Following on from this week’s launch of the Volkswagen ID. BUZZ, ElectricDrives brings you a legendary electric camper that’s on the way. Winnebago Industries, a leading outdoor lifestyle product manufacturer, revealed its e-RV earlier this year.
This is the first all-electric zero-emissions motorhome concept from the major recreation vehicle (RV) manufacturer and we think it’s great to see another legend of the open road being offered as a zero-emissions electric vehicle (EV).
Like the ID. BUZZ, the new model from Winnebago e-RV is completely different looking from the original models but is far more practical for modern driving and live on the road. The e-RV was first shown to the world at the Florida RV Super Show in Tampa, Florida back in January 2022.
The e-RV was developed over a two-year period by the company’s Advanced Technology Group and is a fully functional, all-electric concept vehicle that redefines efficiency, comfort and functionality.
Michael Happe, Winnebago Industries president and CEO, said: “This is an exciting time for Winnebago Industries and the outdoor lifestyle industry as a whole. We are proud to continue our innovation legacy with the reveal of the e-RV concept vehicle.”
The Winnebago Industries e-RV concept vehicle is an entirely new, all-electric, zero-emissions RV that incorporates an advanced drive train and battery package that also powers all the living area systems of the coach.
In-vehicle appliances are designed to optimise energy usage and battery performance while maximising comfort and functionality. Key elements include 350-volt DC power for the water heater and roof-mounted air conditioner with heat pump, 110-volt AC for the induction cooktop and the refrigerator, which can also operate on 12-volt DC power for enhanced flexibility and convenience.
The e-RV offers flexible battery charging source capabilities that allow for charging at home, campgrounds and charging stations. Charging time is around 45-minutes at high-speed charging stations.
It’s powered by an industry-standard, 87kWh battery configuration that provides a range of 125 miles (202km) while powering onboard systems. This range will meet the needs of the majority, around 54 percent, of new RV buyers who prefer to make trips under 200 miles (322km).
An integrated control system that enables the operation of subsystems, optimises load and efficiency, and displays system information and controls on a digital display. The control systems can be monitored through a tablet or smartphone app.
The e-RV also has neat features including wireless connectivity through a residential grade Wi-Fi network via dual-modem router that enables high data streaming levels.
Inside, it features premium galley amenities including a modern, marine-grade refrigerator, slide-out induction cooktop and matte black sink fixtures. The bathroom includes a toilet and contemporary fixtures including a detachable, handheld showerhead.
We like that the materials used throughout the e-RV concept vehicle are selected with a preference for eco-friendly and sustainable options. This includes sustainable, recycled cork-rubber flooring and woollen wall trim to enhance thermal and wall insulation.
The chassis of the e-RV is based on a readily available Ford Transit platform that has been modified with an advanced electrical power system from Lightning e Motors that powers the drivetrain, vehicle controls and living quarters.
Ashis Bhattacharya, Winnebago Industries senior vice president of Business Development, Advanced Technology and Enterprise Marketing, said: “Consumer demand is driving electric power applications across many fronts, and we believe RV consumers are poised to benefit from the enhanced features and usability that electrified and connected RV products will provide.”
“Winnebago Industries has an ongoing mission to listen to and learn from our customers as we continue refining, exploring, and innovating, and the e-RV concept vehicle is a perfect example of this.”
During, and following the global pandemic, the staycation holiday has become a huge business, as has consumer awareness of cleaner living and driving. The e-RV has come just at the right time to help with this growing demand. We can’t wait to see this one when it hits the road.
