New high-power, high efficiency photovoltaic range from AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics

The latest range of 12 V photovoltaic modules from AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics delivers an increased level of conversion efficiency for high power and better performance. Four models are available with maximum power ranging from 155 W to 270 W, from slimline modules to larger units suitable for a variety of vehicles. All units utilise Back Contact technology to achieve high cell efficiency of 25.5 %.

For optimum efficiency, AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics has also introduced the new high-power PRM800 Solar Charge Regulator, which has the capacity to handle higher wattage single units or connected panels.

The new high-efficiency and high-power Back Contact photovoltaic range expands AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics’ line-up, which already includes standard and flexible units. 

Together, the new photovoltaic range and PRM800 Solar Charge Regulator enable customers to operate longer between battery charges. It helps to meet modern demands for an ever-increasing number of onboard devices, providing all the convenience and comfort of home.

Photovoltaic panels are now almost standard equipment for recreational vehicles. They are low cost, easy to use and manage, whilst offering an efficient and high-performance charging source. The evolving requirements of modern campers has inspired AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics to create new photovoltaic solutions for higher power and efficiency.

“The trend among customers is to use more appliances during their trips, such as microwave, air conditioning and television, as well as personal devices such as laptops,” explains Corrado Fiori, Head of Aftermarket Sales in Italy for AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics.

“As well as this increased demand for power, modern customers also want more autonomy, which means they need to generate more power independently via photovoltaic panels. Particularly in Italy but also across Europe, we have seen a big increase in popularity of photovoltaic solutions. Therefore, we used the latest technology to create a new range to meet this modern camping lifestyle.”

“The high efficiency of our photovoltaic cells has allowed us to create a range of modules which each have their own specific benefit for customers, in terms of packaging, practicality and power,” adds Corrado Fiori.

The most compact model in the range is the MFBC155S, with a maximum power of 155 W. At 1,400 mm x 515 mm x 30 mm it is slim enough to fit most vehicles, including camper vans, and can be installed around other rooftop equipment. Those smaller dimensions contribute to a low weight of just 7.7 kg.

Operating at the popular 190 W level, the MFBC190 is also compact and powerful, with a different shape profile, at 1,300 mm x 670 mm x 30 mm. It is shorter and wider than the MFBC155S, giving owners further options to maximise the rooftop charging area.

The MFBC230 delivers even higher power – 230 W maximum – with a modest increase in size to 1,560 mm x 675 mm x 35 mm. For maximum power, greater autonomy and freedom, the MFBC270 offers an impressive 270 W and utilises a larger photovoltaic area, 1900 mm x 675 mm x 35 mm.

The new range is offered exclusively in chic Super Black colouring for a stylish appearance.

AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics offers the new range as single kits for end customers and e-commerce, or multipacks for vehicle converters. Each kit contains all necessary installation accessories, such as 5 mm² cable supplied complete with MC4 connectors for module connection, roof feed-through with integrated cable gland, and black anodized aluminium mounting brackets allowing for easy removal of the module for maintenance or cleaning. An optional 1.5 m extension cable is available for series connection of photovoltaic modules.

The full range is constructed using Back Contact technology for a higher level of conversion efficiency and, at the same time, additional technical advantages such as a lower temperature coefficient and, therefore, better performance. A high-quality anti-reflective coating of the cells and special glass make for a truly high-performance photovoltaic module.

Durability and reliability are built in thanks to high-transmittance tempered glass, which is impact and weather resistant, while the back of the module is protected by a sheet of Black Tedlar, stopping infiltration of air and moisture, and therefore preventing oxidation of electrical components.

As well as enabling the high-power 270 W MFBC270, the PRM800 Solar Charge Regulator also unlocks the possibility to connect photovoltaic modules together for even greater power potential.

It ensures that batteries are optimally charged by solar power and automates the control of the electricity coming from the photovoltaic cells. Lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries are charged in an equally protective and life cycle-extending manner via Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) technology. This maximises the charging efficiency of the photovoltaic modules.

As well as 12 V operation, the PRM800 Solar Charge Regulator is also compatible with 24 V batteries, offering new possibilities in other transport sectors.

The device is equipped with a Bluetooth connection that allows monitoring of the battery charge status via a dedicated app.

Visit www.cbe.it to explore more and download detailed technical information about the new photovoltaic range and PRM800 Solar Charge Regulator.