Trading part of your gas consumption for electricity is only one way your hybrid can help keep costs down and the earth a bit cleaner; now you can go solar.

The rays of the sun are the cleanest, cheapest and most readily available (unless you live in Alaska from November to January) form of energy found on our planet, and yet the general public still has no idea how to harvest it. Well, here’s a big step in the right direction: Solar Electrical Vehicles (SEV) has devised a solar supplement for your HV battery pack that self installs firmly in the roof panel of your hybrid.

To enhance your fuel economy the SEV Solar System extends your electric driving range up to 20 miles per day through continually recharging your battery and adding an additional 3kW supplemental battery pack for additional energy storage. The solar panel, the first compound convex solar module to be commercially produced, generates 215 watts of renewable energy. The result is up to 29% of improved fuel economy, though, it depends on your driving habits, road speed and conditions. There are no cords and no need to charge the system.

Other bonuses are that the system is weather proof, maintenance free, lasts 30-years - which is likely far longer than likely your car - and it’s also just straight up cool looking. Kits are available for hybrids models such as the 2004-2006 Toyota Prius, Ford Escape, Toyota Highlander, RAV4 EV and Dodge Sprinter.

Prices begin at a steep $4500 including shipping and handling, but the system qualifies for Federal renewable energy tax credits of up to $2,000 or 30% if purchased with a residential solar electrical system, which SEV also sells. Best of all, in an estimated 2-3 years you’ll break even financially, though your conscience will be a few years ahead.