You’ll immediately notice a few differences between Australia’s newest emerging solar-powered E-RV.
One of the first major differences that stands out is the removal of the gas bottles that are traditionally attached to the front of the A-frame.
No gas is required for the operation of the E-RV, which also means that the accompanying gas vents are removed as well.
The removal of the gas vents protects the interior from dirt and debris if you travel off-road.
The absence of the vents also allows for a more solid composite panel construction that greatly improves the vehicle’s insulation.
This makes it much easier to control and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
The entirety of the vehicle’s roof is covered with highly durable solar panels.
Because of this, the standard top-AC unit had to be moved beneath the bed. It sacrifices a small amount of storage space but cleans up the E-RV’s appearance.
The E-RV relies on some of the best solar panel technology available.
The panels can produce 2033 watts of energy that it supplies to an integrated 14.3kW/H battery.
Finally, the system uses a 5000-watt inverter to produce the AC electric current many devices and appliances require.
The entire electrical system is leaps and bounds ahead of anything else on the market today.
As a matter of fact, it has the potential to deliver more energy than a fully-stocked modern kitchen a traditional home might use.
You can safely use your favourite appliances such as air conditioners, heaters, lights, toaster and more, all simultaneously.
The E-RV has more going for it than just a sophisticated off-grid power system.
The battery itself is located in a channel that also features a complete off-road suspension system and high-quality off-road tyres from Micky Thomson.
On one end of the A-frame is a D035 coupling, a jerry can holder, and a dual-side toolbox.
On the outside, you’ll find many of the modern features you’ve come to expect from a high-end RV.
That includes a slide-out barbecue and picnic table, a lined tunnel, a swing, a shower, and an arrangement of outdoor lights.
All of these are of course powered by electricity, including the barbecue.
On the underside of the frame are two water tanks with a 110-litre capacity, a single tank with a 65-litre capacity, and a grey water tank with a 110-litre capacity.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted with a lounge area featuring a trifold table and upholstered seats.
The nearby kitchen features a grill, an oven, and a stove with an optional rangehood. There’s also a refrigerator with a capacity of 247 litres.
You also have the option to cover the sink if you need additional counter space.
On the front end is a single bed with a three-piece bedhead and spring mattress.
On the opposite end is an ensuite that includes the shower, washing machine, sink, and toilet.
All of these features sound great on paper and they actually work perfectly in real applications as well.
The E-RV was part of our massive test trip that led to South Australia starting from the Kimberly.
The trip lasted for more than 176 days and the caravan travelled for more than 20,000km.
At no point in this trip did we need to stop and plug the caravan into an external power source.
There was even a point during the trip when three additional caravans were plugged into the E-RV to use its electrical power.
The biggest advantage of this new system is the obvious energy efficiency that was missing in previous attempts.
This energy efficiency comes not only from the solar panel and battery but also the construction of the RV and the thermal rating of the materials used.
Currently, the E-RV is on a limited production run.
There will be a total of five models produced that are between 5.6 m on the short end to 6.8m on the high end.
For now, you can view the current model on display at the famous Luxury RV Exhibit at McCallum Park.
This is part of the overall 4WD and Adventure Show and the E-RV will be a part of exhibit 58.
E-RV Information:
Price Range: $109,000 for the smallest model. Price increases with size.
Frame Construction: Composite
Off-Road Suitability: Yes
Warranty Duration: 5 Years
Weight: Unknown. The developers are currently making improvements to reduce the vehicle’s weight.
Dealer: Luxury Rvs at 4-6 Pickard Avenue in Rockingham