ELECTRIC COOKING WHEN CAMPING - REAL-LIFE TEST | Is it workable? | 4xOverland

A real-world actual trial of electric induction cooking when camping. And my decisions for the Troopy build. Welcome to "4xoverland" channel. The world's first global 4WD adventure motoring channels.
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• TOURER vs OFF-ROADER. ...
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NO BRANDED SPONSORS FOUND HERE. SUPPORT THESE SHOWS:
/ andrew_stpierre_white .
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5. 4xoverland Live Q&A
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4xOverland is the world's only public-funded global 4WD adventure off-road motoring channel. Established in 1996, it is hosted by well known 4x4 writer, explorer and filmmaker, Andrew St Pierre White.
**Thanks For Watching This Video**

[@Dennis-1367]

As a German I lost it when Heiner explained electrics with beer. Just hilarious. Really hope to see him around more often

[@4xoverland]

I know. I had to really focus!

[@4weeksleave]

@@4xoverland I had to get a beer to focus

[@hlieb4601]

@@4weeksleave dam now I want a beer 🤣🍺🍺🍺 or 3

[@MrThuggery]

@@4xoverland I could tell.....

[@4weeksleave]

@@hlieb4601 It is 12 o'clock somewhere in the world

[@mullerandre95]

Personally I'd say it's a bit of a stretch for an induction plate, you've got only one cooking surface. A 2 plate gas burner would be lighter and a boatload cheaper than induction cooking. How many canisters of gas do you need to buy to break even with the price of the upgraded electrical system and additional wheight? More wheight for the electric system equates in either lost weight carrying capacity or upgrading the suspension to suit. IMHO it's just bling and if you have bad weather for a few days you run into charging issues. More tech inevitably leads to more complication, like taking a new Disco up into Africa. I feel another Dream tourer scenario coming.

[@grouchyecologist1730]

Best lightweight reliable cooker I have found so far is the old Coleman Shellite 533 stoves... smaller than most pots and so fit inside them, very energy efficient, and what I like most of all is the reliability and readability of knowing how much fuel you have used, and how much you have left. I carry two but usually only need one. Only a little practice is needed to get really good reliable heat out of them and from there I am getting rid of all my old gas gear which was more complex, expensive, harder to clean and much heavier overall. They're very stable but to make them more so I simply cut out a template for the bases so they cannot be knocked about while cooking.

[@crt269]

@@grouchyecologist1730 interesting

[@billcrowle]

@@crt269 then there is a Trangia metho stove, a Whisperlite…….

[@danwhiteman2529]

@@grouchyecologist1730 I agree, that's my permanent truck camping stove. I use a jetboil for coffee and hot chocolate only.

[@DazzaOnGoogle]

Would it be any heavier? 200AH lithium weighs about 20kg. Same as a large LPG bottle

[@AdrianScott1024]

I really appreciate videos like this where we can follow the thought process going into decisions, not just presenting the conclusion after the fact, thank you.

[@Malc664]

You, Andrew, called this build "Operation Lightweight". The Multiplus II is nice but not necessary. Now you're going away from a lightweight build. The Redarc does the job at less than half the weight. Now you're factoring in Shore power. Why aren't you giving viewers the weights as you go? Maybe, Andrew, you're still on that learning curve. I suppose it never ends. That's ok and normal. I hope there are no regrets.

[@Resignandreset]

I completely agree with you. I might be wrong on this one (this is my opinion) sponsors could have affected his decision.

[@Malc664]

@@Resignandreset Yes, he loves the new toys received for free. Victron donations, so he's gone that way. Can't wait to see how close he gets to the GVM.

[@nnoddy8161]

@@Resignandreset They always affect his decisions. Check out the tyre fiasco. Went against his preferred size (255/85 16) because his sponsor did not make them in that size.

[@boymeetsbush8232]

Definitely not light weight but product showcase. 3 100 Amp batteries 2 30amp dc 2 dc charger and 3000w inverter charger how can that be light weight

[@rynoopperman5010]

All that crap just to save on a 3kg gas bottle… 😜😜

[@user-fr5pl1zf5f]

This sounds like a solution in search of a problem. Light and simple wins the day

[@benbirch2393]

100%.

[@BlitzSRM994]

Yep

[@jackthornton3496]

lightweight wins, when 4x4ing

[@HoldenHSVlover]

Harry from fire to fork felt a disturbance in the force when you filmed this video

[@nnoddy8161]

Priceless.

[@gordslater]

Speaking as an electronics guy, that's a hell of a lot of power draw even for a large twin-battery system. Speaking as a remote offroader, that s a crazy amount of power draw.

[@dx80cruiser]

. 75c rate of discharge is fine for lithium, depending on what BMS is running the lithium batteries of course, but not excessive

[@gordslater]

@@dx80cruiser yeah its the recharging that horrifies me rather than the dis-rate. Even with long drives each day,

[@dx80cruiser]

@@gordslater ack, not easy to get 200 amphr back in on a drive. Hard on the alternator and increase in fuel use trying to drive the alternator, and if you decide to stay for 2 or 3 days your stuffed. A gas (or my Favorite) a duel fuel stove is far more efficient.

