This month’s Gear Showcase does a deep dive into the latest in power and lighting for your overland adventures. From the newest battery tech and solar power to the cutting edge of rig and camp lighting, we have a little something for everyone looking to get a little more from their electrons.
Battle Born Batteries — BB10012 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery
The Battle Born 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery is a game-changer in energy storage that redefines reliability and performance for off-grid enthusiasts, RV owners, and marine users alike. This innovative battery is designed to provide exceptional power with a focus on longevity and safety, making it the ideal solution for those seeking a dependable energy source for their adventures.
At the core of the Battle Born battery is its advanced lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology, which sets it apart from traditional lead-acid batteries. With a capacity of 100 amp-hours, this deep cycle battery delivers a powerful performance while ensuring a lightweight design that weighs just 29 pounds. This reduction in weight allows for easier handling and installation, an essential feature for mobile applications.
The Battle Born 12V battery is built to last, with a remarkable lifespan that can exceed 3,000 cycles at 80% depth of discharge. This durability translates to significant cost savings over time, as users can expect many years of reliable service without the frequent replacements associated with lead-acid batteries. The robust construction includes built-in safety features such as overcharge, over-discharge, and short circuit protection, ensuring peace of mind for users in demanding environments.
Performance is another standout aspect of this battery. The Battle Born 12V LiFePO4 battery operates efficiently across a wide temperature range, from -4°F to 140°F, making it suitable for a variety of climates and applications. Its impressive discharge rate allows for high-power devices to run seamlessly, whether it’s powering appliances in an RV or supporting electronics on a boat. Users will appreciate the ability to draw on the full capacity of the battery without the typical voltage drop associated with other battery types.
Furthermore, the battery features a built-in battery management system (BMS) that monitors each cell’s voltage, temperature, and overall health, optimizing performance and enhancing safety. This smart technology ensures that the battery operates within safe limits, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring reliable energy delivery.
Installation is straightforward, as the Battle Born battery is designed to fit standard lead-acid battery slots. With its compatibility with existing systems, users can easily upgrade their energy storage without the need for complex modifications. The battery is also eco-friendly, containing no toxic materials and offering a greener alternative to traditional batteries.
In summary, the Battle Born 12V LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery combines cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and unmatched durability in a compact package. With its long lifespan, robust safety features, and versatility, it stands as a premier choice for anyone in need of reliable, efficient power. This battery not only meets the demands of modern energy needs but exceeds them, making it an essential investment for adventurous spirits and practical users alike.
MSRP: $925.00
Crooked Finger Designs — Crooked Box Mini
The Crooked Box Mini is a fully contained off-grid power system for your van, camper, or trailer. It is designed to take all the guesswork out of designing your power system. Simply plug in the lithium battery of your choice and have the complete electrical system ready to go.
Say goodbye to DIY wire diagrams and days of planning a system – spend less time building and more time camping. This system-in-a-box includes a 40A DC-DC charger, a 40A solar MPPT controller, a smart battery meter with Bluetooth and on-screen readout, USB, USBc, 12V outlets, and 10 fused 30A 12V accessory plugs, and 2 fused 100A 12V accessory plugs. Plug in your favorite lithium battery and an inverter and go. Perfect for DIY-ers, professional installers, and OEM camper builders.
The Crooked Box Mini is the world’s best drop-in electrical system. It was born out of Crooked Finger Design’s custom electrical build shop and provides all the specs of a custom camper electrical system in a tiny footprint. The best part is it’s fully serviceable and uses high-quality off-the-shelf components, so you know it will last as long as your camper.
The Mini Box will support up to 200A of power in and out to handle the needs of any small and mid-sized camper build. It has two battery input plugs, each rated for 100A of continuous current, two high-amp 12v outputs for inverters or large DC appliances rated for up to 100A each, and 10 DC outputs rated for up to 30A each. Lights, fans, water pumps, and 110 chargers each plug into their own dedicated circuit with a built-in fuse panel.
MSRP: $2,095.00
Devos Outdoor — LightRanger 800 Mini
For those who prioritize compact, efficient gear without sacrificing performance, the new Devos LightRanger 800 Mini is the lighting solution you’ve been waiting for. This version combines the powerful 800-lumen 360-degree lantern head with a smaller, more portable tripod, making it an ideal fit for overlanding adventure motorcyclists and space-conscious adventurers.
