This layout seems to me to be suitable for use as a 2-berth, with the bunk beds becoming in effect fixed beds which you wouldn't need to make up every night and which can stay in place while travelling. That is, if you and your partner are happy to sleep apart, and if one of you doesn't mind using a ladder. It looks as though the double bed in the lounge area would be rather too narrow for comfort anyway. The reduced cooking facilities in the "volt pack" version are what I would prefer in any van - a full oven and 4-ring hob may be in demand in the UK, but that's largely due to our weather.
I like this van and I am minded towards removing gas. But although this spec would be fine in summer you would struggle in winter. The fridge is perfect, a compressor using less electricity, and no ugly exterior vents required. But cooking is the problem. The microwave at around 750 watts will hammer the batteries, likewise the induction hob. But inductions do use less than normal element hobs. I would like more information on the inverter, and the batteries. Monitoring lithium batteries is different from lead acid which use a voltage based system. With lithium the voltage remains the same regardless the remaining power. Do the batteries have a Bluetooth monitoring system, and what protection do they have from charging below 5c which can damage lithium batteries. I like the idea of diesel heaters, I would make this standard for all models. On the layout one thing stuck out to me. The passenger seats have no head rests. Having worked for thirty years in the fire service I witnessed what happens to people with no head rests during an accident. They perish from broken necks. So I think this should be looked at. But well done Duncan, full marks for innovation, and one day I will buy an Elara, I will consider all electric if it’s available, but I would add a third battery and additional solar if possible.
I'm guessing there is a follow up to include the washroom and pricing? Great idea, please confirm what models this volt pack will include and price please.
@@constructioneerful love it. First trip started yesterday. Great to drive as more car like (no rattles) rather than MoHo. Miss the outside storage locker and shower room tight but it is all an adjustment.
@@gilltate3029 Good to hear! I was thinking about garage stuff.. key items I’d have to find a home for world be extra water and more solar .. I think I’m talking myself into a Solaris. Enjoy your van!
Hi - perhaps an update to the video. this pack now is 360W. The max we can fit practically in the available space is just over 400W with a combo of panels. However, in winter solar output is greatly reduced and gives much less than in the summer months. This pack does still work well and has been demonstrated to do so. But in winter you may need to charge with driving to top up depending on your usage every few days. If you are a heavy winter wild camper we would also recommend an additional battery.
This layout seems to me to be suitable for use as a 2-berth, with the bunk beds becoming in effect fixed beds which you wouldn't need to make up every night and which can stay in place while travelling. That is, if you and your partner are happy to sleep apart, and if one of you doesn't mind using a ladder. It looks as though the double bed in the lounge area would be rather too narrow for comfort anyway. The reduced cooking facilities in the "volt pack" version are what I would prefer in any van - a full oven and 4-ring hob may be in demand in the UK, but that's largely due to our weather.
I like this van and I am minded towards removing gas. But although this spec would be fine in summer you would struggle in winter. The fridge is perfect, a compressor using less electricity, and no ugly exterior vents required. But cooking is the problem. The microwave at around 750 watts will hammer the batteries, likewise the induction hob. But inductions do use less than normal element hobs. I would like more information on the inverter, and the batteries. Monitoring lithium batteries is different from lead acid which use a voltage based system. With lithium the voltage remains the same regardless the remaining power. Do the batteries have a Bluetooth monitoring system, and what protection do they have from charging below 5c which can damage lithium batteries. I like the idea of diesel heaters, I would make this standard for all models. On the layout one thing stuck out to me. The passenger seats have no head rests. Having worked for thirty years in the fire service I witnessed what happens to people with no head rests during an accident. They perish from broken necks. So I think this should be looked at.
But well done Duncan, full marks for innovation, and one day I will buy an Elara, I will consider all electric if it’s available, but I would add a third battery and additional solar if possible.
Brilliant 👏
I'm guessing there is a follow up to include the washroom and pricing? Great idea, please confirm what models this volt pack will include and price please.
William you can get this info on the earlier video without the voltpac.
I have just ordered the Wildax Pulsar for delivery in June. So excited and can’t wait.
How are you getting on with the Pulsar? Looks great for such a small footprint.
@@constructioneerful love it. First trip started yesterday. Great to drive as more car like (no rattles) rather than MoHo. Miss the outside storage locker and shower room tight but it is all an adjustment.
@@gilltate3029 Good to hear! I was thinking about garage stuff.. key items I’d have to find a home for world be extra water and more solar .. I think I’m talking myself into a Solaris. Enjoy your van!
What a great idea Duncan totally off grid ready to go no need to buy all the extra’s , will this apply to the other models / layouts ? Great video 👍
300w solar would be no good in winter for off grid camping. This setup needs Efoy.
Hi - perhaps an update to the video. this pack now is 360W. The max we can fit practically in the available space is just over 400W with a combo of panels. However, in winter solar output is greatly reduced and gives much less than in the summer months. This pack does still work well and has been demonstrated to do so. But in winter you may need to charge with driving to top up depending on your usage every few days. If you are a heavy winter wild camper we would also recommend an additional battery.