Colorado Teardrops has announced two new patent-pending models of its teardrop camping trailers that are inspired by its classic line of teardrop trailers. The new models contain integrated battery systems that come in three sizes — the base model comes with a 19 kWh battery, and there is an optional 29 kWh and a 38 kWh battery available, depending on how much you want to pay for upgrades. The battery power can be used while camping, or to transfer to an electric vehicle, and it can also be used as a whole-home battery when not camping.
Colorado Teardrops thinks that the Electric Classic (EC) models are excellent choices for EV owners who want to lengthen camping trips or want additional off-grid energy for electric appliances like electric coolers, induction cooktops, electric water heaters, cabin heaters, air conditioners, and other favorite appliances. The company is hoping that the models will be popular with people who are thinking about buying EVs in the future.
Using the Electric Classics maximum 38 kWh battery configuration, it can power the average-sized US home for more than a day, and with EV charging capabilities it can help make the return trip more reassuring while pulling the mobile battery recharger behind you.
The Electric Classics models are available in two sizes: the EC-2 is a two-person model that was modeled after the well-liked Canyonland model, while the EC-4 is a bigger four-person model that was modeled after the best-selling Mt. Massive. Both EC models feature the same traditional teardrop cabin sizes that Colorado Teardrops has used for years.
The Electric Classics combine traditional teardrop designs with modern technology to minimize wind resistance. For example, an aerodynamic tongue box houses the power inverter and spare tire, and sleek fenders act as storage boxes for items typically mounted on the exterior walls of the classic models. By minimizing wind resistance, this will help electric tow vehicles to be able to achieve the highest range possible while towing.
The EC models won’t remain idle even while not being utilized for camping. When the EC models are parked at home, the battery systems can function as a whole-home battery.
The campers can provide more than a day’s worth of electricity to the typical US house during a power outage, using the 38 kWh battery. Depending on the state in which owners reside, energy generated by household solar systems can also be stored for later use or sold back to the grid via net metering or grid feed-in tariffs.
The company does state that the EC models qualify for the Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit for up to 30% of the cost of the EC’s battery system when linked correctly as a whole-home battery, resulting in significant savings for the camper’s dual-use mobile battery system.
To maximize battery lifetime and the return on investment for both home and camping applications, Colorado Teardrops has opted for safer Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries with longer life spans and lower requirements for upkeep as opposed to the Lithium-ion batteries used in some of EVs.
The owner of Colorado Teardrops, Dean Wiltshire, said, “The safety of our customers is our first and foremost concern, followed by our product’s sustainability in contributing to the reduction in greenhouse gases through intelligent energy solutions. Environmental stewardship and sustainability have always been a the heart of our core values, and this is a natural next step for Colorado Teardrops.”
The EC models provide an enjoyable way to experience the great outdoors without having to stay in a crowded campground and can provide you the option to connect as a whole-house battery when you get back home.
If you are traveling in remote areas to camp, this would be ok. But the price is what really jumps out at you when considering one of these electric teardrops. EC-2 base model weighs in at 2,400 lb. and is priced at $44,000. The EC-4 base model weighs in at 2,800 lb. and is priced at $50,400. To upgrade to the 29 kWh battery it will be an additional $5,500, and the 38 kWh battery upgrade is an additional $11,000.
They just recommend a few foldable solar panels for charging the camper battery, which can be purchased on Amazon. While this is a nice little camper with some perks, it is way too pricey for me to ever consider. I think I will just stick with tent camping!
Source: PR Newswire
Photos: Colorado Teardrops
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