[@ReimerKeith]

@@dx80cruiser He could carry a large windmill in a trailer...

[@royblackburn1163]

@@ReimerKeith if everyone eats bean's , job done lol.

[@philg2468]

Heiner is awesome. Perhaps you can get him talking about alternators and how a 130A Troopy alternator copes with these huge loads - particularly when output drops at low engine revs.

[@einfelder8262]

Agreed. Victron has a good video on how to set fire to your alternator when charging lithium batteries via a DC-DC charger.

[@93jummy]

@@einfelder8262 that test was run WITHOUT a dc-dc.

[@Dirt-Diggler]

@@einfelder8262 I thought that alt fire was WITHOUT a BtoB 🤔

[@kyleseaverson5178]

I must admit when Andrew was going over the battery charging system I wondered if an alternator upgrade would be needed.

[@RedesCat]

Project lightweight: a swag, firepit and a fridge

[@StinkhoundRosie]

You’re watching the wrong channel if that’s what floats ya boat

[@AshHalls]

No fridge, esky with ice 😂

[@4xoverland]

- and no progress, no learning anything. Nothing more to do, nothing more to say. But I see you do want a fridge? Man! I toured for 20 years dreaming of the day when I could have a fridge. Warm beer and warm lettuce was the normal.

[@defendermodsandtravels]

@@4xoverland But is this progress? One of the highest priorities on the planet today is energy efficiency. Compare the overall efficiency of the electric option (diesel power to alternator, cable losses, inverter, induction cooker to cookware, and then the inefficiences of re-charging the batteries) to a direct gas flame on a pan and it seems to me to be going in the wrong direction. Maybe I am wrong.

[@tukocan]

I like how Egon explains things, I understand him......and beer to.

[@sfrozman]

We used an induction cooktop in our camper van after having one in our home. We find that there can be a huge difference in efficiency, depending on what pots and pans you use. In the van we are very happy with the Stanley Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset. They have a very thick plate on the bottom, so work great with induction. We also use a small cast iron skillet, which also is great on induction. For coffee, we use the Bra Bella moka pot, which I think is Italian that we bought in Spain. Sadly, we have two of them and the second one we purchased, they have made all of the metal thinner with the same design, but both seem to work fine on induction and making coffee in the van is very quick.

[@cgrecommended]

Andrew, I feel even you aren't 100% convinced this is the right move.

[@grahamfielder4498]

Nothing nicer at night than all sitting around the induction cooker with a beer watching the steaks sizzling away. 200ah via solar on an overcast day is going to be an interesting challenge (actually even on a reasonably sunny day) - eagerly await the solar panel video.

[@einfelder8262]

Agree - there isn't a portable solar system that will pump 200ah. The 20ah Victron mppt will still require a massive solar blanket to pump 20ah consistently for 10 hours.

[@gaj5701]

Good real life info for anyone wanting to go this route. I faffed around doing calculations on whether it was possible for me running 200ah & figured I would always have to carry a separate stove for multi-day stops. As an engineer with a penchant for efficiency & a mountaineering background meaning I like the double redundancy process, I'm only going to take a standard cooker as I would be taking it anyway. Until someone develops/shows a better, more efficient way I'll be leaving induction alone for now. Shame, as it solves the fuel issue for global overlanding but I like to stay still in beautiful places when possible so a coleman dual fuel is here to stay.

[@nnoddy8161]

Nothing beats dual fuel. The cost, complexity and weight of all this is ridiculous.

[@Berserkeroffroad]

It's fun to see you incorporate your love of electronics into the build. The complexity isn't my cup of tea which I think is why I enjoy watching you do it instead. I'm content with a backpacking stove and freeze-dried meals.

[@JimBob-vb8oz]

If you go hybrid electric/gas, aren't you just getting back to the overloaded camper you had? Two systems, two sets of energy storage, more weight,

[@MrDaanram]

thanks Jim Bob! exactly my thought. I wonder why he doesn't build a nice 12V only system - no inverters, none of that rubbish. Camera's and laptops all charge of USB and there are simple 12V plugs that charge at 40 watts.

[@landzender]

@@MrDaanram Because the induction cook tops are AC (240V) only. There don't come in 12V options. Also because Andrew is using some professional cameras (larger Sony video camera), etc, they only come with AC (240V) chargers, not 12V or USB charging.

[@utahjohnnymontana3373]

I don't see the point either, but its not my car. Personally, I like the propane stove option. Induction seems like something that just doesn't belong on a camping trip.

[@lukeadv]

@@landzender A $50 inverter can supply 150W AC from the 12V socket, would probably supply the AC charger of a camera. I agree with @MrDram, should be keeping things light.

[@dx80cruiser]

@@landzender but they don't require 3000watt inverters

[@WishIHadTreeForm]

It seems to me that right now you are at a crossroads with this build and have lost sight of the original directive. Project lightweight. I appreciate that there was always a caveat to the "lightweight" part, but I think it would be great to do a video directly addressing the trade off you are making here.

