Vehicle auxiliary power applications for solar cells

Solar cell technology is today at the point where automotive applications can be considered. The author reviews solar cells as a power supply for battery charging, ventilation and auxiliary power for lighting, vehicle security and other applications. Preliminary results from testing of solar car ventilation systems concepts are discussed. Comparisons are made of the leading solar cell technologies and design criteria for use in vehicles. Some conclusions are drawn, namely that solar vehicle propulsion is largely impractical for production cars. However, temporary solar charging can, by reducing alternator use, improve fuel economy. For vehicle security, solar cells can provide power to offset the substantial key-off loads and allow an integrated approach to vehicle electrical supply management