Comparing the Lithionics and Volta RV Battery Systems from Winnebago

[@mwebernj]

James, I've been following you and your lovely wife for years. This is the first time making a comment on ANY KZbin video but could not resist. Thanks so much for an awesome and comprehensive video on these two battery systems. I had no problem understanding everything you said, which was a big relief. You should feel very pleased with yourself. Job well done. Thanks again.

[@Thefitrv]

Wow, thank you!

[@cwheremonster8870]

Great presentation. I too have now experienced both systems. I had the same Travato w/Volta system, and now moved on to Nova 20c (Coachmen). My decision to move on to another rig had little to do with the lithium power system… But I did want to continue the propane free experience. James is 100% on the money with his assessment. After only two months with the Lithionics system, I am convinced it better suits my needs. Thankfully my system came with a 3000 watt inverter. I have found that both systems give me the same ability to have power on demand. However the Lithionics system allows me to re-charge when camping for multiple days much easier. High idle is a deal breaker for me. I like charging when driving through local towns and low idle… or just sitting at a stop light. I’ve never had an issue running the air conditioning for multiple hours with either system. And I’m still able to run the air through the evening when I go to bed. Like I said, both systems are more than adequate. But the Volta has limitations that aren’t as optimal for my uses.

[@HumbleRoad]

Very thorough and comprehensive explanation. Bravo! Just for the record, I'm a Lithionics fan for all the reasons you stated.

[@Thefitrv]

Wow, thank you! Glad you liked it!

[@blakeplissken2314]

I wasn't even interested in Winnebago battery systems but I could not stop watching this video as you made it so interesting while adding a little humor in at times. I didn't zone out like I do with other technical videos. I'm not sure what you do for a living but you would make a wonderful teacher.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

This was really great James. I enjoyed nerding out watching it. I must admit, I am a Volta fanboy but you've definitely knocked it down a few pegs in my mind compared to the Lithionics system. And I agree that the inverter is a beast and I forget all the time! I can't wait to see what you guys do to your Ekko.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@sharonhughes6741]

Me too!

[@nbragtop]

Wow, my mind is blown ! I actually understood what you taught me. Congratulations for a job well done. Thank you for preparing such a detailed presentation, it had to be such a chore to do so.

[@Thefitrv]

You're very welcome!

[@waynebersch9150]

40 minutes!!!! Forty? Really? I watched every second of it! Thank you for keeping my attention that long, Professor.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@goose-F16]

I went back and listened to this video again after having the ekko for awhile.. there is alot of excellent nuggets of info here... I watched the installation of the 20k after this, but thank you.. systems management section solid gold.. see you out there, and on your ekko forums.. I appreciate you all pushing the edge of the envelope..

[@joanmcerlean7158]

Steph, it is my duty to inform you that it is absolutely necessary for James to upgrade the inverter charger. James, this was a fantastic tutorial. Thanks so much for translating your knowledge and expertise into layman’s terms.

[@Thefitrv]

Yeah, Stef!

[@doug3596]

That's great. If we don't stop at naming the RV, and instead also name our battery systems, our battery will definitely be named James. That's an incredibly clarifying and helpful video to someone sorting through a choice of RV!!

[@Thefitrv]

I'd be honored to have your battery - either one of these - named after me. :-)

[@MarkVJenkins]

TY James. You make the best videos. I am 52 and starting to think about my post corporate life. Your content is really foundational as I contemplate getting a rig of my own in the future. i also like to bicycle and having a rig to support my bicycle adventures is a top priority. I thought the Revel might be perfect solution but now I have the Ekko to evaluate as well. Keep up the great content and Thank You!

[@Thefitrv]

The main advantages of the Revel would be the smaller size, ground clearance, and 4WD. But if you're mostly a roadie (like us), the AWD EKKO should get you most anywhere you'd want to go.

[@gosman949]

One of the most informative videos on Lithium systems I have seen! Thanks so much for the work you did to bring this to us!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad it was helpful!

[@done.t.732]

Excellent video James! I wish I had you as a physics teacher in high school physics when we studied electricity. First, you made it easier to understand and second you make it fun and not make me go to sleep like I did in high school! Keep up the great work.

[@Thefitrv]

Wow, thanks!

