By Jessica Palmer,
May 26, 2023
For those of you on the fence about whether an EV will actually cut it when it comes to 4WDing and camping, you might soon be able to try one out before committing. RedSands Campers and Roev have teamed up to develop Australia’s first fully electric 4WD camper. As experts in electric conversions, Roev will work closely with RedSands Campers, experts in the 4WD hire market, to customise a fit-for-purpose electrification solution for their 4WD campers.
RedSands Campers’ Managing Director, Adam Sands said this is an exciting milestone as it embarks on a strategy to decarbonise the business. “As personal EV ownership around the world accelerates, so will the desire for people to travel and holiday in a sustainable way, in iconic self-drive destinations such as Australia.”
“Our EV 4WD Campers will raise the bar for nature-based 4WD camping. Not only will they offer reduced running costs and reduced emissions, but they will also provide our clients with a much quieter and smoother touring experience, so they can enjoy the tranquillity of Australia’s remote landscapes,” said Sands.
What about the charging infrastructure?
G’Day Group has also come on board with a commitment to instal charging infrastructure at some of their iconic parks in East Kimberley, such as Lake Argyle Resort and El Questro Station. This will support the WA Government’s plan to create an electrified highway from the South Australian border to Kununurra.
What can we expect in a RedSands EV camper?
No details have emerged as of yet, but Sands said, “It will be the new age of remote camping. It brings about so many possibilities.”
RedSands Campers’ current hire fleet is set up for off-road adventure using a Toyota Hilux kitted out with a canopy, rooftop tents, heavy-duty all-terrain tyres (plus two spares), off-road suspension, dual battery, 270-degree awning and all your camping needs. They also have a few Toyota Prados sans the canopy and camping equipment for those that want to get off-road but swap the camping for fixed accommodation.
Why a conversion?
“We have been waiting years for a commercially available, robust EV 4WD product in Australia. We are lagging. Sometimes you just need to be the front runner and prove it can work,” said Sands.
Roev CEO Noah Wasmer says electrifying 4WD campers will prove the performance of light commercial EVs and advance market acceptance of electric conversions. “Not only that – we’re going to enhance the 4WD camper experience with vehicles that are joyful to drive and loaded with smart V2X solutions,” Wasmer said.
When can I check one out?
The first RedSands electrified 4WD camper is expected to be available for hire from July 2024.
