It's getting warm in motorhomes
E-T-A is collaborating with automotive supplier Webasto
The caravanning industry is undergoing a transformation and the focus is once again on innovations. Basic control panels with only few functions are being replaced by fully graphical displays. This allows convenient control of additional systems from a single display. Costs are reduced, since only one display is needed instead of two. And it enhances user convenience, since users can easily control everything from a single display.
E-T-A and the automotive supplier Webasto, which manufactures roof, battery and thermal systems, recognised this. Thanks to their close collaboration, the two German companies are now reaping the benefits of joint synergies. Webasto’s new Air Top Pro 25 air heater quickly heats motorhomes, caravans and campervans to a comfortable temperature with a maximum output of 2.5 kilowatts. The heating system is conveniently controlled via the fully graphical display of the E-BOX from E-T-A.
The E-BOX is an analogue power distribution module with charging and booster function for the entire on-board electrical system of motorhomes and campervans. It combines a charging unit, charging booster, DC 12 V/AC 230 V distribution and protection unit. The E-BOX monitors and protects all connected loads against damage caused by overload or short circuit. Control and monitoring are centralised via the control panel.
Communication between the two systems from E-T-A and Webasto is accomplished via the CI-Bus, which is well established in the caravanning industry. It is based on LIN technology. As the CIVD plans to replace the CI bus with the more powerful CAN bus over the next few years, E-T-A and Webasto have already laid the groundwork for this as well.
This integration is a good example of how digitisation is advancing and creating real added value.
Further joint projects between E-T-A and Webasto are already in the pipeline.
