VB-Full Air 4C represents the pinnacle of VB’s innovation. This fully automatic air suspension system supports both the front and rear axles, intelligently adapting to different loads and surfaces. It maintains optimal ride height at all times, providing exceptional comfort, improved stability, and a more controlled driving experience bolstering safety, handling, and tire longevity. 

 

VB Full Air is hugely popular among Fiat Ducato (Leaf Sprung), Fiat AL-KO & VW Transporters but recent updates have expanded availability to platforms such as the Ford Transit Custom, MAN TGE, and Volkswagen Crafter, giving even more drivers access to the highest level of suspension comfort and control 

 

 

For the most part it is straight forward and all we require is the make, model & year of the vehicle. Recently we had the privilege of welcoming the Roaming Radfords here at S&G to install VB Full Air Suspension to their brand new Dethleffs XL Family which is on a Fiat Ducato Twin Axle AL-KO chassis. When it comes to AL-KO chassis we need the green AL-KO plate located on the chassis, this is notoriously difficult for customers to find due to its location but is vital that we are provided this to qualify the vehicle for fitment of the VB Air Suspension should that be Semi-Air or Full Air, this not only tells us if it is possible for kit to fit but it also tells us the exact kit required for your vehicle. The picture below will show you where to find your green AL-KO plate.  

This is another frequently asked question, now the weight added again varies from vehicle to vehicle but the below examples will show you three of the most popular kits we install with that being a standard Fiat Chassis (Leaf Sprung), Fiat Single AL-KO Chassis & Fiat Twin Axle AL-KO Chassis. Remember if you are running close to your maximum gross vehicle weight adding air suspension in most cases gives you the ability to uprate your vehicles plated weight, we also offer the up rating service through VB if you were interested in doing so. 

 

Solar power has become one of the most popular upgrades for motorhomes, caravans and campervans. As more travellers look for ways to enjoy off-grid adventures and reduce reliance on campsite electrical hook-ups, solar panels provide a reliable and environmentally friendly power solution. We specialise in solar equipment designed specifically for leisure vehicles. From high-efficiency solar panels to advanced charge controllers, the right system can dramatically improve how you power your motorhome or caravan while travelling. 

This guide explains how solar panels work, the benefits of installing them, and how to choose the right solar setup for your leisure vehicle. 

 

 

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity which can then be stored in your leisure battery. This stored energy powers many of the essential systems inside a motorhome or caravan, including lighting, water pumps, charging ports and entertainment systems. For many travellers, installing solar panels allows them to stay off-grid for longer periods without worrying about battery power. 

Some of the main advantages of solar power include: 

Greater travel freedom 

Solar panels allow you to generate your own electricity wherever you park, meaning you are less dependent on campsite hook-ups. 

Extended battery life 

Solar panels help maintain your leisure battery charge, reducing deep discharge and helping extend battery lifespan. 

Lower running costs 

Once installed, solar panels generate free electricity from sunlight. 

Quiet operation 

Unlike generators, solar panels produce energy silently. 

Environmentally friendly energy 

Solar power is renewable and helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

 

 

A leisure vehicle solar system is made up of three main components working together to generate and store electricity. 

Solar Panels 

Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electrical energy. Panels designed for motorhomes and caravans are compact, durable and optimised for limited roof space. 

Solar Charge Controller 

The solar charge controller regulates the electricity flowing from the solar panel to the battery. This prevents overcharging and ensures the battery receives the correct voltage. Many modern systems use MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers, which maximise energy efficiency and improve charging performance. 

Leisure Battery 

The electricity generated by the solar panel is stored in the leisure battery. This energy can then power appliances and electrical systems inside the vehicle when required. 

Together, these components create a reliable off-grid energy system for leisure vehicles. 

 

 

When installing solar panels on a motorhome or caravan, one of the main choices is between flexible solar panels and rigid framed solar panels. 

Flexible Solar Panels 

Flexible solar panels are lightweight and designed to contour slightly to curved surfaces. They are commonly used on campervans and vehicles with limited roof space. 

Benefits of flexible panels include: 

• Lightweight construction 

• Low-profile installation 

• Ideal for curved roofs 

• Discreet appearance 

Rigid Solar Panels 

Rigid panels are mounted on brackets and raised slightly above the roof surface. These panels are typically more durable and may provide slightly higher power output. 

Benefits of rigid panels include: 

• Excellent durability 

• Improved cooling and efficiency 

• Reliable long-term performance 

Both options work well for leisure vehicles, and the best choice often depends on available roof space and the type of vehicle. 

 

 

The amount of solar power required depends on how much electricity you use while travelling. 

Typical solar setups for leisure vehicles include: 

40W solar panels 

Ideal for maintaining a leisure battery during storage. 

80W to 100W systems 

Suitable for light touring and powering basic appliances such as lighting and phone charging. 

120W to 200W systems 

A popular choice for regular travellers who want reliable off-grid power. 

200W and above 

Designed for heavy energy usage or extended off-grid living. 

Factors that influence solar requirements include battery capacity, daily power usage, available roof space and seasonal sunlight levels. 

 

 

Many motorhome and caravan owners consider solar panels one of the most valuable upgrades they can make. 

With a well-designed solar system, travellers can: 

• Stay off-grid for longer periods 

• Reduce dependence on campsite facilities 

• Maintain battery health during storage 

• Power essential appliances while travelling 

Solar technology has improved significantly in recent years, meaning modern panels are more efficient, lighter and better suited to leisure vehicles than ever before. 

 

 

With decades of experience supplying motorhome and caravan equipment, we provide high-quality solar solutions designed specifically for leisure vehicles. 

Solar range includes: 

• High-efficiency solar panels 

• Flexible solar panels for compact installations 

• Solar regulators and MPPT controllers 

• Complete solar power systems for motorhomes and caravans 

Choosing the right solar equipment ensures reliable power while travelling and helps maximise the benefits of renewable energy. 

 

 

Solar panels are an excellent investment for motorhome, caravan and campervan owners who want greater independence while travelling. By generating clean energy directly from sunlight, solar systems provide a reliable way to keep your leisure battery charged and your appliances running wherever your journey takes you. With the right solar setup, you can enjoy longer trips, greater freedom and the confidence that your vehicle’s power needs are covered. 

Contact us anytime to discuss your solar needs and how we can help: https://bit.ly/40a6Bwl  

We are proud to annouce we have officially become a RidgeMonkey Dealer! This is a very exciting time for us at S&G as we look forward to expanding our product range with the ever growing RidgeMonkey brand. Stay tuned over the coming weeks as we begin to add these products to our website so you can also become a part of the RidgeMonkey family, purchasing these great additions to your motorhome, caravan, camping & angling adventures.