Solar panel for mobility scooter

[Jen33]

Hi, im jen from Australia. I have a mobility scooter that i use for my Avon rounds. Bout 3-5 hrs a time, 4 times a week. It has 2 x 12 volt / 50ah batteries, @ $200 each, that are lasting 8mths with the current usage. I was thinking about using the flexible solar panels to put over the roof, coz of weight, and attatch to the current batteries. Aparently i need an inverter, not sure what size. Someone told me that solar panels don't work when they're moving, ive never heard this before, have u? Coz im always on the move, only stopping for a couple of minutes at a time, i need something that will work stopped or moving. What size panels do u think i should use to extend the running time of the scooter (trickle charge), and not need to replace the batteries again. Any help or suggestions would be great. Scooter specs: motor output 450w, 24v,1pc (ratio output), max load 120kg. Canopy size for panel is 57 x 99cm. Cant be any wider than this or it wont fit thru the shed door. Thanks in advance

[Wy_White_Wolf]

Solar will not extend the life of the batteries.

You will also need at least 2 panels because the batteries are wired in series for 24V. I do not think you have enough room for 2. If you do they will be so small as to not make a noticeable difference.

You do not need an inverter, but will need a charge controller. Size depends on the output of the panels.

WWW

[Sunking]

Only thing the panels will do is give you some shade and cost money. Other than that there is no benefit whatsoever. To charge those 24 volt 50 AH batteries in a day requires the scooter be parked all day long when the sun is shinning using a 500 watt panels. Are you a vampire and only work at night? Good luck with that.

Now if it is real windy you could use the panels as a sail like a boat. Otherwise a complete waste of time and money.