[@HabitualButtonPusher]

This was like watching a clinic. Glad you posted this.

[@Thefitrv]

I did a dry run for a friend, and he said it was like a seminar. Guess it's got that vibe... Thanks!

[@spencerduncan]

James, this episode was about as good as it gets for complete information and comparison on a topic. It was easy to understand, in great depth and detail. And not biased or judgmental on either system while noting all pluses and minuses of these two system. And, yes, it would be nice to have the option to get either system in any Winnebago coach. Keep the info coming. Thank you. DonW.

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks, Don! Glad you liked it. :)

[@jocelynb8935]

Not sure why KZbin took so long to show me your videos as I’ve been watching RV videos for years. But I’m so glad I found it, great information as I get ready to buy my RV and go full timing. I’m binge watching a lot of your RV basic videos now.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you finally found us!

[@kconatymd]

The most awesome summary comparing the two systems that there will ever be! This should be required viewing for anyone considering Travato L models vs Ekko. Thanks for doing this! Very timely and relevant.

[@Thefitrv]

High praise, thanks so much!

[@stuartstuart866]

Wow, a lot of considerations the average consumer wouldn’t even think of. Thanks James

[@dr.freddyb.wilson4541]

Thanks so much for this video! I've watched your videos for many years. Lately I needed information on using the Lithium batteries since one RV I was interested in had a diesel generator but a later version had a 3000 watt inverter system, which I wondered about. I've been wanting an RV for years and finally decided to go with a B+ but could not find anyone to discuss the abilities of a lithium system over a generator. After listening to you I think going with a lithium system should fit my needs! You two keep up the good work!

[@steveworsfold4518]

Excellent presentation, James! I agree with your comments and assertions regarding the two systems - I think I prefer the lithionics for the reasons you stated. I too am very excited about the Ekko and the "shift" it represents in the industry. I.e., I can't wait to be driving a Yeti cooler down the road. We have a 2015 Roadtrek Adventurous on the Sprinter chassis - I really like many things about it. However, the total lack of insulation is a ridiculous omission that drives me crazy! That van gets wicked hot in the sun in the summer. One thing I really liked about your video is the way you present the difference between PERCEIVED needs from the battery system, versus ACTUAL needs. As an engineer, I often get caught up TOO much in the specs and data. In reality, I am learning I simply need to utilize the equipment and experience the situation so I can determine if it ACTUALLY provides what I need versus what I THOUGHT I needed. WELL DONE, and can't wait to see your future EKKO videos!

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks, Steve, appreciate the thoughts!

[@MarkRVillano]

I love the way you break it all down in understandable terms, and the individual differences between the two systems and their components. It's nice to see an honest comparison by someone who is knowledgeable, has used both, and doesn't have an axe to grind with either one. I think the biggest positives with Lithionic are the overall versatility and commonality of the 12 V system, the relative ease of upgrading and doubling capacity, and the fact that you don't have to be on the open road in order to charge the batteries.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you liked the video. I really tried to keep it balanced.

[@offgrid100]

Excellent job James! As a person who lives in an off grid house 24/7 with solar panels, a DC battery bank and inverter you answered all of my questions regarding lithium batteries. thanks so much!

[@J.W.W.]

As a 35 year veteran of aircraft avionic and cms systems I appreciate this fun discussion! My systems are ~ 28.0 VDC, so half way between your systems here (We use the charging voltage for most of our calculations, not the battery at rest voltage).

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you liked it!

[@comegowithMEE]

Very good video James! When you and Stephanie get the Ekko and start the mods you have to keep us up to date. I, like you guys, am eyeing an Ekko also for a boondocking rig in the mountains and an all summer trip to alaska as soon as this virus gets out of our way. Again, very good video. You had some info on the Ekko I didn't know. Take care.

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks, Mike! Glad you learned a thing or two... and best of luck on your RV hunt and Alaska adventures!

[@carpenc1]

Wow! Have owned a camper van for over 3 years. Thanks to you, I finally get it. That’s a miracle. Your a miracle worker!!!

