Canoo LV... This might be my next camper conversion
 

Howdy all!

I came across this and was intrigued:
https://www.canoo.com/canoo/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpjcbTGaYgs

I particularly like the amazing visibility out of the vehicle. I currently use a Prius as my camper, but this would be a lot more spacious and picturesque. Most cargo vans have no windows... this seems like it would be great to wake up to the morning sun in.

It also seems to have a great "fuel economy" for a vehicle of its class. My best guesstimate is that it gets somewhere between 320 and 400 Wh/mile, which compared to the 250 Wh/mile of a Tesla is really good. The range is only 250 miles though; I might have to slap a lot of solar panels on it. ;-)

What do people think? Has anyone seen an EV that's "van-sized" that seems cool / has good specs? Most of the other vans I've seen are only for in city use, with ~100-ish miles of range, and clearly for mass cargo.

I've recently become more intrigued by something like this;

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/FN...GPCMDJ9IdIhj1q

That said, I just like camping in a tent. Even better, a hammock and no tent.

I've lived out of virtually everything out there at this point. I used to have a Class A motorhome, which was quite spacious but a PITA to park, or even find parking for. And it got abysmal mileage, making gas a major expense on the trips.

Fifth wheels and detachable campers are a much better solution, because you can then use the truck/car to get around and have the camper as a home base. They are highly unstable driving, though, and not for the faint of heart on highways nor rough roads. They are also prime targets for thieves, who can easily monitor when everyone leaves.

I'm with you on being outside. A Greek friend of mine introduced me to sleeping on the roof, and going to sleep under the stars and waking up to the sun is just pure awesome. I guess over the years inclement weather has converted me more to glamping. While I love being outside, I hate being wet and gritty. Though a nice warm cleansing summer rain is always refreshing. :D

I like the family architecture of the Canoo models.

https://world-of-cars.net/wp-content...n-teased-1.jpg
world-of-cars.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/canoo-electric-delivery-vehicle-reveal-date-set-for-december-17-small-pickup-again-teased-1.jpg

But for all-round visibility in a[n electrified] camper van, sometimes the old ways are best.

https://ecomodder.com/forum/member-f...55-800x600.jpg

The Swedish military bubble top.

I think it is highly unlikely that Canoo will sell a single serial production vehicle. Personally I think the window for EV start-ups has closed now that every major auto manufacturer has started developing and selling EVs. The commercial space is hot - with plenty of options so why take a chance on buying an electric cargo van from a start-up?

https://fortune.com/2022/08/27/canoo...s-tony-aquila/

(Print Friendly will get you past the paywall)

Youtube wanted me to see the video so I watched. :confused:

Still don't care enough to get past that paywall, but the probability is non-zero.

Assuming they 'deliver' (;)) Walmart will retire them at some mileage. A 2nd hand Walmart van compared to a school bus or whatever would be a good choice.

Dos anyone remember the pop-up on Ford Econolines?

https://bringatrailer.com/wp-content...?fit=940%2C718
https://bringatrailer.com/wp-content...IMG_2833-1.jpg


The only one I've seen that looks like you could drive around with it popped up.

Like that electric pickup (I forget) there is an opportunity for a kennel below the windshield. With a window.

For some reason I have camped very little since leaving the Army, but high-lows seem pretty cool.

I just want to know what is to stop my stinker brother from lowering it while I am inside.

The discussion leads off with Bucky Fuller's Dymaxion Transport and does a deep dive in the minivan interior. Which is awesome.
Canoo - The new EV Muscle Van | Sandy & Canoo CEO Tony Aquila
At 29:29 they show a military truck body with an eight foot bed.

If I ever get an electric campervan, most likely I would be concerned about the towing capability than range-anxiety :D
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/i...0lQcg&usqp=CAU

Thanks a bunch, freebeard! That was a great watch. I've always respected Sandy's opinion on things and have followed his Tesla teardowns with interest. The fact that he was impressed with the Canoo increases my desire to get one. The *real* question is when they'll sell direct to consumers... it's looking years off at this point. :(