FAQ
Why is the S2E solar canopy frame made of aluminium
and not plastic?
The inherent qualities of strength, stability and durability
found in aluminium meet our requirements in manufacturing a high
quality product. Aluminium enhances the sheerline modern
Scandinavian design. Furthermore an aluminium frame affords
the best protection if struck by lightning.The S2E solar canopy
unit, comprising of the photovoltaic panels and metal frame, form
the top of a Faraday cage; the uprights and the vehicle itself form
the other side. Experts in the field assure us of the advantages of
this construction. Among other things that often act as
Faraday cages are:Cars and aircraft, when struck by lightning. The
metal frame and outer skin of the vehicle cause the electrical
charge to travel safely away from the occupants.
link to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUWxYesR5Wo
link to Wikipedia: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage
When you claim the S2E solar canopies for golf
cars and utility vehicles provide 30 - 35% extended range in
typical applications, what exactly does that
mean?
Under sunny weather conditions the S2E 2-module solar canopy
will provide an extra 1.2 - 1.3 kWh per day. Under continuous
driving conditions, this is enough to extend a golf car's range by
at least 30 - 35%. Under normal golfing conditions, with
intermittent stops and starts, this extra solar energy may well be
enough for the golf car to run for several days or weeks, making
normal recharging unnecessary. During golf tournaments
held in Denmark we have experienced several weeks of unimpaired
driving with no need to recharge from the grid. Denmark and
Newfoundland, Canada, are both on the same line of latitude -
56°N.
Is the S2E solar
canopyperformance the same on cloudy days
as on sunny days?
The performance of the S2E solar canopy depends upon the
intensity of energy generated by solar radiation, also known as
insolation . On average the insolation on a
horizontal surface varies from 1 to 9 kWh per m2
per day, depending on the time of year and the location. On a
dark, cloudy day , with very low solar radiation, the solar cells'
power production will be reduced proportionately. However, the
S2E solar canopy is equipped with controller technology, which
ensures maximum possible solar energy input and counteracts energy
loss due to insufficient voltage output from the solar
panels.
What if a golf ball hits an S2E solar
canopy?
The solar cells on the S2E solar canopies are protected by
tempered glass, which is four to five times stronger than standard
glass and does not break into sharp shards when it
fails. Tempered glass is manufactured through a process of
extreme heating and rapid cooling, making it harder than normal
glass. The brittle nature of tempered glass causes it to shatter
into small oval-shaped pebbles when broken. This eliminates the
danger of sharp edges. Due to this property, along with its
strength, tempered glass is often referred to as safety glass.
In extreme cases the protective glass panel will shatter if
hit at right angles by a golf ball traveling at full speed. In
cases where angle of impact is somewhat less than 90°, the golf
ball will bounce off, causing little or no
damage.
Why do you use tempered glass instead of plastic to
cover the solar cells?
Tempered glass is durable. Glass is easier to clean and
will maintain its transparency over time. This is important for
ensuring maximum long term efficiency of the S2E solar
panels.Plastic is prone to scratching and tends to lose its
transparency.
What about damage
to the S2E solar canopy when hit by
hailstones?
Under normal conditions hail will not harm the S2E solar
canopy. In extreme situations, though, when the hailstones
are large enough to damage ordinary cars, they will probably also
damage the S2E solar canopy.
How do you connect the S2E solar cells to the golf
car?
A plain instruction manual is supplied with each S2E canopy.
Follow the instructions carefully.
Can I buy a rain enclosure to fit the S2E solar
canopy?
We are currently developing various accessories including rain
enclosures.
Will the S2Esolar
canopyhave any negative impacts on the
Club Car IQ system?
Not if mounted correctly according to SolarDrive
instructions.
What do you do with the existing plastic canopy
after replacing it with the S2E solar
panel?
Store the existing plastic canopy in a dry place until the car
is to be sold. The S2E solar panel can be transferred to the newly
acquired model, and the old golf car can be re-fitted with its
original plastic canopy, ready for sale.In the event of disposal of
both the old golf car and the plastic canopy, seek information on
correct environmental disposal from the refuse authorities in your
local municipal area.
How can I see that the S2E
solarcanopy is set to be used
on 36 volt instead of 48 volt?
The voltage setting can be adjusted by a key switch situated on
top of the controller box.
If I order a new Club Car can I have it delivered
with
anS2E
solar
canopy?
On ordering your new Club Car, stipulate which model S2E solar
canopy suits your requirements. On delivery, your new Club Car will
be fitted with the S2E solar canopy of your
choice.
If I order a new E-Z-GO or Yamaha can I have it
delivered with an
S2E solar
canopy?
On ordering your new golf car, stipulate which model S2E solar
canopy suits your re-quirements. On delivery, your new golf car
will be fitted with the S2E solar canopy of your
choice.
How much does the S2E
solar canopyweigh?
Will it have a negative impact on my
car?
A complete S2E solar canopy weighs approx. 30 kg / 66 lbs. This
is approx. 20 kg / 44 lbs. heavier than a standard plastic roof.
Fully loaded most 2 seater golf cars weigh over 500 kg. / 1100
lbs.. The extra weight added by the solar canopy will only have a
marginal impact on the performance and stability of your golf
car.
What about lightning?
An aluminium frame affords the best protection if struck by
lightning.The S2E solar canopy unit, comprising of the photovoltaic
panels and metal frame, form the top of a Faraday cage; the
uprights and the vehicle itself form the other side. Experts in the
field assure us of the advantages of this construction. Among
other things that often act as Faraday cages are:Cars and aircraft,
when struck by lightning. The metal frame and outer skin of
the vehicle cause the electrical charge to travel safely away from
the occupants.
link to YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mUWxYesR5Wo
link to Wikipedia: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faraday_cage
Where can I buy a S2E?
Check our updated distributor list at
www.solardrive.com/solardrive-distributors.aspx
