Airstream hints at all-electric future

Another iconic RV brand is embracing the vison of an all-electric future for RV tourers.

Joining fellow American household name Winnebago, Airstream displayed two electric RV concepts at the 2022 Florida RV SuperShow: the eStream Travel Trailer Concept and Thor Vision Vehicle Concept motorhome (in reference to Airstream's parent company Thor Industries).

Described as "the future of electrified travel adventure,"  the eStream Travel Trailer Concept is bursting with high-tech features under its traditional retro-style polished aluminium exterior.

These include Thor's latest high-voltage, full electric drivetrain that was co-developed with ZF and powers the caravan’s wheels to provide assistance when towing, not to mention improved fuel economy.

Two lithium-ion battery packs (mounted low down in the chassis like the Australian-designed OzXCorp set-up) deliver a combined capacity of 80kWh and power the single motor on each wheel, and producing 242 horsepower (180kW) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque in total.

"The Airstream eStream Concept is built on Thor’s exclusive high-voltage electric chassis, featuring a battery-powered electric drivetrain that boosts fuel economy and digital technology that enhances the user experience," it says on the Thor Industries website.

The eStream Travel Trailer Concept also has an in-built caravan mover so it can be moved via remote control when not hitched to the tow vehicle. The whole system can also be monitored remotely via an app on a smart phone or tablet, or the dash-mounted touchscreen.

"Our digital tools let you see how many miles before your next charge and allow you to find charging stations from your phone," Thor says.

There's also 900 watts’ worth of solar panels on the roof to keep everything running for a few days of off-grid camping.

Thor says the level of digital connectivity also allows for remote monitoring of the van's systems, as well as instant online diagnostics when an issue arises.

Off-grid motorhome of the future

The American RV giants says the Vision Vehicle Concept motorhome is "built on Thor’s exclusive motorized platform (and) powered by a high-voltage battery pack and an integrated fuel cell".

The high-capacity powerpack offers a "best in class 300 mile (483km) range," according to Thor, while the "integrated digital cockpit experience" and "best in class design" combine to deliver "the world’s most capable recreational vehicle".

The Vision Vehicle Concept motorhome boasts similar digital connectivity and smart home technology features including interactive trip planning as the Airstream eStream Concept.

"With its innovative power system and enhanced solar capability, extended off-grid camping will get a whole lot easier," Thor says.