Solar panels stuck on a Tesla Model 3 roof: the one-month verdict
YouTube channel Mostly Offgrid spent a month with the 250 W EcoFlow HeatGuard solar film on a Model 3 roof: the mounting holds, but it only feeds a portable power station.
US YouTube channel "Mostly Offgrid" posted an update in early September after a month with the EcoFlow HeatGuard solar film stuck to the glass roof of a Tesla Model 3. His verdict: the panels are staying on.
What the kit is
The kit uses two 125 W panels, 250 W in total, which can be wired in series or parallel. They attach with 3M VHB tape and cover the roof from the windshield back to the point where they would block rear visibility. It cost about $450. Note: the panels do not charge the car's battery. They feed a portable power station, in his case a Pecron F3000, with the panels in series (around 50 V).
One month later
- the tape holds extremely well, even at 80+ mph; removing it would likely ruin the panels;
- no wind noise or efficiency loss noticed;
- in hazy sun he saw 135–138 W, and in full sun the rated 250 W;
- the panels don't touch the glass directly, so they don't heat it.
Downsides
You lose the panoramic roof view, apart from a thin strip in the middle. In his very hot climate, the shade is actually a bonus. A Model Y version of around 300 W also exists. It's a handy setup for camping or off-grid living, not a way to add range.
