Winnebago launches all-electric platform

Iconic American motorhome manufacturer Winnebago has taken its first steps towards a 'green' future, with the launch of an all-electric/zero-emission commercial vehicle platform through its Specialty Vehicles Division.

Winnebago, which has a licencing agreement with Brisbane-based Apollo Motorhomes to sell Winnebago-branded RVs in Australia, has teamed up with American electric truck chassis specialist Motiv Power Systems to develop the new platform, aimed initially at commercial operators.

The zero-emission commercial vehicle is based on a Class A RV platform utilizing Motiv’s Ford F53 based EPIC all-electric chassis and will be available in 33-foot and 38-foot lengths with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) up to 26,000 pounds (11,793kg).

While the platform is designed to accommodate air-conditioners, generators, solar panels, inverters, power back-up systems, leveling systems, slide-outs, toilets and showers, it’s limited range at the moment makes it more practical to short-haul operators like mobile blood banks rather than RV travellers heading well off the beaten track.

Testing has shown that the platform's six to eight batteries deliver a range of just 85 miles (137km) to 125 miles (202km) on a full charge.

However, it’s clear as one of the world’s largest producer of motorhomes, Winnebago has intentions to produce a longer-range platform better suited to RV travel.

“Winnebago Industries is a company that is focused on creating customer value through innovation and technology,” said Winnebago Vice President, Strategic Planning and Development, Ashis Bhattacharya,. “We have a rich history of product and feature innovation, and we are continuously evaluating new and emerging technologies to further that legacy.

“We believe that all-electric vehicle applications continue to evolve to serve numerous end-user needs and this is our first step as a participant in this space.”

The all-electric Winnebago follows other battery-power developments in the RV world recently, from the proposed roll-out of an electric campervan rental fleet in New Zealand to solar-powered concept vehicles from leading German RV players.