[@180jp4]

Picking up an 80 series in a couple weeks to do a lightweight no frills overland build, the 4x4 itself is fairly heavy but no free parts on mine so I should be able to stay relatively light

[@180jp4]

Yeah it’s crazy how much junk you end up with, my 79 single cab sits at 3.9t daily driving. Drives horrible haha

[@lukeadv]

@@dualcablowlux Problem is all these youtube channels tempting us with interesting stuff

[@WishIHadTreeForm]

@@dunk1 Yeh, I just see dream tourer repeating itself... I am no expert though and my only 4x4 experience is a Jimny, so I am particularly sensitive to over doing it!

[@trimat2016]

Hmmm. I can see this project going off the weight rails already. Hybrid system. Is that code for carrying both a gas and an electric cooking system?

[@Leilthold-]

Probably a jetboil

[@andersonjack95]

Paul Marsh would be disappointed that you haven't stuck with your build ethos. "Lightweight tourer" is turning into the "freebies tourer"

[@perrypaterson6717]

Couldnt agree more. Paul Marsh (overlanding godfather & expert) taught Andrew everything he knows... its a slap in the face IMO

[@MrAkc14]

Totally agree, starting to see a trend of pushing "donated" equipment. Sold his soul to advertising over true adventure. Sad but seems to be the way there all going.

[@benjaminholloway2451]

Did I miss the video where weight and simplicity goes out the window? It’s just a repeat of last year

[@180jp4]

It always starts this way until the free products come in and old mate gets carried away

[@Alienking01]

He should have gone with the Iveco, then the addition weight would not be a problem.

[@nnoddy8161]

Gotta agree. It is becoming whoever throws free gear at him he will compromise the intent of the build. Becoming a bit of a joke.

[@benjaminholloway2451]

@@180jp4 agreed

[@benjaminholloway2451]

@@Alienking01 I’d be interested in seeing that

[@jonahwigley3313]

As someone who loves to cook, I find cooking with gas better than induction. Just another take.

[@heathbaldwin6236]

Gas is great until its windy as and it keeps blowing out and or loosing heat

[@tsouftsouf]

I totally agree. The gas is instant heat and you can also regulate it instantly. On top if the pot is a little bitten up and not perfectly flat the induction cooker loses a lot of heat transfer. I find using electricity for heat/ cooking a great energy waste if you consider how much goes into producing this electricity.

[@defendermodsandtravels]

@@heathbaldwin6236 If it's windy I use my storage boxes to make a windbreak around the cooker. It works well,

[@ewingfox6459]

Thank you for helping me refine my thinking about my projects. It's lovely that you take us along with your process, and keep us engaged with your excellent storytelling.

[@DavidMSA]

I personally would go with 1 induction cooking plate and 1 jetboil Flash Java kit for fast boiling water and coffee. So, if i'm low on electrical power and it is cloudy, I can eventually preheat some water to put it in the pan on my induction cooker. And thank God, you are not gonna start another cooking show. Best Regards, David

[@MrLoridin]

Exactly what I have done, single induction hob. Ditched all gas lines, and gas bottles. Use a Jetboil Flash and have butane All 4 Adventure cooker as a back up if needed. Light weight, works well and saves a lot of space. Funny how when we were all telling Andrew to look at Victron he wouldn't budge off Red Arc.

[@djjames6576]

The Jetboil is our Go To now. Very fast, simple and efficient.

[@IowaLR4]

@@MrLoridin how many amp hours do you have? what type of batteries?

[@jasondevine6014]

Best va explanation I have ever heard!

[@anthonymorris479]

Love listening to Heiner. I always come away feeling smarter.

[@Snook_]

So much for light weight Andrew. Jetboil + Webber Baby Q cannot be beaten for awesome BBQ cookups or oven style long cooking and fast water boiling/coffee/fast on the go freeze dried meals. I worry this car is already trending to another overbloated disaster like the last. Imagine being in the middle of nowhere with electronic failure and no basic way to cook when its wet, or simply having to run your car all the time just to charge because you get 3 days of rain and a 200w solar blanket can't put back in more than 30 to 50 amps a day in bad conditions. Keep it simple stupid. Gas cooking and showers always wins as a compromise/balance and saves you thousands to spend on other shit.

[@billbeam8069]

Very eye opening video, Andrew. Thank you

[@bartgugelot5788]

Love the content, thank you. I can’t help but be a little discouraged that we have moved from a simple 110amp deep cycle battery, solenoid and some 12v outlets, to easy 3000euro of electronics which take up a VW Polo boot size space in our vehicles. I have bought a Volvo C303 which I will turn into an overlander, but it’s small so I will go for a simple smaller system.

[@mountainconstructions]

As much as other Australian KZbin content creators have been using this system for 2 to 3 years now... Anyone that understands basic energy density principles knows it's a pretty shit idea... Ultimately so inefficient

[@boymeetsbush8232]

100% agree. In fact even solar panel is also waste of money unless you are camping in one place for 4 or more days. After 2 years I got rid of my solar panel because my 65 litre fridge will only consume 40 amp max in 3 days and the 30 amp dc2dc charger to 45 minutes to recharge, solar never contributed much on recharge. Saved 15kg weight by removing solar panel

[@royblackburn1163]

@@boymeetsbush8232 agreed, I do my best to park in the shade.