[@sherihughes359]

When you introduced this video, I wondered if I would make it to the first commercial😳. I want you to know I watched and understood the entire explanation! I also appreciated your formula for converting amp hours to watt hours. Well done, James!!! I can't wait to show this to my husband tomorrow! Thank you both for the work you do...you have influenced our decision making in regard to companies, composting toilets, refrigerators, awnings and much more!!! I bet you will like the Transit. Ours will be delivered this month!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you liked it. Let us know what your husband thinks!

[@ournewseason]

Great way to put all the system components together and list the Pros/Cons. Due to my research, I understood the concepts but this video really painted the complete picture. Thanks Rembrandt! 😉

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you liked it!

[@kero-oke9300]

Thank you James. This is exactly what we need to know. The senarios are great.

[@jamesbryan4373]

Excellent comparative video, thank you. I can't wait to see your actual use videos on the new EKKO as this is my current "dream" RV.

[@Thefitrv]

We can't wait either! Except of course, we have to. Because they're not on sale yet! We're hoping to get a loaner to "test camp" with soon.

[@jimfranklin9770]

while I don’t RV, this a very good and very informative video. Well done, James.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@RVTraveler]

Well done James. I am on my second Travato. I bought it with the AGM batteries and a generator. I plan to upgrade to two 125 amp iron phosphate batteries in place of the AGMs. Then add a second, lithium high output alternator. Also replace the charger with a lithium charger, no inverter. The existing 1000 watt inverter is fine for me. You just confirmed some of my thoughts. Thanks.

[@Thefitrv]

Cool. And there's a good reference point for folks of someone who is happy with a 1,000 watt inverter.

[@johnyang1420]

Which system are you going with?

[@RVTraveler]

@@johnyang1420 I’m going with a lithonics battery. 280XP high amp alternator with dual bracket. Have not selected a charger yet. I will use nations starter alternator do the install. They upgraded my alternator on my first van. They did a good job. Nationsstarteralternator.com

[@larrygee5090]

Thank you for your great explanation comparing the two lithium systems. It is the best fair comparison of the two systems. I too like the ability to modify things. Keep releasing your videos.

[@dontworrybehappy5139]

Thanks James! I think you did a fantastic job taking a very complicated subject and explaining things in a very accessible manner. I also really like how you qualified some of your assessments with your personal preferences and discussed how it might differ from others. Great job!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you found it useful!

[@richardd.4421]

Great video and explanation from a rocket scientist to the folks who think amps are for guitars. Very clear and concise, thanks.

[@Thefitrv]

Rock on!

[@mtbgo7860]

Love this! The video must have been hard to organize and taken so much time. Really appreciate it!

[@Thefitrv]

It has to be like 12 pages of talking!

[@Dave-gf3kd]

Wow. You put a LOT of work into this, and it's incredibly well done. Thank You!

[@bobk381]

Excellent comparison. I admit to being a battery and chemistry nerd. I appreciate your insight and experience using both systems.

[@dakat1726]

James and Steph, you rock the rv world! this comparison gave us so much info we can use in many ways

[@Thefitrv]

So glad you found it useful! 😊

[@apollion888]

One of the best videos you've done, great content and fun editing. Enjoy the Ekko! Looking forward to seeing your first video once the new baby arrives

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks so much!

[@jamesmartin568]

James you did an excellent job on explaining the differences between the Volta and Lithionics systems using end user, real world scenarios.

[@cryptopappy6408]

This was the best class I've been to since I used to teach! Love the style, info, attitude! And the cat :) Been 'studying' off-grid life for me and my cat :) I'm old, time for me :) Long story buy my 2000 GMC Yukon is a dream come true. Smokey ( my cat ) got all his Speed Badges up to 85 MPH. That Yukon Glides! And she's an ole Gal! Roof bag for tents and supplies. Power supply is why I love this video. I used to know this stuff but have to relearn it. The Army's tough. You do have a good information delivery style. I been doing electrical since 71, now relearning. Free classes on KZbin. Gotta share on Twitter :) Merry Christmas you 2!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you found it useful! Any guy who travels with a cat is a good egg in my book. :)

[@johndoody1492]

Thanks James. As Gary Larson said through one of his Far Side characters, “teacher, my brain is full”. And I agree with your assessment. Cheers

[@1jclaypool]

This is exactly the comparison I have been waiting for.

[@Thefitrv]

So glad you liked it!

[@lougegen4252]

I 'm "Thunderstruck"! In my opinion, the best video that you have done James! Thanks you!

