Much discussion in prior threads regarding the relative utility of sun blocks made from different materials has been discussed, but AFAIK always in regard to visible light. Can infra-red be considered also ? And if so, then what is the *overall* best material, from a total blocked heat perspective ?
Infra red? Not sure what you mean but if you mean reducing the cabin heat that pretty easy. Buy a Heat Shield windshield shade at Prius Shop and get the best tint job you can afford. The HS shade are the best form fitted and insulated. Far far superior to the crap at autoparts stores. I always extend the rear package rack and built a sun block the size of the package rack out of the 4 x 8 sheet of insulation they sell at Lowes. Covered it with foil tape and that really helps reduce the direct sunlight that hits that back area of the car where the Hybrid battery lives. It just sits on top of the package rack.
Agreed. I've tried many various kinds of sunshades over the years, and the Heatshield fits very snug and the quality is very good. I also bought the 2-piece rear set for my Gen4. Large one for the hatch window, and smaller one for the lower window (which I just leave in there all the time.) They attach with suction cups.
I should mention that even with white paint, tinted windows, and a Heatshield in both the front & rear windows, it still gets very hot in my Prius when parked in the summer sun all day. (My car is always outside.) We've been having temps in the 90s.
Agreed. Its getting so hot now in Florida even with all you mentioned on my car it crowbarred the radio. Car sat in the sun all day with the heat shield and the radio could not be controlled by either local or steering wheel control. No volume control ...cd stuck and skipping...could not power off. After it cooled down it returned to normal. I guess with Global Warming this may be the least of my problems. I can't imagine the punishment a Prius takes sitting in the sun all day without a hs or good tint job. Arizona is just nuts I see on the News. Potentially 120 degree's this summer.
