Couple travels through 10 African countries in solar-powered motorhome with battery storage

A Brazilian couple, Alessandro De Franceschi and Maria Eduarda Cardoso, completed a year-long journey through 10 African countries in a motorhome that required grid connections only three times. The trip, documented under the name Getoutsidebr, demonstrated how solar power, lithium batteries, and alternator charging can sustain high electricity demand in remote areas. The system powered two air conditioners, two refrigerators, an electric stove, and satellite internet, enabling a lifestyle comparable to a conventional home despite limited grid access.

The motorhome’s electrical system combined rooftop solar panels with three Victron Energy lithium batteries, each rated at 25.6 V and 200 Ah, providing approximately 15.36 kWh of storage. A Victron Energy Orion DC-DC charger recharged the batteries from the vehicle’s alternator while driving, while a 24 V, 5,000 VA MultiPlus-II inverter managed power conversion. Equipment included a SmartSolar MPPT 100 V/50 A solar charge controller, a 500 A SmartShunt battery monitor, and a Cerbo GX communication hub for system monitoring and remote access.

The couple’s system allowed real-time tracking of battery state of charge and power sources via an in-vehicle display and smartphone, which proved essential when leaving the motorhome parked for extended periods. Remote monitoring helped identify fluctuations in solar generation, such as shading on panels, enabling adjustments to consumption to avoid power shortages. Energy autonomy depended on solar irradiation, parking duration, and electricity demand, with high consumption from air conditioners and cooking appliances increasing power requirements.

Alessandro De Franceschi, 41, and Maria Eduarda Cardoso, 33, began their travels nearly seven years ago, documenting their journey through 30 countries on social media with approximately 500,000 followers. Their experience underscored the potential of solar power and battery storage for mobile off-grid living, reducing reliance on external power connections. The couple announced in September 2026 that they were expecting their first child, highlighting the ongoing importance of reliable energy management as they prepare to travel as a family.