[@Thefitrv]

YESSSSS!!

[@jupitersurfski4542]

Great comparison video. As a 21 Revel owner @fitrv will be a valued member of the WGO version of the Xantrex/Lithionics family in your EKKO. I anticipate you will be doing many more instructional videos about State of Charge issues, how important deep charging is to the batteries when the rig sits too long between charges, etc.... as techs from WGO, Xantrex and Zamp have said: we are all learning together. We need more videos like yours. Your an awesome teacher.

[@Thefitrv]

Absolutely there will be more videos to come!

[@cindygaffney1094]

Super informative! I was a bit reluctant to commit to listening to the entire video but so glad I did. I learned a lot!! Thank you!

[@jmw_vn2463]

Excellent presentation. Extremely informative and useful. Thank you !

[@randycurry]

Thank you James! You have laid it out clearly for all to understand! Be Well!

[@Thefitrv]

You are very welcome!

[@rvboondocker2559]

I was one of the unfortunate people who accidentally had my 525 amp hr Lithionics battery pack run completely empty because of the incorrect programming that I had left it while in storage. That happened one year ago and, fortunately, it runs as good as new anyway, which is nearly 2 1/2 years now! Stephen and his team at Lithionics are truly amazing scientists and engineers! I feel very safe sleeping with this battery pack. Also, in all fairness, we have the Xantrex Freedom 3000 W inverter (absolutely necessary to always upgrade) and it does a pretty good job on sucking energy on standby as well. We just take the responsibility of turning it off planet is not in use and it keeps us from having any problems.

[@Thefitrv]

We've had great support from Lithionics over the years as well. Glad your battery was able to come "back from the dead". Does that make it a zombie battery?

[@rvboondocker2559]

@@Thefitrv More of a resurrection or second coming or maybe reincarnation? I’d say. Thanks!

[@Trishpage312]

What you’ve done with your EKKO is incredible! I’m on a total bender, signed up for you new letter and so impressed with your shop!

[@raideriam]

So well done! Thank you for distilling some fairly difficult information into easily digestible useful data elements. Though your bias is clear I assume your bottom line is that both systems will serve you.

[@richkurtz6053]

Thank you for this clarification of the difference between the 2 lithium systems. If I read the components pricing correctly, the Lithionics system (other than the heavier DC cables), should be less expensive. It also uses off-the-shelf components. I agree that this should be easier to upgrade.

[@Thefitrv]

We're looking forward to our next Lithionics system (and the upgrades) in our new EKKO!

[@tomh465]

FYI the Coachman’s “Beyond Li3” Ford Transit B class model uses the Lithionics battery with the Zantrex 3000w inverter/charger, standard option.

[@mikesabiking]

Couple things to note about nmc. You can't make a NMC battery run at 12 volts. The cells can't be configured to match a 12v (lead acid voltage range). The best match is 24 volt (7S). That is a big reason Volta is 48 (14s). Second thing. NMC is much more dangerous. If they catch on fire (damage, charging too cold/hot, etc...) it is almost impossible to extinguish the fire. They produce their own oxygen. Water will actually fuel the fire. I've build diy batteries with both chemistries, and will alway opt for lifepo4 in a house or RV/Van.

[@stevetag6572]

It would be a cost savings for Lithionics to use NMC cells...but, we would not pass UL and could not install inside like we do on the Revel and the Galleria

[@KU9L]

As a former electronic technician turned retired aerospace Test Engineer watching Winnebago's evolve over the years I am right with you in spirit and enthusiasm. I cannot believe that the new system on the Ekko cannot be transported directly to their Class A, gas & diesel coaches as an option as under floor storage space is not a problem compared to a B or C class. The Forza has room for six Group 31 AGM batteries and more than a thousand watts of solar on the roof with huge storage tanks (compared to many B/C's). If I am still getting Internet connectivity and my tanks aren't full yet, the need to go plug-in at a campground should be a very rare event as long as I am chasing 70 degrees around the seasons. Keep up the good work James & Steph. Going to Tampa in January? I keep checking the website for Industry Day signups just in case we actually can schedule it soon. Best, Dave - KU9L

[@Thefitrv]

A massive lithium system in a class A would be pretty sweet! And we won’t be able to make it to the Tampa show this year!

