Modular, Electric, Spacious, Innovative, Eco-friendly
Sometimes, the romance of the open road calls to you in a way that's hard to explain. It's that deep yearning to explore, to wander, and to experience the world around you in a more intimate way. And now, it seems, the future has delivered a vehicle to make that romance even sweeter.
Electric camper vans are not just a concept anymore; they're a reality. Grounded, the Detroit startup that previously gave us the Ford E-Transit-based G1, which had its charms but could only muster a range of 108 miles, has now stepped up their game. Enter the G2, built on the Zevo 600 electric step van, a product of GM's spinoff, BrightDrop. This isn't just an upgrade in terms of range – promising a respectable 250 miles – but it also boasts a modular living area as expansive as a small apartment.
What makes this camper van particularly intriguing is its aesthetic appeal. Electric vans, including the G2, are reminiscent of the iconic camper vans of the 60s and 70s, but with a futuristic twist. The BrightDrop Zevo series, for instance, does away with the conventional engine hood, resulting in a striking cab-forward design that's both sleek and spacious. The Zevo 600 stretches an impressive 290 inches in length and offers a generous 6.8 ft of headroom inside. And with a floor space of 615 sq ft, it's no exaggeration to say it's comparable to a one-bedroom apartment.
But what truly sets the G2 apart is its adaptability. Grounded envisions not just a camper van, but an entire modular ecosystem. Think of it like a blank canvas, where tie-down tracks run along the cabin's walls, floor, and ceiling, allowing owners to personalize their space according to their unique needs. Whether you're a solo traveler wanting a spacious bed or a family of seven needing ample seating, the G2 can be molded to fit. And the flexibility doesn't end there. Over the years, as your needs evolve, so can your G2's interior. Swap out old modules for new ones, or rearrange existing layouts for a fresh look. Even when your Zevo 600 reaches the end of its road, you could transplant these modules into a new vehicle, provided they've withstood the test of time and travel.
The G2 is also thoughtfully designed with the environmentally conscious traveler in mind. The furniture, crafted from KoskiDecor Eco Transparent – a kind of decorative Baltic birch plywood with a translucent melamine finish – is as eco-friendly as it is stylish. Grounded further ups the ante by incorporating a smart home control system that links all onboard electronics to an app-based interface. And for those who can't resist staying connected, even in the great outdoors, there's Starlink satellite internet on board.
One might wonder about the essentials, like cooking and sanitation. The G2 has got you covered, with an electric kitchen block that features an induction cooktop. Although the sample floor plan doesn't hint at a bathroom, an outdoor shower is included, with plans for a wet bathroom and water heating in the pipeline.
All of these advancements and features come with a price tag, of course. The G2 starts at $187,500 after federal tax credits, with deliveries set to begin by the end of 2023.
In essence, the G2 isn't just another camper van. It's a testament to how far we've come in terms of technology, design, and sustainable living. It's a nod to the future, yet deeply rooted in the timeless allure of the open road. Whether you're an adventurer at heart or someone seeking a life less ordinary, the G2 might just be the vehicle of your dreams. Safe travels.
Pros:
- Extended Range: With up to 250 miles on a single charge, it offers a significant improvement from its predecessor, ensuring longer travels with fewer stops for charging.
- Spacious Design: The G2 offers a generous 615 sq ft of floor space, akin to a one-bedroom apartment, making it comfortable for longer stays.
- Modular Interior: The G2's interior is adaptable with a modular system that allows owners to customize layouts based on their preferences and needs, and even rearrange or swap out modules as their requirements change over time.
- Futuristic Aesthetic: The design resembles the iconic camper vans from the 60s and 70s but with a modern twist, making it both a nostalgic and forward-looking vehicle.
- Eco-Friendly Construction: Furniture made from KoskiDecor Eco Transparent is both stylish and environmentally conscious.
- Smart Home Integration: Onboard electronics are integrated into an app-based control and monitoring system, offering ease of use and modern conveniences.
- Connectivity: The inclusion of Starlink satellite internet ensures travelers can stay connected even in remote locations.
- Economical in the Long Run: Despite its upfront cost, potential savings from reduced fuel expenses and federal tax credits can offset the initial investment over time.
Cons:
- High Initial Cost: With a starting price of $187,500 (after federal tax credits), the G2 may be out of reach for many potential buyers.
- Limited Bathroom Amenities: The sample floor plan does not prominently feature a bathroom, and while there are plans for a wet bathroom in the future, it's not a standard feature.
- Dependence on Charging Infrastructure: As with all electric vehicles, travelers are dependent on the availability of charging stations, especially in remote areas.
- Module Durability: While the idea of reusing modules in future vehicles is appealing, there's no guarantee these modules will withstand the wear and tear of extensive travel.
- Potential Learning Curve: The modular system, while versatile, might require some time for owners to become familiar with, especially when customizing or reconfiguring layouts.
- Weight Concerns: With all the amenities and modules added, there might be concerns regarding the overall weight and its impact on the vehicle's range and performance.
$187,500
