A new firmware update lets you use the auxiliary battery to recover the starter battery in emergency situations.
The latest news is the Victron Orion XS firmware v1.15 update, released in September 2026, which adds an emergency reverse charging function to the entire Orion XS line: models 12/12-50A, 12/12-70A and 1400. The feature requires VictronConnect app version 6.43. Read this blog post to learn how it works.
In the conventional setup, the Orion XS charges in one set direction between batteries. With the new function, the system can temporarily reverse the charging direction, allowing the auxiliary battery to supply power to the starter battery.
In practice, if the main battery is too discharged to start the engine, the Orion XS can use the energy available in the auxiliary battery to help recover the starter battery.
For those who are traveling, camping or far from any support infrastructure, this can be an important alternative before seeking outside assistance.
Activation is done directly through the VictronConnect app. On the Status screen, simply tap the new starter battery charge icon to start the process.
From there:
the Orion XS performs reverse charging for 15 minutes;
then it enters a 5-minute stabilization period, with the charger disabled;
during this interval, the engine can be started again.
The function can be used when the charger stops charging. This can happen when the input voltage lockout is active or when the Orion XS detects that the engine has been shut off.
Reverse charging also works when the device is in remote shutdown, as long as that setting has been configured to stop charging only.
The Orion XS can charge the starter battery connected to its input up to:
14.4 V on 12 V systems;
28.8 V on the Orion XS 1400 with a 24 V starter battery.
The maximum reverse charging current will be the lower of the configured current limit and half of the device's rated current.
The system also reduces the charging current if the voltage of the auxiliary battery, connected to the output, drops excessively.
The Orion XS 1400 also received a new setting to select whether the starter battery in use is 12 V or 24 V.
The setting can be made beforehand in the product settings. Otherwise, VictronConnect will ask for this selection the first time the feature is used.
The new firmware version is available through the VictronConnect app.
The update can also be performed remotely through the VRM Portal and is available for download on the Victron Professional website, click here.
For Easy Trailers, technology means more than modern equipment: it means developing solutions that bring more autonomy, safety and peace of mind to those who choose to live new experiences in the freedom of the world! As a partner of Victron Energy, Easy Trailers seeks to integrate into its trailers and motorhomes technologies that keep pace with the evolution of RV travel worldwide and the needs of those on the road.
The new Orion XS emergency reverse charging function is one more example of how technology can make a difference precisely when we need it most.
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