Camper Basic+ Electrics 12v 1.6kVA compatible with alternative batteries like Fogstar & Roamer

Already purchased or about to purchase an alternate battery such as Fogstar or Roamer lithium Battery? Then let us help you with the rest!

Camper Basic+ Electrics 12v 1.6kVA for use with alternative batteries like Fogstar and Roamer Lithium batteries – Support included by Energy Monkey.

Have you already purchased your lithium battery and are now searching through the internet trying to work out what are the best Victron Energy products you will need to go with your new lithium battery in your camper van system.

We hear a few alternative battery names more commonly than most, which are Roamer batteries and Fogstar batteries. Both UK based companies offer a range of “drop in lithium batteries” for 12v and 24v campervan electrical systems at low prices. These are extremely popular lithium batteries for diy campervan electrical kits.

About Fogstar Batteries

Fogstar lithium batteries offer a few different models like the Fogstar Drift Eco in 12v 100ah / 314ah and 628ah sizes. Fogstar Drift available in 12v 105Ah, 230Ah, 280Ah, 300Ah, 460Ah, 608ah and 628Ah sizes as well as a 24v 208Ah model. Fogstar Drift Pro is their premium Lithium battery offering with a few extra features – like CAN bus port allowing you to connect the battery to a Victron GX device. Fogstar batteries are not on the official battery compatibility list from Victron but Victron allows 3rd party manufacturers to integrate their products with the Victron CANbus protocol – but they state very clearly this means the 3rd party manufacturer must handle their products’ own support. The fogstar Drift Pro is available in 12v 230Ah, 280Ah, 300Ah, 460Ah, 560Ah 628Ah and even a 24v 280Ah version.

About Roamer Batteries

Roamer Batteries are a super nice UK brand that has been around for a while and still going strong! Whilst we have seen many drop in lithium battery brands come and go Roamer batteries have continued to improve and evolve the ever popular Roamer lithium battery products!. Leading with lithium battery products in many areas like seat based batteries for vehicles that space is at a premium like VW T5, VW T6, VW T6.1, VW Crafter and Mercedes Sprinter’s.

Roamer offer two main spec’s their “Roamer Smart Series” batteries now 4th generation in 12v 105Ah, 160Ah, 230Ah, 320Ah, 460Ah with the 12v 230Ah seat base version and a Roamer 24v 230Ah battery. The Roamer Extreme lithium battery range is offering low than standard charging capabilities for campervans that want to go to colder climates without the need for internal heating mats – but using a special cylindrical cell that can cope with lower temperatures for charging at minus 30.

Roamer batteries with Victron GX devices! Roamer have used the CAN bus protocol from Victron to integrate as a 3rd party product and have lots of documents and videos supporting this so this product can run without a smart shunt saving money on the installation. Although we have not actually seen their integration with the Victron protocol in action we have looked through their videos and can see that they have actually worked really hard to do this to a high level – We have seen many companies that claim to “work with Victron” but do the very basics when it comes to the protocol! 

What is the difference between Victron’s Smart LiFePO4 and Fogstar or Roamer?

On first comparison all everybody sees is the difference in cost between Victron’s Smart LiFePo4 and Fogstar or Roamer.  So is cheaper really better and is it fair to say these are all the same but Victron is more expensive? Well actually no! There are many types of lithium cells and it is very common for customers to assume that “lithium is lithium” but really there are many types of lithium battery cells like Lithium-ion Which is actually Polymer cell like what is used in mobile phones! cheaper , high energy density but not that stable! Then there is Lithium NCM (Nickle Cobalt Manganese) these are used in vehicles – high rate of discharge! But cobalt miners rarely see past 30years old and not that stable! LiFePo4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate) The safest type of Lithium battery good energy density and popular with ESS or home energy storage systems – least likely to become unstable!

Now thats not it! There are also different types of cells – cylindrical (like AA batteries) Prismatic (rigid casing usually plastic – allows for easy building into packs). Aluminium Cells – typically higher rated cells – higher spec! You also see different grades of cells ie A and B or second life, so cells that have already cycled down to 80% have been repacked use a BMS to adjust the voltage the cells are able to charge too – which is lower now as they have lost capacity and now cant reach the original charge voltage! Now the thing is you can use any of these options in combinations that will compromise life cycle longevity and safety – to reduce the cost of the product and appear like an absolute bargain – but really you could be spending money on something that could be really problematic! – always read the install manual, the warranty document – you will be surprised on some of the things in these that basically tell you the warranty is only valid if X,Y,Z – but you were sold on “10 years Warranty” “Low cost” “Popular” – Then it will be fine right? Check out the certificates for the products and see what the certificate shows i.e Lithium Ion or LifePo4 these are two different things and commonly described in a way that will make the user think it is the same thing! Warranty Warranty Warranty! – saving money is great but getting your expensive purchase replaced under warranty without hassle is what you expect even if you have purchased a battery at a lower price – bargain but still a lot of money! Well most of the battery companies that pop up vanish very quickly – Roamer and Fogstar have been around and appear to want to stay! Key to this is warranties and support so they must be doing this to a good standard.

Most companies don’t think about the cost including warranties and failures so get to a point and can’t cope any longer! Victron is more expensive but they are using higher rated cells (read the data sheet) and the warranty is part of the cost – 2-3% of all products will be failures and replaced! So they almost automate this process via the dealers! They have a few simple rules and quickly send replacement or credit notes to dealers (in UK) for new products – even if one fails as part of a pair no longer sold, we have been given 2 new batteries for the customer quickly and without the customer having to stamp their feet! In 6 years our warranties % is around 1% of everything we sell so Victron very rarely refuse and in most cases a solution is handled in days. 

