Add, double solar roof, so that one slides out and becomes a solid canopy and the other just stays on the roof. Second add would be range, range, range.
@@castletransport Actually, solar is not useful at a campground where you can charge for cheap even on 120V. But solar is a must when camping in the wild. 👍
Great job Winnebago! Number one would be mounting points for many more solar panels up top and conduit to be able to easily run the wiring in to the cabin without drilling holes. So people can add more panels and more batteries if they want to. Number two would be lots of USB charging ports, like put them everywhere.
The mistake they made is the AC on roof. No room for panel with that beast. I wonder what SEER that AC unit is. And think about the bad aerodynamics with that on the roof. Price about $150000. Lol.
My only experience RVing cross-country (10k miles) was with a 75 kWh Model X and small trailer, getting about 120-130 miles per leg when using 85% of the battery. As of 2018 on the Supercharger network there were still several gaps that required special planning to bridge. Since the third-party network is considered less dense than the Supercharger network I consider 200 to 230 miles a minimum range. I don't know enough about aerodynamics to assess how much drag the roof-mounted air conditioner (hopefully heat pump) or vents add, but would prefer a more sleek top surface. Similarly, treating the underside for aerodynamics might be beneficial, as well. Finally, as an RV is often an occasional-use vehicle, having bidirectional DC power flow so it can double as a house grid-tie or standby battery when home would be a nice feature.
Perhaps you know this couple from Canada, who crossed the country in 2016 with their Model X and a small trailer, with next to no superchargers available at the time. ru-vid.comvideos
Definitely, a high efficiency heat pump for heating/cooling! Instantaneous electric hot water heater. Design with full solar roof and provide DC-DC charging to charge main battery (even if only 10-20 miles/day--enough to get back to charging network after a 3 day boondocking weekend) Provide around 2000# towing capacity--trailer for tools, bikes, toys. Also plan ahead and make provisions for adding V2G but probably initially just Vehicle to load like Ford Lightning. --you can do it!.
@@ekhaat just because it's possible doesn't mean it's desirable. It's _possible_ to go right round the world on a Honda step-thru motorcycle, even on a bicycle, & the people that have done it have enjoyed it but seriously, would *you* consider that a _desirable_ alternative to an RV? An RV that will get you where you're going in 300-mile steps so you can plot a direct route rather than zigzagging between chargers?
Much more focus on aerodynamics will make a huge difference in range. Get rid of the protruding air conditioner for example, and put smooth underbelly covering. Add solar to entire roof for traction battery, not just 12v.
That's amazing! 🔥🔥🔥. So true about stopping and charging not being inconvenience because you basically have all your essentials with you and can relax while you wait. We stop every hour for a walk, hike, or use the bathroom. Very excited to see these on the road!!!!
Great video Kim! This is the beginning of a big revolution in the world of van life, a lot of people are waiting for electric RV models. Hopefully they will be able to add a bigger battery in this one as the range like many mentioned in the comments might be an issue! Thank you for sharing! ⚡🔌🚙
The thought of having the ability to work on the go while it’s charging is really interesting! Not that I want to be working, but it almost feels like a a laid-back, relaxed work life for someone that has to be on the road.
For me the biggest issue isn't the range like many say, the range is what it is and it'll likely improve with next e-transits but for now it's acceptable for version 1. My issue is the layout. I spent a lot of time looking up RVs and they all have layouts that are too specific, and in my opinion having the bed at the back is best so you can have an actual decent sized bed for 2 people that at most only has one fold. For those reasons I've stopped looking at premade RVs and have been more focused on getting my own van and doing some simple modifications to make it closer to what I wish these RVs would be like.
Really like the idea but not enough range for open road travel. We live on the east coast and travel west and north. We would be stopping way to often for power. Surely somebody will come up with a unit that will go 250 to 300 miles on a charge. And Kim’s question about solar was another important item de-emphasized by the interviewee. The idea is to avoid rv parks as much as possible.
External solar option. Would be fantastic to add additional solar capacity. If there are 2 separate HV batteries then have 2 charge controllers? Might double the charge rate vs a standard EV’a capacity.
