With the global electrification efforts and more electric vehicles on the market than ever before, vanlifers seem to also be interested in jumping on the EV bandwagon. While all-electric van manufacturers are mainly competing in the last-mile delivery industry, this new generation of vans has great potential to be used as a platform for electric camper vans as well.
Nissan is showcasing the potential of its all-electric Nissan Townstar EV station wagon as a camping rig at the ongoing 2023 Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Germany. The carmaker has outfitted the light commercial vehicle with a high-popping rooftop tent and a tailgate kitchen unit, turning it into a practical camper, ideal for weekend getaways and holiday breaks.
Those who follow the e-camper van market might remember Nissan's e-NV200, the world's first electric camper van. That model was retired in 2021 and replaced by the Townstar EV. Considering the popular e-NV200 van regularly topped the European sales charts while it was in production, the Nissan Townstar EV has quite the reputation to uphold.
This is the first time the emission-free vehicle has undergone a professional campervan conversion, but Nissan hasn't presented it as a full-fledged camper van product but rather as a preview of how the Townstar could be turned into a compelling e-mini-camper. Also, as a sneak peek into the future of sustainable family travel.
Photo: Nissan
Car camping is quite a popular way of enjoying outdoor experiences. It's not only affordable but also fun and easy, allowing adventurers to take the roads less traveled and visit beautiful distant locations. With the new Townstar mini-camper, outdoor enthusiasts can embark on such journeys in a stylish vehicle that is also well-appointed for the occasion.
Nissan has created a capable multi-day camper by equipping the Townstar EV with a Maggiolina Airlander Plus Black rooftop tent and Irmscher's i-BOX kitchen module.
The soft roof pops up high enough to create a comfortable sleeping space inside and allow adventurers to fully enjoy the car camping experience. It includes a 130 x 210 cm (51 x 83 inch) double bed surrounded by mesh windows that keep the bugs out but let the breeze in and an overhead light, transforming the space into a cozy haven within minutes.
Zippered weatherproofing ensures travelers are protected in all weather conditions, while the noise-reducing interior lining creates an effective sound barrier so you can sleep like a baby. The sleeping tent can be accessed via a folding telescopic aluminum ladder. An awning extends from the base of the roof-top tent to create a nice outdoor living space.
Photo: Nissan
The Irmscher i-BOX kitchen module was installed at the rear of the vehicle, creating a perfect outdoor cooking setup for those who want to unleash their culinary creativity during their camping adventures. It comprises a two-burner gas stove, a sink with water canister, and a small 14-liter cooler, so it provides enough functionality to meet your cooking needs on the go. There is also a small workplace, while the included storage compartments ensure you have enough space for kitchen utensils.
It's important to note that the Irmscher I-Box kitchen can be removed when you return from your trip so that you can continue to use the Townstar EV's load area for your hauling needs.
The Nissan Townstar EV small van with camping features rides on 18-inch wheels in the new Cross Design shod in all-weather tires. Though Nissan does not specify the size of the show vehicle, both the L1 (449 cm or 177 inches) and L2 (491 cm or 193 inches) lengths of the Townstar EV station wagon fall in the "mini-camper van" category.
Photo: Nissan
Nissan's vehicle is powered by an electric engine with a 90 kW (122 hp) output capable of producing 245 Nm of torque. The automaker does not reveal adjusted fuel economy figures for the camper conversion, but the stock version of the electric vehicle offers a class-leading range of 183 miles (295 km) thanks to a 45 kWh battery.
Talking about the battery, this is a versatile unit that offers both alternating current charging (at 11 or 22 kW) and direct current fast charging at up to 80 kW via the vehicle's CCS port. What does this mean for those choosing to embark on holiday breaks at the wheel of a Townstar EV? That charging the lithium-ion battery from 15 to 80 percent will only take 37 minutes, allowing you to continue your adventures in no time.
Offering a mix of practicality and eco-consciousness, the Nissan Townstar EV is a capable and appealing mini-camper, proving that the electric wagon station is a well-suited vehicle for traveling and exploring the outdoors in comfort.
This year's edition of the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon takes place between August 25 to September 3. The Townstar EV is not the only camping-ready vehicle on show, as Nissan has also brought the Primastar Seaside camper van, created in partnership with seasoned campervan converter Dethleffs, to the event.
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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