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Old 08-17-2005, 04:59 PM
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Schwa Schwa is offline
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Real Name: Erick
Location: Coquitlam, B.C.
Hybrids: 2001 Prius
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Default Re: Gen 1 Prius gets a solar boost

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rick Reece
I am wondering how much addition drag there is on the highway. We have a older Prius which our teens drive and usually averages around 57 mpg. I wouldn't mind getting an increase but wonder if the gains would be offset by the weight and drag. Have fun, Rick
I guess it depends if you do a lot of highway driving or not. If you are on the high speed driving path anyhow there's not much of a 'boost' that solar panels could give you because not much power comes from the battery when on the highway. I think this setup would be more suitable for people doing low-medium speed and stop & go type driving.

The real problem is cost. Solar panels are not affordable, especially when you want 200-300 watts worth. It's an interesting experiment but not really practical from a cost-saving point of view, yet.

Last edited by Schwa : 08-17-2005 at 05:58 PM.
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