Camping with an electric vehicle can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors with a zero-emission vehicle and explore the backcountry in eco-friendly style. Not only are electric cars incredibly clean, but they also offer a unique platform to go off the beaten path and have an adventure. With an impressive array of options on the market today, it can be hard to choose which model is the best electric vehicle for camping.
The Advantages of an Electric Vehicle
When camping with an electric vehicle, you immediately enjoy several advantages. These include:
• Zero-emissions and clean operation – Electric vehicles feature quiet and clean operation, and no tailpipe emissions, meaning no air pollution or greenhouse gas emissions.
• Enhanced maneuverability and stability – EVs are known for their efficient form factor and enhanced maneuverability, especially if you opt for a smaller model, like a compact crossover or hatchback.
• Versatile cargo capacity – Camping requires carrying gear and supplies, and if you opt for a larger model, like a crossover or SUV, you can tow up to 1,500 lbs worth of gear.
• Cost savings on fuel – While camping is one of the most affordable activities you can do, considering the rising cost of gas, opting for an electric vehicle can save you money on fuel.
Choosing the Right Electric Vehicle
Though there’s no single electric vehicle best-suited for camping, there are several that we recommend considering. Before you go out shopping, it’s important to consider certain criteria.
• Range and battery size: Range is key when camping. It’s important to know that you won’t run out of charge before you get to your destination. Make sure to choose an electric vehicle with a suitable range (depending on where you’ll be camping) and a large enough battery.
• Versatility: When selecting an electric vehicle, look for a model with the versatility you need for camping. That could be an all-electric enthusiasts vehicle with off-road capabilities or a roomy SUV with plenty of cargo space for gear.
• Budget: Not all electric vehicles are created equal and budget plays an important factor. A good budget starting point should be around $30,000.
TESLA MODEL X
The Tesla Model X is one of the best luxury SUVs on the market, and it’s even more impressive when you consider its performance as an electric vehicle. This Tesla packing a 100kWh battery that provides an EPA estimated range of up to 325 miles of range on a single charge. That makes it ideal for long trips to the backcountry.
Not only is the Model X one of the best electric vehicles for camping, it also offers plenty of power and speed. It can reach 0-60 mph in as little as 4.8 seconds and can tow up to 5,000 lbs, making it an impressive powertrain for all kinds of camping trips.
The vehicle also offers a roomy interior and seating for up to seven passengers to accommodate all of your camping gear and supplies. You’ll also get the benefit of all the latest Tesla features, like Autopilot, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation systems.
KIA SOUL EV
The Kia Soul EV is one of the most popular electric vehicles, and it can make a great choice for camping trips. This electric car offers plenty of cargo space, along with a surprising amount of power from its 64 kW electric motor.
The Kia Soul EV can travel up to 111 miles on a single charge, making it ideal for weekend camping trips. The car also offers good maneuverability, allowing you to navigate easily through tight, winding roads and trails.
The Kia Soul EV also offers the latest tech features, including an 8” touchscreen, rearview camera, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
NISSAN LEAF
The Nissan Leaf has become a mainstay in the electric vehicle market, and remains a great option for weekend camping trips. This electric car has a 40 kWh battery that allows you to travel up to 150 miles per charge, so you can easily make it to more remote camp locations.
The Leaf also offers plenty of cargo space, with up to 73.4 cubic feet of total cargo capacity. You can also take advantage of the Leaf’s efficient form factor to navigate tight roads and trails with ease.
The Nissan Leaf comes standard with some of the latest tech features, including ProPilot Assist and a 7” touchscreen.
CHEVY BOLT
The Chevy Bolt is another great option for camping. This electric vehicle offers up to 259 miles of range on a single charge, so you can easily explore more remote areas. It also offers 60.4 cubic feet of total cargo space, as well as an impressive amount of power from its 200 horsepower motor.
The Chevy Bolt is also equipped with some of the latest technology, including a 10.2” touchscreen, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless charging.
BMW i3
The BMW i3 has been a leader in electric vehicle performance for several years, and it’s still a great choice for camping. This electric vehicle has a range of up to 153 miles and an impressive array of features.
The i3 is one of the most efficient electric vehicles on the market, and it’s surprisingly nimble for its size. You also get 73.2 cubic feet of cargo space and a suite of standard tech features, including a heads-up display and iDrive.
No matter what type of camping you enjoy, there’s no denying the appeal of a zero-emissions electric vehicle. With a range of great models on the market today, you can easily find the perfect electric vehicle for your next camping trip. From luxury SUVs like the Tesla Model X to the efficient BMW i3, you can find a vehicle to help you enjoy the great outdoors in eco-friendly style.