The range will hopefully improve in the future. I know they are considering the trade off with price and weight of having a bigger battery. But the 67 kWh usable battery size is a huge deal breaker. Also the fact the solar can only charge the 12 volt battery. If you have a RV that can only get 100-125 miles of range, it will likely be a more stationary vehicle for people to live the van life. And if you can’t charge the car battery- the solar doesn’t really cut it. Also the roof has one solar panel- this needs multiple ones.
I like the concept of a "hidden" shower. It seems a bit wasteful to have what seems like a comparatively large space devoted to such a fleeting task, like a shower. A lot of vanlife manufacturers are installing hidden shower trays in the entrance bay to get some use out of that, also underused space. I would also like to see a bed lift mechanism, which seems much easier and less monotonous than having to convert the couch to a bed and back again everyday. I would love to have a larger solar array powering the main battery, as for sure solar tech is also improving and becoming more efficient everyday. It would be great to know that the battery is charging, even a little bit, while idle. Indeed Sono motor seem to be leading the way here. Battery degradation is another main point for the EV community, and a good battery management system that aims to increase the longevity of the battery is a must.
Recommend: 1) window in bathroom that opens 2) ford transit charge location needs to be moved to either front or rear so u can exit driver door if charging at a pull in charging site. Love the front sofa/bed and open aisle so u can also transport items when not using as a camper (like plyboard, mattress, drywall, etc.). One thing I would love to see in a RV is a place to put a large suitcase for non full timers. As a RV owner, the worse part of RV’g is loading and unloading RV. It would be so much easier to pack a suitcase and make one trip for clothes/toiletries. Would definitely purchase an ERV.
crystal, consider duffel bags instead of a suitcase -- they pack flat into a drawer or floor of the closet and don't take up large amounts of committed room.
So awesome 👏 I have waited years for an all electric B class van to hit the scene. There is work to be done here, specifically the distance and the use of solar panels… or more of them. But there is something here and I am excited for what’s to come. Thank you for sharing. It would be nice to see an introduction of a portable battery pack that can be used to power up the system or add power when boondocking.
This is one of the most interesting builds I have seen. Looking at the battery setup and the overall focus of the vehicle being a balance of driving and camping. This van has this balance designed in by prioritizing power efficiency with the AC and other accessories. Truly amazing.
Great concept! Have you thought of building in a 30/50 amp connected that most RV parks have that would feed an onboard charger for the lithium batteries and the 12vdc system? Or, have the lithium drive batteries also power the 12vdc systems. Also, build up the solar panels to 800-900 watts of capacity and have them charge everything electric on board.
The two biggest things that I see, I would want improvement on is range, that it may be offered modular and then people that want more range could add more batteries and secondly how long it takes to charge to get it as short as possible
Sam , with the utmost respect, I ask you to think about this. In regards to your "daily commuter", I understand your concern for quick charging! But if you are recreational camping/traveling, is your mindset really going to be, "OH MY GOD, 50 minutes at this damn charger! We Are screwed???
@@Gordzillion But then again, 45 minutes charging every 1.5 hours is somewhat unreasonable, especially when solar panels could easily be added to extend range significantly.
I had a 2019 400amh lithium van and loved it. To have a complete electric rv with big solar panels on the roof so we could travel for free is the dream. The biggest thing I dont like in this van is the AC on the roof, stick it under the van and use the space for big solar panels.
@@linusa2996 I like to see no AC on the roof, under mount the AC is better and more energy efficient. Even venting can be done on the side walls, so all you have on the roof is solar and low air drag.
@@linusa2996 From what I understand, undermount is more expensive is the reason we see them on the roof. car and passenger vans and busses all use under mount.
@@carlpilon9563 Cars mount the heat exchanger in front because that's where the air is, not underneath, It's where the radiator is. the compressor is in the engine being driven by the crankshaft. Buses mount them on the side because the passengers are the priority and they stuff it where there is space.
Personally, I would like a floorplan similar to the wonder non slide murphy bed with a 300 mile range. That would be in a perfect world but a 2 to a 250 mile range would work with charging stations along the way.
This is so cool. We thought we would get a Cybertruck and tow a trailer but if this makes it into production it'll be much better. Thanks for sharing, Kim!
I am guessing the cyber truck will have better range and you can disconnect the trailer for the extra range when you need it. If I had the $$$. I would probably go with a pickup truck setup … at least until the range can make it through the more rural parts of the USA.