[@dirtlegdirtleg]

Project. Lightweight. ?

[@4xoverland]

Lightweight. Oh, that's done. Finished. It's as light as it can be. Now to add some comfort, while keeping weight in mind.

[@andrewcaune5293]

@@4xoverland is diesel powered induction no good because it can't be used outside? Looks ideal for cooking inside. Diesel heater, diesel cooker. No gas bottle, less batteries.

[@atb12312]

It's fantastic for practicality, I just enjoy cooking over the fire. Part of the experience

[@jonahwigley3313]

No more practical than a gas cooker though.

[@rossbriggs7083]

My new lightweight build...lol.

[@reddirtndiesel1]

Great content we have come to expect from you ! Full disclaimer I am the authorised dealer for Mitsalloy in Victoria, for my demo Hilux n70 I have the 50amp redarc Dc Dc under the bonnet with 2x batteries then the canopy which is removable 2x 100amp revolution lithium batteries with redarc red vision and manager 30 . I have 400 watts of solar mounted on my motop rooftent also a 190watt red arc blanket if required, but only very odd occasion ,I run my toaster, coffee machine ,Bose sound bar and aldi double induction plate off a 2000 watt redarc inverter...obviously the coffee machine was the most important one lolol keep up the Great work

[@SiCrewe]

Love the idea of induction cooking, itself, but the electrical system required is just huge overkill for me. I used to carry a Campingaz 907 to run a twin-hob cooker so I can see why people dislike the "faff" of gas cooking. These days I just use a cheap single-hob cooker that runs off the standard propane/butane cartridges and I also have a jetboil for, erm, boiling stuff. Basically, I get through 1 cartridge for each per week so I can just bung the required amount of cartridges (plus a couple of extras) in a drawer and I'm good to go. Main appeal of leccy cooking, for me, would be the convenience but a cartridge-powered single-hob gas cooker provides the same convenience for $20 and then the running coasts, for me, are around $30 per month of use so it'd take a looooooong time to justify installing the leccy system required for cooking.

[@Kankudai69]

This! A Campinggaz bivouac stove, or two. Pretty much as convenient. But weight, price, simplicity, volume. Altough we all know that Andrew likes his toys….. And the you add a Jackaroo or similar, and your all set….

[@JimsRobot]

My setup as well. Camping Gaz + jet boil. Works great

[@MrThuggery]

A cooking show would be hilarious!

[@michaelwigley8856]

The only down side of having one box controlling multiple things is if something goes wrong then you're hole system is down. That is why I build my system with individual components from victron so if my dc to dc goes down I have a separate solar charger and a separate shore power charger. O and there's always the Honda inverter generator if all else fails.

[@gustavomiller6645]

Interesting video. Personally i think is getting too complicated. Nothing wrong with a simple stove and gas canisters. Two cloudy/rainy days in a row and no more induction cooking. A 3000w inverter? Not being a purist but i think camping should also be simple and with some adventure. Anyway just an opinion, total respect for Andrew and it is great that he also generates the debate.

[@anthonyconway180]

Ahhhh I think the LIGHTWEIGHT project is going off the rails already. Remember what happened last time! I thought you said you were going to keep it simple 🤔

[@tbillington]

"lightweight simple build" I see that idea has gone out the window. 300ah of lithium, 3 grand worth of batteries, 2.5k for the inverter. I know you don't pay retail for this gear, but a 5kg gas bottle mounted on the spare tire would do all that lighter and simpler.

[@4xoverland]

If money is your priority (which it appears to be) then sure, I agree. Go gas. Little debate. But not everyone lives by trying not to spend money on things.

[@IowaLR4]

@@4xoverland I think you could shut up a lot of people by just saying that "lightweight" just means "not a huge camper" and leave it at that. I for one love learning from your projects. If you just stuck with standard simple solutions then it would be like 10,000 other youtube videos about overland electrical systems. I like seeing you push the limits. I love some of the victron stuff and the software/app is really nice to use, but I think they do favor a more complex system with more components. I'm working on an overhaul of my electrical system now also and have been learning closely watching what you are doing. Figuring out sizing (ah) seems like a very interesting topic. I am going from a dual AGM setup with a pretty pathetic AH and a traxide(non dcdc split charge from austrailia) to a redarc bcdc and a couple renogy 170AH lifepos. I went with renogy batteries because they fit (6.1" thick) and have BMS built in. Victron also has lifepo4 batts that fit, but the smart ones DONT have bms built in and you need a bunch of other modules to set those up. They do have bluetooth and neat features which probably attract a lot of people, but they need to understand they need other stuff for the system to work safely. (BMS and batteryprotect, etc). I look forward to seeing how it all works out for you.

