Overlander™ 80 Watt Semi-Flexible Solar Panel

The Overlander 80 uses SunPower Maxeon Gen 3 cells with Overland Solar's proprietary laminating and wiring system — a combination they claim delivers 30% higher output over the same surface area compared to standard flexible panels. The Maxeon Gen 3 cell architecture removes the grid lines from the front face of the cell, which reduces micro-cracking risk and maintains higher output when cells are partially shaded. That matters in real-world vehicle mounting where tree shadows and partial obstructions are routine.

At 22 × 29.33 inches, this panel fits surfaces where the 130W model is too long — side doors, hard cases, RTT deck panels, and narrow roof sections. The 3mm ETFE-coated surface handles temperature extremes and precipitation without delaminating. Bottom junction box option is specifically useful for van and boat installs where cable routing through a surface mount is cleaner from below.

Wires terminate in MC4 connectors (positive and negative, labeled). Voc of 21.6V and Isc of 5.3A are within spec for any 12V MPPT controller. Multiple panels can be parallel-wired using MC4 combiners without exceeding the system voltage limit for 12V installations.

Assembled in Boise, Idaho, with 80% of parts sourced from North America.

Electrical

• Peak output: 80W
• Open circuit voltage (Voc): 21.6V
• Max power voltage (Vmp): 18V
• Short circuit current (Isc): 5.3A
• Max power current (Imp): 4.44A
• Max system voltage: 600 VDC

Physical

• Dimensions: 22 × 29.33 in
• Thickness: 3mm
• Weight: 4 lbs (~1,814g)
• Junction box options: Top Mounted or Bottom Mounted
• Connectors: MC4 (labeled +/−)

Cell & Build

• Cell type: SunPower Maxeon Gen 3
• Surface: ETFE semi-flexible coating
• Assembled: Boise, Idaho, USA (80% North American materials)

Warranty & Returns

• Warranty: Up to 5 years (Overland Solar)
• Return window: 14 days

What's the difference between top and bottom junction box?

The junction box is where the MC4 cable leads exit the panel. Top-mounted exits toward the top edge — better for roof racks where cables route forward or rearward along a rack rail. Bottom-mounted exits toward the bottom edge — better for van roof installs, boats, or flush-mount applications where cables need to run through a surface penetration directly below the panel. Same panel, same performance, different cable routing.

Does this panel need a charge controller?

Yes. The Overlander 80 requires a solar charge controller between the panel and your battery. A 12V MPPT controller rated for ≥21.6V input and ≥5.4A handles this panel at full output. Overland Solar's 10A MPPT bundle works with this panel directly. PWM controllers work but waste 15–25% of the panel's output — use MPPT to get what you paid for.

Can I run multiple Overlander 80 panels?

Yes, in parallel. Wire positive to positive and negative to negative using MC4 combiners — each additional panel adds up to 4.44A without changing the system voltage. Three panels in parallel (240W total) pair well with a 30A MPPT controller and a 12V battery bank.

How does it handle shade from trees or roof gear?

Better than most. SunPower Maxeon Gen 3 cells are less sensitive to partial shading than standard series-wired PERC panels. The Overland Solar panel starts generating real power at first visible light and maintains output longer into the morning and evening than budget alternatives. Expedition Portal's independent test confirmed this panel "starts generating real power as soon as there is visible light, maximizing total power over the day."

What's in the box?

The panel only — no charge controller, mounting hardware, or cables. Select top or bottom junction box at checkout; the option can't be changed after the order ships. Overland Solar sells charge controller bundles and extension cables separately.

How do I attach it to my roof or rack?

The panel has grommets (tie-down points) at the corners and mid-edges. Common mounting: rubber-gasketed bolts through the grommets to rack crossbars, or 3M VHB tape on smooth flat surfaces. Use rubber washers to protect the panel at any through-mount point. Semi-flexible construction handles slight surface curvature — don't force sharp bends or compound curves.

Is it waterproof?

The panel itself is weather-resistant; the ETFE surface and sealed construction handle rain and snow. The junction box is sealed. Ensure your MC4 connector mating is fully seated and weather-tight. MC4 connectors are rated IP67 when properly mated.