Electric Motorhomes Wave of the Future
An all-electric motorhome seems like a wonderful idea if you only wish to travel a 100 miles at a time. This hasn't stopped German camper manufacturer Dethleffs from venturing into the field.Their e.home concept camper incorporates a zero emissions powertrain along with exceptional solar charging capability into their Type C motorhome. Furthermore, smart and efficient technologies are sprinkled throughout this ultra cool ride.
The 107-hp electric motor plus battery options offer up to 174 miles on a single charge when coupled with non-camper trim. Adding extras such as furniture and smart technology appliances, not to mention fuel and water, brings the range down to around 100 miles. The battery is good for roughly 1,500 charges, which translates to approximately 150,000 miles on one battery.
Thin-film solar adorn the exterior of the motorhome and generate 3,000 watts of electricity to keep the battery charged. Super capacitors provide faster battery charging and discharging, which make for more efficient power usage.
Competitors, including Iveco, Nissan and Volkswagen, currently sell a wide variety of electric van campers with prices starting around $40,000. Electric motorhome designs are interesting, but they really need to find a way to extend driving ranges per battery charge before they become more mainstream. Automotive and solar safety standards will need to be adhered to in order to keep the budding industry safe for consumers.