Green Driving on Vacation | Press

Driving a recreational vehicle without burning gas is the dream of most outdoor enthusiasts. This fantasy is now possible thanks to the Bromont Campervan Company. From next summer, it will rent a Ford e-Transit converted into a fully electric motorhome. Press Tried first.

Andre Laroche
Special contribution

Three little numbers displayed below the word “autonomy” on the dashboard quickly make us realize that we’re not in a combustion engine vehicle. Even with fully charged batteries this figure does not exceed 198 kilometers (under ideal weather conditions).

In short, we can admit it from the outset, this motorhome is not made for lovers Road trips. In our test, conducted on a cold autumn weekend, it took 35 minutes for a 100 KW charging station to bring our load needle from 41% to 85%. How far have we traveled from our previous charge, still 85%? About 100 kilometers.

The use of the heating system certainly eroded part of the autonomy, but the air conditioning probably does the same in the July heat.

Slow tourism

At first glance, this handicap may seem like a major pitfall. This forces the traveler to plan his journeys well, first of all without breaking down, coordinating these mandatory stops with his meal breaks and his tourist interests. Time is precious even (especially?) on vacation.

That’s why this motorhome appeals even more to fans of so-called “slow” tourism. During the pandemic, Quebecers have had a foretaste of this travel route: instead of spending their holidays driving long distances, the “slow tourist” chooses to discover the area, from an artisan boutique to a gourmet table. , by a museum, microbrewery or water park.

It is not very important, moreover, most of the time we find charging stations in these places.

All precautions did not protect us from mid-term stops. But for the slow tourist, even these unexpected stops (“Look! There’s a terminal!”) can turn out to be plenty of opportunities.

Thus, on our short journey, we unexpectedly walked into the charming village of Ayers Cliff. And the next day, before the rainy weather, Hop! We set up the table and picked up the board games.

Utility Layout

With that in mind, the Bromont Campervan motorhome layout envisioned by Cowansville-based Easyvans is in some respects puzzling.

The lack of real seats, metal rear doors, low ceiling and lack of natural light made us feel confined to the back of a utility truck, really, on a cold day. In these conditions, it is difficult to relax and be calm. Even the position of the table, changed relative to the benches, does not encourage head-to-head meetings.

On the other hand, the spartan comfort and large cargo space make it a delight for anyone who likes to lug around bikes and other toys for outdoor fun. Rubberized floors, durable and easily washable, are also made to absorb sand, mud and other traces of outdoor enjoyment.

Kitchen and removable bed

The vehicle is equipped with a full kitchen with a fridge, retractable table, sink and running water, as well as an induction hot plate. A chemical is well hidden in a toilet drawer. In keeping with the green virtues of the electric van, the beautiful varnished wood finish decorated with leaf motifs is a smart choice.

All electrical accessories are powered by a powerful auxiliary battery, which in no way affects the autonomy of the caravan.

At the rear is a removable double bed that can be raised to the roof with the push of a button in the morning. It gives better access to the ingenious compartments, well distributed along the walls, which allows efficient organization of equipment. The remote control locks all drawers simultaneously to ensure they don’t open on the first turn.

The ride and comfort are no different than a gas-powered vehicle. The road holding, acceleration and noise level didn’t blow us away in any way. He was keen to engage forward, reverse and neutral gears with a button similar to the ventilation selector.

And consumption, in all of this? Traveling 417 kilometers in three days at an average speed of 95 km/h on the Eastern Townships highway and secondary roads cost us a total of $45.16. Even better, we ended the trip with a calm environmental conscience and a desire to start over.