Solar Roof - Does it work?

[cmalberto]

I was thinking you could open the Sun Roof too just to the initial position though. Of course, only if it doesn't rain.

[grahamy]

It works! Dramatically on a sunny day when the temp is in the low to mid 80's F. Less dramatically in the 90's because you become aware of the actual heat, rather than how hot it could have been. Now when I feel the fan when I get on a hot day in NC, I can't imagine being without it. You don;t need to open windows. The remote a/c is a nice luxury touuch but it ain't really part of it.

[dsviv]

Okay, I need to defend myself and getting a bashing - my salesman is the one who suggested I crack the windows an inch or so. It wasn't my idea.

I park 100ft. from my car at work (in plain sight) so rain & theft isn't an issue. Otherwise, for goodness close your windows if it works for you. I personally don't care.

I garage my car at home, so all of this is a non-issue for me.

What is the saying, "Whatever floats your boat."

[RickFlashman]

Originally Posted by AF-Vette

The Solar Roof (SR) is a great option that really works! It keeps the interior close to ambient temperatures without allowing dust and bugs in. Using a windshield sun shade will also help, but when the the SR is working, the A/C will not have to work as hard cooling the car interior down - it it already cooler than an oven, so you will feel cooler, sooner. I hate cracking the windows since that is an open invitation to thieves.

I've been cracking my car windows in Florida for over a decade. Never once has a single bug wandered in. I guess the hotter interior is simply not appealing. (90 outside, 100 inside)...

Also, I really don't think anyone will be able to steal the Prius with a window cracked. It's all electronic key ignition. Even gaining access to the lock/unlock switch is a nightmare, easier to jimmy the door. I'd consider it "false security" to assume the window closed all the way in any way prevents those who are determined to get access to your car interior.

[dsviv]

RickFlashman - YOU ROCK! I couldn't have said it better myself.

After reading my last post, it appears to me that I need to slow down my fingers and let my brain catch up. I'm missing a couple of words. Sorry.

[SanAntonio Joe]

I wish I could FIND a Prius with the solar package here in South Texas!

I'm thinking of buying one from a California dealer, flying out there, and doing a vacation drive from San Fran back to San Antonio!

I actually had a salesman tell me that he didn't see why anyone would want a sunroof/solar package here in South Texas. I reminded him the solar panel ventelated the interior, and with the remote A/C that comes with the package, I could turn on the A/C BEFORE getting in the car, thereby getting in a cool car. BTW, it was 105 degrees when I explained this to him. Suddenly, I could literally see the light bulb come on inside his little brain.....

Good luck to those of you who HAVE a solar package-equipped Prius!

Joe

[Slow]

The primary benefit of the solar roof, I suspect, is improved battery life. Batteries are damaged by heat. If the solar roof keeps the interior of the car warm instead of hot, then the battery will benefit a lot in the long term. I've never seen this as a stated benefit, but I'd love to hear what the engineer-types on this forum think.

[dogllama]

Bottom line is that the Solar Roof does work and effectively cools down the interior. I think some people expect an ice box from it, but that is not the case. It will simply come close to ambient temperatures.

The real question is wether or not it is worth the price. I like the look and the functionality so I am not upset at the high cost. I do however understand that I paid a premium for new technology.

[scooper11]

I have seen a difference on real hot days. The air in the car is not stagnant because of the fan.

[cmalberto]

Originally Posted by SanAntonio Joe

I wish I could FIND a Prius with the solar package here in South Texas!
Joe

Hang in there - I had to drive to Louisiana to find and pick mine up. Well worth traveling to where ever one might have to go.

--Mickey