FAQ

Everything You Need to Know About SolarSails

Product 4

Q1 What is SolarSails?

SolarSails is an intelligent solar energy system designed for electric vehicles. It automatically deploys solar panels on your vehicle's roof, tracks the sun for maximum energy generation, and charges your EV directly. With 1840W of TOPCon solar cells, it generates an average of 6-8kWh per day, adding 60-80km of range.

Q2 How does SolarSails work?

When you park your EV, SolarSails automatically deploys solar panels from the roof-mounted container. Built-in light sensors track the sun's position and adjust panel angles for optimal energy capture. The generated DC power flows directly to your vehicle's battery with less than 5% conversion loss. When you're ready to drive, the panels automatically fold back into the aerodynamic container.

Q3 Can SolarSails fully charge my EV?

SolarSails is designed to supplement your EV's charging, not replace it entirely. With 6-8kWh daily generation, it can cover most daily commuting needs (60-80km of range). In high-sunlight regions, many users may find they rarely need public chargers for daily use.

Q4 What makes SolarSails different from portable solar panels?

Unlike portable panels that require manual setup and fixed positioning, SolarSails is permanently mounted, fully automated, and features intelligent sun tracking. It deploys and folds automatically, tracks the sun throughout the day, and integrates directly with your vehicle's electrical system. No manual setup, no storage hassle, maximum energy generation.

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Q5 Why does SolarSails use TOPCon solar cells?

TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) is an advanced high-efficiency N-type solar cell technology. Compared to the previous-generation PERC cells, it delivers higher conversion efficiency, superior low-light power generation, a lower temperature coefficient, and longer service life. On this foundation, SolarSails further optimizes the module architecture, encapsulation process, and advanced system integration. Through testing, module conversion efficiency reaches up to 26.5%. This means SolarSails achieves higher energy output from the same installation footprint, providing more stable and efficient solar charging for your vehicle. Additionally, TOPCon cells maintain strong performance in low-light environments such as cloudy days, early mornings, and evenings, with lower performance degradation at high temperatures — further enhancing all-weather generation efficiency and long-term reliability.

* Up to 26.5% module conversion efficiency is based on SolarSails internal testing results. Actual performance may vary depending on installation environment, lighting conditions, and usage scenarios.

Q6 Why is sun tracking important?

Fixed solar panels can lose 25-100% of potential energy because they can't adjust to the sun's changing position. SolarSails' intelligent tracking system continuously adjusts panel angles to face the strongest light source, capturing 95%+ of available solar energy throughout the day. This is the key to achieving 6-8kWh daily generation from a vehicle-mounted system.

Q7 How does the automatic deployment work?

SolarSails uses precision actuators and sensors to automatically deploy solar panels when your vehicle is parked. The system detects parking status, checks weather conditions, and unfolds panels to optimal positioning. When you start the vehicle, sensors detect motion and automatically fold the panels back into the protective container. The entire process takes less than 30 seconds.

Q8 What happens in bad weather?

SolarSails is not recommended for use in severe or extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds (Level 5 / 10m/s or above), or hail. Product damage resulting from continued use under such conditions is not covered by the warranty — please follow the product usage guidelines. For additional device safety, SolarSails features built-in weather detection. When heavy rain, strong winds, or hail is detected, the system automatically folds and stows into protective mode. The core electrical system, photovoltaic modules, and key electronic components all feature IP67 protection design, effectively preventing rain and dust intrusion and further enhancing system reliability and durability in complex outdoor environments.

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Q9 How much energy does SolarSails generate per day?

On a sunny day, SolarSails generates 6-8 kWh, which translates to approximately 60-80km of additional driving range. Actual generation depends on location, season, and weather conditions. In regions with high solar irradiance (like western China, Australia, Middle East), daily generation can exceed 12kWh.

Q10 Can SolarSails replace public charging entirely?

For most daily commuting (30-60km), SolarSails can cover your charging needs entirely. For longer trips, you'll still need public or home charging. However, SolarSails significantly reduces charging frequency and costs. Many users report reducing public charging needs by 60-80%.

Q11 Does SolarSails work in winter?

Yes. Solar panels actually perform better in cold temperatures (lower temperature coefficient). While winter days are shorter and sun angles lower, SolarSails' tracking system compensates by optimizing panel angles. Typical winter generation is 60-80% of summer output. In snowy regions, the tracking system helps shed snow from panels.

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Q12 Can I install SolarSails myself?

Yes. SolarSails features a modular, quick-install design that users can install themselves. Two adults can install the system on the vehicle roof in approximately 15 minutes — no specialized tools, no drilling, and no permanent modifications to the vehicle required. The system is ready to use immediately after installation. If you need assistance, we also provide detailed installation guides and technical support.

Q13 Which vehicles are compatible?

SolarSails is compatible with over 95% of electric vehicles. As long as your vehicle supports roof rack crossbars and is equipped with a standard DC fast charging port, our system can typically be installed. The system features a modular mounting design — no drilling or permanent vehicle modifications required — and can accommodate most qualifying sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and select light commercial vehicles. Check our compatibility list or contact our customer support team to confirm whether your vehicle is supported.

Q14 What is the warranty?

SolarSails features a high-reliability design, with the complete system validated to withstand over 3,000 deploy-and-fold cycles — sufficient for approximately 8 years of reliable use under normal operating conditions. We provide a 1.5-year comprehensive warranty covering core components including solar panels, actuators, sun tracking system, and electronic control system. Solar cell modules are warranted to maintain at least 90% of rated power output for 3 years. Extended warranty services will also be available for longer-term peace of mind.

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Q15 When will SolarSails launch on Kickstarter?

We are planning to launch our Kickstarter campaign in April 2027. Join our waitlist to be the first to know about the launch date, early-bird pricing, and exclusive perks. Waitlist members will get priority access and special discounts.

Q16 What will SolarSails cost?

Final pricing will be announced at the Kickstarter launch. We're targeting a price point that makes solar charging cost-effective within 2-3 years of use compared to public charging costs. Early-bird Kickstarter backers will receive significant discounts.

Q17 Where will SolarSails ship?

We plan to ship worldwide, with initial priority to regions with high EV adoption and solar irradiance. Shipping details, costs, and timelines will be announced during the Kickstarter campaign. Join our waitlist for updates.

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Q18 Who is behind SolarSails?

SolarSails is developed by a team of engineers and entrepreneurs passionate about renewable energy and electric vehicles. Our team has expertise in solar technology, automotive engineering, and product design. We're on a mission to make every EV a mobile power station.

Q19 What is SolarSails' mission?

Our mission is to let every EV charge itself. We believe electric vehicles have transformed transportation, and now it's time to transform how they get energy. By combining solar power, automatic deployment, and intelligent tracking, we're giving EVs more freedom, reducing dependence on charging infrastructure, and accelerating the world's transition to sustainable energy.

Q20 How can I partner with SolarSails?

We welcome partnerships across business development, investment, media, and OEM integration. Visit our Contact page to get in touch with the relevant team. We're particularly interested in automotive manufacturer partnerships for OEM integration of our technology.

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