[@TristanNicolas]

That beer explanation was the first thing I was told in a job that had to do with energy efficiency and electricity 😄

[@A.J.Lawson]

Jetboil job done!

[@futuresonex]

Would love to see a similar video on the feasibility of something like a microwave convection oven!

[@monikas1097]

Thank you! So helpful!

[@IndependenceOverland]

I’m sure you have your reasoning of course, but going with a power hungry system like this without fixed solar seems like a flaw from my perspective. If you cook breakfast first thing in the morning, and your battery is drained and you stop to shoot some video, take photos, or change a tire, you won’t want to get out a solar blanket every time or necessarily keep the engine running. It’s potential energy wasted and with this setup you’ll want as much as you can get so every time you wake up you don’t have to bother yourself with if you will be driving enough to recharge. With the size of the roof on the troop carriers, you could be gathering 10-15 amps at all times. Demanding 60 amps of DCDC charging most of your driving from your alternator is quite a workout for it. Its like hitting the rev limiter on your truck all day long and expecting it to give you its typical Toyota service life. I’m the lead technician for a fleet of Mack trucks, and I’ve seen 240amp alternators go up in smoke trying to keep up with old batteries, just because the are constantly just trying to keep up. Full time solar would reduce some of the effort from the mechanical side of things. And if your commander and chief decides she wants to spend a few days on the beach, you won’t have to idle all day to charge just to cook a meal. Cool build as always Andrew, curious to see what you come up with.

[@sohailsaleemkhan5058]

It's really good to see how you all the time do experiments and install new ideas in building an ultimate off-road vehicle. I get a lot of new ideas for building my own vehicle in future.

[@alan4401]

Finally ...... a practical example of power consumption v battery capacity, Many thanks

[@NigelNaughton]

For the 'average' person (overlanding or otherwise) this would be a very VERY expensive proposition for very VERY little return. Imagine the average person spending this amount of money, this amount of planning, having to have this amount of weight and space being occupied when you can just be enjoying the outdoors with a $40 Coleman stove and some green propane bottle. Oh how lazy and fat we have become and so far removed from the beginning idea of getting outside to enjoy nature.

[@jimyeats]

This is the way it always is. Doesnt matter what activity, sport, or hobby you are interested in; after a certain point it takes a significant amount of time and money for very little gain in usefulness/comfort/weight savings. Diminishing returns. Backpacking comes to mind. Spending 1-2k for a backpacking setup that saves you 1-2lbs in weight versus a $500-750 dollar setup that weighs 1-2lbs more. The reason is always the same, you’ve ‘mastered’ your activity and you want to be more comfortable, or make it more enjoyable, or be more efficient, exc. You’re point is understood though.

[@DANIEL-ls5ku]

I have been Car camping for a long time now and have switched to 100% Lithium battery system. Got rid of the clumsy kettle, I got small coffee machine if I want hot water I get it from there just exactly what I need no more no less. My Induction I bought from ALDI is more efficient than those expensive ones quick to heat and easy to clean, added bonus... I don't need to worry about the bloody wind cause I got rid of my gas stove! One time the LPG (gas) leaks inside my car on a heavy traffic, well I don't need to worry about that! Butane canisters, looking for gas refill a thing of the past! Lithium Batteries need no maintenance and you can use it 95% of the available Amp because it doesn't suffer from memory loss not to mention they're soo light you can put 3 in a small car no prob! I went for Renogy system since it's lighter, easier to setup and also I couldn't afford Victron plus their fuses are questionable. I drive a medium sized SUV, fridge, lights, audio system, chargers all run efficiently well. The problem I see from other people is that they have a lot of "expert opinions" but never really had experience with full lithium battery system, they still carry the old AGM, Lead Acid experience or LPG and try to apply it with the new system. You cannot change from bicycle to a motorcycle and winged because you don't see the pedals, for everything you have to change your approach to make it work. Small, Efficiency, Simplicity, is what I aim for and I got that exactly with my system.

[@richardweerasinghe3296]

What happened to the lightweight build? It can’t be worth all that extra weight and complexity just to run induction cooking.

[@heathbaldwin6236]

3, 100 lithium batteries is 22kg, plus 16kg inverter, about 40kg, to get equivalent in agm would be over 100kg in just batteries, lithium is the go, 300a sound like a lot but 2kw induction cooktop sucks the power.

[@taniaschiller9823]

Yeah… how about using some of those hot coals from the fire, just like in the good old days.

[@bobhudson6659]

Several things. Electricity is the poorest most inefficient way to generate heat - simple, relatively quick but most inefficient. 2nd point. I'd like to see the cabling that will cope with 150 continuous amps for 10 - 15 mins. 3rd point. Cooking is not the only use for the 12 volt storage batteries. A few days in one place in overcast conditions is to roll the dice. Sure there is vehicle alternator recharging option but at what fuel cost. It is a risk that Andrew may be willing to take. Overall it is convenience, but the same as others have said/intimated, at what price, weight and risk. Time will no doubt tell.

[@einfelder8262]

I agree on the cabling. The cost and weight of the copper not insignificant.

