For a while now people have been asking “Are electric campervans any good?” The answer is a resounding yes, and below we list some of the many reasons for travel enthusiasts are making the switch!
Are electric campervans any good? A detailed response from us…
For the past eight years, we’ve been closely watching the campervan landscape evolve with exciting new technologies. We’re thrilled to confirm that sustainable travel is not just a trend – it’s the future, with electric campervans leading the way.
With more people seeking eco-conscious adventures than ever before, we have already seen a huge jump in the demand for electric campers. Industry forecasts are also bright: the global electric van market is anticipated to reach $76.7 billion, globally, by 2031, according to Allied Market Research.
In this post we’ll discuss a few of the top reasons we’re finally seeing the rise of electric campervans. Let’s get started!
Sustainable tourism isn’t just trendy, it’s essential
Sustainable travel is no longer a niche – it’s adoption is essential for our planet, and electric vehicles are at the forefront of a better future.
As climate change intensifies, travellers are increasingly prioritising a smaller carbon footprint. Enter electric campervans, which provide a significantly greener way to explore, boasting zero tailpipe emissions unlike their petrol-powered predecessors.
It’s a win-win: great for the planet and perfectly aligned with the values of eco-conscious tourists. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that electric vehicles can slash greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% compared to petrol cars.
For those eager to discover the world responsibly, electric campervans are becoming the go-to. They offer a unique chance for tourists to immerse themselves in nature, experiencing serene environments without the typical engine noise and pollution.
The technology has caught up quickly!
Electric campervan technology has come a long way. Today’s models boast high-capacity batteries that deliver impressive ranges, often over 200 miles on a single charge, making long road trips more practical. Beyond range, innovations like regenerative braking boost battery life and efficiency.
Importantly, we’ve also seen rapid improvements to the charging network available on the road, particularly here in the UK. In 2024 alone, over 20,000 new public charge points were installed, a significant 38% increase, bringing the total to over 73,000. This includes a notable surge in ultra-rapid chargers, which are ideal for quick top-ups during longer journeys, with their numbers increasing by 83%.
This continuous development means that finding a convenient place to recharge is becoming increasingly straightforward for electric campervan owners.
A unique experience that hits different!
As we can attest, arriving in nature in your very own campervan is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. There’s nothing like leaving the busy modern world behind and immersing yourself in the sounds of nature.
Combine this with the silent hum of electric motors and the knowledge that you’re not polluting your surroundings and you’ve got yourself a serene travel experience that hits a little different. Many of our customers who travel this way describe a more profound and immersive journey into nature, something that aligns with their values far deeper than a petrol-powered trip ever could.
Imagine pulling up to a breathtaking vista, the only sound the rustle of leaves as you step out of your electric campervan. As the sun starts to set you begin to cook yourself a one pot dinner on your induction hob!
Government incentives and cheaper costs in general
Governments worldwide are playing a crucial role in accelerating the shift to electric vehicles, and in the UK, the Plug-in Van Grant (PIVG) is a prime example of this commitment. This financial incentive directly addresses the initial higher cost of electric vans, making them more accessible and attractive to consumers.
Specifically, The Plug-in Vehicle Grant (PiVG) provides a discount on the purchase price of brand new eligible plug-in vans. The grant is already applied to the vans at the point of purchase so you don’t need to worry about a lengthy application process. Learn more about how you can take advantage of this grant in our blog post.
Crucially, the market for electric vans is maturing, with a growing number of second-hand electric vans now available.
On top of this, the long-term financial benefits of an electric vehicle are substantial. Electric campervans boast significantly lower operating costs, thanks to reduced maintenance needs.
This makes electric campervans a financially savvy choice for frequent travelers, as these accumulated savings free up more of your budget for actual adventures!
A healthier lifestyle and sense of community
Electric campervans offer more than just environmental perks; they’re a win for your health too. Less pollution means cleaner air, a huge benefit, especially for anyone with respiratory difficulties.
What’s more, the campervan lifestyle itself often nudges you outdoors, encouraging activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nature. These aren’t just fun; they actively boost your physical health and well-being.
So, picking an electric campervan means you get the best of both worlds: eco-friendly travel and a healthier you.
Another benefit is the sense of community that ‘van lifers’ describe. Our customers frequently describe a feeling of camaraderie as they meet people on the road that share their eco-conscious values.
A top quality interior fit for the future
With an electric campervan conversion it’s important to work with experts that deeply understand electric technologies and payload management. At Sunbox Campers we pride ourselves on our meticulous approach to electric van conversions.
We transform standard vans into fully fledged ‘homes on wheels’, integrating high-capacity leisure batteries and advanced electrical systems that power everything from induction hobs to cosy lighting.
At Sunbox Campers we don’t fit “off-the-shelf” components; our hand-built approach allows for intricate customisation, whether it’s a cleverly designed pull-out kitchen, a space-saving sleeping area, or integrated smart-tech for monitoring energy.
This attention to detail means each Sunbox Campers interior is tailored to the individual, providing not just a vehicle, but a truly personalised and environmentally responsible campervan.
What makes a Sunbox Campers conversion particularly special is our dedication to sustainable materials, such as FSC-certified wood and natural fibre insulation.
(All the photos in this post have been of electric van conversions by Sunbox Campers. You can find video tours of our conversions here – Electric Van Tours)
Ready to make the switch too?
No matter if it’s a brief weekend escape, picking the kids up from school, or a grand cross-country roadtrip, electric campervans provide the perfect fusion of convenience and comfort.
If you’d also like to be part of this growing electric movement, get in touch with us to see what types of electric van we can help source for you. We’d love to hear from you with any questions you may have via hello@sunboxcampers.co.uk