Updated: 2025
The easiest way to think about the power setup in your van is like a bucket of water. Your battery is the bucket. The more water in your bucket, the more capacity you have to run electrical devices in your van. The bigger your bucket, the more water you can put in it. In our case, you fill the bucket through solar panels and a smart isolator; you empty the bucket by running electrical accessories in your van.
The Bucket Analogy
The easiest way to think about the power setup in your van is like a bucket of water. Your battery is the bucket. The more water in your bucket, the more capacity you have to run electrical devices. You fill the bucket through solar panels and a smart isolator; you empty it by running lights, the fridge, charging devices, or using an induction cooktop. A healthy system means your bucket stays topped up.
- Bucket = Battery
- Water = Charge
What fills the bucket?
Your solar panels, your DC-DC charger (connected to your van’s alternator while driving) and shore power.
What empties the bucket?
Using power to light the van, run the fridge, charge your phone, or cook a meal.
Understanding Power Needs: Amps = Watts / Volts
This simple equation helps you calculate both your power consumption and how much power you can generate or store.
DM Vans 2025 Power Packages
Essential Power Package (Standard in All 2025 Models)
- x2 – 100Ah Lithium Batteries
- x1 – 175 Watt Solar Panel
Power Boost Package (Optional Upgrade)
- x3 – 100Ah Lithium Batteries
- x2 – 175 Watt Solar Panels
Power Boost+ Package (Premium Upgrade)
- x4 – 100Ah Lithium Batteries
- x2 – 175 Watt Solar Panels
All 2025 Lifestyle Vehicles also come with a DC-DC charger and shore power as standard.
Solar: The Sunshine Bonus
Solar is a great way to passively top off your system, but it shouldn’t be your primary source of power. For example:
- A single 175W panel delivers ~14.5 amps/hr at 100% efficiency.
- Real-world conditions = ~65% efficiency
- So, expect closer to ~9.5 amps/hr
In winter with 4 hours of sun: ~38 amps per day
In summer with 6 hours of sun: ~57 amps per day
Takeaway: Solar is best for topping off your batteries, especially when paired with consistent driving and smart isolator charging.
Battery Basics: Why Lithium is a Game-Changer
DM Vans exclusively uses lithium batteries in all 2025 LVs—because they’re lighter, longer-lasting, and more efficient.
- AGM: 200Ah battery = 100Ah usable, weighs 125 lbs
- Lithium: 100Ah = 100Ah usable, weighs ~25 lbs
Lithium also recharges faster, doesn’t suffer memory loss, and can safely discharge down to 20%.
Know Your Draw: What Uses the Most Power?
- 12V Accessories: Easy to estimate
- 5 amp draw = 20 hours from 100Ah battery
- 10 amp draw = 10 hours from 100Ah battery
- 120V Accessories (like induction cooktops):
- 1500W / 12V = 125 amps
- This would drain a 100Ah battery in under 1 hour
Conclusion: Household appliances require lots of juice. Use them sparingly unless you have Power Boost or Power Boost+.
Why the DC-DC Charger Matters
Your van’s alternator can charge your house batteries quickly when driving. This is the most reliable source of power:
- 50 amps per hour of driving
- Charges batteries quickly and efficiently
At DM Vans, DC-DC Chargers come standard on all 2025 LVs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re living or traveling full time in your DM Van, power management is key. The 2025 Essential Power Package gives most travelers all they need for short trips or minimalist adventures. For extended travel or full-time van life, we highly recommend upgrading to Power Boost or Power Boost+.
By understanding your power needs and charging habits, you can feel confident that your Lifestyle Vehicle is built to support your adventure—wherever the road takes you.
Still not sure which power setup is right for you? Try our Van Builder Tool or speak to a Van Sales Consultant today!