Smart Alternator and Towing

**jwb** · 15th April 2023, 01:12 PM

I should have been clearer about my requirements:
initially just charging a 190Ah Li battery in the vehicle for camping - yes, I am going all electric with induction cooking.
The Victron unit will be fine for that and as we learn about the charging capacity of the L663 MHEV system
In around 12 months we will have a fully electric van for some off-grid touring.
Anticipate around 600Ah storage in the van and the primary charging for this will be solar, anything from the vehicle while moving will be used but won't be completely dependent on it.
- jwb

**shadow101202** · 16th April 2023, 04:55 PM

Originally Posted by drivesafe

Hi Shadow, if you don't mind, I will reply to your PM here, so others can input anything useful to help.

I have been researching the 12v current available from a new defender for quite some time and to date have found very little useful info.

But consider this, to power a modern caravan today, you must have at least 70 to 80 amps of continuous current viable or it is a waste of time towing a van.

You need up to 30 amps for a 3 way fridge.

Up to 60 or more amps to power a 50 amp DC/DC device.

Up to 30 amps for Braking and Anti Sway systems.

And none of this covers the vans own travel lighting. Stop/Park-sidelighting/Turn Indicators/Reversing lights.

So I find the claim that 40 amps is the best you can do, a bit short of the point.

If anyone has some credible info regarding the new Defenders 12v power supply, PLEASE educate us all.

Official JLR response to me this week was "there are two 15amp pins in the 12 pin trailer connector that provide power for external devices". There was no other info provided.

The only other vehicle I know that has a similar systems is the new Dodge Ram. They state on their website max 50 amp draw for a trailers or van. Why can't JLR just release this info!!!

**shadow101202** · 18th April 2023, 04:58 PM

Originally Posted by shadow101202

Hi Quick question

I am looking to upgrade my Camper with a factory upgrade that includes a 5kw EcoFlow system (JB Caravans). I was warned by my auto electrician that these systems may draw too much power from my smart alternator. I drive a 2020 Land Rover Defender and I have been told that a 40 amp draw is the sweet spot, yet the Ecoflow draws 70 amps. If this is correct what does the Ecoflow do if anything to protect the smart alternator. What is your advice on this?

thanks

Well I got my answer, not from JLR but Youtube. I watched this DIY campervan electrical installation (Ecoflow Powerkit) - YouTube, and there is a setting for Eco Flow that lets you set the draw from 60 amps to something you want or need. So based on the lack of info from JRL I will set the Eco-flow system to only draw 30-40 amps and there should be no issues.
EcoFlow 5kWh Power Kits - Independence Kit (5kWh) - EcoFlow Australia

Thanks for all the info and help boys and happy wheelin!

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