Why Pair a Fogstar Lithium Battery with a Victron DC-DC Charger?

15 May

When it comes to campervan electrics, getting your battery and charging setup right is crucial. At Northview Customs, we’ve installed a range of systems over the years – and one combo we’ve been really impressed with is the Fogstar lithium leisure battery paired with a Victron Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger.

Here’s why this setup is a winner for modern van conversions.

What is a Fogstar Lithium Battery?

Fogstar is quickly becoming one of the leading names in the UK for lithium leisure batteries. Known for their high-quality build, smart BMS (Battery Management System), and impressive lifespan, Fogstar lithium batteries offer:

Lightweight design – around 50% lighter than traditional AGM or lead-acid batteries.
Long cycle life – often rated up to 3,000–5,000 cycles.
Fast charging – works beautifully with high-output chargers like Victron units.
Built-in Bluetooth – check your battery health from your phone.

They’re ideal for anyone who wants to future-proof their van or go fully off-grid with confidence.

Why Do You Need a DC-DC Charger?

Modern vans (especially Euro 6 and newer) often come with smart alternators, which don't consistently charge your leisure battery like older vans used to. That’s where the Victron Orion-Tr Smart DC-DC charger comes in.

This charger sits between your starter battery and your leisure battery, regulating and optimising the charge so your lithium setup gets the power it needs safely and efficiently.

Why the Victron Orion-Tr Smart?

The Victron DC-DC charger is the ideal match for a Fogstar lithium battery because:

✅ Lithium charge profile – Designed with lithium in mind, so you get the right voltage and safe charging every time.
✅ Bluetooth built-in – Configure and monitor your system from your phone or tablet using the VictronConnect app.
✅ Compact and robust – Easy to install in tight camper builds.
✅ Automatic switching – Charges your battery only when the engine is running, protecting your starter battery.

Real-World Benefits in a Van Conversion

Pairing a Fogstar lithium battery with a Victron DC-DC charger gives you:

⚡ Faster charge times – Even on short drives, you're replenishing your power effectively.
🔋 More usable power – Lithium batteries can be discharged deeper, so you get more energy from the same capacity.
🧠 Smart control – Know exactly what’s going on with your system through Bluetooth monitoring.
🌍 Off-grid confidence – Whether you’re parked at a campsite or wild camping in the Highlands, this setup delivers.

Northview Customs Can Supply & Install

At Northview Customs, we install both Fogstar batteries and Victron charging systems – professionally and to spec. Whether you're upgrading your existing system or starting from scratch, we can build you a reliable, future-ready electrical setup that works as hard as you do.