At only 16.5” long and weighing only 20 ounces, the LightRanger 800 Mini was designed specifically for those who need to keep their load minimal without compromising on quality or functionality. The lantern and tripod combination fits effortlessly into small storage spaces such as motorcycle panniers or gear bags, and you can even detach the lantern head from the mini tripod for even more storage flexibility.
The 800 lumens of brightness and 4.5-ft telescoping pole still provide a powerful overhead light source (especially if you set the light on your motorcycle or a nearby elevated surface), keeping the bugs above you instead of in your face. It also provides ample light for setting up camp, cooking, or completing maintenance tasks after dark.
For the minimalist camper and overlanders with a smaller vehicle, the compact nature of the LightRanger 800 with its Mini Tripod is a game-changer. Its small footprint (3.5” x 3.5” x 16.5”) means it fits easily into tight spaces maximizing your available storage space.
Despite its small size, the LightRanger 800 Mini illuminates up to a 40’ area and is compatible with the new LightRanger 800 colored filter kit, so you can change the color temperature from daylight (5000K) to Amber (1800K) or Red (< 1000K). Using these optional lens covers dramatically enhances the outdoor experience at night as they minimize insect attraction, create that warm campfire vibe, and help maintain your night vision for enjoying the night sky.
Devos has done it again with the LightRanger 800 Mini. Seize the night!
MSRP: $99.99
EMFX Power — Power Shade Stopper 100W Flexible Solar Panel
At the forefront of renewable energy innovation, EMFX Power has developed a groundbreaking solar panel that redefines the standards of efficiency and resilience in the solar industry. This revolutionary 100W flexible solar panel with Shade Stopper technology addresses a common challenge faced by solar panel users—partial shading. Unlike traditional solar panels, which experience a significant or total drop in power output when even a small portion is shaded, the Shade Stopper technology maintains its performance, generating power proportionate to the amount of sunlight it receives. This unique capability ensures that users can maximize their energy production, even in environments where partial shading is unavoidable.
The Shade Stopper technology is engineered with advanced photovoltaic technology that optimizes energy capture, allowing it to perform efficiently in inconsistent lighting conditions. This innovative design incorporates a specialized shading mitigation system that intelligently redistributes energy across the cells, ensuring that shaded areas only partially limit the overall output. As a result, users can enjoy a reliable and consistent energy supply, making the Shade Stopper solar panel an ideal choice for off-grid, residential, and commercial applications.
Durability is a key design principle of the Shade Stopper solar panel. Constructed with high-quality ETFE, monocrystalline solar cells with an efficiency of up to 22%, UV-resistant materials, and our Shade Stopper technology, these panels are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy winds, hail, and extreme temperatures. The robust design not only enhances longevity but also reduces maintenance costs, providing users with peace of mind and a solid return on investment. Furthermore, the panels are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport and set up in a variety of settings. Whether for a rooftop installation, temporary camping setup at a remote location, RVs, camper vans, sailboats, or bike packing trailers, the Shade Stopper solar panels offer unparalleled versatility.
Integration into existing power systems is seamless with the Shade Stopper solar panel. The panels are compatible with a wide range of inverters and battery storage solutions, allowing users to easily incorporate them into their current energy infrastructure. This adaptability ensures that customers can transition to solar power without the need for extensive modifications or additional investments.
In addition to its technical advantages, the Shade Stopper solar panels embody EMFX Powers’ commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By providing a reliable source of clean energy, EMFX Power encourages users to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future. With its innovative technology, exceptional durability, and user-friendly design, the Shade Stopper solar panel stands as a testament to our dedication to advancing solar energy and making it accessible to all.
MSRP: $189.00
Expion 360 — 60Ah AURA Powercap 600W Inverter Power System
Introducing the ultimate adventure power system, featuring the 60Ah Group 24 LiFePO4 Deep Cycle Battery and the Aura Powercap 600W Inverter.
