July 6, 2024
electric camper van

Smart Ford electric camper van offers a glimpse into the future of digital nomadism

Bailey of Bristol, a UK shop known for its caravans and motorhomes, is venturing into the world of camper vans with its innovative new Endeavor EV. Unlike other camper vans on the market, Bailey aims to push the boundaries of innovation with its all-electric camper van built on the Ford E-Transit platform. The Endeavor EV boasts a versatile rear lounge that can function as an office or bedroom, powered by Amazon Alexa voice control. It also features a touchscreen command center, an electric-lift hideaway TV, and an all-electric appliance set. This cutting-edge camper van concept presents one of the most impressive all-electric floor plans seen to date.

Bailey’s introduction of the ICE-powered Endeavor at the recently concluded Motorhome and Caravan Show in Birmingham was also met with great acclaim. The Endeavor, Bailey’s first-ever panel van camper conversion, is based on the Ford Transit and offers a choice of two floor plans. The B62 model is a fixed-roof two-sleeper with a rear sofa lounge, while the B64 model is a pop-up four-berth with a rear bathroom and kitchen.

Rather than simply exporting these floor plans to the Ford E-Transit, Bailey went the extra mile by developing a more sustainable camper van concept in line with its plan to go Net Zero by 2050. While the company has focused on decarbonizing its daily operations, it recognizes that decarbonizing its products is essential to achieving its sustainability goals. One of the key contributors to this effort is transitioning from traditional internal combustion engines to zero-emissions alternatives.

The Endeavor EV serves as an experiment in next-generation sustainability and product development for Bailey. The company reconfigures the B62 floor plan, replacing LPG appliances with all-electric counterparts such as an induction cooktop and microwave oven. Bailey also incorporates various innovative features into the camper van, including a multi-mode rear lounge, a touchscreen command center, and an Amazon Alexa speaker.

The rear lounge of the Endeavor EV offers three modes: day mode, office mode, and night mode. In day mode, the lounge functions as a living room-like area with a sofa facing a power-retractable TV. In office mode, the lounge transforms into an L-shaped workstation with a removable table, providing occupants with a comfortable space to work or dine. At night, the lounge converts into a double bed, serving as the van’s sole sleeping area. The camper van also features a wet bathroom with a space-optimizing roller door and smart home technology, including a touchscreen command center and an Amazon Alexa speaker.

Bailey has also prioritized sustainability in the construction of the camper van by using sustainable materials. The interior of the Endeavor EV features a vibrant black-speckled white kitchen counter made from recycled kitchen appliances, as well as recycled polyester upholstery, cork flooring, and harvested ocean-plastic hardware. The interior design reflects a relaxed rainforest theme with green cabinetry and wood-look doors and paneling.

Although Bailey currently has no plans to add the Endeavor EV to its lineup, the camper van serves as a blueprint for the company’s path towards electrification. The base E-Transit has limited range, and the Endeavor package relies on a 230-V shore power hookup to run its all-electric appliance set. Bailey intends to work with suppliers to develop off-grid power options for future camper van models.

As for the price, Bailey estimates that the Endeavor EV would cost approximately 75% more than the £70,000 ICE Endeavor B62, placing it at around £122,500 (approx. US$149,000). While it may seem expensive for a camper van with a range of under 100 miles, the higher price is justified by the advanced specifications, including smart control systems, a drop-down TV, and the use of recycled materials.

Overall, Bailey’s innovative Endeavor EV provides a glimpse into the future of camper vans, combining sustainability, functionality, and smart technology to cater to the needs of modern digital nomads.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it