Need power on your off-road adventure?
For a long time now, the dream for most 4x4ers was a full-time wired in 12v system or dual battery system. This was the dream because, well, there wasn’t really a better option! Sure, there are 12v battery boxes, but they were usually pretty flimsy, averagely wired, heavy and although subjective, pretty darn ugly. REDARC saw this gap in the market and have come to the party with what can only be described as a piece of art, the REDARC GoBlock.
When you think REDARC, a plethora of impressiveness floods to mind. With over 40 years of industry experience, an Australian made product range, and even a dedicated side-business to solely focus on research and development, it’s easy to see why REDARC have forged their way to the top when it comes to electronic technology and accessories in the 4×4 space.
What is the REDARC GoBlock?
The GoBlock is a portable dual battery system and a mobile power-station in the one unit. It incorporates the class-leading DC charging technology that we’ve come to expect from REDARC, and of course is complete with lithium technology, with a tonne of extra features that we know you’re going to absolutely swoon over.
Who’s it suited to?
The GoBlock is the perfect accessory for us 4x4ers who want those little luxuries while off-road that power provides. Ideal for fisho’s, van-lifers, caravaners, 4x4ers and pretty much anything in between. The GoBlock and its associated mounting cradle is extremely compact, measuring 263mm x 230mm x 487mm. But don’t let the compact sizing fool you, the GoBlock is ready to throw punches with even the most elaborate 12v systems.
Quick charging
An integrated 100AH lithium battery is the first impressive feature of this new portable touring must-have. There is of course the 50AH version available too but bigger is always better, right? This incredible unit can recharge quickly too. In a mere 2 hours with the in-built 50a charger to be precise. You also have the choice of 4 different charging methods, from your 4×4, from solar, from a 240v mains source or even the 12v accessory socket.
The outlets and power output allow you to charge whatever your heart desires, including lights, fridges, inverters, cameras, compressors, drones, CPAP’s and any other 12v accessory you can think of. Speaking of outlets, there’s plenty of them!
The outlets
Starting from the left, we have the trickle-charge input with allows a 7.5a overnight charge rate via the DC plug-pack which is supplied. Then we have the 15a Merit socket which is perfect for lights, fridges, or the CPAP machine. Then next socket over is a screw-style fridge socket and is 15a limited to allow the perfect option for a secure type connection with priority output meaning your fridge will always stay cold!
For those lower current loads, there’s a 10a socket perfect for charging phones, powering LED lights and anything else you could think of. Around the right-hand side of the unit we have a 50a output specific Anderson plug for high current loads, and a collection of 4 x 2.4a USB-A sockets for smaller devices. Then, there’s the back of the GoBlock, which has another 50a input Anderson plug to allow fast charging of the GoBlock, and an isolator to help keep the unit charged during storage of inactivity.
Connects to your smartphone
The other beautiful thing is, you’re probably wondering how you know how much charge is going in or out of the GoBlock if there’s no screen? Well, REDARC really have thought of everything. The Bluetooth app and GoBlock connectivity means you know exactly what’s going on at all times. Your smartphone connects to the GoBlock and reads out information similarly to what the Redvision screen would read out.
Tough enough for the outdoors
The power unit has a tough chassis made from recycled aluminium and includes a protective covering and extendable handles making it extremely durable, very tough, and most importantly, mobile. Plus, like most REDARC products, if you get yourself into trouble, this bad boy will be able to help you, with its inbuilt ‘starting battery’ mode which will let you safely and confidently start your vehicle via its flat starting battery within 15 minutes.
At under 20kgs, the REDARC GoBlock is truly here to revolutionise 12v systems and camping for us all. Mobile, rugged, powerful and Aussie made is about all we’ve ever dreamed of, and now it’s here for us all to have!
Starting at under $2,700, it truly is a great option for those not wanting the hassle of a full-time fitted dual battery system. If you want to find out more, head to www.redarc.com.au.
As always, stay safe, and I’ll see you on the tracks!
