Two ex-Tesla veterans are using their automotive EV design and development skills to disrupt the stagnant RV industry, and have launched an all-electric RV company called Lightship. They say it's America's first all-electric recreational vehicle company, and its team are on a mission to advance travel trailers lightyears ahead. Its first super-cool offering is the purpose-built, all-electric, Lightship L1 battery-powered travel trailer.
The Lightship team know what it takes to break the mold, to innovative, to think outside the box in a segment that is perfectly content with, well, thinking inside the box. After all, they had both been employed by Tesla during the years when that all-electric startup was really shaking up the automotive market.
The Lightship L1 is not a traditional retrofitted travel trailer, it's a clean-sheet approach that results in an aerodynamic, self-propelled travel trailer with a seamless, connected all-electric ecosystem, including appliances, features, and modern amenities.
The company claims it is three times more aerodynamic than a traditional travel trailer, which is really important when it comes to maximizing the tow rig's range (or fuel economy). One of its clever tricks is that the whole roof slides up for more room. The idea isn't new, but the execution is newer. It's like a really modern, sophisticated hard-sided "slide-up" pop-up camper. Obviously, you drive with it down. In aerodynamic road mode, it's 6 feet, 9 inches high, extending to 10 feet when in camp mode. The pop-up section is full of windows for an open-and-airy, atrium-like atmosphere that makes you feel connected to nature.
All images courtesy of Lightship
The Lightship L1 has a self-propulsion system that helps the travel trailer propel itself (to assist in towing) that minimises efficiency loss for the tow vehicle by helping the go-process rather than hindering.
This system works in conjunction with the travel trailer's battery system (and solar roof panels) to provide a week of off-grid energy without charging, according to Lightship. The whole roof and the extendable awnings are covered in solar panels. The goal is a noise-free, hassle-free unhindered outdoor experience where you don't have to worry or think about electricity.
Production of the Lightship L1 is set to begin in late 2024, but customers can reserve one now for $500 at lightshiprv.com But you'll need to slap down at least another $118,000 to complete your purchase.
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