DIY solar-powered e-bike uses 1,500 W controller and 50 W solar panel

A DIY solar-powered e-bike has been revealed by Electrek reader Luke. A Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 electric cargo bike was used as the starting point for the project. The pedelec usually has a 750 W motor to assist you at speeds up to 20 mph (~32 kph), and a 672 Wh battery provides up to 45 miles (~72 km) range on a single charge. The RadWagon 4 can support payloads up to 350 lbs (~159 kg) and comes with various accessories, some of which were used in the DIY.

Luke modified various parts of the e-bike, doubling its power by fitting a 1,500 W controller. A 200 W DC-DC converter added a 12 V outlet to the pedelec, which you could use to charge other devices. Plus, they replaced mechanical disc brakes with hydraulic brakes and added a suspension seat post to the bike.

To allow the pedelec to be solar-powered, Luke mounted a 50 W SunPower solar panel on the Rad Power Bikes Conestoga accessory, topped with the Rad Canopy, using a custom-built plywood frame. The panel was connected to the battery via a GenaSun MPPT boost charge controller; this allows you to trickle charge the battery on the go. If you want to have a go at the project yourself, you can buy the Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 electric cargo bike for US$1,999.

Buy the SunPower 50 Watt Flexible Monocrystalline High Efficiency Solar Panel on Amazon