Electric luxury campervan, eco-friendly innovation
In a world that increasingly demands both innovation and sustainability, it's no surprise that the van life movement has taken a brilliant, electric turn. Say hello to the Vanacea, a collaborative brainchild of Maxwell Vehicles, a cutting-edge Los Angeles-based electric vehicle maker, and Rossmönster, an esteemed RV and overland vehicle builder from Longmont, Colorado.
At a glance, the Vanacea might appear to be just another player in the campervan market. But delve a little deeper, and its distinct charm shines through. Born from a RAM ProMaster, this fully electrified home on wheels offers a blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking technology. In essence, it harks back to a simpler era of off-grid living while embracing the conveniences of the modern age.
Upon its dazzling debut at the Adventure Van Expo in Big Bear, California, it was evident that the Vanacea isn't just a vehicle; it's a statement on sustainable living. It promises an electric driving range of 150 miles, which, for the truly ambitious traveler, can be bumped up to a whopping 250 miles with a dual-battery option set for release in 2024. But it doesn't stop there. One of its standout features is the robust electrical setup, allowing it to double as a backup power source for homes during electrical outages. With power outages becoming a notable concern, especially in the U.S., the Vanacea’s role as a backup for our aging infrastructure seems almost prophetic.
Inside, the vehicle feels like a luxury retreat. The partnership with Rossmönster ensures that the interiors are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Owing to the clever integration of its electrical systems, the van offers more space and payload capacity. You can cook on an induction cooktop, enjoy instant hot water, and benefit from an impressive 9,000-BTU heat pump — all of which is powered by a hefty 80kWh traction battery. Moreover, the solar panels perched on its roof provide up to 1,560 W of solar capacity. This means that whether you're driving, camping, or just parked under the sun, the Vanacea is always charging up.
Driving this vehicle isn't just about mobility; it's about experiencing a revolution. With the option to fast charge in just 30 minutes, spontaneous adventurers can get back on the road with minimal delay. And for those eagerly waiting for further enhancements, there's good news. By 2025, Maxwell Vehicles plans to introduce a retrofitting option, allowing users to plug into the Tesla Supercharger network.
The price tag? A fully converted Vanacea will set you back about $180,000. But for those who view this as not just a vehicle but an investment in sustainable living and traveling, it's a worthy expenditure.
If you're keen to get a firsthand experience before committing, GoCamp, a campervan and RV rental company, offers rentals and test drives of this marvel. On the whole, the Vanacea is more than just a van; it’s a testament to human ingenuity, a nod to sustainable choices, and above all, a call to explore the world responsibly. And while it might be a hefty investment for some, for those who value both luxury and the environment, it’s a journey worth embarking on.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly: As a fully electric campervan, the Vanacea offers a sustainable and environmentally-friendly option for travelers.
- Backup Power Source: The robust electrical setup allows it to function as a backup power source for homes during electrical outages.
- Extended Driving Range: With an electric range of 150 miles, which can be extended to 250 miles with the dual-battery option, it provides decent travel distance for adventurers.
- Fast Charging: The Vanacea can be recharged in just 30 minutes using CCS DC fast charging.
- Solar Power Integration: The inclusion of rooftop solar panels with up to 1,560 W capacity ensures continuous charging, be it while driving, camping, or parking.
- Space Efficiency: The innovative electrical system design eliminates the need for separate battery systems, thus offering more interior space and payload capacity.
- Luxury and Comfort: With Rossmönster handling the interiors, users can expect a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
- Future-Ready: Plans for enhancements like dual-battery options and compatibility with the Tesla Supercharger network show a commitment to future developments.
- Integrated Amenities: The inclusion of features like an induction cooktop, instant hot water, and a 9,000-BTU heat pump adds to the comfort and convenience of the vehicle.
Cons:
- Price Point: At $180,000 for a fully converted vehicle, it might be out of reach for many potential buyers.
- Limited Electric Range: While 150 miles might suffice for some trips, it could be limiting for longer journeys, requiring travelers to plan their trips around charging points.
- Infrastructure Dependency: The utility of the Vanacea heavily depends on the availability of charging infrastructure, especially in remote locations.
- Size and Maneuverability: As with most campervans, navigating through tight spaces or urban environments might be a challenge.
- Resale Value Uncertainty: As the electric campervan market is relatively new, the resale value and market demand in the future remain uncertain.
$180,000