Simple things

• If your whole system is from one manufacturer then they are the only people when warranties arise!
• If you have a.n other battery with a.n other inverter they will blame each other’s technology and you go round and round!
• Cheap products worked hard will have a short life!
• High spec products worked half as hard as they are rated for will last way longer!
• Promise of 10 years warranty on cheap products is not realistic –  read the warranty documents
• Lithium is not all the same! So if it is cheap there will be a reason – if you don’t know what you are looking at then walk away!
• Victron have been supplying for 50 years and if you’re not sure, speak to multiple suppliers until your happy.

Unleash the full potential of your campervan or motorhome with this Victron electrical kit, meticulously assembled by Energy Monkey. This isn’t just a collection of parts; it’s a complete, expertly curated power solution designed to provide reliable, efficient, and expandable 12V and 230V power for all your on-grid and off-grid adventures. Built with top-of-the-line Victron Energy components, this kit ensures you can run your appliances, lights, devices, and more with confidence, no matter where your travels take you.

Experience the Energy Monkey Difference

At Energy Monkey, we’re not just selling products; we’re empowering adventures. We specialise in Victron Energy systems and provide unparalleled technical support. With over a decade of experience designing and supporting Victron systems, our team is here to guide you through every step, from installation to troubleshooting. We’re just a phone call or email away, ready to assist you for up to a year after commissioning.

We trust Victron Energy for their superior quality, innovation, and durability. With over 50 years of experience, Victron has established itself as a global leader in energy solutions, providing a 5-year warranty on most components for peace of mind.

Key Components of this Kit include

• MultiPlus 12/1600/70-16 230V VE.Bus – The powerhouse of your electrical system. This versatile unit provides 1600VA of continuous power, converting 12V DC to 230V AC to run your appliances. It also functions as a sophisticated battery charger, keeping your batteries topped up when connected to shore power.
• MK3-USB Interface – Enables easy configuration and monitoring of the MultiPlus-II via a PC.
• SmartShunt 300A – Gain complete insight into your battery’s performance. This Bluetooth-enabled monitor provides real-time data on voltage, current, state of charge, and more, allowing you to optimize your power usage and prevent unexpected drain.
• Smart BatteryProtect 12/24V-65A – Safeguard your valuable batteries from over-discharge. This intelligent device automatically disconnects non-essential loads when the battery voltage drops too low, preventing damage and extending battery lifespan.
• Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30A (360W) Non-isolated DC-DC charger – Charge your leisure batteries efficiently while driving. This smart DC-DC charger optimises charging based on battery type and condition, ensuring a safe and complete charge from your vehicle’s alternator.
• 6-Way Blade Fuse Box – Provides safe and organized fusing for your 12V circuits.
• 6-Way Mega Fuse Holder – Provides high-current protection for critical circuits.
• 4 Way Busbar 250A – Provides a centralized connection point for high-current wiring.
• Victron Switch – Provides a convenient way to switch your system on and off.
• Cabling and Fuses – This kit includes all necessary cabling and fuses, providing you with a complete DC power system for easy installation and reliable operation.

Complete Package

This kit includes a comprehensive wiring diagram, simplifying installation and ensuring proper connections. Plus, benefit from an annual support package, providing peace of mind and expert assistance whenever you need it.

Why Choose This Kit from Energy Monkey?

• Premium Victron Components – Enjoy the unmatched quality and reliability of Victron Energy products.
• Complete and Customisable – This kit provides a solid foundation, easily expandable with solar panels or other components.
• Expert Support – Benefit from Energy Monkey’s extensive experience and dedicated technical support.
• Easy Installation – Clear wiring diagram and expert guidance make setup straightforward.
• Peace of Mind – Travel with confidence knowing your electrical system is professionally designed and supported.

Can I install this myself?

Purchasing from Energy Monkey means more than just buying a kit – it means accessing expert knowledge and support. We specialise in Victron Energy systems, ensuring your kit is configured for reliability and ease of use.

Technical Support Included

With over a decade of experience designing and supporting Victron systems, we offer comprehensive post-purchase support. Our expert team is available via phone and email to assist with setup, system configuration, and troubleshooting for up to a year after commissioning.

Wiring Diagram Included

Every kit comes with a detailed wiring diagram, offering step-by-step guidance to help you assemble and connect your system safely and effectively.

VictronConnect

VictronConnect is an essential tool for configuring, monitoring, and managing Victron Energy products with ease.  It allows you to connect to your smart devices when within a 2 metre range. Available as a mobile and desktop app, it provides a user-friendly interface to access real-time data, update firmware, and adjust settings on your devices via Bluetooth, USB, or VE.Direct connections.  VictronConnect simplifies system management, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort. The app also features live data readouts and historical insights, allowing you to track performance and diagnose issues instantly. With its intuitive design and seamless connectivity, VictronConnect enhances the efficiency and convenience of managing your energy system.

Optional Solar Add-On Kits

Want to go fully off-grid? We offer optional solar add-on kits, perfectly compatible with the Camper Basic+ Electrics 12v 1.6kVA Kit, giving you extended power for longer adventures.

Get ready for Off-Grid adventures!

The Camper Basic+ Electrics 12v 1.6kVA Kit is the ideal power system for campervan, motorhome and overland truck enthusiasts looking for a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use off-grid energy solution.

Built with trusted Victron Energy components, this kit comes with a 5-year warranty and the expert support of Energy Monkey, ensuring peace of mind wherever your journey takes you.

Need a customised solution? Give us a call on +44 (0) 1452 699300, and our team will be happy to assist you in finding the perfect setup.

Order today and power your adventures with Energy Monkey!

Need this installed? We have a network of approved installers across the UK who can professionally fit your system. Contact us today for more information and to find a trusted installer near you!