2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: What’s the Deal With That Solar Roof?
Automakers like Toyota have offered solar-powered ventilation systems in the past, but the solar roof that’s optional in the redesigned 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is designed to give the car extra range.
Related: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Video: Get a Load of That Solar-Power Roof
The base 2020 Sonata Hybrid Blue trim level starts at $28,725, including a $975 destination charge, and gets an EPA-estimated 52 mpg combined. However, the Sonata Hybrid’s solar roof is only available on the top-of-the-line Limited trim, which starts at $36,275, including destination, and gets 47 mpg combined. (According to Hyundai, the Blue trim’s higher EPA estimate is attributable to its lower curb weight, smaller wheels and tires, and different test class.)
The Sonata Hybrid’s solar roof consists of two panels with a total system output of 205 watts. Each panel is housed in glass, and the roof weighs 66 pounds. That’s more than a conventional steel roof but less than a panoramic moonroof.
Electricity generated by the solar panels charges the car’s 12-volt battery and high-voltage hybrid battery pack. Modern cars are packed with electrical systems that draw power from the conventional 12-volt battery — even when the car is off — but the solar roof can prevent battery discharge; Hyundai says the 12-volt battery will fully charge in two hours on a sunny day.
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After the 12-volt battery is fully charged, the solar roof charges the high-voltage battery pack to add around 2 miles of range per day. The 2-mile estimate is based on average sunlight in Korea, which is where Hyundai is based, but the automaker expects certain areas of the U.S. that get more sun, like the Southwest, will generate more range — assuming you don’t park in a garage.
Even though the Sonata Hybrid’s solar-enhanced driving range is modest, we like the thinking behind it because it taps into an abundant energy source that hasn’t been directly harvested by cars apart from some concept and experimental vehicles. We just wish the technology was offered on the Sonata Hybrid’s less expensive trim levels.
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