Webasto offers thermo
systems for all vehicles

At the Caravan Salon exhibition from August 26 to September 3, 2023, the heating and cooling specialist will be showcasing its latest concepts for caravans, motorhomes and camper vans with both conventional and electric drivetrains.

Gilching – June 29, 2023 – Two new Webasto rooftop air conditioners with variable compressors will be on display in Düsseldorf for the first time. Moreover, the thermo systems expert will also exhibit an efficient overall solution for touring EVs as well as a fuel-powered retrofit solution for extending the range of electrically powered camper vans.

The Cool Top Trail 28V and Cool Top Trail 36V roof-top air conditioners supplement the product range, making a total of seven units for different vehicle sizes and travel destinations. The compact units deliver a cooling output of 2.8 and 3.6 kilowatts (kW) respectively and are also capable of heating. They are designed for use at outside temperatures of between -5 and +50 degrees Celsius. Fitted with a new variable speed compressor, the air conditioning units do not generate peak currents during the start-up phase.

During operation, power consumption automatically adjusts to the required heating or cooling capacity. An Eco1 and Eco2 function allow power consumption to be reduced to approximately 70 and 40 percent of the respective nominal value. As soon as the target temperature has been reached inside the vehicle, it can be held at a constant level for a prolonged period, consuming little energy and emitting low noise levels – a particularly beneficial feature at night. If the vehicle is not hooked up to the power grid, the lower consumption conserves the alternative power source provided by a battery plus inverter.

The Cool Top Trail 28V and 36V consume up to 5.0 and 6.4 amps respectively during normal operation. With heights of 21.5 and 22.3 centimeters these units are very low profile. Made of UV-stabilized polypropylene, they weigh just 34.9 and 41.9 kilograms, yet are extremely robust. In addition to dehumidification, timer, sleep and eco functions, there is a turbo mode which cools the interior extremely rapidly. The two new air conditioners will be available from September at a price of €2,891 and €3,367 (RRP) respectively.

The near future: Thermal management in touring EVs

Webasto is rethinking heating and cooling for electrically powered motorhomes. By offering an integrated overall solution, the thermo specialist is meeting the demand for centralized control of all of the heating and cooling devices in the vehicle. Whether driving, living or sleeping – the holistic system efficiently delivers warmth or cold as needed. The thermo system also ensures that the traction battery is heated or cooled so that it remains within its “feel-good” temperature range (around 15 to 35 degrees Celsius). This allows it to optimize performance so the EV can achieve its maximum range.

The concept integrates several devices into one system, reducing space requirements. It saves weight and reduces maintenance as well as costs. For heating, a heat pump extracts thermal energy from the environment, which is distributed inside the vehicle as required by an intelligent management system. For rapid heating, the Webasto High-Voltage Heater steps in as a booster. It converts direct current into heat and is integrated into the coolant system. The HVH 50, 70 and 100 variants each deliver up to 5, 7 or 10 kW of heat output and operate at voltages of up to 870 volts. Optionally, underfloor heating and radiators can direct the heat to where it is desired via the water heating system. Adjustment of water flow or heat distribution is automatic.

With a height of just eight centimeters, the SP80 Hydro air conditioning unit directs warm or cold air as required from the ceiling through air ducts installed inside the vehicle. Compared with previous rooftop air conditioners, it no longer requires an external unit. The weight is reduced, the roof can remain closed, and the unit can be positioned flexibly.

The refrigerator is supplied with the required cooling capacity via the heat pump’s cold water circuit, so there is no need for a conventional refrigerator. A boiler provides hot water for showering and hand washing, while the thermal management system supplies cooled water.

The system is controlled centrally and individually by Webasto’s intelligent Cronus integration platform, depending on the desired previously set temperatures. Cronus also provides the CAN interface to the vehicle, and is available for both 12- and 24-volt systems. All of the system’s functions can be centrally configured and controlled via a display or the ThermoConnect app, including the desired feel-good temperature and the strength and distribution of the air flows.

Webasto Range Plus: parking heater ensures warm EV campervan interiors

Heating the interiors of electric vehicles under cold ambient temperatures reduces the range per battery charge by up to 35 percent. Moreover, heat escapes through frequent door opening, for example, and large window areas cause the vehicle to quickly cool down. Webasto’s retrofittable Range Plus System offers a solution that significantly reduces the load on the electric-powered heater in e-vehicles.

The fuel-powered Air Top 2000 STC air heater heats the vehicle interior, making the full capacity of the traction battery available to achieve the EV campervan’s maximum range. A fuel tank, which can also be retrofitted, holds eight liters of fuel – sufficient for about 50 hours of heating at full power. Range Plus is suitable for 12- and 24-volt systems and runs on diesel or – if available – hydrogenated vegetable oil (HVO). To control the heater, the versatile ThermoConnect app or the MultiControl control unit (to be installed in the vehicle) are available as options.