World-first petrol-hybrid caravan coming

An American start-up is planning to build the world’s first EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) caravan, or a 'van with an integrated petrol engine and lithium battery system.

Similar to other futuristic American off-grid caravans like the Lightship and Skydream, the new Evotrex model will boast a big off-grid battery system and 'tow assist' axle motors. But you'll also get an integrated petrol engine not dissimilar to a hybrid car's, that's capable of both recharging the battery at camp and acting as a range-extender when towing.

Evotrex says owners will be able to skip charging stops if towing the 'van with an EV tow vehicle, while excess heat generated by the system will also be used to keep the interior warm. It also says the in-built 'generator' will be whisper-quiet in operation.

The Californian start-up says it's received $16 million in investment funding, and is led by an experienced team with various backgrounds including past roles at automotive manufacturer Geely and charging specialist Anker.

"The capital will support the expansion of Evotrex’s engineering and product teams and advance commercialization of its first product: the world’s first power-generating RV trailer, which will be unveiled on January 6 at CES 2026 in Las Vegas," said Alex Xiao, CEO and founder of Evotrex.

“Evotrex exists to transform how people experience the outdoors. Our products are designed so adventurers don’t have to worry about electricity or range, no matter where their travels take them, even to the most remote locations."

Details are few on the Evotrex website, but the new 'van will be available for pre-order on January 6, 2026, when full specs and pricing should also be revealed.

Evotrex currently has around 40 employees located in China and the USA, with production to be based in China and first customer deliveries expected from around late-2026.