[@dogman1264]

I must say this has been a wonderful overview for me and a real eye-opener to understanding them both better than I did. I have been reading and trying to come up to speed with Li3 as this has the best floorplan our needs, the Coachmen Galleria that we have liked. Winnebago did not have a good floorplan and this has kept us apart for a long time with all of their selections. Safety is a big factor for both of us and 48 sounded a bit risky adding the factor of using GAS inside the RV. After your overview, I now feel much better about ordering our Coachmen Galleria with the Li3 system. Knowing what I know now I feel better about our selection. But knowing they both have their good points. Safety is a big factor for us as I said and when Winnebago took the move to the Li system, I knew we were on the right track of staying with coachmen and the Li3. SO bottom line it comes down to my wife's like of a floorplan. As they are two wonderful systems and it's up to the end-user and their needs. Thanks, you have put my mind at rest and 12-V is easier for me to wrap my head around. Well, little ways. haha, Good JOB.

[@BelgianTex]

Thanks James. Since we're looking a Coachmen with Li3 vs. a Winnebago with Volta, this was extremely helpful. 1) I'll check on the inverter on/off question on the Volta as soon as I can. Didn't realize this and it's good to know. 2) Yes, you need to upgrade asap to the 3,000 W Xantrex inverter. Steph... I have no idea why it didn't come on the EKKO to start with, so this is a normal thing to do. Just to be able to compare apples to apples you know. 3) I'm a Mac guy, but our whole house is Apple (TV, music, etc etc). For the RV, I think I'm starting to see some distinct advantages to the Lithionics system. Not enough to sway me away from Volta. But it's becoming a factor. Especially the "high idle" difference. Thanks for doing this. EDIT: checked the one we are looking at. 2021 59GL. No button under the large Volta button like someone else mentioned. To be continued

[@danleonard3600]

Hands down this is the best explanation I have seen about how lithium battery systems work. I like the fact that you can add battery capacity fairly simply if needed. My question. What’s so bad about generators. They serve they’ve the same purpose as the second alternator without starting up the vehicle and with the quieter ones now probably less bothersome to others than an idling van.

[@Thefitrv]

Generators are loud, require monthly maintenance, and you shouldn't run them for just the 120 seconds it takes to make toast. (among other issues.)

[@daves1646]

James, That was lucid and informative and you did NOT geek out. I appreciate your sharing of your personal preferences while keeping the decision door open for the less likely or non-tinkerers. GREAT REVIEW!!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad it was helpful!

[@michaelhardwick3505]

Excellent. One of the best videos on lithium power I’ve ever seen.

[@VarosVapor]

Incredibly informative! This was a brilliant explanation of the 2 systems. Thank you James!

[@Bsargentnoble1]

Very nicely done, James. The RV community is lucky to have you.

[@mikemcgeehan4321]

Another great job of walking us through the details. Liked the way you did the comparisons was spot on. You are the man! Thank you.

[@Thefitrv]

Much appreciated!

[@lancealbrecht400]

Great Video, we have a npe travato and find the same issues that you mentioned, still like the system but are looking at the echo for some of the same reasons. Nice job, very well done and I learned a lot. Thanks

[@Thefitrv]

It's been interesting to us to see how many Travato owners are interested in the EKKO. Glad you found the vid useful!

[@oldhickory2064]

Embassy RV has the option of the 3000W inverter with their Lithonics system which comes standard with 425 AH Lithium batteries with an option for 600AH Lithium batteries. They also have a second alternator which if I remember correctly has a higher range then the package on the Ekko ( not sure why but thats what I understnad). I enjoyed your video because it supports what I've been learning about some of the sales speak from the Embassy RV site regarding the way they have their system setup. They also have autostart and I'm susrprised that the Ekko doesn't have that feature as well. Love your videos as they are some of the most informed on the internet. thanks

[@Thefitrv]

Auto-Start is not an insurmountable problem. I suspect some end user will figure it out for themselves.

[@MyCousinGrandpa]

Thanks so much James for this awesome instruction. I have been looking at both Ekko and Travato. I am waiting to actually see an Ekko before deciding. This is very helpful as well.