[@funvangroovn176]

I like the idea of pushing boundaries for more electric as it can be resupplied through solar or most likely the alternator while driving, thus extending overlanding range and simplifying logistics. In bad weather, induction is also nice (no combustion, smoke, condensation, safe to touch) for "in vehicle" use like in vans, truck campers, etc. As these systems improve (including the cookware options) thanks to ASPW and others, reliability, feasibility and capability will quickly progress. Practically a small gas or wood fire setup makes sense for complementing or backing up the induction solution.

[@andyk5473]

That's a lot of extra weight, space & cost for a single unit cooking source. Plus double the time to cook a meal. Compared to a dual burner gas stove.

[@1000adstar]

Great video. Here's another way of looking at it. Instead of planning large storage, plan large charging. With high current capabilities. I have the same car, with 1 x Lithium as start/Aux batt capable of delivering/charging at 400A. I charge at 140A from the alternator (100A at idle). No need to carry gas, Solar or large battery banks. All monitored including Alternator. Is a much better, cleaner, simpler solution that fully recharges by the time the engine is warmed up.

[@jorjimaco5331]

Victron rocks. You still need the smart shunt to monitor it, I think it’s better than the 712. Same same but different. The best thing you’ve done so far.

[@ML-ws6ce]

Victron and Votronic are very often used in European Camper Vans and I havn´t had any problems with them yet. So in my opinion a very good choice

[@iamrodos]

I am a fan of the induction cooking whilst touring. Your example is for the extreme, which is your need. That is, large meal for 3 people, and one that involved boiling a lot of water and then cooking the pasta which takes some time. So thats your worst case scenario. To cook some chicken for 1 or 2 people your power needs are significantly less. A 900w kettle uses ~5A/h of energy to make hot water for two peoples coffee. I survive off a 1000W inverter. Its plenty to cook most things and boil water in a pan. Might just take a bit longer. So my single 125A/h battery and the 1000W inverter do just fine with a small canister stove as backup and using the fire when atmosphere is required. There is a happy budget version as well as the massive setup. Most of use can get away with the single DC2DC with the integrated MPPT, you are at the high end when you have chosen 2xDC2DC + MPPT regulator + a AC charger + cutover switch. Of course, my caravan setup is much closer to your design.

[@kerrowmcgaw]

Stop over for more than one day with no travelling and cloudy conditions and you will not be able to recharge without a backup generator. Been there done that with fridges shutting down overnight. I now cook and heat water with gas and batteries are for fridges, lighting and entertainment. Thanks for a great channel.

[@KatyInNH]

Phenomenal explanation of the Victron - THANK YOU!

[@rjl110919581]

thank you share very the detailed video

[@peterkrygger6081]

Your idea of induction cooking is sensible and practical in today’s world. It is convenient and quick and great in poor weather such as winds. However I am not sure if your battery usage test is replicated in real life. I have a REDARC system with a 200Ah lithium and 2000W inverter. I can cook a night meal and breakfast, reducing the induction wattage when the pots are hot, and typically use about 25% battery per day. With my 120W solar panel and average daily driving my battery is topped up easily. I just returned from 6 weeks of touring and never saw my battery get lower than 50%.

[@rududuplessis2907]

Andrew. I am so glad you saw the light. We fit Victron daily with great success. Enjoy it

[@Dennis-mq6or]

You can get a huge increase in the efficiency of your induction cooker by simply keeping it out of the wind! The induction heater is trying to heat only the pot, while the pot itself is the biggest heat loss item with all that wind blowing around it!

[@tituspullo9210]

Nice video, clearly explained. My personal view is that it is a step too far. The spirit of overlanding gets lost.

[@oaitsemoremi5657]

For some reason I always feel that I personally know ASPW and the guys he features in the channel now and then. I laugh and smile as if I'm with yall out there 😂😂👌

[@Sawadventures67]

I think you have made the right decision going with Victron system , a mate of mine has just put in virtually the same system you are putting in your vehicle, it is amazing looking forward to how it all turns out cheers

[@haanjamiis]

The truth is that batteries are really ineffective at storing energy compared to gas/diesel/petrol. Energy density of fuel is so much mure.

[@CB-cu3fx]

Mr Overlander. You are always conscious of weight and efficiency. I do not know how you justify the weight of the electric system (including batteries) compared with propane. You lost me here.

[@mrpipps90]

He's going to have a battery system even without induction. The good cookers aren't light but he's probably going to go consumer grade and those aren't heavy. The battery power is multi use as well.

[@mnmvuk]

@@mrpipps90 But he's substantially increasing his battery system to accommodate the huge wattage draw of the induction cooktop. Keep in mind, the gentlemen in the video mentioned he can't even run the cooktop at high power as his system in the camper can't handle the power consumption.

[@thewiredfox2691]

@@mnmvuk - but he is already saving weight compared to lead-acid batteries, which he has used over the years, and many people still use. He may be factoring in a bit of that.

