RV REVIEW
You’ ve no-doubt noticed the lasercut aluminium corner capping. This capping, along with the raised laser-cut Retreat logo on the front of the van, special anniversary decals and a laser-cut panel with the van’ s model name, are part of the 20th Anniversary Pack.‘ Monster’ brand access doors to all external lockers are included too, as is the rear spoiler with floodlight and side protection. Finally, the Retreat Fraser 180B is finished with black DuraPlate, a special protective sheeting fixed to all sides, which is also part of the 20th Anniversary Pack.
The result: an inherently durable van that looks modern and clean in design that also takes advantage of some of the best technology available to caravanners. The DCX battery system is a case in point. Retreat Caravans refers to it as the‘ safest battery system in the world’. What makes it so safe? Well, let’ s not forget that lithium batteries, though its rare, can be the source of fire( thermal runaway) in specific scenarios.
The DCX battery is certified to UL 1973, a North American safety standard for batteries that is designed to ensure overall safety. The DCX battery, which is mounted centrally beneath the van, between the chassis rails, is cased in a fireproof enclosure. Inside the van is an alarm that will sound if it ever detects too much heat build-up inside the battery. There is a host of other safety features built into this battery system, too, located in an external locker, accessible from the outside of the van, behind the fridge, keeping the internal cupboards free for storage.
While it is available in numerous sizes and capacities( including 48V), the Retreat Fraser 180B is equipped with a 628Ah 12V DCX battery, though you could option it up to the 942Ah unit instead, if you wanted more electrical grunt.
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