Swift introduces lithium batteries across motorhome & campervan ranges
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Swift is raising the standard for touring with the introduction of an all-new lithium leisure battery and inverter system across every 2027 motorhome and campervan.
Designed to deliver greater independence, improved performance and enhanced efficiency, the lithium leisure battery upgrade makes life on the road easier than ever.
Whether you're exploring remote destinations or enjoying extended off-grid adventures, Swift's latest power system gives you the confidence to travel further without compromising on comfort.
Why choose lithium?
Longer lifespan
Lithium batteries are built to last significantly longer than traditional lead-acid batteries, providing greater long-term reliability and reducing the need for replacement.
More usable power
Unlike conventional lead-acid batteries Swift's lithium system delivers much more usable capacity. That means power for longer, allowing you to spend extended periods off-grid.
Faster charging
Recharge quickly while travelling so you can spend less time waiting and more time exploring.
Lighter weight
The new lithium battery gives you a weight saving compared with traditional battery systems. The reduced weight improves payload capacity and can contribute to better fuel efficiency.
Consistent performance
Lithium technology provides a stable voltage throughout its discharge cycle, delivering reliable performance for inverters, compressors and today's modern onboard appliances and electronics.
Designed for modern touring
Every Swift motorhome and campervan in the 2027 season benefits from this advanced power system, giving you:
- More time away from campsites with dependable onboard power
- Freedom from carrying, storing and refilling gas bottles
- Efficient, reliable lithium battery technology
- Faster charging and improved energy efficiency
- The ability to run everyday essentials without relying on an electric hook-up
"At Swift, we're always looking for ways to enhance the touring experience for our customers, and by equipping every motorhome & campervan with our new lithium leisure battery and inverter system as standard, we're giving owners greater freedom to travel further, stay off-grid for longer, and enjoy the comforts of home wherever their adventures take them."
Chris Walker, Head of Marketing at Swift
Lithium leisure batteries: your questions answered
What is a lithium leisure battery?
A lithium leisure battery is a rechargeable battery designed to store electrical energy for use in a motorhome or campervan. It supplies power to the vehicle’s habitation systems, such as lighting, water pumps, USB sockets and other compatible electrical equipment. The lithium batteries used in leisure vehicles are typically lithium iron phosphate batteries, also known as LiFePO4. This technology offers a combination of high energy efficiency, low weight and long service life, making it well suited to modern touring vehicles.
What are the benefits of a lithium leisure battery in a motorhome or campervan?
Lithium leisure batteries offer several benefits that can make touring more convenient and comfortable, particularly for those who enjoy spending time away from mains hook-up. Key advantages include:
- More usable energy - lithium batteries can generally provide a greater proportion of their rated capacity
- Longer service life - they typically offer a higher cycle life, meaning they can be charged and discharged many more times
- Faster charging - lithium batteries can accept charge more efficiently, helping to replenish your available energy more quickly
- Reduced weight - they are generally lighter than comparable lead-acid or AGM batteries, which can help with vehicle payload
- Consistent performance - they can maintain a more consistent voltage as they discharge, supporting the operation of compatible electrical equipment
- Greater touring flexibility - more usable energy and efficient charging can make it easier to enjoy longer periods of off-grid touring
How long does a lithium leisure battery last?
The lifespan of a lithium leisure battery depends on several factors, including its quality, usage, charging regime, storage conditions and operating environment.
Lithium iron phosphate batteries generally offer a significantly higher cycle life than traditional lead-acid and AGM batteries. A cycle refers to the process of using energy from the battery and then replenishing it through charging. With appropriate use and care, a quality lithium leisure battery can provide many years of service. However, there is no single lifespan that applies to every battery, and the manufacturer’s specifications should always be followed.
How does a lithium leisure battery compare with an AGM battery?
Lithium and AGM batteries use different technologies and offer different characteristics. AGM stands for Absorbent Glass Mat. It is a type of sealed lead-acid battery in which the electrolyte is held within a glass-fibre mat. Lithium leisure batteries typically use lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology. Here are some of the key differences:
| Feature | Lithium leisure battery | AGM leisure battery |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Generally a higher proportion of the rated capacity | Generally a lower proportion of the rated capacity |
| Weight | Typically lighter | Typically heavier |
| Charging | Can accept charge efficiently when paired with a compatible system | Uses a lead-acid charging profile |
| Cycle life | Generally higher | Generally lower than lithium |
| Off-grid touring | Well suited to frequent off-grid use | Can be suitable for a range of touring needs |
The most suitable battery depends on the vehicle, its electrical system and how it is used. Lithium technology can be particularly useful for touring with greater electrical demands or spending extended periods away from mains hook-up.
How long can a motorhome run on a lithium leisure battery?
How long a motorhome can run on a lithium leisure battery depends on the battery’s capacity, the electrical equipment being used and how much energy is available from other charging sources, such as solar panels.
A battery with a higher capacity can store more energy, but the actual duration of use will depend on your touring habits. Lighting, heating controls, refrigeration, charging devices, an inverter and other electrical equipment all contribute to energy consumption. Solar generation, driving and mains hook-up can also replenish the battery, depending on the vehicle’s equipment and conditions.
Swift’s lithium-equipped motorhomes and campervans are designed with integrated electrical systems to support a range of touring needs. To understand how long a particular vehicle can operate away from mains hook-up, check its battery capacity, electrical specifications and the equipment you plan to use.
How is a lithium leisure battery charged?
A lithium leisure battery in a motorhome or campervan can be charged through the vehicle’s designated charging systems. Depending on the vehicle’s specification, these may include:
- Mains hook-up - when connected to a suitable mains supply at a campsite or other permitted location, the vehicle’s onboard charging equipment can replenish the leisure battery
- Driving - the vehicle’s charging system can use energy generated while the engine is running to charge the leisure battery
- Solar panels - where fitted, solar panels can provide additional energy to the leisure battery through a compatible solar charge controller
Can I use solar panels to charge a lithium leisure battery?
Yes. Solar panels can be used to charge a lithium leisure battery when the vehicle is equipped with a compatible solar charging system. Solar panels convert sunlight into electrical energy, which is then managed by a solar charge controller before being supplied to the leisure battery. This allows solar energy to help replenish the battery while you are parked, including when touring away from mains hook-up.
Can I use an inverter with a lithium leisure battery?
Yes, a lithium leisure battery can be used with a suitable inverter where the vehicle’s electrical system has been designed and equipped for this purpose. An inverter converts the battery’s direct current (DC) electricity into alternating current (AC), allowing compatible mains-powered appliances to be used when you are not connected to a mains hook-up.
The equipment you can run depends on the inverter’s capacity, the battery’s available energy and the vehicle’s electrical system. If you are considering using an inverter, check your vehicle’s specification and owner’s handbook to understand what is supported by its electrical system.
Adventure without limits
The introduction of lithium technology across the Swift 2027 range represents a significant step forward in touring freedom. With more usable power, quicker charging, reduced weight and greater reliability, you'll have everything you need to enjoy longer adventures with complete confidence.
Experience the next generation of motorhome and campervan travel with Swift's lithium-powered freedom.
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