Ok im building a solar car and i can figure out all of the mechanical stuff but am lost with the technology part
guides recommend power maximizers are they unnecessary if so do any of you have a circuit digram that i can use or any advise

Hi, read this article, it has a very good example as to why you will need a maximizer, especially when driving the motor straight from the solar panels.
I do have a schematic and circuit diagram on how to build one, but it can be tricky and its probably better if you buy one already built.

EasyMax solar maximiser power enhancer mppt maximum power point tracker is shown below.
This was designed for the Australian international model solar car racing competition.
It can however be used for other application such as charging batteries or driving pumps etc.
let me know if you need the schematic and software to build it, ill post them up.



Here is a simple maximizer, i don't know how efficient it is though.

Here is a true maximum power point tracker circuit. This constantly seeks and finds your maximum power point unlike other maximizers that just hold a maximum power point reference. Also, this converter is up to 95% efficient due to its synchronous switching techniques.

Here is the schematic:



And its corresponding article is here:
http://electronicdesign.com/Articles/Index.cfm?AD=1&ArticleID=6262

Might be a little complicated for average joe, but give it a go if you want. Parts can be purchased from sonoarplus.

basically if you are building a solar car, the simple answer to maximisers is that no, you do nto need one at all. However, if you want to win, then yes you do need one. PM TonyB and he can fix you up with one the same as the winning car used at nationals last year. Best you can buy...LOL