We're shopping and have questions for Interstate owners

[Rocinante]

So, it seems they've published the brochure and specs for the 2021 model of the Interstate 19. Looks interesting, especially given that we're now looking for a Class B, preferably an Interstate 19. If they still had a 22, that would also be on our "potentials" list, but no such luck.

First question for current owners: If we park our Interstate at a trail head and have to leave our pup inside while we go on a hike where pets are not allowed, we want to be sure he stays comfortable. So, does the Interstate have a generator auto-start feature? For example, let's say I set the air conditioner thermostat to 75F and it gets warm enough in the vehicle for the AC to try and turn on. Does the generator start automatically so the AC can kick on, and then shut the generator off again when the AC is done, over and over again?

Second topic for current owners or anyone else who knows: I just found an RV One order sheet for a 2021 Interstate 19. I provide a link to it below, because it shows a new feature that's not listed in the 2021 brochure. It's called a "Lithium Tech Pack," and they tell me this is is installed by the dealer, rather than the factory. Does anyone have any the details for what's actually in that "tech pack?" Clearly, it has a couple of 100AH Battleborn batteries, but the description doesn't talk about upgraded inverters, induction cooktops, or anything else. I have also seen a reference to this "Lithium Tech Pack" on a 2021 Interstate from Seattle Airstream, so it's not specific to RV One.
https://www.rvone.com/airstream/mode...d=443&typeid=1

[Rocinante]

So, after a quick call to Airstream customer service, it seems I have answers to my questions:

• Generator Autostart only works off battery voltage, does not work off the air conditioner thermostat.
• The Lithium Tech Pack does not change the inverter, which stays at 1,000 watts. It also throws in 50 watts of solar to charge the chassis battery and 200 watts of solar to charge the house batteries, a dogbone adapter for 30-15 amp, and some kind of fancier digital media receiver / radio in the rear.

Bummer.

[GetawA-S]

I would rethink the idea of leaving a pet inside ANY vehicle at a trailhead, no matter what technology you think is available. You run the risk of a breakdown, a passerby with concerns about mistreatment and a rock big enough to smash a window, or a ranger with a citation book handy.
There are plenty of trails that allow dogs on leashes.

[Rocinante]

Yeah, I get your point, though it feels like you missed mine.

Anyway, based on what I've learned, the "Lithium Tech Pack" in the new Interstates seems a pointless exercise in spending extra money. If I wanted a real Lithium upgrade, I'd go to a professional shop that would upgrade everything needed for it to make any real difference in how I could use the unit off the grid.