As overlanders and camping enthusiasts gear up for the third Overland Expo installment, OX Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado, EarthCruiser USA has unveiled a product that has both electrified and elevated the game—quite literally. The Oregon-based company has transformed the GMC Hummer EV Pickup into an all-electric off-grid expedition machine, complete with a full-length pop-up roof and a comprehensive floor plan featuring a kitchen and dining area. This innovation comes as the industry anticipates the arrival of Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV as platforms for electric overlanding and camping.
The vehicle under the hood
EarthCruiser USA opted for the GMC Hummer EV Pickup over the yet-to-be-released Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV, citing that their customer base is accustomed to spending six figures on camping rigs. Given that the base GMC Hummer EV Pickup alone can cost upwards of $100,000, the company’s decision to build an add-on for this vehicle aligns well with its high-end market.
Carbon fiber construction
The EarthCruiser camper unit fits the 5-foot (1.5-m) bed of the Hummer EV like a glove. To maximize efficiency and keep additional weight to a minimum, EarthCruiser employed carbon fiber construction. The design reflects the rugged, intense character of the Hummer, with a slight angling at the front to provide a more streamlined appearance compared to traditional flat-faced pickup campers.
Performance and range
While EarthCruiser has not specified the impact of the camper on the Hummer EV’s range, it is evident that the company aims to keep the numbers as favorable as possible. The GMC Hummer EV Pickup boasts an estimated maximum range of between 314 and 381 miles (505 and 613 km) and offers DC fast-charging capabilities, which can recharge 100 miles (161 km) in just 12 minutes. This makes it a promising base vehicle for long trips.
Interior and amenities
Upon arrival at your destination, the EarthCruiser camper’s roof pops up to offer an impressive 76 to 80 inches (193 to 203 cm) of standing height. While seated, you’ll find 35 inches (89 cm) of headspace above the alcove double bed. Unlike the simplistic pop-up roof and bed design that many might have expected, EarthCruiser has incorporated a full floor plan, including a passenger-side kitchen equipped with an induction cooktop, fridge/freezer, and sink. Although the L-shaped bench and adjustable table in the dining area do not convert into a second bed, they offer sufficient space for two people.
Power and utility
The EarthCruiser unit is wired with a 460-Ah 12-V lithium battery bank, allowing up to seven days of off-grid power. Additional features include a 1,500-W inverter, a 605-W roof-mounted solar panel setup, a touchscreen command center, and both 120- and 12-V outlets. For water storage, the camper comes with a 51-L fresh water tank and a 26.5-L gray water tank, complemented by a 12-V water heater.
Although EarthCruiser’s signature entryway bathroom with a deployable shower enclosure could not be fitted due to space constraints, the camper does include an outdoor shower and a folding flat-pack toilet.
Four-season use
The company claims that the camper is designed for four-season use, although it does not come with an onboard air/space heater. The full-mesh pop-up roof raises questions about its suitability for cold winter conditions without a heating system.
Availability and pricing
EarthCruiser plans to make the camper available for Hummer EV Pickup owners in 2024, with reservations currently open for a $100 refundable deposit. Pricing details have yet to be announced.
Final thoughts
EarthCruiser’s new all-electric off-grid expedition vehicle presents an exciting, though pricey, possibility for the overlanding community. The camper not only aligns with the trend toward more sustainable travel options but also raises the bar for what adventurers can expect from an all-electric, off-grid camping experience. While potential buyers will need to wait for more specifics, including the impact on vehicle range and pricing, EarthCruiser has certainly offered an early and tantalizing look into the future of overlanding.
Source: EarthCruiser
