Work trucks continue drawing power even when they’re parked. GPS units, telematics devices, security cameras, ECMs, sensors, keyless entry systems, and other onboard electronics create a constant parasitic load that slowly drains the batteries. Over time, this can lead to dead batteries, jump starts, service calls, and unexpected downtime.
EPEQ® Solar Assist™ works by converting sunlight into charging power and feeding that energy back into the vehicle’s battery system throughout the day. The system uses lightweight, flexible solar panels mounted on the vehicle and an advanced Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller to maximize charging efficiency.
The Process
- Solar panels capture sunlight
- Patented mesh-grid solar technology collects sunlight from multiple angles.
- The panels begin producing energy earlier in the morning and continue later into the day than traditional solar designs.
- MPPT controller optimizes output
- The MPPT controller constantly adjusts operating conditions to harvest the maximum available energy from the solar panel.
- This technology can deliver up to 45% more usable energy than conventional PWM controllers, especially in cloudy or low-light conditions.
- Battery charge is maintained
- The harvested solar energy replenishes power consumed by onboard electronics while the vehicle is parked.
- By offsetting parasitic loads, the system helps maintain battery voltage and reduces deep discharge events.
- Fleet reliability improves
- Batteries stay healthier longer.
- Fewer jump starts and roadside service events occur.
- Reduced strain on starters and alternators helps extend component life.
- Vehicles are more likely to be ready when operators need them.
Fleet Impact
Battery Life Extension:
• Typical battery life without solar: ~18 months
• Typical battery life with EPEQ® Solar Assist™: 3–4 years
Electrical System Health:
• Maintains battery voltage above 13.2V
• Reduces jump starts and roadside service events
• Significantly lowers alternator replacement rates
• Reduces starter wear and replacement frequency