Bluetti unveils Charger 2 with combined solar and engine charging

Bluetti has introduced a new vehicle-based charging solution designed for people who rely on portable power while travelling off-road or camping in remote areas. The Charger 2 builds on the company’s earlier Charger model by allowing users to draw energy from both a vehicle’s engine and roof-mounted solar panels simultaneously, addressing a limitation that had frustrated some existing customers.

The device was unveiled at CES 2026, where Bluetti positioned it as a faster, more flexible way to keep portable power stations topped up while on the move. The company says the Charger 2 is aimed at users who spend long periods away from the grid and need to arrive at their destination with fully charged batteries, without relying on a single power source.

Combining engine and solar power on the road

Portable power stations have become increasingly popular with campers, van owners and off-road drivers who need electricity for lights, fridges and electronic devices. Bluetti’s original Charger was designed to leverage a vehicle’s alternator, enabling users to generate power simply by driving. However, it could not accept input from solar panels simultaneously, meaning users had to choose one source or the other.

The Charger 2 addresses this by introducing a dual-input design that can handle power from both sources simultaneously. According to Bluetti, the system can accept up to 600W from solar panels and up to 800W from a vehicle’s engine. By combining these inputs, the company claims the new Charger can refill compatible batteries far more quickly than before, reaching speeds up to 13 times faster than a standard car charger.

Bluetti says the device can recognise the energy source and automatically manage the flow. This means it can prioritise available sources without requiring user input. For example, solar power can be used when sunlight is strong, while the engine can take over or supplement charging when conditions change. The aim is to reduce wasted energy and make charging as efficient as possible during a journey.

Faster charging and broader system support

Beyond faster charging, Bluetti has expanded the Charger 2’s compatibility with its wider ecosystem. The company says the unit can manage multiple Bluetti power stations and expansion batteries, intended to support users with higher energy demands. This could appeal to travellers running multiple devices or larger setups that require sustained power over several days.

The Charger 2 also includes a jump-start function, enabling it to assist a vehicle with a flat battery. While this feature is not the product’s primary focus, it adds an extra layer of usefulness for people travelling in isolated areas where help may not be readily available.

Bluetti has emphasised that the new Charger remains simple to install and use. For existing owners, the transition from the original Charger is designed to be straightforward. The Charger 2 uses the same cabling as its predecessor, meaning users can swap units without rewiring their vehicles. This approach reduces installation time and lowers the barrier to upgrading, particularly for those who have already integrated the system into their setup.

Pricing, upgrades and availability

To encourage existing customers to move to the new model, Bluetti is offering an upgrade option for Charger 1 owners at a discounted price. The company says eligible users can replace their older unit for US$99, with the offer available until 7 February. After that date, standard pricing will apply.

New customers can purchase the Charger 2 at an introductory price of US$349, also valid until 7 February. Bluetti has confirmed that the price will increase to US$499 upon the end of the promotional period. This pricing strategy suggests the company is keen to drive early adoption, particularly among its established user base.

The launch of the Charger 2 reflects a broader trend in the portable power market, where manufacturers are looking to combine multiple energy sources to improve reliability and speed. By enabling simultaneous solar and engine charging, Bluetti is positioning the device as a practical solution for users who want to maximise every opportunity to generate power while travelling.

As interest in off-grid travel and self-sufficient energy systems continues to grow, products like the Charger 2 are likely to attract attention from a wide range of users. Whether the device delivers on its promises in real-world conditions will become clearer once it reaches customers. Still, Bluetti’s latest release shows a clear focus on flexibility, speed and ease of use.