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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Solarstic is developing solar modules molded into vehicle body panels, such as hoods and roofs. The polymer-packaged design is intended to fit curved exterior surfaces and weigh less than conventional glass-and-frame panels. Reported range figures vary sharply: one account cited Solarstic’s maximum claim of up to 50 miles per day, while another reported up to 15 miles per day from an IONIQ 5 test. Neither figure should be treated as a guaranteed result, and the available reports do not confirm that Solarstic products are currently for sale.
How Solarstic’s embedded solar panels work
Solarstic is described as an in-house Hyundai Motor Group venture developing solar modules for vehicle exterior components. Rather than package the cells behind conventional glass and a frame, the company’s approach uses polymer packaging so modules can be shaped to fit body surfaces, including the hood and roof.
Solarstic says its plastic construction reduces module weight by more than 50% compared with glass-and-frame construction. That is a company claim; the available sources do not provide independent comparative test results.
At CES, the company described using a protective layer and a low-pressure injection process because ordinary high-pressure injection molding could damage fragile solar cells. The same report said work was continuing on anti-scratch and anti-yellowing coatings. It did not provide completed durability qualification results or a test protocol.
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#1 Best Overall
- [Extremely Flexible] This flexible solar panel is capable of meeting a wide range of applications where standard panels can be inconvenient to mount, such as on the curved roof of an airstream
- [Ultra Lightweigh] Thanks to advanced polymer materials, these flexible solar panels weighs 70% less than conventional solar panels, making transportation and installation a breeze
- [Super Thin Lamination] Hardly noticeable, the Renogy flexible solar panel 100 watt laid flat is only a tenth of an inch tall. Approximately 95% thinner than its rigid counterpart, this panel is ideal for a stealthy solar setup
- [Highly Durable] Rigorously tested, the 100W solar panel flexible was designed to withstand extreme wind of up to 2400 Pa and snow loads of up to 5400 Pa
- [Potential Uses] The renogy flexible solar panel can be primarily used on off-grid applications that include marine, rooftop, RV, boats and any curvy surfaces
How much range could the panels add?
Published figures describe different contexts and should not be combined into a single expected result.
| Reported figure | What it describes | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 500 W and up to 50 miles of range per day | Interesting Engineering reported Solarstic’s maximum claim for modules covering multiple vehicle body surfaces in January 2026. Interesting Engineering | A reported potential maximum; the article does not provide a complete test protocol. |
| Up to 15 miles of range per day | Korea JoongAng Daily reported this result from a real-world Hyundai IONIQ 5 test in January 2026. Korea JoongAng Daily, republished by Daum | The report does not provide enough test conditions or methods to reconcile it with the 50-mile maximum claim. |
Solar output and added driving range depend on conditions, and the CES coverage does not establish a universal daily range gain. The figures above are reported claims and results, not independently comparable performance measurements.
Rank #2
- Extremely Flexible: Update to latest version size: 36.22inch*23.22inch*0.11inch/920*590*3MM, The minimum radius of the arc that a 100 watts flexible solar panel can reach is 45cm (17.7 in). It is capable of meeting a wide range of applications where standard solar panels can be inconvenient to mount, suitable for off-grid applications that include trailers, marine, boats, cabins, tents, cars, trucks, yachts, RVs, campervans, caravans, sheds, residential rooftop, home garden outdoor, or any other irregular surface.
- Lightweight & Easy to Install: It is only 0.1 inches in height and weighs only 4.4LB (2KG), the solar panel is easy to transport, install, hang and remove. The metal pre-drilled holes and PV solar connectors help you install easily and quickly.
- 9 Busbars Solar Cell, High Conversion Efficiency: 9BB & A Grade Monocrystalline silicon solar cell provides high conversion efficiency up to 23%. The narrower busbar space and more cells receiving surface bring lower cost and increase the output of the PV module. Compared with 5BB panel, the 9BB solar panel ensures lower risks of microcracks and longer service life.
- Waterproof & Dustproof: This flexible solar panel is equipped with IP67-rated junction box to effectively block water splashes and dust from outside, making it perfect to be used outdoors. It is much more durable than traditional glass and aluminum model solar panels. 2 pieces bypass-diodes are built in the junction box.
- Excellent Quality: The flexible solar panel is made of ETFE material, which has a higher light transmission and longer service life than ordinary materials. The back panel is made of TPT, which is good for heat dissipation, waterproof, high temperature resistant and easy to clean.
Is Solarstic available to buy?
The January 2026 CES coverage does not establish a retail launch. Interesting Engineering reported Solarstic’s statement that the product was still in development and had not launched at the time of its interview. Korea JoongAng Daily separately reported CEO Park Sung-geun saying the company was preparing a 2026 market launch, starting with camper-van products. That was a plan stated at CES, not confirmation that sales began.
