a lot of traveling, and am building an energy independent home. The benefit of carrying my own mini powerplant on the road is invaluable to me.
I’m certainly open to converting my engine when the time comes, but want to promote the feasibility of independent energy harvesting even while on the go…old adages apply: God helps those who help themselves, and waste not, want not.
Peter W. Sinz said,
Can we get a price for any of the kits ?
I own a 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid, a Honda 2000 Insight, and a 2009 Prius.
The Prius has aPlug-InSupply PHEV conversion.
Thanks
Mike.zzf said,
that EV looks great. But you can also check our website for more about the LiFePO4 EV and Solar BATTERY .www.evpst.com
you can get more view with our system
Thanks
mike.zzf
Cyndi Smith said,
D0 you have solar panels that would fit my 2011 Rav4??? I need a backup for an overnight use of the power charger overnight without the engine being on? I live in an old neighborhood that looses power a lot… I have a cpap sleep machine that I MUST have to sleep. I’m looking for a backup when we loose power.
Please let me know your thoughts,
Thank you, Cyndi Smith