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Honda inspires hardcore campers to DIY their very own CR-V Dream Pod concept

Like Japan's capsule hotels, this concept SUV packs most of the comforts of home into its pint-sized cabin

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A look into the rear hatch of Honda's one-off CR-V Dream Pod concept SUV (star trails in night sky in background).
Honda

Stock minivans and campervans make easy donor vehicles for DIY vanlifers. But SUVs, especially small to mid-sized models, aren’t often a starting point for most custom van builds. Now, Honda wants camping enthusiasts to rethink what’s possible with more ordinary “grocery-getter” SUVs. Introducing the Honda CR-V Dream Pod camper concept.

The Japanese automaker released the one-off concept to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Honda’s popular CR-V SUV. While the exterior remains unchanged, the interior pulls heavy inspiration from Japan’s well-known capsule hotels. Despite a significantly smaller floor plan than, say, a typical campervan, Honda managed to pack a surprising amount of creature comforts into the CR-V’s pint-sized cabin.

Inside the rear hatch of the Honda CR-V Dream Pod SUV concept.
Honda

At the heart of the Dream Pod is the EGOE Nestboard 650, an in-car camping setup that fits the CR-V perfectly. A built-in drawer at the base of the EGOE contains a portable camp stove, a collapsible sink/wash basin, and enough storage for all your favorite camp kitchen essentials. After dark, the rear seats fold flat, and a double mattress unfurls to provide sleeping quarters for two adults. Black-out rear window covers and a retractable blind behind the front seats add plenty of privacy. Plus, Honda’s DIY shopping list includes integrated “tech pods” with pull-out side tables, LED reading lights, and USB sockets to make the whole setup more livable.

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The Dream Pod is based on Honda’s off-the-rack CR-V e:PHEV, a plug-in hybrid model available exclusively in Europe. The platform offers an all-electric range of roughly 50 miles, allowing for completely silent drives through the front- and backcountry. Plus, it comes standard with 6.25 inches of ground clearance and advanced traction control. Those aren’t hardcore, “overlanding-ready” specs by any stretch, but they add a degree of versatility to allow for on- and (light) off-road adventuring.

Honda built the CR-V Dream Pod as a one-off concept. But, car camping enthusiasts can DIY their own build with the car maker’s complete shopping list.

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Mike Richard
Mike Richard
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Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
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