I was excited until the range part. As many know, with any type of inclement weather, headwind, etc. that range is going to drop below 100 miles very quickly. I believe their website states an 86kWh battery pack, that's much too small for something like that. It's going to have to be 150kWh minimum. Because this is a new segment for EVs, it would be much better that they started with the premium segment and let the technology trickle down over the next 5-10 years, than it is trying to go with a 120 miles of range battery pack that will ultimately annoy and frustrate buyers, I think.
@@msd835 There isn't a hybrid or pihb available to turn into an RV. It's one thing to completely change over to electric, people have been doing that in their garages since the 1980s... But building a hybrid system is really on possible by a major manufacturer. It's waaaay beyond what Winnebago is capable of. Hell, some of the major auto companies basically skipped hybrids and went strait to electric.
@@herranton You are right, adding additional electrics are simpler. Now that think about EV vans, I could see why ford go with the idea, cause it was simply designed only for city delivery, and EV vans are perfect for that purpose. In EU the transit custom already got a PHEV version that seems to be a good camper platform despite its smaller size and seemingly weak acceleration(not sure if true though). Hopefully ford will upgrade a beefier version PHEV system on full-size transit in the future.
Very cool! I saw this at the Tampa show in January and talked to the guys for a while. They wouldn't even let anyone inside, so it's great that you got to drive it and everything. I've been waiting for fully electric RV's for a few years now, so I'm excited to see where they go from here. Without an ICE to turn on to recharge batteries, or a generator to power things without draining batteries, I feel like it would need a lot more solar to reduce the drain on and/or recharge the main power cells.
Electric RVs can’t get here soon enough! It’s gotta be a ground up build, not built on a gas platform (no hood needed, it’s a waste of space), skateboard battery pack, entire roof of integrated solar, flexible solar awning, 500 mile range. Not impossible… and once that is figured out, you’ll own the market. You need to be as visionary as Tesla.
I've always thought about owning a motorhome, but living in a fuel vehicle is totally against the idea. An electric vehicle is the future that everyone needs for the motorhome! Cheers !
It’s hard to tell from the limited info available here if this is already on Winnebago’s radar, but I think in order for this to be compelling, solar needs to be implemented *more* effectively than it is currently on ICE van life conversions. As is, it seems more an afterthought.
I love the idea of an all electric RV. I think Winnebago is leading the way. If they can incorporate solar recharging of the batteries into the picture this will be a HUGE WIN for the entire industry! I say "Job well done!"
I'm sure Winnebago won't listen to these suggestions, but what a truly amazing RV/VAN life experience it would be, If there was at least 700 watts of solar even up to a 1000 watts, for range addition. They need a bare minimum of two panels. They need a lithium ion 12 volt battery ( lead or AGM, weak spot). It would certainly be nice to see a skateboard design and waterproofing and road debris proofing the lithium-ion batteries underneath. Heck, who says it's gotta be in van form? As usual, awesome video, thank you !! 💛
I love the idea of an eRV! I like that it is based on a Ford Transit. However I am not fond of the floor plan. I would like to see more windows - 360 visibility. Cold weather usability is a must in MN.
I will say that maybe a deck with a ladder on the side of the roof to have room in the back of the van to sit on outside or some racks for skis, snowboards, or surfing. Some storage for wet suits and boots for them as well. Just a thought
I would want a more aerodynamic surface, so getting the AC off the roof and thinking about getting rid of the side mirrors would help range a lot. I would use every inch of roof for solar to gain range while boondocking. If the rig has a 200 mile range, I would want to be able to stay out until I run out of water and then have gained range to get back. Even if it's a few miles per day. I don't want to convert a bed and I want to store my toys (recumbent trike) under the bed, so I want the bed in the back up high. European vans are really good at having garage space inside and out of sight. Then next I don't think I need a folding sink, or any sink in the bathroom when there is a sink literally right outside the door. I would prefer to save weight and expense and I like having more space in the shower without the sink there. Folding is better than fixed, but no sink is better still. I really like the Laguna type tables that can me moved around or removed. I liked being able to change the space in my sailboat by folding the table out of the way. It's a great use of the front seats to spin them around and have a table to the side, or in the middle. I don't know if there is more or less weight with a class B van, or a cutaway with composite walls, but I would go with the most lightweight option. Right now my favorite would be an electric Wingamm 540 even if it meant I would need a fort knox bike rack, but in the B class, I just saw a Chausson 599 van that would tick the boxes if it was an EV. Because the prices in the US are so much more than identical unit in Europe, I will probably stick with towing my electric motor enhanced trailer behind my Cybertruck/Lightning/SilveradoEV in the US. But if Winnebago builds it, I will probably throw a reservation at it because none of my reservations for the previous three trucks has resulted in anything in my driveway yet.
