Solar modules for the roof of the ID. Buzz

7th April 2023

ABT e-Line

Paige West

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ABT e-Line has developed solar modules for the roof of the ID. Buzz. Due to the limited roof area and the complex shapes of the solar modules, the effort required for this was previously too high and too cost-intensive. The ID. Buzz, especially the one with a long wheelbase, offers the best conditions for this.

The experts from Kempten have now succeeded in developing a solution with which up to 600W peak can be charged into the vehicle's high-voltage battery via the solar modules on the vehicle roof. But that's not all: an extension via the vehicle's side panels is already being considered to increase the output to over 1,000 watts.

The ID. Buzz will be able to actively ‘fill up’ with energy while stationary and even while driving, thus extending its range. Power for up to 3,000 kilometres per year can be generated and charged autonomously with solar energy without a grid connection.

"BEV and PHEV vehicles, with their traction storage units, are the perfect platform for using solar energy for propulsion too," explains Eric Plekkepoel, CEO of ABT e-Line GmbH.

In addition to independent charging, the ABT e-Line solar roof offers further advantages. For example, the inexhaustible power of the sun can be used to power other electricity consumptions such as a refrigerated body, or regarding the ID. Buzz in the camping van sector, the fridge or interior lighting can be supplied with solar energy.

The start of the series production of the new solar roof is planned for the beginning of 2024 via the company partners. As with the ABT Camper XNH, Volkswagen Group Service will carry out the conversion close to the factory. That saves long logistics routes in the interests of greater sustainability.