Toyota Tacoma 16-22 Complete VSS Solar Charging System For Hood, 85 WATT

Toyota Tacoma 3rd Gen (2016-2022) VSS System™ - 85 Watt Hood Solar Panel

Harness the Power of the Sun with the Cascadia 4x4 VSS System™
Introducing the Cascadia 4x4 VSS System™ for the 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma (2016-present)—the world’s first vehicle-specific hood-mounted solar panel system. The VSS System™ offers a cutting-edge solution for those looking to charge their batteries while off the grid, without relying on their vehicle's alternator. The 85-watt hood-mounted panel delivers consistent solar energy during daylight hours, keeping your primary or secondary batteries topped up to power essential 12V accessories, such as fridges, lights, phone chargers, and more—all without having to start your engine.

Built Tough for Off-Road Adventures
Designed to be as durable as the Toyota Tacoma itself, the VSS System™ uses a multilayered semi-flexible solar panel construction that can withstand extreme environmental conditions, whether it's rain, snow, ice, or intense sunlight. The marine-grade construction and optional plug-and-play MPPT solar charge controller make this system maintenance-free, reliable, and easy to use—ideal for camping, overlanding, or jobsite applications.

Currently in Use in Harsh Environments
This system is already used in demanding industries, such as the Canadian mining industry, which speaks volumes about its ruggedness and reliability. With its factory-like appearance and seamless integration into the contours of the Tacoma’s hood, the VSS System™ not only adds efficiency but also enhances the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.

Key Features

• 85W of Clean Energy: Keep your Tacoma’s battery charged when the engine is off, reducing the need to idle for power.
• Durable Construction: Marine-grade materials withstand harsh environments—perfect for off-road, camping, and overlanding.
• Plug-and-Play Installation: Optional MPPT charge controller comes pre-wired with fuses and connectors, simplifying installation.
• Low-Profile Design: At just 3mm thick, this solar panel won’t impact vehicle aerodynamics or add significant weight.
• Custom Fit: Designed specifically for the contours of the 3rd Gen Tacoma hood, providing a sleek, factory-like appearance.
• Neoprene Backing for Protection: Includes 3M neoprene foam strips on the back of each panel to protect vehicle paint and aid in cooling.

Benefits

• Battery Maintenance: Perfect for overlanders and campers who want to power devices like fridges and lights without draining their battery.
• Extended Battery Life: By keeping the battery charged throughout daylight hours, the VSS System™ helps extend overall battery life.
• Emergency Engine Start: If the battery gets completely drained, the VSS System™ can charge it up to allow engine restart in as little as 30 minutes (depending on sun exposure).
• Anti-Glare Feature: Due to its light-absorbing properties, the panel creates a low-reflectivity surface, reducing glare across the hood.

Detailed Specifications

• Power Output: 85W
• Voltage:
  • Voc: 20.06V
  • Vmp: 17V
• Current:
  • Isc: 5.5A
  • Imp: 5A
• Panel Thickness: 3mm, ensuring no impact on aerodynamics.
• Durability: Marine-grade construction using Dupont™ Tedlar® backsheet and high-tech polymers, capable of handling rain, snow, ice, mud, rocks, and more.
• Mounting System: Uses a full perimeter of high-temperature 3M VHB tape, ensuring a secure attachment to the hood without damaging the paint.
• Installation Time: Approximately 1.5 hours (in a dry environment between 18° and 35°C / 64° and 95°F).

How Does It Mount?

Each solar panel comes equipped with pre-installed, high-temperature 3M VHB tape along the entire perimeter, ensuring a strong and safe adhesion to the hood. To protect your vehicle’s paint and enhance performance, we recommend pairing the VSS System™ with a custom-cut vinyl base sheet, which acts as a barrier against moisture and debris.

Installation Details:

• High-Temperature 3M VHB Tape: Pre-installed to provide a solid, reliable bond to the hood without damaging the paint.
• Custom Vinyl Base Sheet: Protects the underlying paint from moisture, debris, and scratches, while ensuring proper adhesion.

Heat and Battery Compatibility

Does Engine Heat Affect the VSS System?
No, engine heat will not affect the performance of the VSS System™. The main benefit of this solar panel system is that it provides energy to your battery while the engine is not running. When the engine is running, the vehicle's alternator takes over the charging, which reduces the effect of the additional heat generated by the engine.

The VSS panel also comes with closed-cell neoprene foam at the back, which helps to create a cooling air pocket between the hood and the panel, aiding in temperature control and protecting the paint.

Battery Compatibility
The MPPT charge controller included in the complete kits is pre-programmed to work with a variety of battery types, including AGM, Lead-Acid, and Gel Cell batteries. However, Optima batteries are not recommended for use with the VSS System™.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the VSS System™ removable once installed?
A: The VSS System™ is designed to be a permanent installation. The solar panel can be removed if absolutely necessary, such as for replacement, but removal may require professional assistance to avoid damaging the paint.

Q: How does engine heat affect solar efficiency?
A: Although solar cells do lose efficiency as they warm up, the VSS System™ is mainly effective when the engine is not running and the alternator is inactive. The included neoprene foam backing helps prevent the panel from overheating by providing an air gap for cooling.

Q: Will the VSS System™ work with all battery types?
A: The VSS System™ works with AGM, Lead-Acid, and Gel Cell batteries, thanks to the MPPT charge controller that regulates power delivery. However, Optima batteries are not recommended for use with this system.

Q: What kind of maintenance does the VSS System™ require?
A: The Cascadia 4x4 VSS System™ is designed to be maintenance-free. Simply keep the panel clean to ensure optimal sunlight absorption, but no other ongoing maintenance is necessary.

Q: Can I install this myself?
A: Yes, the VSS System™ is a plug-and-play installation if paired with the optional MPPT solar charge controller. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to install in a suitable environment (between 18° and 35°C / 64° and 95°F). The custom vinyl base sheet is highly recommended to protect your paint and facilitate installation.

• 85 watt solar charging system designed to provide reliable power for off-road vehicles, RVs, or camping setups
• VSS (Vehicle Solar System) technology harnesses the power of the sun to keep you off the grid for longe
• Compact and durable design allows for easy installation on vehicle hood or any flat surface
• Provides a convenient way to charge batteries and electronics while on the go
• Keeps you connected and powered up during your outdoor adventures