Extending the range of your electric-powered Volkswagen ID Buzz has been made easier thanks to solar roof modules from ABT e-Line.
Due to the limited roof area on previous models and the complex shapes of the solar modules, the investment and development time required meant harnessing the sun’s energy wasn’t a possibility. Happily, the ID Buzz, especially with a long wheelbase, offers a suitable roof on which to build a solar array.
ABT’s engineers in Kempten, Germany, have developed a solution that can deliver up to 600W peak power to the vehicle’s high-voltage battery via the solar modules on the roof. An extension via the vehicle’s side panels is already being considered to increase total output to over 1,000 watts.
The solar panels will be able to top up the ID Buzz’s battery pack while stationary or when moving, providing up to 1,800 miles of range per year, or around 150 miles a month. The sun’s rays can also be used to power other energy consumers, such as a refrigerated body.
The start of production of the new solar roof is planned for the beginning of 2024. As with the ABT
Camper XNH, Volkswagen Group Service will carry out the conversion close to the factory, saving long logistics routes in the interests of greater sustainability.
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