@@linusa2996 side mirrors are currently required in the US, but are no longer required in Europe. They may not be required in the US for much longer. The cameras in my Tesla are 7 years old and still working. So is everything else for that matter
@@kenmcclow8963 7 years is a fraction of the lifespan of an RV, I see 20-40 year old RV's still being bought and sold. And if the old Tesla Roadster is any sign of what happens to old Tesla's your in for a long and painful ownership experience.
Another great option would be to provide StarLink support with high bandwidth Internet capabilities nationwide and even beyond that to Worldwide scope when SpaceX commercializes their mobile terminal capability. That full Internet support with integrated extended range WiFi capability would be a great user feature and a real marketing plus.
The bed conversion is just brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. The shower, sink, toilet is awesome. I want a big solar array that can transform and spread out when the vehicle is resting and fold back when it is moving. The vehicle is almost perfect as a tiny house and a bug out option into secluded places. As I've said, the van needs a large solar array that can slowly charge the battery pack when the car is resting and for it to fold back when moving.
for all the van builds i have seen, a plat form bed in the back is a better way to go then a bed you would have to make every morning and night. that way you can also have a "garage" under the bed to have more dirty items you wouldn't want in the living space, only assessable when the back doors is open so if anything is still wet it wont run into the living space.
A great draw to van life, and various channels I have watched that do it is the customization. Being able to make your living space suit your lifestyle. I think an e-RV would benefit from being more modular. Having a simple blank slate using tracks that can accommodate various cabinets or seating to a bedframe itself, or cooking area. Put out a blank slate vehicle with baseline things already incorporated like flooring, wall, ceiling dressings and conduit channels for electrical and let people 'design' there own space by purchasing units that go inside. This could also reduce the upfront cost of the vehicle and make it a solid choice for starting out, being able to 'build' on it as you use it. A major thing is also integrating the solar panels into the main battery for the vehicle to improve the range and viability of long excursions away from shore power and conventional charging methods.
Great Concept! I would love to see the finished production model and pricing. This is the eco-van life of the future and I agree with you Kim I can see families getting out on the open road with the convenience of an EV RV. P.s. love that its a Winnie as we own a Winnebago RV😬
Great video Kim and great first look! Definitely improved range is one and more solar charging flexibility in case you do want to use some solar to improve range (such as camping in the desert), but love the concept. Exciting times ahead for your future van life travels :D
Solar will not improve range, solar does not produce enough electricity to make a difference in an EV battery, now if they had a 12 volt system for hotel load, that would work while freeing the EV batteries to be solely for travel this increasing range a bit.
Would LOVE a handicap friendly version !!! This would be just fantastic if interior hand rails or a wheel chair ramp access could be integrated !! THANK YOU
Love the Ford chassis. I think an effective range to aim for should be about 450 to 500 Miles. Beimg able to charge the drive batteries with solar would be a great improvement.
Great review Kim it really shows how EVS can be very good for RVS. A few main points is range to the battery capacity is way too low. Like that watt hour per mile will be super high meaning the cost to charge will be significant. Why no whole solar roof like so much space I get why to power 12v battery, but solar could really charge the hv battery. Making the whole body more aerodynamic and add some more futuristic UI that can be updated by OTA. Overall a cool concept, but when not plugged in and idle you will eat into a lot of your range.
Here are some comments. Would like 300+ mile range. My model Y gets 320 on 85kw pack I believe. Truma came out with efficient 12 volt? Roof A/C unit which might be appropriate. Please make the outside water / sewer bay and hook up easy for folks that don’t or can’t get on their knees to hook up the sewer hose. Perhaps keep sewer hose hooked up and have swivel to swivel collapsed hose out to easy access for hook up to ground drain. Make it easy peasy as they say. While the charging graphics are kind of fun. Keep it simple…like Tesla…how long to charge at what charge rate (kw/mile)..good luck and look forward to more ev RV’s!
