2024 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS
AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Accessories
The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Accessories award was exceptionally close with five entries in total from AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning Projecta IDC25X DC to DC Charger from Brown & Watson International.
Brown & Watson International – Projecta IDC25X DC to DC Charger – WINNER
Brown & Watson International says the future of dual battery management is the IDC25X, engineered to provide unparalleled performance and reliability for on-the-go power needs. The IDC25X, short for Intelli-Charge 25 Amp Dual Battery Charger, represents Projecta’s innovative solution for dual battery management. Tailored for 4WD, camper trailer, caravan and marine applications, it stands out with its advanced charging capabilities, simultaneously using solar and traditional or smart alternator inputs. The charger’s sophisticated design allows it to deliver a consistent 25A charge in extreme climates, making it an ideal choice for under-bonnet installation. Designed, engineered, and extensively tested in Australia, the IDC25X boasts a rugged and efficient design, with the ability to operate in temperatures as high as 90°C. The IDC25X also allows parallel charging, enabling users to wire multiple units for larger systems. The IDC25X is also extremely user friendly and easy to install. With the rigid testing and a variety of manufacturing techniques developed by Brown & Watson ANZ, it says this is the toughest and most connected DC to DC charger built for the future, and scalable to the unique need of every user.
For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au
Brown & Watson International – Projecta Intelli-Grid Power Management System
Intelli-Grid is an all-in-one power management system designed for off-grid AC and DC power needs. Brown & Watson International states it seamlessly creates 240V power from 12V DC batteries when no access to 240V mains is available. It offers a plug and play solution for the manufacturer and serves as the heart of the caravan, with its centralised seven-inch Bluetooth LCD screen providing full control and monitoring of a completely integrated system. This system includes AC charging (from 240V mains), solar charging, DC/DC charging (from your vehicle’s alternator), monitoring of water and gas tanks, tyre pressure monitors, RV leveling, LED lighting, and other auxiliary DC loads such as compressors and water pumps. When connected to mains power, the inbuilt charger automatically starts charging the battery, reportedly providing 1.5 times the charging power (180Amps) compared to competitors for the fastest charging time on the market (2.5 hours from flat for a 400Ah battery). As a Pure Sine Inverter, the range also offers the flexibility to power a wide range of equipment, even sensitive electronic devices. A further use is the grid power boost feature, while for added safety, the Intelli-Grid Inverter Chargers feature an in-built safety switch.
For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au
Pro Quip – Pro Quip SCREW U Metal Jerry Can Range
Pro Quip says its SCREW U Metal Jerry Can Range has been meticulously engineered to “exceed military specifications and to provide an unmatched level of durability and ease of use,” with the new design retaining “the highest standards of safety and quality, boasting AS2906:2001 Certification, UN Approval for the transport of dangerous goods, and BAM certification.” It features an externally threaded, larger diameter neck (46mm) which utilises the same characteristics found on a re-fillable, pressurised, screw-top fire extinguisher, complemented by an anodised aluminium cap with convenient grip that is easy to open and close and includes a “groundbreaking” magnet embedded in the cap to prevent its loss and allow for its attachment to metal surfaces (including the can itself) for convenience. Pro Quip says the integration of the magnet within the cap, coupled with an ergonomic grip, solves the common issue of cap loss and facilitates ease of use. Further, it says the robust thread design minimises the risk of damage and maximises the positive thread engagement ensuring longevity whilst allowing the user the ability to torque the cap as much or as little as they desire to feel like the can is safely closed.
For more information, visit www.proquip.com.au
Pro Quip – Pro Quip Proper 2L Fuel Can
Pro Quip states the Proper 2L Fuel Can is a testament to advanced engineering and design excellence, featuring a steel body with a passivated aluminium screw cap for “unmatched” durability and security. The Can’s highly durable external powder coating in matt green and fuel-resistant internal coating are said to guarantee longevity and safe fuel transport and storage, while its compact dimensions and lightweight design, coupled with the LDPE strap, make it exceedingly convenient for a variety of uses. It is the only civil Fuel Can that meets military standards, highlighting its superior quality and reliability; and reportedly undergoes continuous, rigorous testing with random post-production samples removed for internal pressure tests up to 2.5 bar and drop tests from 1.8m height, ensuring its resilience and safety. The seal of the cap, made of fuel-resistant NBR rubber, and the availability of a shut-off pourer (sold separately), enhances its usability and safety, making refuelling tasks simpler and more secure. As the only Steel Jerry Can of its size to be AS2906:2001 Certified and have UN Approval for packing groups I, II, and III, Pro Quip says the Proper 2L Fuel Can meets the highest standards achievable for this type of product.
For more information, visit www.proquip.com.au
TAG Towbars – TAG Extreme Recovery Towbar (TAG XR Towbar)
TAG says the development of its XR Towbar was initiated when it noticed the demand for a competitively priced towbar that excelled in both functionality and aesthetics. TAG says its Australian Made XR Towbar seamlessly integrates with a wide array of 4WD models, providing customers with a highly engineered recovery towbar that complements their vehicle’s unique style. The recovery points are also bevelled to suit and extend the life of soft shackles – a feature that is important for any 4WD enthusiast, while TAG’s new CNC manufacturing process has allowed the XR Towbar to save an impressive amount of weight, with TAG reporting that some models come in as much as 40kgs lighter than competitors’ recovery towbars for the same vehicle. Most importantly, TAG states the reduction in weight has not had any negative impact on the strength and durability of the product. Further, TAG notes that its dedication to safety and quality assurance is evident through its in-house testing to ADR standards, specifically ADR62/02. TAG also took on the challenge of testing the Working Load Limit (WLL) rating for the recovery points in-house, which it states is a testament to its relentless pursuit of product excellence.
For more information, visit www.tagtowbars.com.au