[@dustylaredo]

james is such a dadgum good teacher; i always learn a lot from y’all... -thanks- 🚐💨

[@Thefitrv]

Why thanks! Glad you found it useful. :)

[@randyneely1898]

When I can’t sleep I just watch this video lol thanks great information.

[@barbaraweitz9906]

I can't believe I watched this whole video....but it was interesting. Nice job, James. You're a good teacher.

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@MermaidmomUP]

This was VERY helpful, thank you!

[@Thefitrv]

So glad!

[@adrianbenton7061]

James, I really enjoyed your talk, I enjoy your sense of humour, looking forward to you getting your EKKO.

[@gosmall.livelarge]

Super awesome video James. Thanks for speaking “English” on these complicated systems. I learned a number of things. You are right though, as an owner of Travato GL I simply care about what the Volta system allows me to do instead of carrying much about how it does it. Thanks for putting in the time to make this video. I will point others to it ! Hi Stef :)

[@Thefitrv]

Hey! Glad it was helpful!

[@brianjacobus722]

I can’t wait to save our money and in a year or two buy the Ekko the second I saw it I knew it was the one for us ! I’m jealous as I know you guys will have yours before us lol

[@Kingfisher1]

Superb explanation! And you made it entertaining as well. Many thanks for spending all the time it must have taken to put this video together.

[@lindajoplin8054]

So, excellent video, but let's talk $$$. If upgrading a van from AGM to lithium, why go with Lithionics over, say, Battleborn batteries? 600 ah of Lithionics runs about $9,300. 600 ah of Battle Born runs about $5,400. Do other parts of the system even out the cost? Any thoughts on Battleborn batteries or other options.

[@thebillbaker4793]

Hello my friend, as they say “it’s better to be a witty fool than a foolish wit”. This is probably your best work. Thanks for the eye-opening conversation. Stay thirsty my friend.

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks!

[@dgaston]

40 minute video, ugh, let's see how far I get. 40 minutes later... wow that was a great video. Thinking about doing a build and it sounds like the Lithionics would be my choice!

[@ravenm.]

Thank you James, excellent presentation!

[@ianfurqueron5850]

Useful information - even for someone not planning to buy any of the Winnebago RVs but instead plans to build their own (me).

[@Thefitrv]

Thanks, Ian!

[@CleanPowerAuto]

If you need more than 2kW inverter and a larger battery, an aftermarket installer can swap it with 3kW Xantrex XC Pro, which is almost the same footprint, while also adding a 2nd battery for longer runtime.

[@Thefitrv]

That inverter/charger is the one I refer to in the video. I'd have to check the cable sizes, but swapping to a 50% more powerful inverter might require a cable upgrade for safety's sake.

[@mvemerson]

Just wanted to mention, ...it is absolutely necessary to upgrade. ;-)

[@charlagarth926]

A Master Class in lithium battery systems. I didn’t know that I needed or wanted one, but man...did I learn a lot, and it was entertaining too. You good, James...you good. PS I cannot wait to see what you do with the EKKO.

[@Thefitrv]

Waiting to get one is just torture! I have SO MANY ideas on mods already...

[@lyfandeth]

Whether an alternator will charge at idle is mainly a choice of which one is selected. There are, for example, some "detroit" alternators that can put out 100A at 1000 shaft rpm, and run forever at 15,000 rpm. A very wide range, compared to others thst need 2000 rpm to put out full power, but will also burn out if run continously at 10,000 rpm. Guess which one costs more? And by changing the size of thd alternator pulley (in proportion to the engine crank pulley) you can change the idle speed of the alternator easily. The drawback is that you don't want to exceed the max rpm at max engine speed. Regardless of the voltage.

[@vincedoss4230]

You are indeed, the man! This was a great video. Thank you, as always for taking the time to distill complex topics. 🤘🏽AC⚡️DC 🤘🏽

[@Thefitrv]

I had a whole bunch of AC/DC puns... "For those about to charge, we salute you", that kind of thing, but Stef made me take them out.

[@aliciabrowndocken4660]

At 12:21 your slide shows "Usable Capacity" is around 10% of total. I think that you meant to illustrate the Usable Capacity is around 90% of Total Capacity with Reserve Capacity being about 10% of the Total Capacity.

