Can the LiTime Xtra-Mini be mounted on its side in a van?
Short answer: Yes. LiTime says the 12V 100Ah Xtra-Mini can be installed front, side or bottom down, which is unusual for a lithium battery and is the reason to choose it for a van. It is a Group 22NF-size case of 9.02 x 5.43 x 8.19 in at 19.13 lb.
LiTime allows three orientations
Most lithium batteries come with orientation warnings. LiTime's own notes on its 200Ah and 230Ah, for example, say not to stand them on the top or front side, and the Group 27 not on the top or back. The Xtra-Mini is different: LiTime describes multi-directional mounting, front, side or bottom, "to fit any setup".
Why it suits a van
| Spec (LiTime) | Xtra-Mini |
|---|---|
| Case | Group 22NF |
| Size | 9.02 x 5.43 x 8.19 in |
| Weight | 19.13 lb |
| Energy | 1,280Wh |
| Output | 100A continuous, 300A for 5 s, 500A for 1 s |
| Charging | 1C, full in about an hour with a large enough charger |
| Cycle rating | 4,000 at 100% DOD, 6,000 at 80%, 15,000 at 60% |
It has Bluetooth, a low-temperature charge cut-off and automatic recovery from overload after 30 seconds.
What a van build needs with it
- Charging from the engine. The LiTime 40A DC-DC charger (selectable 20A or 40A) charges it while you drive.
- Fusing. A fuse close to the positive terminal sized to the cable; a MIDI fuse holder suits the smaller circuits.
- Two batteries? Two Xtra-Minis in parallel give 200Ah in a shape that fits under a seat. Use two identical batteries.
If you want the whole set in one cart, the LiTime 100Ah Van and Truck Camper Power Kit pairs the Xtra-Mini with the 40A DC-DC charger, 200W of Renogy solar, a Victron MPPT and an 800VA inverter.
What you need
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