World-first hassle-free caravan unveiled

Another RV start-up has unveiled their futuristic version of the ultimate caravan, jam-packed with technology designed to take all the hassles out of caravanning.

The ground-breaking new, 25ft long Pebble Flow single axle all-electric caravan set to hit the roads in late-2024, will bring "an iPhone-like experience to RVing", according to the American 'dream team' behind its development.

Using a similar system to self-propelled off-grid vans being developed Down Under, the new Pebble Flow caravan will boast an "active propulsion assist system and renewable energy capacity to stay off-grid for up to seven days".

The California-based Pebble company said the sleek, off-grid RV will be the "most technically advanced travel trailer on the market" and has been developed by Apple, Tesla, Cruise, Zoox and Volvo veterans.

"The Pebble Flow embodies a new era in RVing - one that's sustainable and frictionless," Pebble Founder and CEO Bingrui Yang said. "We're embracing advancements in electrification and automotive technology to streamline the end-to-end experience... taking away all of the hassles of RVing to help more nature lovers achieve a freer, lighter, lifestyle.”

The all-new Pebble Flow van will have a maximum loaded weight of 6200lbs (around 2800kg), and come fitted with a big 45kWh LFP battery pack, which can be charged in multiple ways including regenerative charging while towing and from an integrated 1kW solar panel array.

Buyers will also be able to use the caravan's battery power to run household appliances when it's parked up in the driveway at home.

As well as its 'Dual-motor Active Propulsion Assist System', the Pebble Flow caravan will also boast 'Magic Hitch' and 'Remote Control' features that combined, will allow hands-free and automatic hitching of the caravan to the tow vehicle.

There will also be a one-touch 'Instacamp' feature that automatically deploys or retracts the awning, stairs, lights and auto-levellng stabilisers, with the whole system controlled by the Pebble smart phone app.

“So many people will never embark on an RV trip simply because they are intimidated by how to do it," Pebble's CTO Stefan Solyom said. "The combination of advanced modern EV features and the Pebble app makes RVing easier than ever, whether you’re a seasoned RVer or just starting out."

The Pebble Flow will also boast a very modern and user-friendly interior fit-out with up to four berths, including a Murphy bed that converts to a desk and work station in seconds.

For cooking there will be a removable induction cooktop, 4-in-1 convection microwave and a full-size fridge, with a flip-up service window to facilitate al fresco dining.

The smooth aerodynamic body shape will be dominated by wrap-around windows that allow for 270 degree outside views, and the Pebble van will also be 'plug-and-play' ready for Starlink.

The Pebble Flow is set to make its public debut at the LA Auto Show in November 2023, with pre-orders now available on the Pebble Flow website.

Pricing starts at US$109,000, with the Magic Pack edition including dual-motor drivetrain, and innovative Remote Control, Magic Hitch, and Easy Tow features, priced at US$125,000. First deliveries to US customers are expected in late-2024.