Intersolar Europe 2025 witnessed multiple niche application PV module makers exhibiting their latest products. OPES Solar Mobility, a German vehicle-integrated PV (VIPV) module maker, exhibited its newly launched 500 W solar mobility solution at its booth during the event.
Robert Fritsch, Head of Sales at OPES Solar Mobility, introduced the company’s latest 500 W VIPV module, targeting primarily at the commercial vehicle segment (LCV, camper van, bus, and truck), to the TaiyangNews team at the show.
Product
This semi-flexible module, featuring CIGS cells interconnected using innovative 'matrix' direct interconnection technology that eliminates the standard ribbon technology, delivers a power output of up to 500 W by maximizing the panel area for enhanced power density and efficiency. In contrast to the static partial shading experienced by conventional modules, its unique cell interconnection technology is uniquely designed to adapt to the dynamic shading conditions typical for constant motion of vehicle-integrated modules. Only the cells directly affected by partial shading reduce their output, while the current is passed around the shaded areas, which facilitates enhanced power generation in urban or city-based transportation.
Although it is a semi-flexible product, the company says it has integrated multiple technological advancements and conducted extensive verifications to ensure greater durability, meeting the demanding criteria of VIPV modules. These modules are subjected to constant vibrations and elevated temperatures due to the constant motion of the vehicle. Unlike conventional rooftop systems that are mounted on substructures, vehicle panels are glued directly onto surfaces, which introduces additional stress from thermal expansion that standard flexible panels are typically not designed to withstand, the company website says. To validate the product's resilience against vibration, airflow, and adhesion, the company’s in-house laboratory tests these solar panels for adhesive strength, thermal performance, vibrations, and shocks.
OPES’ manufacturing facility in Leipzig, Germany, is expected to start production of this VIPV module this year.