Korea JoongAng Daily also reported discussions with Nissan, BMW and Honda. The report does not establish signed supply contracts, confirmed partnerships or production decisions.
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- High Power Output - The flexible solar panel can provide an average of 500 Watt-hours of electricity per day (depending on sun availability).
- Easy to Transport, Carry and Install - The 100 watt solar panel suits most curved surfaces as it is bendable within 240 degrees. the flexible 100 watt solar panel weighs only 1/3 of the rigid panel and presents an all-black glare-free appearance.
- Industry-leading Tech - Renogy 100w solar panel is equipped with half-cut PERC cell technology that enhances solar light capture and electrical performance, therefore improving the output efficiency.
- Reliable & Durable - This solar panel 100w accomplishes with IP67 rated waterproof junction box and solar connectors. Withstand up to 5400 Pa of heavy snow load and up to 2400 Pa of high wind.
- Ready for Installation - Renogy flexible solar panels come with pre-drilled mounting holes and 2.3 feet long solar connector cables for quick and easy installation.
How this differs from other Hyundai solar projects
Hyundai’s earlier solar-roof concepts
In 2018, Hyundai Motor Group described three solar charging concepts: silicon panels on a roof, semi-transparent panels in a sunroof and a lightweight solar lid mounted on body surfaces. The system architecture included a panel, controller and battery. This is historical context for Hyundai’s work on vehicle solar charging, not evidence that Solarstic’s newer modules have entered mass production. Hyundai Motor Group’s 2018 announcement
STARIA Camper concept
Hyundai Motor Europe presented the STARIA Camper as a separate concept in January 2026. Hyundai specified a 520 W panel integrated into its pop-up roof and estimated up to 2.6 kWh of daily output using an average of five sunlight hours. Those figures belong to the STARIA Camper concept, not Solarstic’s modules. Hyundai said production details would follow only if the concept were approved. Hyundai Motor Europe
Rank #4
- More Stable Output: Say goodbye to unstable energy output with BougeRV Arch Pro Solar Panel. Built-in bypass diode technology captures more energy even in low-light conditions or partial shading, ensuring stable power output
- More Busbar, More Power: BougeRV Arch Pro solar panel uses the high-level N-type16BB cell design with a 25% highest conversion rate. It makes the solar panel have a longer service life. Also, it can charge a 12V battery or a 24/48V battery by wiring several solar panels in series
- NOTE: The open circuit voltage range of the BougeRV 200W bendable panel (36V ± 5%) may not be compatible with certain power stations. Please carefully check your power station's specifications before purchasing (see details pic5)
- Longer Lifespan: BougeRV upgraded shade-tolerant diodes technology enhances resistance to hot-spot effects, reduces the risk of panel damage, and extends the lifespan of the solar panel
- ETFE Coating for Outdoor Use: Built with ETFE instead of PET, this panel features an anti‑scratch, self‑cleaning, and sand‑proof surface. The coating is abrasion and impact resistant, making it suitable for outdoor installations and transport
What to check before comparing embedded and add-on solar
Solarstic’s integrated approach and a mounted or portable panel are different product categories. A meaningful comparison needs more than a headline wattage or range estimate. Check:
- Whether the panel is molded into a body part or mounted as an add-on.
- Measured electrical output and the conditions under which it was measured.
- Compatibility with the specific vehicle and the way generated power reaches its battery or electrical system.
- Evidence of exterior durability, including resistance to scratches and yellowing, plus warranty terms.
- Whether the product is actually available and supported for purchase and installation.
The available Solarstic coverage does not provide enough independent testing to rank its performance against other vehicle solar options.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Bendable for a Perfect Fit: Experience seamless installation on curved surfaces. With up to 240° of flexibility, this ultra-lightweight panel hugs the contours of your curved RV roofs, boat deck, or teardrop trailer, weighing 50% less than rigid panels.
- All-Weather Endurance: Power your adventures through harsh elements. Featuring a premium ETFE coating and multi-layer bonding, this panel resists hail, yellowing, and cracking—ensuring consistent energy output and a longer lifespan than standard PET panels.
- Stealthy 0.1-Inch Profile: Maintain the sleek look of your vehicle with an all-black, ultra-thin design. At just 0.1 inches thick, it installs nearly flush against the roof, making it ideal for stealth camping (Van Life) and low-clearance setups.
- 1kWh Daily Energy Harvest: Maximize your power with this 200W dual-panel array. Capable of generating up to 1kWh of daily power (under ideal conditions), it's the perfect balance for charging portable power stations and off-grid weekend trips.
- Versatile System Setup: Customize your energy with ease. These panels are designed for simple series or parallel connections, allowing you to scale voltage (12V/24V) to match your battery bank or portable power station requirements.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
