Customer question (received via email 22nd June 2016):
Hi, I am considering buying a solar trickle charger for my BMW M3 CSL as I keep the car outside and like the idea of having a charger that doesn't need to be connected to the mains. The battery on the car is a lightweight one (12V 55Ah). I would like to mount the solar panel in the car (not outside) and have it plugged into the cigarette lighter socket.
Could you recommend the best charger for my needs?
Thanks
Graham
Willgen Reply (Email from Bill 22nd June 2016):
Hi Graham, many thanks for getting in touch.
If you want to keep the solar panel in the car and plug it in to the cigarette lighter I would recommend the £24.95 12V 4W Solar Briefcase.
It comes with a cigarette lighter plug (as well as crocodile clips) and can be neatly folded away and stored under a seat or in the boot without fear of it being scratched or damaged.
You just need to make sure that the cigarette lighter socket in your car remains "live" (i.e connected to the battery) when the car engine is not running and the key is removed from the ignition. To get the best from the solar charger you need to face it due south ideally angled towards the height of the midday sun.
I hope that this helps.
Kind regards
Bill
