5 Electric Camping Trailers for a Greener, Quieter Getaway
The rise of electric transportation is transforming our travel experiences, influencing everything from EV-friendly car rentals and road trips to battery-powered cruise ships and even planes. This trend is now making its way into the recreational vehicle (RV) sector, with a new wave of innovative e-camper vans and all-electric camping trailers hitting the market.
The growing demand for e-trailers is being driven by a surge of younger consumers: Data from the RV Industry Association (RVIA) indicates that the average age of first-time RV buyers has dropped to 32, down from 41 in 2020.
Industry experts suggest that these new e-trailers represent a significant shift in a traditionally stagnant market. 'Historically, the RV industry hasn’t been particularly known for its innovation,' says Kraig Becker, digital editor at RV.com. 'However, in recent years, technology adoption has surged to cater to the needs of younger buyers, with much of the innovation emerging from smaller, more agile brands willing to take risks.'
One notable newcomer is Pebble, a California-based company that has introduced a self-propelled, remote-controlled electric trailer aiming to provide a seamless, 'iPhone-like' RV experience through automation. The company is led by alumni from major tech players like Tesla, Apple, and Zoox.
The appeal of Pebble and similar e-trailers lies in their ability to address a challenge posed by the growing electrification of the automotive industry. An RVIA survey found that half of EV owners intend to use their vehicles for towing RVs. 'Anyone who has attempted to tow a trailer with an electric vehicle knows it significantly impacts the EV's range. E-trailers, equipped with their own electric drive, solve this problem and greatly alleviate range anxiety,' explains Becker.
Designed with aerodynamics in mind, these e-trailers feature their own battery-powered propulsion systems that assist in towing, minimizing drag. This leads to lower fuel consumption for gas-powered vehicles and reduces the range and charging time concerns for electric vehicles.
Moreover, for eco-conscious campers looking to lessen their environmental impact, these electrified trailers produce zero emissions and operate quietly, eliminating the need for noisy gas or propane generators when parked. Their batteries power all essential functions like cooking, heating, air conditioning, and lighting. 'Pairing an e-trailer with an electric vehicle will create the most environmentally friendly camping experience possible,' states Becker.
This independent energy system enables extended off-grid camping adventures. These modern trailers can also serve as home offices or guest accommodations. According to Ivan Wang, Pebble’s head of brand & marketing, the substantial battery in Pebble’s trailer surpasses the capacity of a Tesla Powerwall: 'It can also act as a backup energy source for your home during power outages.'
Explore these five innovative electric trailer options that can inspire your next glamping, off-grid, or digital nomad adventure.
Bowlus
Renowned U.S. luxury RV manufacturer Bowlus, known for its retro, aircraft-inspired aluminum-riveted trailers for the past 90 years, made the transition to become the first fully electric RV company in 2023. This change followed the 2022 launch of its elegant 27-foot-long electric 'Volterra' model, which boasts high-end features like wood-paneled interiors, a king-size bed, and modern amenities such as solar roof panels, satellite internet, induction cooktops, and hydronic heating with heated floors. The Volterra is joined by the curvaceous 'Terra Firma' and the upcoming 'Heritage' e-trailer models, each designed with slightly reduced features for a more accessible price point. All models sleep up to four guests and are notably lightweight, weighing between 2,900 and 3,250 pounds—about half the weight of typical EV trailers. Pricing starts at $165,000; bowlus.com
Coast
Aero Build, a commercial trailer manufacturer based in Tennessee, is preparing to launch the first batch of its contemporary 'Model 1' travel trailers in April. This compact 21-foot-long unit features a composite shell crafted from recycled materials and wool insulation, along with rooftop solar panels and a battery bank that provides enough power for a week of off-grid camping. With a sleek minimalist design, these trailers include a touchscreen command system, satellite internet, two Samsung frame TVs, a kitchen equipped with Smeg appliances, and a dedicated bedroom area, comfortably sleeping up to four people. Minimum towing capacity is 6,000 pounds; preorder pricing starts at $129,900; coastrv.co
Pebble
California-based startup Pebble introduced its all-electric 'Pebble Flow' in October 2023. This 25-foot-long futuristic trailer, accommodating four people, features a retractable Murphy bed that transforms into a workspace, a chef's kitchen complete with a full-size fridge and portable induction cooktop, and wraparound windows. Its heavy-duty battery and solar panels enable off-grid camping for up to seven days. Innovative tech features include remote-controlled maneuvering via a smartphone app, automated hitching, and various one-touch functionalities for leveling stabilizers, awning, and stairs. The company anticipates shipping models by late 2024. Minimum towing capacity is 6,200 pounds; preorder pricing starts at $109,000; pebblelife.com
Lightship
Lightship debuted its battery- and solar-powered 'L1' travel trailer in early 2023, claiming it to be the most aerodynamic trailer on the market. This California/Colorado venture, led by Tesla alumni, showcases a sleek 27-foot design that is three times more aerodynamic than traditional trailers, resulting in reduced drag and minimal loss in fuel efficiency for towing vehicles. Key features include a dual-mode roof with a 10-foot-high ceiling in 'camp mode' that lowers to under 7 feet for 'road mode,' along with modern interiors featuring panoramic windows and all-electric appliances like an induction stovetop and dishwasher, accommodating up to six sleepers. The high-capacity battery, enhanced by solar panels, allows the trailer to operate off-grid for up to a week before needing a recharge. Production is expected to begin in late 2024. Minimum towing capacity is 7,500 pounds; preorder pricing starts at $125,000; lightshiprv.com
Living Vehicle
For those willing to invest, California's Living Vehicle presents its luxurious 30-foot-long 'HD30' as the 'most powerful trailer on earth.' These customizable units, designed by a LEED-accredited team, offer various configurations such as a king-bed suite, a bunk room for four, or a mobile office. Equipped with mini-split HVAC systems, these all-season trailers are built to handle temperatures from subzero to 120°F. Tech-savvy features include a home theater system and an innovative water generator that extracts moisture from the air. With a spacious all-solar roof and awnings, the HD can operate off-grid indefinitely. The company also provides a smaller 'HD24' model at 24 feet, alongside two larger fifth-wheel electric trailers available for preorder (the 'GT32' and 'GT38'). These roomy units can sleep up to eight people. Due to their substantial weight, ranging from 10,000 to 18,000 pounds, they are currently incompatible with towing by any EVs. Pricing starts at $299,995; livingvehicle.com
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