Truck campers are the most versatile type of RV on the market due to their ability to go anywhere the pickup truck can go, camp anywhere, and tow whatever you need for your adventures. But while owners of gasoline and diesel-powered pickups are spoiled for choice when it comes to slide-in campers, we can't say the same about electric truck owners.
Electric pickup trucks from Ford, Rivian, and Tesla are increasing their presence on the nation's streets and highways, so these emission-free vehicles are poised to shape the future of RV travel. But because most traditional slide-in campers are quite heavy and not exactly aerodynamic, they are not ideal for electric trucks. US-based Camp365 aims to address the lack of camping solutions for EV owners by developing a lightweight, expandable cabin camper specifically designed for electric pickup trucks.
Called Camp365 T Model "Truck Bed," this camping solution is still in development and is meant to make camping easy and accessible to anyone, regardless of where your adventures take you. From regular campsites to sandy beaches to unpaved roads, the new model aims to open up the possibilities of where you can drive, camp, and explore.
The all-new Model T pickup camper boasts a lightweight, collapsible design that would fit perfectly in the truck bed of an electric truck and would transform it into a true lifestyle vehicle. The camper will ride fairly low and narrow, while an aero deflector at the front improves aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Once at the campsite, Camp365 expands into a spacious micro-cabin with modern amenities that sleeps up to five people.
Photo: Camp365
Judging by the animations and renderings released by the company, the new T Model retains the same prism-like shape of the regular pull-behind Camp365 camper released in 2018, hardly giving away its purpose and functionality. The manufacturer says the lightweight, aerodynamic design and "streamlined form" minimize air drag to conserve energy and ensure maximum vehicle range.
Despite its compact form factor, the T Model pod transforms into a complete family-friendly mobile habitat perfect for weekend or even week-long off-grid getaways. It includes a workstation, sleeping for four or five individuals, bathroom amenities, and an indoor/outdoor kitchen.
The 4-foot (1.2-m) wide camping solution will fit most half-ton pickups, including the Rivian R1, Tesla Cybertruck, or Ford Lightning. Its length, however, exceeds the average pickup bed (it measures 7.3 feet or 2.2 meters in length), so it will require the open tailgate to support its rear.
It will weigh between 700 to 800 pounds (318 and 363 kg) based on selected options and will offer 63 square feet (5.85 square meters) of interior space, with 6’8” headroom.
How does the prism-like structure transform into a spacious base camp for the entire family? The sides of the box fold out and become the floor of the camper. Then, the hard front and rear walls fold up into place, allowing the fabric sidewalls and the roof to do the same. Stabilizer poles secure everything into place. And the best part is that the whole process only takes about 10 to 15 minutes and can be done by a single person.
Photo: Camp365
The camper is made for all-season use, with a patented dual-layer air gap insulation. The manufacturer does not mention on the product page the type of materials used in its construction, but we assume the pod will come with the same weather-proof aluminum shell and Aqualon walls instead of regular canvas. Large screened windows will keep the interior well-lit and ensure cross ventilation.
Inside the spacious folding cabin, the designers offer a modular floor plan so owners can adapt the layout to their needs. The possible configurations include a queen-size bed, a twin, and a pair of single bunk beds, or a combination of these. As such, four adults or two adults and three children can sleep comfortably inside the T Model.
Options like a folding table/workstation and chair will allow owners to use the pod as a mobile office as well, while a slide-out dual-induction cooker that can be used either inside or outside will take care of your cooking needs.
Just like any other modern camper, it is accoutered with a plethora of amenities, including a 24-gallon (90-liter) freshwater tank, an electric heater, and an air conditioner, all powered by solar panels. A hot water shower, a portable toilet, and a stowable sink make up the bathroom amenities.
Photo: Camp365
For the owners' storage needs, there are underfloor cubbies and hanging soft shelves that don't take up any floor space. Finally, the Camp 365 T Model will also feature exterior awnings and hammocks, as well as compatible toy racks that will allow you to carry your outdoor gear. The company says it can hold two e-bikes, four regular bicycles, two kayaks, or two paddleboards.
Another highlight of this camper is its ability to connect to the world wide web even in the most remote areas thanks to Starlink Satellite internet service.
When the vacation is over, the T Model easily detaches from your electric pickup truck and can be stored in a corner of your garage until you're ready to hit the road again.
The Camp365 T Model "Truck Bed" will only enter production in summer 2024, but it is already available for preorder with a fully refundable $100 deposit. Pricing is expected to start at US$25,000. Equipped with everything you need for weekend or week-long getaways, the T Model pod shapes up to be a complete camping solution to support any outdoor enthusiast's mobile lifestyle.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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