Victron Orion XS 12/12-70A: What's New and How It Differs from the 50A
Victron has added a bigger model to its Orion XS DC-DC charger line. The Orion XS 12/12-70A is now the most powerful 12V unit in the family.
We install Orion XS chargers in RVs, vans, and work vehicles all the time. Here is what is different about the 70A, and how to choose between it and the 50A.
What a DC-DC charger does
A DC-DC charger moves power from your vehicle's starter battery and alternator to your house battery bank while you drive. It controls the charge so your lithium batteries get the right voltage and your alternator is not overworked.
If you want to refill your batteries on the road, this is the part that does it.
What's new on the 70A
More power. The 70A model puts out up to 70 amps, about 1,000 watts. That is roughly 40% more than the 50A model. A bigger bank charges faster on the same drive.
A built-in fan. The 50A is cooled passively, with no fan. The 70A adds a fan to handle the extra heat from higher output.
The same smart features. It has built-in Bluetooth and works with the VictronConnect app. It also has VE.Direct for connecting to your Victron system. It works with smart alternators and can detect when the engine is running. You can set the charge current to match your setup.
High efficiency. Victron lists efficiency at up to 98.5%, the same as the 50A. Less of your power turns into heat.
Why the fan matters
On hot days, the 50A can show high-temperature warnings. The unit is working normally, but the alerts are a nuisance. They show up most often when the ambient temperature is high, such as a closed engine bay or a hot compartment in summer.
The 70A has a fan, which should help keep temperatures in check and cut down on those nuisance warnings. If you have seen those alerts on a 50A, this is a good reason to look at the 70A, even if you do not need the extra amps.
One big difference: where you can mount it
This is the part to know before you buy.
- Orion XS 12/12-50A: IP65 rated. It is dust-tight and protected against water jets. It can go in places like an engine compartment.
- Orion XS 12/12-70A: IP20 rated. It is for dry, indoor spots only. It should not go in an engine bay or anywhere it can get wet.
The fan also needs airflow. We pick a spot with clear space around the unit so it can breathe. We plan the location during the design, so you do not have to worry about it.
Which one should you choose?
The 50A is a good fit if:
- Your battery bank is modest.
- The only good mounting spot is a wet or exposed area.
- 50 amps already covers your charging needs.
The 70A is a good fit if:
- You have a larger lithium bank and want faster charging while you drive.
- You want more headroom in hot conditions.
- You have a dry, ventilated mounting spot inside the vehicle.
The 70A also uses heavy cable and larger fusing. We size the wire and protection for every install.
Not sure? Tell us about your rig, your battery bank, and where you drive. We will point you to the right one.
Get the Orion XS 70A installed
We are an authorized Victron dealer and installer. We can install the Orion XS 70A as part of a full power system or as a single upgrade. Most installs include a 5-year parts warranty.