Case Study: Inside Split Charge’s Toyota Hilux Off-Grid Build

When you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest plug socket, reliability isn’t optional, it’s everything. That was the mindset behind Split Charge’s latest off-grid build, a rugged Toyota Hilux equipped with an Alu-Cab Canopy Camper and a full Fogstar-powered battery system designed to handle life off the beaten track.

The Brief

The customer needed a self-sufficient setup capable of powering a fridge, lighting, and essential appliances for multi-day trips away from civilisation. The challenge was to fit a complete electrical system into the Hilux without eating into valuable living or storage space, and to ensure it could handle long off-grid periods with zero fuss.

The Solution

Split Charge built the entire system into the rear cab section of the Hilux. With the factory rear seats and back wall removed, they fabricated a custom mounting panel to securely install all Victron Energy components. The result is a tidy, easily serviceable setup that maximises use of the vehicle’s existing structure.

On the roof, a 450W bifacial solar panel mounted to the Alu-Cab canopy delivers serious charging capability; even in mixed weather conditions. At the heart of the system sits a Fogstar Drift 12V 230Ah LiFePO4 battery, providing dependable, high-capacity energy storage for extended off-grid use.

Power distribution and charging are handled by Victron’s MultiPlus inverter/charger, SmartSolar MPPT, and Orion XS DC-DC charger. Together, these ensure smooth power delivery from solar, alternator, or shore sources - with full system monitoring through the Victron app.

The System

Battery: Fogstar Drift 12V 230Ah LiFePO4
Inverter/Charger: Victron MultiPlus 12/1200/50
Solar Controller: Victron SmartSolar MPPT 100/50
DC-DC Charger: Victron Orion XS 12/12-50A
Solar Input: 450W bifacial panel

The Results

The completed installation delivers serious off-grid capability in a compact, practical package, proof that you don’t need a huge van to achieve full electrical independence.

✅ Space-smart: Entire system housed behind the cab panel, no loss of living or storage space.
✅ High solar yield: 450W bifacial panel keeps the system topped up, even on dull days.
✅ Long runtime: 230Ah Fogstar Drift battery offers multiple days of reliable, silent power.
✅ Serviceable design: Components mounted for easy access and future expansion.
✅ Built for the real world: Designed to handle rough terrain, variable weather, and daily use.

So, Why Fogstar?

In the words of Split Charge themselves, “We stick with Fogstar because the kit’s high quality, priced right, and the team are always on hand with solid support when we need it.”

Why It Matters

This Hilux proves what’s possible when smart design meets reliable hardware. Split Charge’s clean, no-nonsense installation shows how to build an efficient, durable power system that doesn’t compromise on space or performance, a perfect match for anyone who wants true off-grid freedom!

➡️ Find out more about Split Charge over at their website https://www.splitcharge.co.uk, or check our their YouTube channel for the latest videos.