The EV Solar Charger can boost your EV range by 31 mi/day

U.S.-based startup GoSun has unveiled an innovative accessory for electric cars – the EV Solar Charger. As its name implies, it comprises a number of foldable solar panels that can be draped over a car to charge it up on sunny days while also absorbing excess heat. Orders are already being processed with a refundable deposit of $250.

Once folded down, the charger fits in a box just 5 inches (12.5 cm) thick that the company suggests putting on the roof rack. The top side of the box itself acts as a 200W panel, so you can squeeze a little bit of power from it while driving. The main array is only usable when parked, but increases the energy yield by a factor of 6 (to 1,200 watts).

A 120V cable runs straight from the panel array into the charging port of your car, meaning that all charging occurs automatically. When unfolded, the company promises that it can withstand wind up to 50 km/h (31 mph) strong. The box adds 32 kilos (70 lbs) to the car weight and allows you to go 160 km/h (100 mph) with it on the roof. GoSun reckons that most users will be able to get 16–32 km (10–20 miles) of free range out of the upgrade every day, with occasional surges to 50 km (31 miles) on sunny days.

The first deliveries are planned for 2025. The full price will be around $3,000, but customers in the United States may be eligible for a 30% tax incentive. The startup is currently trying to get its invention patented in the USA and China, with applications in both countries already submitted for approval.