48V Power Systems · Motorhome & Caravan
48V Power for Your Motorhome or Caravan
48V is fast becoming the standard for serious off-grid motorhomes and caravans — the efficient way to run air-conditioning, induction cooking and big inverters without straining the system. We design and install 48V systems, and 48V/12V hybrids for existing vans, at our Christchurch workshop.
The Shift
Why Motorhomes Are Moving to 48V
For decades, 12V ran everything in an RV. But the way we travel has changed — induction cooktops, air-conditioning, coffee machines and big inverters draw far more power than a 12V system was ever built for. Push that much through 12V and you get heavy cabling, wasted heat, and a system working at its limit.
That's why the industry is moving to 48V for premium off-grid builds. Major caravan makers now offer factory-fitted 48V lithium systems, and it's increasingly the architecture of choice for motorhomes with residential-style appliances. The reason is simple physics: at the same power, 48V carries about a quarter of the current of 12V — so everything downstream runs cooler, lighter and more efficiently.
Built for Big Appliances
48V comfortably runs the high-demand gear that defines a modern rig — air-conditioning, induction cooking, microwaves and 3000W+ inverters — for longer, without stressing the system.
Efficient & Lighter
A quarter of the current means thinner cabling, far less wasted heat, and higher inverter efficiency — so more of the power your batteries and solar make actually reaches your appliances.
What It Powers
Live Like You're Plugged In
A well-designed 48V system brings home comforts to the most remote spots — no hook-up, no generator.
Air-Conditioning
Run your air-con off-grid for real stretches, not just a few minutes — a genuine comfort upgrade in an NZ summer.
Induction Cooking
Cook with induction — fast, clean and gas-free — the appliance that pushed the whole industry toward 48V.
Coffee, Kettle & Toaster
The everyday high-draw appliances that trip smaller systems run comfortably on a properly sized 48V setup.
Big Inverters & More Solar
48V suits large inverter/chargers and bigger solar arrays — the foundation for a truly self-sufficient rig.
An Honest Take
Is 48V Right for Your Rig?
48V is superb for the right build — but it isn't for everyone, and we'll tell you straight if 12V or 24V would serve you better.
48V suits you if…
- You run air-con, induction or other high-demand appliances
- You want long, comfortable off-grid stays
- You have (or want) a large solar array and big inverter
- You're building or upgrading a larger motorhome or full-time rig
12V or 24V may suit you better if…
- Your needs are modest — fridge, lights, charging, a little TV
- You have a smaller camper or van conversion
- You want the simplest, most cost-effective setup
- You rarely run big 230V appliances off-grid
The right voltage is a design decision, not just "bigger is better." We size it to how you actually
travel — and if you're weighing it up, our guide to 48V power systems
and 12V vs 24V vs 48V comparison are worth a read.
Upgrading an Existing Van
Add 48V Without Ripping It Out
Love your current van but want that next-generation capability? You usually don't need to start over. The smart approach is a 48V/12V hybrid: we add a 48V battery bank to do the heavy lifting — storing solar and charge, and feeding a big inverter — while your existing 12V lights, pump and fridge keep running exactly as they always did.
- Keep your 12V system — lights, pump and fridge stay untouched.
- Add 48V capability — for induction, air-con and a large inverter.
- One designed system — battery, converter, inverter and charging matched properly.
- Charge from everywhere — solar, alternator (via DC-DC) and mains.
Why It Has to Be Done Right
A 48V System Is Engineered, Not Bolted On
48V is powerful, and it demands proper engineering. The solar side can reach voltages high enough to be genuinely dangerous, and every 12V appliance in the van needs correct conversion. This is not a DIY weekend job — battery sizing, converter capacity, inverter, cabling, fusing and protection all have to be matched and installed to standard.
That's exactly what we do: design the whole system around your rig, install it to AS/NZS standards, and hand it over set up and explained. Done well, a 48V system is seamless. Done poorly, it's dangerous — so it's worth doing once, properly.
Whether factory-fitted or upgraded, incorrect 48V installation carries real safety and warranty
implications — always have it designed and installed by a qualified professional. Product
specifications and availability change; we'll confirm the right components for your build when you enquire.
Ready to Power Your Rig Properly?
Tell us about your motorhome or caravan, what you'd like to run, and how you travel. We'll design and install the right 48V system — new build or hybrid upgrade — honest advice, no obligation.
Book a Consultation