Cascadia 4x4: New Hood-Mounted Solar Panel

for Jeep Wrangler JK

Cascadia 4x4

New to the Cascadia 4x4 Vehicle Specific Solar System, or VSS System™ is the 100W hood-mounted solar panel. Designed to fit the 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK this panel adheres directly to the vehicle’s hood, requiring no roof rack or mounting hardware.

Unlike a portable solar panel, there’s no need to set it up or stow it inside of a vehicle, which can eat up precious cargo space. Plus, the complete plug-and-play system can be installed in under 1.5 hours.

The VSS System is perfect for the overlander, camper, or traveler. The system, complete with hood-mounted solar panel, continually charges the vehicle’s battery during daylight hours. This ensures the battery/batteries are being constantly charged by the sun. Plus, it keeps batteries topped off and in prime condition due to constant tending. The VSS System is also a great way to power a host of 12V automotive accessories including fridges, phone/laptop chargers, lights, power inverters, and more.

Should the vehicle’s batteries become low, the VSS System works automatically as an emergency starting device that will charge and start the vehicle up in as little as 30 minutes depending on sun exposure. 

Panel Material

Made from the most stable, durable, multi-layered, semi-flexible material, the powerful solar panel will stand up in the harshest environments. The maintenance-free unit is constructed from eight laminated layers consisting of fiberglass and high-tech polymers allowing it to withstand rain, snow, ice, mud, rocks, sticks, and other hazards whether on- or off-pavement. At only 3mm thick, the panel follows the Jeep’s factory contours and will not affect aerodynamics, and the weight is negligible. Additionally, the anti-reflective panel reduces glare from the hood.

Solar Controller

The system uses a plug-and-play MPPT (maximum power point tracking) solar charge controller. The waterproof unit mounts in the Wrangler’s engine bay and is heat- and vibration-resistant ensuring a long service life. This controller automatically manages how much electricity is sent to the battery, preventing overcharging. Additionally, the charge controller is pre-wired with fuses, terminals, and connectors taking the guesswork out of setting up the VSS System. 

Easy Installation

Installing the panel is simple. An included custom-cut vinyl base sheet peels back and adheres to the hood just like a traditional decal or hood vinyl does. This base also acts as a moisture barrier, helping protect the paint underneath. The solar panel then attaches to this base sheet with a pre-installed 3M high-temperature double-sided adhesive providing a secure bond. 

The solar panel features washer nozzle cut-outs for Wrangler JK models with single- and dual-nozzle hoods. The cutouts are sealed with pre-installed foam weather stripping. 

The VSS System is intended to remain adhered to the vehicle, however, it can be removed in about 10 minutes with basic tools.

More Applications Coming soon

While Cascadia 4x4’s first VSS System offering is for the Wrangler JK, the company will be producing units for a number of other popular 4x4 vehicles including the second- and third-generation Toyota Tacoma, fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT, as well as the late-model Ford F-150. Expect to see new applications beginning in November, 2019.

VSS System Specifications

  • Power: 100W
  • Voc: 23.6V
  • Vmp: 20V
  • Isc: 5.5A
  • Imp: 5A
  • Fitment: 2007-2018 Jeep Wranglers (with regular hood)
  • Warranty: 2 years