Got to see it at Tampa RV Show. I like the light strip on the floor that changes based off of Charging Status. Needs a bigger tablet, and easier way to pass through back of bed is completely open. But The AirStream version really blew me away, they got some catching up to do. Love seeing these, especially since I’ve already been Living IN an EV for over 4 Years now. #TeslaVanLife 😀
There are no plans for a separate version of a Cybertruck "skate board" : the whole concept involves the body as part of the structure of the vehicle. The best it can offer is an overlander type of camper, that is in the plans, nothing else.
4:55 120 miles is a shopping trip, it's not a camping trip! Destination charging is not guaranteed to be either available or full-power. This is a small van, you are most likely to be going on short-duration trips so do you really want to spend half your weekend at _en route_ chargers or do you want to get where you're going & spend your time there?
Cool...I used to work @F in design. Just add a "Range Extending" generator/battery trailer to tow behind it that would provide enough power for at least driving further. (If you use CoGen Tech on that trailer, would be icing on the cake! elec and heat)
I know everyone dream of the E-RV is the mileage range. Hope in the near future they can make it to around 350 to 400 miles range. I can't wait to own one.
Yay, something for me in the future, when there is longer range and there are more chargers over here in Australia. Naturally it will need to have a 240V system, not 110V though. I'll be looking for one with two single beds though, so that I can take a friend with me. I love the concept of utilising charging on the go time for meals, resting, etc..
I was hoping an E RV would come on the scene, This is definitely the one to get! Suggestions: a 2 door fridge because I store spaghetti and homemade chicken soup to bring along with me. Also, it has to sleep 4, a cab over for the grandkids PLEASE! Cost Please! ..And what is the length? 👍♥️👏
Need to cover the roof in solar panels. It wouldn't recharge the batteries but it could help a lot. I have 1,200 watts of solar panels on my roof and 900 amps of lithium batteries for house batteries in my van. Nice looking van and she did a good job with the tour. Definitely a thumbs up 👍
I RV, and use a wheelchair. You should do the Wheelchair accessible floorplan in the E-RV. One of my main problems on trips is when I need gas. I can use my electric lift to enter and exit the RV but it is very difficult to access the fuel filler and the Pump to pay. My Sprinter fills on the drivers side so to reach the pump the island prevents me from wheeling my chair next to the pump and full up. Electric Chargers tend to access from the front (very easy for me to use)
Fantastic concept, but fix the solar panels! Solar should add range to main battery, ideally should provide enough to sustain cabin electronics indefinitely in good sun.
OK Winnebago good start. Things I would like to see. , remove Air con. unit from roof maybe install a mini split unit. More solar pannels to roof. Install the largest battery you can minimum 200 Kwh. Floor plan must have back (rear) bedroom, mid wet bathroom, combine kitchenet and bench seating and swivel capitain chairs.
I would completely cover the top of the RV with solar, and a awning option would have solar capabilities as well…maybe even a stowaway wind turbine for after hours change? Tesla Semi RV conversion would be freaking epic though…
The electric Mini Cooper has a heat pump instead of a heater and air conditioner. I think this would be great for an electric RV, removing the overhead bump from an AC and making room for more solar panels. Smaller RVs have 12 volt refrigerators with freezers, almost house sized. This would be great for extended trips. And there are even fridges with a bottom freezer drawer. And I would rather have a small drawer type dishwasher than a wine cooler. Jon in rural BC, Canada
Ok Everyone agrees. RANGE is the problem. I've got some suggertions. Put that monster A/C unit where the Engine used to be and cover topside with solar. The two back doors look like a perfect place to put an unpackable solar array that could power a home and the main batteries. thanks for the video
I hope you get 500 miles to a charge. There are long stretches of deserts in Texas between El Paso and Fort Stockton Texas we must get the range necessary to go through the desert 🌵We travel across country to go to Friends and family. So Range is vital.
