E1 Volta System Improvement

[D Cookman]

I have a 2024 Interstate 19 with E-1 Volta sys. Received a ltr from AS that I could bring it to any authorized dealer for free upgrade kit installation that "avoids fully draining the batteries and allows for soft start of air conditioner/compressor, etc." Kit was installed, but the shore power will not charge the batteries. Engine alternator will charge the batteries. Its been at the dealer for 5 weeks. They are working with Volta but cannot fix the issue. Has anyone else experienced this? Thanks for you consideration and any advice. This is a long down time for a brand new product.

r

[RCHCHRSTMN]

Yes. Exactly as you describe. I’ve had the E-1 package for 2 years (2023 Interstate GT 4x4 delivered September 2022). The only thing I could add is that my E-1 package performed as designed until the free enhancement was recently completed. Now I’m waiting on Volta/Airstream to correct the problem you described (which I’m confident they will do).
I have no meaningful advice. Good luck!
R

[D Cookman]

thanks, they will try installing a new inverter next. thankfully a tech rep from Volta will be there this week i am told. good luck to you as well.

r

[BrantS]

Been waiting for 2 months.

[Love2Sail2]

2024 Interstate GTe (solar/lithium package)
I’ve replaced my chassis battery three times and had the Volta inverter system replaced twice (so far.) Now it’s all dead again. Three strikes and Airstream is out for me. I wouldn’t trust that hunk of metal to get me down the block, let alone off the beaten path.
In over a year I have never taken a single trip without an electrical failure. That meant no AC (camping in 90° heat), no microwave or outlets for coffee. Sometimes I had no lights or electric slider door assist, or maybe a short in the twitchy awning that rolled up if you moved or just stepped lightly into the van. Best of all, there’s the inability to raise the levelers for towing when the chassis battery is dead (and NO manual override!)
The first time the E1 system failed it also wiped out MB’s dash software. It cost me $600 to have it reinstalled because Airstream denied responsibility for the house/chassis wiring harness reversal. Allegedly my VIN wasn’t on the list - until my dealer sent proof. They paid for the Volta replacement but still haven’t reimbursed me for replacing the house battery or dash software.
To add insult to injury, the complimentary roadside service Airstream provided doesn’t carry these chassis batteries and won’t install a battery they don’t provide. I’m 5’2” and 115 lbs. This battery weighs 47 lbs. To replace it, you have to remove the floor panel in front of the driver (3 feet above ground and wedged between the electric seat (with no manual override) and the steering wheel. NOT fun. One time I had to get a rideshare from out of state back home to pick up a car to buy the battery so I could install it (again!) Then pay to get two vehicles back home.
Biggest useless paperweight ever.
I know there at least 8 other Interstates with the same or similar issues being serviced at my dealership. (That’s not counting the Winnebago’s with Volta issues.) This is Just ONE dealer.
I hate to say it, but 2 months is nothing. My van has been at the dealer close to half the time I’ve owned it. No loaners, no reimbursement for lost fees for cancelled trips. Just a lot of excuses and empty apologies from the ever-changing staff.
I contacted a Lawyer about suing Airstream under Illinois’ Lemon Law. I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes a class action lawsuit.
Airstream should have stuck with trailers. Their lack of support is beyond disappointing. Wally Byam must be spinning in his grave!

[D Cookman]

Thanks and sorry to hear. i did get mine back after 7 weeks. however, now it seems the interior power outlets do not work. good luck