Free roaming is the major driving force behind the appeal of campervans. However, many modern campervanners don’t wish to unplug completely while satisfying their appetite for wanderlust, and that is where a flexible power supply comes into play.
Though the idea of a flexible power supply is simple enough in principle, it has largely remained a complex thing to install in a campervan, often demanding the expertise of a professional. This complexity has acted as a major barrier. But portable power and renewable energy solutions company EcoFlow has addressed this and created a means of providing campervans (and homes) with a configurable, compact, efficient, and simple power system.
Introducing EcoFlow
EcoFlow is a relatively new company, founded in 2017. Producing a range of portable power stations, it has since expanded to sell in more than 40 countries in Europe and more than 100 markets globally. Now alongside its portable power stations, EcoFlow has launched its modular Power Kit system.
EcoFlow Power Kits
EcoFlow’s new Power Kits bring simplicity and efficiency where before there was convolution. It is a modular 48V system that can be fitted to campervans and off-grid homes that is simple enough for users to easily install themselves.
In regards to campervans, the Power Kit’s power generation can come from EcoFlow solar panels, EcoFlow’s Smart Generator or other generators, vehicle alternator, shore power outlets or the mains. Therefore, Power Kits are compatible with grid and off-grid power sources. Power generation is then controlled by the Power Hub, which combines what has traditionally been the job of a solar or DC-DC charger, and inverter/DC-DC converter. This power can then be stored in up to three of EcoFlow’s 2kW and 5kW lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which gives a storage capacity of up to 15kWh in one kit.
Users can then hook up their DC and AC devices and easily monitor and control power usage, generation, and other similar things from the optional AC/DC Smart Distribution Panel and EcoFlow app.
What makes the Power Kit system quite appealing to campervanners is that it’s not only more compact and straightforward in its setup than other options, but it’s also customisable depending on users’ requirements. Those running a relatively low consumption campervan can get what they need just as much as those who demand more power.
EcoFlow solar panels
As mentioned, one of the ways to power the EcoFlow Power Kit is via EcoFlow’s solar panels. There are multiple types, such as the rigid 100W panel, flexible 100W panel, and rigid 400W panel. The 100W Flexible Solar Panel is of particular interest to campervanners because it is lightweight at just 1.9kg and can simply be glued onto a roof, without the need for any drilling. Meanwhile, users still see the same performance benefits as the 100W Rigid Solar Panel.
With the full 15kWh of battery capacity, users can have 18 hours of power supply for their campervans without the need for any power source. But when the time comes to charge up, it can be done quickly. Using the solar panels, users can get up to 4800W of solar input, which means three of the 5kWh LFP batteries can be charged in roughly three hours, for example.
EcoFlow 48V Advanced System
EcoFlow has opted to use a 48V rather than a traditional 12V system for a number of reasons. It helps make the whole system more compact because it uses thinner cables than a 12V system. This is due to a 48V having less current flowing through it. The 48V system also suffers less heat loss than a 12V system.
Nevertheless, the 48V system can still allow the EcoFlow Power Hub to have a maximum output of 3600W. This is enough for power-hungry appliances such as air conditioners, water heaters, and hair dryers.
It also lets those who already have a power system installed in their campervan to convert to an EcoFlow Power Kit because it comes with a DC-DC step down module.
EcoFlow Power Kit bundle pricing
EcoFlow offers a range of Power Kit capacities at three levels. The Get Set bundle includes the EcoFlow Power Hub and LFP batteries. The Premium Kit then adds the AC/DC Smart Distribution Panel. The Ultimate Kit also adds the Power Kit Console and EcoFlow Smart Generator.
2kWh Power Kits: £4,398-£6,725
4kWh Power Kits: £6,397-£8,773
5kWh Power Kits: £6,598-£8,925
10kWh Power Kits: £10,797-£13,173
15kWh Power Kits: £14,996-£17,421
Find out more about EcoFlow Power Kits here.
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