[@mnmvuk]

@@thewiredfox2691 Not necessarily. Even without contemplating the induction cooking system, he would have gone with lithium batteries on a new build. Now he has to add MORE lithium batteries AND a much larger inverter PLUS more solar panels to recharge. So while yes, lithium batteries are lighter than lead-acid, his net net weight will dramatically go up. No way around it..... Hey it's Andrew's vehicle, his money. He can do with it as he wants. Just no goal of simplicity and light weight anymore. Can he "experiment" to see how it works out? Sure but the end result will be a heavier, more (much more) complicated set up. Again....no way around it.

[@IowaLR4]

@@mnmvuk ya, regarding complexity.. I love the Victron stuff, but they favor complexity. You can do more with their products, but you need like 5x as many modules, wires, etc to do it. I think a lot of people see the smart batteries victron offers with bluetooth and think they are great, but you don't get a built in BMS with that so you need that module and also smartprotect modules and all sorts of crap.

[@northcountry32]

Good detail in the explanations Andrew. I think a lay person as well as a seasoned professional will benefit from this video. Cheers from Canada!

[@lbbde1]

This is SO informative and interesting. Really cool :)

[@jona3117]

Excellent!! As usual. Comprehensive, detailed and enjoyable.

[@spudboy1328]

Have you used a JetBoil? Cup of tea in less than 2 minutes. Weighs less than half a Kg. One hour of burning uses 100g of fuel. Nothing better for hot water in a hurry. You can even get a large pan attachment to cook pasta/potatos. Costs $160 or $170.

[@gsylass]

FMS are probably a bit better than Jet boil (and cheaper). MSR windburner / reactor system if you want to spend lots of money...

[@danielgjb]

For normal cooking where you are simmering or grilling meat where you are not heating large amounts of liquid for boiling noodles the induction works great. If you want to cook large quantities of noodles where you are heating up large volumes of water for boiling that takes allot of energy. But if you also included and instant pot to your appliances this would handle the noodles and use less water and energy.

[@180jp4]

Good luck with it Andrew. Curious to see how much this thing weighs when it’s done.

[@travelling_two]

Its worth checking out the new DCS LiFePO4 batteries - they connect straight the alternator for direct charging at ~100A and they have a built in MPPT. No more BCDC or other intermediary gear and they are rated for under bonnet installation

[@dariosusic217]

My first post here... I'm following Andrew for almost a year now and all I can say is What an inspiration !!!! 262.000 subscribers, and Andrew make us all be better people! Now, I can see many negative comments about things, but don't forget: 1. Lightweight don't always mean cheap or less stuff 2. Andrew said it in the beginning of the video: it's an EXPERIMENT 3. Free stuff... who doesn't like to get stuff for free?... and try them! If you like them, if they fits, then use them, if you don't like them then give them away. 4. Don't forget... be inspired by Andrew and combine your setup with what you want and need... go out in the wild and drive safely 👍🙏

[@wolfvonkehler6662]

I think that further savings could be made by using a pressure cooker. Using one at home on a cheap Ikea induction plate gives good control and shortened cooking times. Maybe this is something you could look at to maximise the resource you have. This may add to cost but I guess that either way, compromises need to be made if you're trying to improve / maximise efficiency. But then it's not a cooking show but I love my gadgets in the kitchen! Love your work please keep it up.

[@thewhiteoxoverland]

I too have considered going down this path. I think the reason it is starting to make sense is really because of lifepo4 batteries and their ability to deliver huge currents, be deeply discharged, and quickly recharged (compared to AGM) and also being considerably lighter. But with the need for two or three lifepo4 batteries the cost is high, you would need a large inverter and it's electrically speaking not a very efficient way of cooking. It basically limits how long you can stay in one location unless you have a massive amount of solar, and if anything goes wrong with your inverter you are stuffed. Despite its many drawbacks, gas still makes more sense for an overlander like myself.

[@TreDeuce-qw3kv]

Informative, but a listing of all the equipment featured would be nice as some of us have difficulty understanding verbally expressed English English and the vid frames pass too quickly to catch the names on the boxes or equipment. I'm building a RV trailer/Caravan for extended boondocking and plan on a 400+watt system so this series is of interest.

[@kissane1980]

Thank you Andrew, you really are a joy to watch

[@kisbushcraftdownunder]

I think you are over complicating it a kilogram of LPG has depending on the propane mix about 14 kWH /47300 BTU/h of energy and its cheap and readily available, The engine powers the alternator so it will consume fuel to recharge the battery bank the factory one might not be up to task and all that weight for a bit of convenience

[@mud-dust]

Super interesting. 👍 I would only argue that induction cooking is great but comes at a cost, which is weight. I'm a big fan of campfire and rely on two simple and ultra light Single Burner Butane Canister Stove for those few nights I cannot have a campfire. I know we all have a few items that are heavy but we just want them. Maybe induction cooking is really important to you. Maybe. But without induction cooking, a 200 Ah lithium battery and an 800 w inverter would have been probably enough. Saving how many kg? 30 kg? 40 kg? That's a lot in my opinion.

