AL-KO VTE introduces ONDA Connectivity retrofitting

Connectivity, energy management and digital control have become central to recreational vehicle design. Through ONDA Connectivity, AL-KO Vehicle Technology Electronics introduces connected future-ready retrofit solutions to intelligently extend a vehicle’s useful life.

Retrofitting today means more than replacing a faulty or ageing component, it means updating the vehicle by introducing smart technology. Traditional systems – power distribution modules and control panels – are upgraded with the complete, digital ONDA Connectivity system.

• Within around two hours, a vehicle can be made fully digital at a tiny fraction of the cost of buying a new one.
• Even a vehicle with many years of use can be easily transformed into a future-ready, connected home automation hub.

The heart of the ONDA Connectivity platform is a smart infrastructure that allows management and monitoring of the main onboard functions from a control panel or smartphone. This gives comprehensive information about a range of vehicle functions, and convenient control over utilities:

• Lighting control
• Interior temperature control
• Battery state of charge
• Solar panel charging status
• Vehicle levelling position
• Fresh water level monitoring
• Precise vehicle location via GPS

Operation of the ONDA Connectivity platform is easy and convenient via a mobile app, which is specially developed to manage and control all functions via a single interface. It enables communication with smartphones and tablets, either locally via Bluetooth or remotely via the internet, all using a single SIM card.

An AL-KO VTE retrofit with ONDA Connectivity transforms vehicle functionality in one simple step, bringing it into the modern age by integrating intelligent technologies capable of improving safety, efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. 

Traditional electrical systems are transformed into a unified, app-controlled environment without structural redesign of the electrical architecture. 

Compared to a factory-installed system, an ONDA Connectivity retrofit also creates wider possibilities for upgrades throughout a vehicle’s life, enabling it to stay up to date for many years to come. Modular accessories such as solar panels can be easily added, while ONDA Connectivity components can also be upgraded as new technologies become available, further future-proofing the vehicle.

The system is not limited to proprietary devices either. It supports multiple communication protocols including LIN-BUS, CI-BUS and CAN-BUS, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of vehicle configurations and component suppliers, including the most popular heating and air conditioning systems, refrigerators and batteries. AL-KO VTE intends to progressively expand this ecosystem.

A retrofit not only updates the vehicle itself, but it also helps to simplify the ownership experience. A clear and instant overview of utilities and vehicle status within one environment supports stress-free camping, with no need to monitor multiple displays or apps.

The ONDA Connectivity retrofit kit is designed to be installed without disrupting the existing system and with no need to replace onboard accessories or structural wiring. Through the replacement of the control panel and power distribution unit, and the integration of the ICL12 gateway, digital connectivity can be introduced quickly.

AL-KO VTE has developed three complete retrofit systems for seamless upgrading, each featuring a combination of control panel, distribution box and ICL12 gateway. Two combinations are intended for CBE systems while one is for Nordelettronica systems. This modular approach simplifies the process and makes retrofitting efficient and repeatable, while allowing smart connectivity to be introduced without compromising full operational reliability. 

Installation of retrofit kits is available to customers at AL-KO Customer Centres and certified dealers across Europe thanks to an ongoing AL-KO VTE training programme.