Portable photovoltaic systems are great for off-grid power generation, but constantly moving the system to keep it in the sun can be a hassle. Jackery's solar generator MarsBot provides a solution to this problem, as it can move on its own to receive uninterrupted sunlight.
The robot is currently making its public debut at the 2024 US Consumer Electronics Show (CES2024), and recently won Time magazine's "Best Invention Award of 2023". It was inspired by NASA's Opportunity Mars rover, hence its name.
The MarsBot four-wheeled robot uses an impact-resistant, waterproof, and dustproof aluminum alloy body and a 600-watt foldable solar panel array, with a maximum solar energy conversion efficiency of 25%. Energy is stored in a 5kWh onboard lithium battery and can be harnessed via a port located on the side.
Utilizing a light sensing/tracking system, the solar panel array can tilt and translate relative to the MarsBot's body to maximize sunlight reception. Still, the robot itself moves across the ground as the sun moves across the sky, avoiding shadows and positioning itself for optimal lighting -- so it does use some of its own generated electricity.
The "MarsBot" reportedly avoids obstacles through an AI-based "intelligent mobility system," but we're still waiting for word on whether it also utilizes some kind of geofencing system to keep it from moving away from the user. There's also no word on pricing or availability.
The video below outlines the capabilities of the solar powered MarsBot.