Improve fuel consumption

In theory with laminar air flow it could work. But in reality with turbulent air flow it won't work. Especially given the distance between the panel and the caravan.

I have a rooftop tent and I installed a solar panel in front of it at an angle, similar to your idea. However there's no discernible improvement in fuel economy. The reason I did it is that I park the vehicle facing the sun when setting up camp and the angle improves the panel's performance.

HJ6I is basically a brick. There wont be much you can do to improve fuel consumption. The panel will make no difference...will help your batteries though.

I fitted 2 solar panels flat between racks on my Patrol. This resulted in significantly increased wind noise and vibration. I then fitted a "Wind Fairing", similar to Front runners slimline rack, but without the rubber strip. Worked a treat. I believe the main cause of the wind noise is the "cup effect" formed by the solar panel frame. I thought about putting an infill on the back of the panel, but you need to dissipate the heat.
Regards, Andrew

I fitted 2 x cross bars on the cab rails and found they added about 1L/100km to my fuel use. I then fitted 2 panels, one on the cab, other on canopy which added about another 1L/100km.

Just part of the cost of running a car decked out with all you extras for towing and touring.

Have a look at the Stealth Deflector, maybe mount as described in the videos, may make a difference. Stealth Deflector

Whilst I am not an aeronautical engineer, and by no means an expert on most things, from my perspective, “wind deflectors” can do three things. They can push air up an over something more smoothly, but they can also create drag and downforce. That is why on a formula one car, they utilise a “drag reduction system” that opens the rear wing when travelling in a straight line.

Too much angle will create “drag” and may have the reverse effect on fuel economy, even with the van in tow. Yes, there are wind deflectors on the market, how much they actually save on fuel economy, I am not sure.

Macca.

Pop Top caravan way less drag

Thanks everyone for input