While established large-scale manufacturers are still holding back on electric mobility in the camping sector, specialized conversion companies like Alpincamper have long since made it a reality. What was seen as a bold niche project just a few years ago is rapidly becoming the new standard. Michael, the founder of Alpincamper, experienced this transformation firsthand.
The company started out 16 years ago purely with combustion-engine vehicles, but gradually shifted its range a few years back. Demand has since flipped remarkably: most motorhomes sold today are based on fully electric drive concepts. The company even expects a complete switch to electric campers in the coming years.
If you want to dive deeper into Nele's conversation with Michael, you can listen to the full episode right here:
Podcast · Episode 449
Vom Verbrenner-Ausbauer zum Elektrofan – Michael von Alpincamper im caravan-live-Gespräch
Kia PV5 Alpincamper: The compact space wonder for everyday use
According to Alpincamper, the Kia PV5 currently forms one of the most attractive bases for a modern electric mini-camper. It combines everyday usability with clever design in a manageable size. With an exterior length of 4.7 m, the vehicle remains perfectly suited for city driving and underground parking, while offering a very low loading edge of just under 42 cm and a payload of around 570 kg despite the conversion.
The interior conversion makes optimal use of the available space. A flexible comfort couch can be extended into a generous double bed with just a few handgrips. Underneath, there's plenty of room for luggage, Euro boxes, or an optional dry separation toilet. A compressor fridge is cleverly integrated, and the compact kitchen area includes a sink, an induction hob, and a folding table.
A particular advantage of the vehicle is the standard vehicle-to-load function, which lets you power electrical devices directly from the main battery with 230 V AC. Combined with an auxiliary battery, a CEE shore power connection, and full felt insulation, the PV5 is perfectly equipped for self-sufficient trips. An optional Reimo pop-up roof provides standing height and extra ventilation when needed.
Maxus eDeliver 7 Alpincamper: Plenty of space and flexibility for longer trips
When more storage space and room to move around are needed, the Maxus eDeliver 7, at 5.4 m long, takes center stage. Despite its larger dimensions and higher vehicle weight, the 88 kWh battery ensures the Maxus achieves a range comparable to smaller models in everyday use. The interior impresses with a convertible bench seat, a spacious sleeping area for two, and well-thought-out storage compartments in the rear and living area.
The kitchen unit comes equipped with a sink, stove, and cooler box, while modern driver assistance systems and effective noise insulation make for a relaxed driving experience. An optional pop-up roof is also available for the eDeliver 7, adding even more extra space.
Range, fast charging, and practical experience on long trips
Worries about insufficient range are quickly put to rest by practical experience. Even on long stretches, electric travel turns out to be surprisingly relaxed. The furniture conversion adds just over 100 kg, which barely affects performance, so both models reliably deliver a range of 300 to 350 km in everyday use. Even in winter, modern heat pumps keep energy consumption within reasonable limits.
Travel speeds of 110 to 120 km/h go perfectly hand in hand with charging stops every two to three hundred kilometers. In around 30 to 35 minutes, the battery is back up to 80-90%. These regular, short breaks are good for concentration and bring a noticeable sense of slowing down on the road. On top of that, the pleasant quiet of the electric drive makes even long drives much more relaxing than in a conventional combustion-engine vehicle.
A look at upcoming projects
While the big motorhome manufacturers are still watching from the sidelines, conversion specialists are already working on the next innovations. Besides a high-roof version of the Kia PV5, Alpincamper is already preparing a conversion based on the Renault Trafic E-Tech. The combination of mature vehicle technology, clever power management, and high travel comfort clearly shows that the electric camper has long since left its niche behind.
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