This bundle is engineered to fuel your adventurous lifestyle! The e360 LiFePO4 battery chemistry ensures reliable power wherever the path or road may lead you. Coupled with the Aura Powercap 600W pure sine wave inverter, this system allows you to power your 120V AC appliances and sensitive electronics with ease. The 12 Volt 10 Amp power port allows you to run lighting, coolers, fans, and other 12V appliances. The one PD, one USB-C, and two USB-A charge ports provide ample charging options for your smartphones, cameras, tablets, drones, and other portable electronic devices. This system is available in 60Ah, 80Ah, and 95Ah
MSRP: $1,049.00
Imtra — F-40 Surface-Mount Linear Fixture
Established in 1963, Frensch Lighting is an owner-operated, world-renowned manufacturer specializing in low-voltage LED lighting. They combine German ingenuity and design with high-quality materials and have become a household name throughout the automotive, special-purpose vehicle manufacturing, and shipbuilding industries. Utilizing intelligent technology together with state-of-the-art workmanship, Frensch emphasizes efficiency and a long working life for their lights, offering efficient space-saving solutions while providing plenty of power to meet your needs.
The F-40 is a linear light that is great for under-cabinet lighting, workspaces, or anywhere in your vehicle where additional light is needed. It is a surface-mounted light with four small screws, making it exceedingly easy to install, and packs a powerful light into a small housing. Standing just a half inch in height with a width slightly over an inch, it is available in lengths of 20”, 37”, or 54” and has the option of a switch included on the fixture or can be wired to a wall switch. It comes in either warm white for a more inviting ambient light in a living space or in cool white for a brighter, crisper light in a workspace or storage area.
Built for vehicles & boats alike, the F-40 is a rugged light that can withstand the vibrations and bumps that come with overlanding and offers a 50,000-hour lifetime, meaning it will more than likely outlast any vehicle it’s installed in, and is backed by a 3-year warranty. It can be powered by any voltage in the 10-30VDC range and is extremely energy efficient, with the 20” version consuming just 9 watts of power while producing light equivalent to a 60-watt household halogen bulb.
Combining a rugged design, top-of-the-line LED technology, and an ultra-thin profile to fit in tight spaces, the F-40 is a great choice for linear interior lighting in any overland or recreational vehicle.  Â
MSRP: $90.00
Vision X — Surface Mount Scene Light
Vision X LED Scene Lights are the perfect lighting solution for overland 4×4 rigs and off-road trailers, offering superior performance and reliability in the toughest conditions. Designed with overlanders in mind, these lights feature top-tier RFI and ingress protection, ensuring they won’t suffer from water or dust ingress, and won’t interfere with essential electrical systems like radios or GPS units.
A standout feature for overlanders is the low-profile housing design, which integrates seamlessly into roof racks and the sides of trailers. This sleek design not only minimizes wind resistance but also ensures the lights remain unobtrusive while providing maximum illumination. The streamlined profile is perfect for those who want to maintain a clean, efficient setup without sacrificing lighting performance.
With a wide flood beam and a 5700°K color output, these lights provide a natural, daylight-like brightness ideal for nighttime tasks such as setting up camp, cooking, or working around your vehicle. The broad, smooth, light pattern offers excellent visibility, reducing eye strain and allowing for seamless functionality in low-light environments.
The Vision X Scene Lights are engineered for easy surface mounting, automatically delivering the perfect 40-degree lighting angle to illuminate your campsite or work area without any additional adjustments. This hassle-free installation makes them a great fit for overland setups, where convenience and efficiency are key.
Durability is at the core of the Vision X design. The die-cast aluminum housing protects against impacts, while the hard-coated polycarbonate lens resists scratches and damage from debris. Whether you’re driving through rough terrain or camping in extreme weather, these lights are built to endure.
For overlanders looking to upgrade their rig with reliable, high-performance lighting, Vision X LED Scene Lights deliver the durability, ease of use, and superior illumination needed for any adventure.
MSRP: $109.00
Xantrex — Solar Max 90 W Glass Panel
Xantrex Bifacial PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) panels are at the forefront of solar energy solutions and are engineered to deliver higher performance through optimized energy absorption.
Enhanced reliability and durability are achieved with a 10 bus-bar design, employing fracture-tolerant Monocrystalline PERC M10 cells arranged in a half-cell format to improve shade performance and maximize efficiency. The result is a robust, premium glass panel with an unbeatable PCOE (Power Cost of Energy).
Xantrex designs, manufactures, and markets power products that are used when on the move to provide auxiliary or emergency power. These products and systems, which feature intelligent user interface design, are installed in boats, recreational vehicles, utility and emergency vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, and automobiles.
MSRP: $165.00 (90 W Panel – Coming Soon)