Victron MultiPlus Inverter/Charger 12/1600/70-16

The nerve centre of a serious campervan power system. The Victron MultiPlus 12/1600/70-16 combines a 1600VA pure sine wave inverter, 70A adaptive battery charger, and high-speed AC transfer switch in a single compact unit — shore power, battery backup, and PowerAssist all in one.

Benefits:

• True sine wave inverter — safe for all sensitive electronics

• 70A battery charger with four-stage adaptive charging

• AC transfer in under 20ms — computers and appliances don't notice the switch

• PowerAssist boosts limited shore or generator supply using battery power

• PowerControl limits input draw to protect weak supply circuits

• Dual battery bank charging — charges starter and leisure simultaneously

• Up to 6 units in parallel for higher output

• Remote monitoring via Cerbo GX and VRM portal

Features:

The MultiPlus 12/1600/70-16 is the most capable single-unit power solution for campervan builds that need mains-quality AC power. When plugged into shore power at a campsite, it charges your battery at up to 70A while simultaneously powering your 230V appliances. If shore power fails or you unplug, it switches to inverter mode in under 20ms — so fast that computers, modems and TVs continue uninterrupted. PowerAssist means a weak 10A campsite supply can still support momentary peaks — the unit draws from the battery to meet demand spikes. Search Mode reduces idle draw when no AC load is detected. Configurable via VE.Bus with MK3-USB interface and VictronConnect. Compatible with Cerbo GX for full system monitoring via Victron's free VRM portal. Must be installed by a licensed electrical installer. Download the datasheet below.

Also in our Victron range

For higher output, see the Victron MultiPlus C 12/2000/80-30 (2000VA, 80A charger) or the MultiPlus-II 12V 3000VA. For standalone inverting without a charger, see the Phoenix Smart Inverter 1600VA. Pair with a SmartShunt or BMV-712 to monitor your battery. Need installation? See our campervan inverter installation service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PowerAssist and why does it matter at a campsite?

PowerAssist allows the MultiPlus to supplement a limited shore power supply with battery power to meet peak demand. For example, if you're on a 10A campsite hookup and run a kettle, the MultiPlus draws the maximum from shore power and makes up the shortfall from your battery — preventing the campsite breaker from tripping. When demand drops, the charger tops the battery back up automatically. This lets you use your full appliance set without worrying about the campsite supply rating.

How fast does the MultiPlus switch between shore power and inverter mode?

The MultiPlus switches in under 20 milliseconds — fast enough that computers, modems, TVs and NAS devices don't register the interruption. This true UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) function is one of the biggest advantages of the MultiPlus over a basic inverter/charger combination, and makes it the preferred choice for full-time van lifers and remote workers who can't afford downtime.

Does a Victron MultiPlus need to be installed by a licensed electrician in New Zealand?

Yes. The MultiPlus connects to 230V mains AC (shore power) and must be installed by a registered electrician in New Zealand, and by a licensed electrician to Australian Standards in Australia. Our workshop at 205 Archers Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland installs MultiPlus units as part of complete campervan power system builds. See our inverter installation service.

What size battery bank do I need for the Victron MultiPlus 12/1600?

Most builds pair the MultiPlus 12/1600 with 200–400Ah of 12V battery capacity. Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries are strongly recommended as they handle the high peak discharge currents an inverter demands without voltage sag, and can be safely discharged to a lower state of charge than lead-acid. For a lithium battery upgrade quote, see our lithium battery installation service.