[@frankcurulli1244]

Your decision on solar blankets means you can only recharge the batteries when driving, on the alternator, or, by solar blanket when stationary. This will not provide sufficient charge for induction cooking of dinner and breakfast with no charging occurring overnight! You'll be chasing Amps during the day. Gas is still the best value in weight and efficiency. A coffee machine is a nice 230V treat for the morning! Thanks.

[@nnoddy8161]

Perhaps he plans on bringing a generator to charge the batteries when he stays 2-3 nights in the one place. The whole concept is a folly. Cost, complexity and weight.

[@erroneouscode]

Here's a solution to modern power demands with such AC appliances being used remotely. The old suitcase style trifold solar panels (hinges and latches etc) need to be scaled up in size so 3 x say 400w house panels can be fitted on a roof rack in the footprint of one panel. When they're all closed up while you're driving and only one panel is exposed you could wire and use a Victron 75/15 for that single panel, and the other two panels could be wired in series to another solar controller that's only in use once parked and unfolded. That's 1200w of solar and still under the typical 80Kg weight limit of roof racks. Bonus is it would also provide some shade.

[@LesSharp]

You should bring Heiner on full-time to do sound effects. He's a natural.

[@PowhiroMus]

I am doing the same thing. Solar, big battery and inverter for coffee machine, induction cooker, lights, power tool charging and I'm going to try hot water heating too. I just like electricity and if you have a 2nd battery, big is best and if it isn't, another will do. The sun is always shining plus I have the portable gas and fire options too.

[@louiskudlak2241]

Very informative buddy

[@TheOzTurkish]

You could get some honking 36v house solar panels on hinges on the roof plugged into that mppt charger for some serious solar power delivery

[@pauladams4890]

If you build a setup identical to mine...you’ll be amazed how good it is! 1x 200ah voltax purple label 2x 330w mono panels, 1 on top of clam shell tent & one which slides out over the bonnet under roof rack. Enerdrive en3dc40+ set to 50A Appropriately sized cable (VERY IMPORTANT) 2000w inverter I can run: 1500w coffee machine 1500w induction cooker 1000w air fryer Toaster Kettle Travel buddy Obviously I only use a max of 2000w at any time. I can cook breakfast & it’ll charge by lunch time, then cook lunch & it’ll charge by dinner time...from solar only.

[@philg2468]

Not sold on the Victron Multiplus - how would a heavy device with a big Toroidal go on endless corrugations on the Canning/Gunbarrel/Anne Beadell Hwy? And when would you be able to use it's charger functions without carrying a generator and fuel?

[@einfelder8262]

The Victron is unlikely to fall apart, but this will be a test scenario for Victron, which is why they gave it to him. A 4Kva diesel generator is not too heavy, can install alongside the Victron, haha.

[@brucelarcombe4679]

Watts = VA for resistive loads (kettle, toaster, heater, iron). Watts = ~0.9*xVA for inductive loads. * power factor - the V x A doesn’t happen at the same time, so less Watts per Amp (voltage barely changes). The age old beer/head analogy represents power factor, not inverter efficiency and this error is the mark of an excellent auto sparky (the power factor for dc is always 1). 🤘

[@perrypaterson6717]

What happened to the concept of a "light weight" tourer Andrew? All i see now is a truck being filled with expensive uncessary freebies from a sponsor...

[@nnoddy8161]

Bang on. It is becoming a joke.

[@josevaldizan3062]

I really enjoyed this episode so much! The feel you give to the channel with your expressions and the good informative content make it unique! Thanks for making this!

[@GroovyVideo2]

switched to IR Led Stove top and E tea kettle a month ago after using propane for 6 years - cook top draws 834 watts its On /Off type temp controller - going to try a Induction top next - Tech is Great

[@nicknick7052]

GVM upgrade, no doubts!

[@4xoverland]

Never going to happen.

[@nicknick7052]

Electricity...water.....will see!

[@nnoddy8161]

Not unless someone throws him one for free. Sense of dejavu with the 'Dream Tourer' fiasco.

[@ap6553]

Literally LOLd on the Lady and the Tramp spaghetti eating reenactment! haha

[@johnflynn556]

I am looking forward to the subsequent 12V build episodes. Heiner's crew did the 12V system in my LC200 (including the Egon) and I am now saving my pennies to swap out the cheap Projecta and lead acid set-up to Lithium in my camper. My thoughts was a Manager 30 but it will be interesting to see the Victron option. In regards to the basic Victron monitor shunt, it works very well in the 200 set-up.

[@daveybernard1056]

I personally don't envision getting involved in induction cooking, based on the sky high electrical usage. Looks like it will remain propane cooking for me. I'll be reserving any modest electrical capacity for LED lighting, ventilation fans and device charging (phones, laptops, GPS, headlamps). This was good to see, though.

[@williamadams9110]

Good video thanks. Very relevant to boating as well as camping.

[@shekharmoona544]

Andrew you are my hero.

[@shekharmoona544]

Volta power systems are a great electrical system. People run air conditioning, microwaves,hair driers etc. People use them in camper Vans a single batteryay be worthwhile. I believe three batteries can run a rooftop AC for 6-8 hours.