We had a very special opportunity to work on a stunning project. Upgrading a race transporter double-decker bus originally built by Sunseeker. The shell and layout were already impressive, but the electrical system wasn’t up to modern requirements, especially for the kind of work and travel this bus will be doing. The brief was simple: make it self sustainable for when mains hookup drops out, reliable, and packed with top-end kit. So that’s exactly what we did.
The Goal
The client needed complete independence from mains power whether they were trackside or on the move. They also needed the system to manage itself, charge from multiple sources, and run all the onboard equipment effortlessly.
We chose to build the new system entirely around Victron Energy components for reliability, smart integration, and long-term flexibility.
Here’s what we fitted:
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Victron Quattro 8000VA inverter/charger – This is the heart of the system. It handles AC input and output, inverts DC power from the lithium bank, and switches seamlessly between battery, generator, or mains input.
- Victron Digital Multi Control - This panel allows PowerControl and PowerAssist current limit setting for two AC sources: a generator and shore side current for example. Setting range: up to 200 Amps.
- Victron Lithium Batteries – These give high performance and long life with deep cycling. Plenty of capacity to handle air con, lighting, tools, and more.
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Victron DC-DC Chargers – Charging from the vehicle alternator while on the move, keeping the batteries topped up during travel.
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600W Semi-flexible Solar Panel Setup – Clean, renewable energy feeding directly into the battery bank via Victron MPPT solar charge controllers.
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Victron Lynx Distributors & Lynx Shunt – These tidy up the DC side and give accurate system-wide monitoring. Everything’s fused and logged.
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Victron VE.Bus BMS & Mains Detector – This manages the lithium batteries and ensures they’re protected under all conditions.
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Victron Cerbo GX – Smart monitoring and control of the entire system, including automatic start/stop of the onboard Cummins Onan generator.
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Cummins Onan Generator Integration – Fully automated through the Cerbo GX. Fires up only when needed to recharge batteries or support high loads.
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Victron BatteryProtect units – These automatically disconnect non-essential loads to protect the battery bank.
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Mains hookup socket & 16A mains outlet – For times when shore power is available or when support vehicles need to be powered externally.
Additional Electrical Upgrades:
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New 230V Consumer Unit – Fully compliant and custom-labelled for the new setup.
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New 24V DC Fuse Box – For clean, safe distribution of all 24V circuits.
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Flood Lights (both sides + rear) – For maximum visibility when loading/unloading or working around the vehicle at night.
- Rear Tail Lift + Top Loading Door Work lights – For a bright environment to be able to work on the race vehicles in the dark.
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Dometic Freshwell 3000 AC Unit – Quiet, efficient air conditioning for comfort in all climates.
The Result
This transporter is now completely off-grid capable. It charges on the move, tops up via solar when parked, and can auto-start the generator if demand spikes or batteries get low. The whole system is monitored and controlled via a touchscreen or remotely through the Victron app.
It's future-proofed, flexible, and built to handle long days and heavy loads exactly what you'd want from a serious race transporter.
If you're looking to upgrade your motorsport support vehicle, race truck, or camper conversion to something more powerful and independent, get in touch. We’re always up for a challenge especially when it involves building something this capable.