Enerdrive powers up off-grid caravans

Off-grid caravans manufactured by two top-shelf Queensland manufacturers will serve as test-beds for the latest high-capacity slimline lithium-ion batteries from the Dometic-owned Enerdrive brand.

Kedron Caravans’ Glen Gall said one of the Brisbane builder’s latest 21ft tandem-axle caravans will be fitted with two of the new, range-topping Enerdrive B-TEC slimline lithium batteries, before they’re released on the market.

He said the pre-release units have been supplied exclusively to Kedron and fellow Queensland manufacturer Bushtracker for “installation feedback”, before they go on sale to the public.

Boasting the latest LiFeP04 Prismatic Cell Technology, the new Enerdrive B-TEC slimline batteries are designed to be powerful enough to run energy-draining appliances like air-conditioners and washing machines, while compact enough to slot into smaller spaces such as tunnel boots, behind lounge seats, and in kitchen cupboards and wardrobes. They can be mounted either vertically or flat on their sides.

The new 300Ah battery measures 630mm wide x 500mm high x 145-177mm deep, while the 400Ah unit is 630mm wide x 500mm high x 185-217mm deep.

The Enerdrive batteries come with an internal battery management system with 250A maximum continuous current rating to cope with larger loads, as well as wireless battery monitoring technology that allows users to monitor the batteries via a smart phone.

The 12V slimline batteries are backed by a five-year warranty, and can be run in parallel; up to four units or 1600AH (20480W).

Other user-friendly features include removable mounting brackets, easily accessible connection points, a water-resistant IP52-rated metal casing, and ‘future proofing’ via comms ports that are both RJ45 remote ports with CAN output.

The nearly-completed Kedron AT5 tandem-axle van is fitted with twin 400Ah B-TEC batteries, with room to fit a third battery across the rear of the box.

Kedron plans to offer the option of fitting up to three of the new 300Ah or 400Ah B-TEC slimline batteries to most of its custom-built models.

“We have been working together with Dometic/Enerdrive for quite some time now to assist with developments to integrate a range of lithium storage into the (Kedron) vans... to pair with the many years designing and testing for a significant increase in solar input to support extended off-grid (camping) with inverter-driven air conditioning,” Gall explained.

“[The latest AT5 van] will also incorporate Bluetooth digital switching for up to four devices, for the likes of various lighting and filtered compression hatch control, with added convenience and safety in also being able to control this from the tow vehicle’s touchscreen, when supporting Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.”

He said the “build was also timed for Toyota testing with Tundra later this year”.