Portable solarpower across the US

[Kamakiri]

Very cool…I was planning to do so in an Aptera…in far less time. Also starting with a 100% solar generated charge (pre-trip). Maybe take just over a week in a 1,000 mile version. I think about 10 or 11 in an LE. securing the space for the full array needed could be a challenge at some campsites. Could be faster if I’m able to figure out a trailer hitch attachment point(s). And build an aerodynamic aluminum low-boy trailer.

[Solana]

It will be fascinating to follow this cannonball solar journey.

I can’t wait to see an Aptera compete… It should do very well.

[Kamakiri]

Tom just appeared in a Munro Live video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJnkbn1BIZQ

He also acknowledged that once Aptera’s are out, one could easily ‘blow it out of the water’ with only one day stops…which is what I’d plan for. My plan uses the exact same panel type and count, but looking at different string arrangements all of which would need to be tested, of course. The interesting difference is that the Aptera would only be limited by its DCFC capacity, where his Tesla is limited primarily by the size of his PV array and its downstream pipeline. He could double or triple the array and I think double would still fit easily in a Tesla with 128 panels. So he could go significantly larger on the PV side, and an Aptera could only make use of a larger array if secondary storage was used, as I would consider in the trailer option. An Aptera can also have the advantage of some panels wired directly into its inverter parallel to the OEM PV, even if they have to be say smaller ~50W variants to match the string lengths.

[ray-holan]

Thanks, David. Very interesting video. I applaud the guy’s “can do” spirit. Can’t wait for an Aptera to trace the same route.

[Shawgrin]

I am just making guesstimates, but the Aptera 1000 should be able to complete the in about a week using the solar set up from the video. The 250 would take about 15 days, 400 should be about 13 days or less and the 600 might be about 10 days. Did the math in my head, sorry no work to show. Only costs would be for food and lodging or camp sites. Depending on the cost of fuel and the vehicle driven, that could be $350 to a $1000 savings in fuel costs and engine wear.