VPS-DOS-TR-06-E / Rev 01
3-May-2022
Volta Power Systems
Page 16 of 41
CHARGING THE SYSTEM AND INCREASING SYSTEM
RUNTIME
The Volta System accepts charge from the sources described in the following
sections. Monitor the SOC Gauge, the Inverter Control Panel, or the Touchscreen
for any alerts that may prevent charging.
The Volta System only charges when required. There may be several factors
preventing charging, even while connected to a charge source. The most
common reasons are the energy storage pack is too cold to charge, or the BMS
is inhibiting charge because of a high enough SOC.
System Runtime
Similar to fuel tank levels responding to driving style, the time it takes to drain an
Energy Storage Pack from “Full” to “Empty” depends on usage. The two largest
loads in a vehicle that affect the runtime are typically heating and cooling. The
more the heating and cooling systems run to maintain the desired temperature
inside the vehicle, the more energy is used.
To maximize runtime:
• Turn off the inverter if 120 VAC loads are not required: When 120 VAC
devices (air conditioner, heater, cooktop, etc.) are not in use, turn off the
inverter via the Inverter Control Panel or Touchscreen.
• Increase the thermostat in warm climates: Increasing the desired
vehicle temperature reduces the amount of time the air conditioner
compressor needs to run in warm climates.
• Decrease the thermostat in cool climates: Decreasing the desired
vehicle temperature reduces the amount of time the heating system
needs to run in cold climates. Generally, heating using electricity uses
almost twice the energy as cooling.
Charging via Shore Power
Volta recommends a minimum 120V/30A rated shore power cord less than 50 ft.
in length. The OEM should follow NEC or RVIA guidelines for the specific appli-
cation requirements.
When plugged into shore power, the Energy Storage Pack samples incoming
power for a few seconds to ensure uniformity requirements are met. If incoming
power meets the requirements, the Volta System turns on and begins charging
the Energy Storage Pack.
If the Volta System does not turn on, or the Energy Storage Pack does not begin
to charge, the incoming power is likely not meeting the Volta System require-
ments. This feature protects the vehicle from brown outs due to insufficient
power. Additionally, the system may not accept a charge if plugged into an
electronic surge protector.
The rate at which the Volta System charges from shore power depends on your
system configuration and the settings chosen on the Inverter Control Panel or
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