Airstream Unveils Its $77K Electric Trailer: Meet the Sun-Powered Future of Camping
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Airstream's inaugural fully electric travel trailer, the BaseCamp 20XE, provides an innovative form of off-the-grid exploration, and you can buy one right away. authorized dealerships .
Priced from $76,900, the Basecamp 20Xe, also referred to as simply "Xe," represents the electric variant of Airstream's lineup. Basecamp 20 The model costs $56,900. At 20 feet long, it provides sleeping quarters for up to four people, though this could be somewhat cramped. Instead of the Basecamp 20’s dual-gas burner setup, it features an induction cooktop.
Why spend $20,000 on the electric model? This option might offer greater energy autonomy, potentially enabling you to remain off the grid for extended periods. The caravan includes a 10 kWh lithium-ion battery charged through 600 watts of roof-mounted solar panels. In essence, it serves as a portable electrical generator capable of running devices such as air conditioners and microwaves, along with providing power to charge laptops or phones.
Airstream informs us that the Basecamp 20Xe now features a completely inverted power system, incorporating a high-capacity lithium-ion battery along with a converter, an inverter, a reliable solar power setup, and advanced energy management systems," they explain. "These rooftop solar panels are specially designed for Airstream with a sleek, low-profile layout optimized to perform effectively even when partially shaded.
The trailer’s battery isn’t able to charge via EV charging stations; rather, it needs to be plugged into regular outlets typically found at RV parks for charging.
Airstream states that the Basecamp 20Xe can be charged when connected to 30A shore power using a NEMA TT30-R receptacle capable of handling 110V AC at 30 amps," they add. "However, the Xe model does not support EV chargers or rapid charging methods.
The Xe includes a 20-pound propane tank as a backup option. Travelers have the flexibility to integrate this with solar energy to operate both the water heater and furnace, along with enjoying outdoor cooking.
The Basecamp Xe demonstrates that modern travelers seek the liberty to embark on any type of journey they envision," states Airstream President and CEO Bob Wheeler. "Self-sufficiency when it comes to power is essential for achieving this. By introducing an all-electric first recreational vehicle, we're setting new standards and providing Airstream owners with greater opportunities to enhance their traveling experiences.
This model is designed for challenging landscapes, featuring a 3-inch suspension lift, robust tires, and protective coatings to shield from vegetation like brushes and twigs. The interior includes amenities such as a compact dining area where you can have meals, facilities for hot water showers, and an available add-on composting toilet system. To enhance entertainment, Airstream has incorporated a trio of speakers from the JBL Audio line-up.
The Airstream BaseCamp 20XE will go up against two newly introduced electric camping trailers: Lightship and Pebble Flow. Lightship electric RV launches this summer with a pricetag of $250,000 for an exclusive edition. Later models will be available at a reduced price point of $125,000. The Pebble Flow arrives in spring, with prices beginning at $109,500.
Although both options come with a higher price tag compared to the Airstream, they feature more advanced battery systems that enable the trailers to move independently as the leading vehicle drags them along the road. The Airstream looked into this concept but decided against bringing it to market eventually.
"Airstream states that the Basecamp 20Xe is not capable of being self-powered through its propulsion system," they add. They had examined this capability within their eStream Concept Travel Trailer , and the firm will keep exploring and developing new functionalities driven by customer feedback with an emphasis on flexibility and self-sufficiency in terms of energy."
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