Diesel hybrid, regeneration braking and suspension, 300w solar panel roof, thermal generator for water heating, wind turbine in the back to take advantage of drag while driving and then flick of a switch elevates above the vehicle when parked in the outdoor
Wow! This is pretty amazing! Been waiting for an EV Camper Van for a while now! Solar Roof is next. 2 Batteries is the key to charging while driving.👍👍👏
absolutely have tesla model 3 which I camp in have been seriously looking at a conversion using a ford 3/4 ton van with a tesla model s 100 internals underneath so keep going winnebago you are on the right path.
I love the concept and ease of use. Range is a huge deal and has to be increased if your market is going to work. I would get out of 12v and move to 24v which is way better for electrics use. Keep it up your headed the right direction.
NIce ! Love it ! not only are we going to deal with lines at the pump out, we need to deal with lines on the charging stations, except it will take 9 hours to wait :D , I'll bring a ICE Generator to extend my range :D
This prototype has a 67 usable kWh battery probably getting a maximum of 1.5 miles/kWh which gives you a range of a about 100 miles. Using appliances, A/C, heater, uses power reduces range. A 300 kWh battery would be the minimum power for an acceptable RV road trip. Fast chargers are available only in urban areas and are rare today and would take 2-3 days at a campground.
Cool. I will probably get an electric truck and tow a travel trailer because the living space will be bigger and cheaper. Plus this van is just a concept and will come out later.
Also integrating the Solaris the roof with the car would be excellent. Car running can power charge the battery and the solar on the roof charging the van.
Make sure to have a “Van Life” Version with an Elevated Bed in the back and room for Creative Storage for Bikes etc… Also a Fridge with a “Bottom Freezer” so we don’t have to get on our hands and knees to get a Tomato!…Coachmen Beyond D has one…. Consult with Van Building companies… This looks great gang!.. The Future is hear now!.. Oh yah.. Storage Storage Storage!
I love the concept, would not even mind the short range. Just one technical comment pls cover the cables at the battery its too exposed snow and dirt on the highway and I see trouble coming. Other than that amazing!
Very promising concept but like others have said - this thing needs at least 300 miles of range or I’m never taking it boondocking. Find a way to make it slippery - that huge AC is acting like a parachute for its drag coefficient. Ideally cover that roof in solar and have slide-out awnings with solar if possible so you can stay out boondocking for weeks. USB ports everywhere. Some 110V outlets. The power management system should be smart enough to shut down everything but vital systems when power gets too low. I am glad you went with induction because I do not want toxic fumes in my cabin. (and everyone is moving to induction anyway) Keep up the great work Winnebago ! Would love to buy one of these in a few years. But please the roof solar panels need to trickle power to the main batteries too.
Maximize the roof with solar panels, make an electric awning that has additional solar panels, make the battery at least 120kw, and use lighter materials throughout.
By far, the #1 feature this should have would be rooftop solar panels to significantly extend the range. I feel like one should be able to travel at least 500 kilometres without having to make a stop, if necessary. The current range being given would mean a stop every 1.5 hours or so.
We loved our Class C motorhome was a gas 350 V8. Miledge was terrible. Going up hills was like the little engine that could. Fueling was pretty easy. Propane refilling was tough. An EV would have been great for short trips. Long trips with this will be tough. But, going up hills will be a breeze. Hope the new eWinnies are a big success.
In a few years, I'm looking at becoming a Snowbird in Florida. I will only go electric and would require my EvRv to have at least 250 miles of range to make pit stops every 2 hours during my 6 months migration from Montreal to Florida. My hope is that, by that time, RV campgrounds will have at least a 220v hookup for a level 2 charger at each RV lot.
Great video! I am a bit surprised that all the major RV manufacturers don't seem to be even mentioning their electric prototypes including the winnebago site as far as I can tell.
Good Job Winnebago. My ideal EV RV: EKKO layout, black tank, induction stove, loads of solar panels on roof to charge EV battery, EV range of 200+ miles.
My dream is an electric Rv with 200-250 miles range, 1kw solar on roof with another 1kw that slides out and can tilt for awning that powers house and traction battery, a non roof mounted heat pump for heat/ac that also powers the fridge and with condensation fills a drinking water tank that would be filtered and Uv treated to kill bacteria, and a recycling grey water system in the shower. Basically the ultimate boon docker.
