Abstract
This study uncovers the impact of geographic variability on the
distribution of sunlight on vehicle surfaces, focusing on two distinct
scenarios: the flat-surface cargo area of a small delivery truck and the
entire body of a commercial passenger vehicle. We employ a commuter
pattern driving profile in Germany and a broader analysis incorporating
random sampling of various road types and locations across Europe and
the USA using LIDAR-derived topography and OpenStreetMap data. Our
findings reveal significant irradiation inhomogeneity patterns shaped by
the geographic landscape, road configurations, urban planning, and
vegetation. The research identifies topography as the primary factor
affecting irradiation distribution uniformity, with the vehicle’s
surface orientation and curvature serving as secondary influencers.
These insights hold immense potential for improving the design and
efficiency of vehicle-integrated photovoltaic systems, presenting a
foundational knowledge base from which to optimize energy capture in
diverse environmental conditions.