Electric RVs are almost certainly the way of the future, and campervans are no exception. Hyundai just unveiled a fully-loaded, off-grid-ready version of its understated Staria van, and it’s a thing of beauty for vanlifers. But there’s a catch.
The reimagined Staria is an all-electric camper van from the powertrain to the fully-applianced kitchen. Hyundai spared no expense in making this a serious contender for vanlifers looking to spend extended time off-grid without sacrificing creature comforts. The concept includes an integrated pop-up power roof, ensuring the cabin is bright and breezy. It also creates a more roomy, livable interior with easier access to the cooking area.
Integrated into that expandable roof is a robust, lightweight 520-watt solar panel with a maximum output of 2.6kWh of electricity (assuming just five hours of sunlight per day). That’s a sizable amount of power that’s more than capable of running the Staria camper’s many features, including the 36-liter fridge and portable shower. There’s even a built-in climate control system to keep things at just the right temperature in almost any season, and electronically adjustable smart glass at the rear of the cabin helps keep things private too. It’s all controlled via a dedicated touchscreen panel at the rear.
Hyundai hints that the Staria campervan could be powered by the same 800-volt high-voltage architecture already in use in the company’s IONIQ line-up in Europe. The 160 kW system delivers smooth, even power to the front wheels with minimal noise and vibration. Plus, it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 20 minutes under ideal conditions. That’s huge for road-tripping EV owners looking to minimize range anxiety and refueling time while traveling.
The bad news? Unfortunately, the Staria is merely a concept — for now. If it’s well-received at this year’s CMT show in Germany, however, Hyundai may greenlight it for production. We’ll keep you posted.