[@thuff3207]

Very nice presentation on on both systems. Thank you for sharing your experience because that is real life and helps. Now the elephant RV AC is not what it should be in energy use. We can do much better and should because some of us live in the humid south. The AC is what we use most of the day making boon docking without a generator tough. Until we seriously look at improving the air conditions efficiency because its tough to run on batteries, but I am hopeful. Now the big thank you is mentioning battery university wow it’s gone main stream and its great.

[@cnevle]

Good stuff! Good job on de-mystifying some of this!

[@Thefitrv]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@UrdaMan3rd]

James, loved this video very informative. We are awaiting delivery of a new Coachman Nova 20C/Li3 with the Litionnics systems. we are cosidering a future upgrade ( not necessarily by ourself rather by a Lithionics certified 3rd party dealer or van builder). But in reading the various literature on Lithionics it appears that their system is more of a plug and paly ( ie pay $$) upgrade. If I am reading the literature correctly if I wanted an upgrade our current 600 AmpH system, I would need a : * 2-Port Paraller Combiner Box used for Expansion * Newer Die Lithionics Battery ( would I have to get a similar 12V 600 AmpH for simplicity sake ???) * Cabling??? Since I would have an existing Xantrex 3000 Freedom XC Invetor can you think of any other possible equipment upgrades. Granted I might not do the upgrade until I am out of warranty and /or have the additional cash once I found a certified tech!! Much regards, PS loved you videos with both Coachment and Lithionics Joe

[@NewAgeDIY]

James love the details. Lots of background information. Noticed that solar wasn’t talked about. I guess if your main charging source is off the engine it’s not that important. Question: what ever system you pick would it be a good idea to keep a spare alternator on hand. Depending on your travels it could be hard to find a replacement unit in a emergency situation. What is your opinion.

[@Thefitrv]

Oddly enough, we had an alternator failure in Lance's second alternator once. We don't carry a dedicated spare. But because they are both 12 volt systems, when our alternator failed, I flipped a switch I had installed, and connected the vehicle and second electrical systems. SO since both our alternators are 12v, it's kind of like we do carry a spare!

[@BillSprague]

Thank you for satisfying a fellow engineer’s geek needs in an enjoyable video! Excellent!

[@michaelmcconnell7294]

Excellent presentation.

[@patrickmchargue7122]

Well done. A clear explanation of the trade-offs in both systems.

[@Thefitrv]

They've goth got their highlights, for sure.

[@Harp4Hand]

Absolutely fantastic video, thank you so much for explaining in such entertaining detail.

[@Thefitrv]

Cool. Glad you liked it!

[@davidcampden5618]

That was a great comparison of the two lithium system. It certainly filled in quite a few gaps in my knowledge. Thank you! I see from the Lithionics master catalogue that they may be producing a 420 Ah version of the 315 Ah battery in the Ekko. Two of these would give you over 11 kWh of power, slightly more than on the standard Travato Volta system. But it would take a long time to charge from the alternator if you emptied them.

[@Thefitrv]

We certainly have a trip to Lithionics in our future where we’ll learn more about how these batteries are put together and see just how far we can take things. Look for it after we get our EKKO!

[@HumperMKB]

Is turning on high idle to charge really more annoying than power management all the time ?

[@terryharrigan6324]

BTW. Perfect timing. My compressor fridge/freezer arrives next week. Deciding on electrical system upgrade right now.

[@Thefitrv]

Cool. (Pun intended)

[@lonestarsherp7560]

Like all of your videos, full of useful info. I love the Ekko design and have it on my list.

[@Thefitrv]

Good choice!

[@lorijo5536]

Thank yo so much. I’m a wannabe and am trying to learn all I can. Appreciate you!

[@Thefitrv]

You're so welcome!

[@AdrianPFalla]

this was a great, thoughtful, detailed and impeccably reasoned piece-extremely enlightening! many thanks!

[@michaelyates3424]

As always, great and informative video. Can't wait to see the many videos of you modding you Ekko. You've giving me the courage to extensively mod our '19 70B Era including adding two Lion Energy 105 AH batteries. But I have one critique, you should be wearing your lab coat or at least a high school chemistry teacher costume...

[@Thefitrv]

Lol! That would have been a good add!

[@7heRedBaron]

My high school chemistry teacher was bald. The similarities are eerie.