This document describes a hybrid electric vehicle project that uses solar panels to charge the vehicle's batteries and extend its driving range. Some key points:
- The vehicle has a 48V battery that powers a DC motor and is normally charged via electricity but can now also be charged by solar panels mounted on the roof.
- Maximum Power Point Trackers are used to optimize the power output from the solar panels to match the battery and motor voltages.
- Testing will compare the vehicle's driving range when using just its batteries versus using solar charging to replenish the batteries while driving.
- The students estimate it may take up to 3 weeks to complete the project and recommend improvements like a higher capacity motor or cooling