Description
The Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30A Non-Isolated DC-DC Charger converts your vehicle’s alternator into a smart 3-stage LiFePO4 charger, delivering 30A (360W) to your house battery while driving. Built-in Bluetooth lets you monitor and configure charge profiles via the free VictronConnect app. The non-isolated design shares ground between input and output—ideal for RVs, vans, and vehicles with common chassis ground. For marine installations with separate battery grounds, use the isolated version instead.
Key Features
- ✓ 30A / 360W output — charges a 100Ah Dakota Lithium battery from empty to full in approximately 3.5 hours of driving.
- ✓ Adaptive 3-stage charging — bulk, absorption, and float stages protect LiFePO4 cells with the correct 14.4V charge profile, unlike direct alternator connections that can overheat.
- ✓ Bluetooth & VictronConnect — monitor charge state, configure voltage setpoints, and view real-time data from your phone without opening any panels.
- ✓ Engine running detection — automatically starts charging when the alternator activates. No manual switches needed.
- ✓ Non-isolated (shared ground) — slightly more efficient and less expensive than the isolated version. Correct choice for most RVs and vans where starter and house batteries share chassis ground.
- ✓ Unlimited parallel operation — connect two units for 60A (720W) charge rate on larger battery banks. Bluetooth synchronizes charge stages automatically.
Technical Specifications
| Input Voltage | 10-17V (12V nominal) |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Configurable (default 14.4V for LiFePO4) |
| Output Current | 30A max |
| Power | 360W |
| Charging Algorithm | Adaptive 3-stage (bulk – absorption – float) |
| Supported Batteries | LiFePO4, AGM, Gel, Flooded lead-acid |
| Isolation | Non-isolated (shared ground) |
| Bluetooth | Yes — VictronConnect app |
| Engine Detection | Built-in voltage-rise detection |
| Remote On/Off | Yes (H-pin or VE.Direct) |
| Parallel Operation | Unlimited units |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +55°C (full rated to 40°C) |
| Enclosure | Anodized aluminum, IP43 |
| Certifications | ECE R10/6 (automotive), CE, RCM |
| Warranty | 5 years (Victron Energy) |
Applications
- RV alternator charging — charge your Dakota Lithium house bank at 30A while driving between campsites
- Van life dual-battery — smart alternator charging keeps house battery topped up on travel days
- Tow vehicle → trailer — charge trailer house battery from tow vehicle’s alternator
- Dual-battery work trucks — keep auxiliary battery charged for tools, lights, and inverters
FAQ
When should I use non-isolated vs isolated?
Use non-isolated (this model) when your starter battery and house battery share the same chassis ground—this is the case in most RVs, vans, and vehicles. Use the isolated version when the two batteries have separate ground systems, which is common on boats and some marine installations. If you’re unsure, the isolated model is the safe choice for any application, but costs slightly more.
Why not connect LiFePO4 directly to my alternator?
LiFePO4 batteries have very low internal resistance. Connected directly to an alternator, they draw maximum current continuously—potentially overheating and damaging the alternator. The Orion-Tr Smart limits charge current to 30A with proper voltage staging, protecting both your alternator and battery. It also prevents reverse current flow when the engine is off.
Can I use this with non-Victron batteries?
Yes. The charge profile is fully configurable via VictronConnect. Set absorption voltage to 14.4V for any LiFePO4 battery, or adjust for AGM/Gel/Flooded lead-acid. It works with Dakota Lithium, Battle Born, Renogy, and all standard 12V batteries.
How do I install two in parallel for 60A charging?
Connect both units to the same starter battery input and house battery output with appropriately sized wiring (4 AWG minimum for 60A). VictronConnect’s Bluetooth networking automatically synchronizes charge stages between units. No additional configuration needed—they detect each other and coordinate bulk/absorption/float transitions.
Warranty
Covered by Victron Energy’s 5-year manufacturer warranty. Victron is the industry standard for marine and off-grid power electronics, with a global dealer and service network.
