Aftermarket accessories can indirectly aid the range of an electric car by powering many in-cabin energy-intensive functions
A SOLIS solar tonneau cover for the Rivian R1T has been created by Worksport. The aim is to harness the sun’s energy while the owners take their electric pickup trucks outdoors. We know that pickup trucks are designed and used by customers to go on off-tarmac activities or weekend getaways. Therefore, getting exposed to the sun is a common occurrence. In fact, basis this principle, new EV startups have been formed aiming to drive the car on solar energy for most of its lifecycle. While that might be too ambitious, using solar panels to generate some additional energy can surely gain popularity.
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Solar Tonneau Cover for Rivian R1T
Worksport makes aftermarket accessories for most mainstream pickup trucks. However, as we move deep into the EV era, companies are also pivoting their businesses to cater to new-age customers. As a result, they have created SOLIS which the company claims is the world’s first folding solar tonneau cover. This truck bed cover can generate 650 W of clean energy.
Together with the COR battery system, this tonneau cover can harness solar energy and store it. This cover will have Level 2 charging capabilities. Worksport CEO, Steven Rossi, said, “Rivian owners deserve an exceptional bed cover and power system to go further and truly do anything.” Now, even though it will not directly extend the range of the EV, it can power external appliances which are common among adventure seekers.
These include things like auxiliary lighting, electronic devices, camping equipment, induction stoves, mini refrigerators, tent ACs and much more. With all that taken care of, you can utilize the battery of the pickup truck just to move it. Hence, one can deem it as a range extender mechanism. You would be pleasantly surprised to know that Worksport already announced a similar solar cover for the Ford F-150 Lightning earlier this year. Additionally, this firm manufactures accessories for all major car marques including Ford, Dodge, RAM, Jeep, Chevrolet, GMC, and Toyota.
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Learn Electric Cars Says
As EVs become more common and widespread, it is inevitable that we will have aftermarket players devise appropriate equipment for these. Pickup trucks are vehicles which can accommodate innumerable components. Hence, we see many pickup truck owners opt for all sorts of aftermarket parts to enhance the prowess and capabilities of their automobiles. With EVs, if these elements can even aid the range or performance, EV owners will definitely flock to buy them. We shall keep an eye out for more details in this regard.