SchoolBus logo in red and orange
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

New solar charger designed to extend battery life

The SP-5 OTR reverses the normal loss of battery power, sulfation buildup and parasitic draw on erratically used vehicles. The charger typically requires only a couple of hours of sunlight to maintain the connected batteries, company officials said.

February 23, 2016
New solar charger designed to extend battery life

The new SP-5 OTR Solar Charger Maintainer from PulseTech Products Corp. is designed to eliminate jump starts and extend battery life.

2 min to read


The new SP-5 OTR Solar Charger Maintainer from PulseTech Products Corp. is designed to eliminate jump starts and extend battery life.

SOUTHLAKE, Texas — The new SP-5 OTR Solar Charger Maintainer is designed to eliminate jump starts and extend battery life.

The SP-5 OTR harnesses the power of sunshine to reverse the normal loss of battery power, sulfation buildup and parasitic draw on erratically used vehicles, according to the company. The charger typically requires only a couple of hours of sunlight to maintain the connected batteries.  

The new 5-watt system utilizes a temporary plug-in instead of a permanent, more complicated installation, company officials said. It attaches to the vehicle’s exterior hood with four suction cups and plugs directly into the OBD connector for power, allowing for easy installation and removal in seconds.

Manufactured by PulseTech Products Corp., the SP-5 OTR is a commercially rated solar panel that is half the size of comparable solar chargers, and can maintain up to four 12-volt batteries connected in parallel, and replace the power loss from electrical accessories that occurs even when the ignition is turned off, company officials said.

Additionally, PulseTech’s patented Pulse Technology also removes damaging sulfate crystals from the battery plates, allowing the battery to receive a full charge and operate at top efficiency.

“A large problem, especially for those vehicles sitting on lots to be sold, is how fast batteries can lose their charge,” said Rick Miller, PulseTech sales manager. “The SP-5 OTR is a simple and effective solution that can be temporarily coupled via the OBD connector to provide daily maintenance and be removed for future dealer use when the vehicle is sold.”

The SP-5 OTR works with all types of 12-volt batteries, including conventional flooded, gel, AGM and VRLA types, according to the company. The charger uses higher efficiency, higher quality crystalline silicon cells, and is protected against weather, aging and damage with a clear, polyurethane plastic coating mounted on a laminated aluminum substrate.

MSRP for the SP-5 OTR is $249.99. It is available through www.pulsetech.net distributors and resellers.

More Maintenance

A product photo of the Meritor brake pads against an orange background and the Cummins logo
MaintenanceJanuary 30, 2026

Cummins Introduces Meritor MFLEX4 Air Disc Brake Pad

Check out key features of the new air disc brake pad and catch free 2026 brake training sessions from Cummins and Meritor. Details here.

Read More →
SponsoredJanuary 29, 2026

8 Ways To Simplify and Streamline School Bus Fleet Operations

What if your fleet technology actually worked together? Learn eight practical strategies to integrate multiple systems into one platform, unlocking clearer insights, stronger safety standards, and smoother daily operations.

Read More →
SponsoredJanuary 19, 2026

3 New Ways Fleet Software Pays: ROI opportunities for modern fleet managers

Keeping buses safe, reliable, and on schedule requires more than manual processes. This eBook explores how modern fleet software supports school transportation teams with automated maintenance scheduling, smarter video safety tools, and integrated data systems. Discover practical ways fleets are reducing breakdowns, improving safety, and saving valuable staff time.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
SponsoredNovember 7, 2025

eBook: Good for the Fleet, Good for the Community

Learn how modern telematics helps pupil transportation fleets operate more safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively while proving measurable value to their communities. See how real fleets are reducing idling, improving driver safety, and using video data to protect budgets and passengers alike.

Read More →
Up close image of an engine.
Managementby StaffNovember 6, 2025

Applications Open for Propane Autogas Skills Grant Program

With alternative fuels on the rise, PERC’s grant program helps schools prepare students for careers maintaining low-emission fleets through hands-on training and equipment funding.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Fleetio graphic announcing Maintenance Shop Network expansion into Canada with features like trusted repair shops, real-time tracking, automated approvals, and streamlined payments.
Maintenanceby News/Media ReleaseOctober 8, 2025

Fleetio Expands Maintenance Shop Network into Canada

Fleetio's expanded network gives transportation departments new access to verified repair partners, faster approvals, and real-time repair tracking.

Read More →
Technician using Truck Check-Up diagnostic software on a Panasonic Toughbook laptop inside a truck cab
Maintenanceby News/Media ReleaseSeptember 10, 2025

Noregon Updates Shop Management System, CARB Inspection Tool

The maintenance company's Truck Check Up and ShopPulse products receive enhancements and feature updates.

Read More →
A man in a grey t-shirt works on the electrical components to a school bus stop arm.
Maintenanceby News/Media ReleaseSeptember 8, 2025

Pro-Vision Launches FleetGuard Maintenance Plan

The company's new maintenance program offers inspections, fast repairs, and support to keep school bus video systems running.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Durham School Services Ann Arbor team with ASE Blue Seal of Excellence plaque in front of a school bus
Maintenanceby News/Media ReleaseAugust 29, 2025

Durham School Services Recognizes New ASE Master Technicians and Blue Seal Locations

Eleven techs across the school bus contractor have achieved master mechanic status, while six Durham operations earn new Blue Seal status.

Read More →