Oxnard, CA-based Bowlus has announced what it says is the world’s first production all-electric RV (recreational vehicle). The Volterra luxury travel trailer features a 100% increase in battery capacity from previous models as well as the first application of AeroSolar in the RV industry. Combined, Bowlus says that these features give its customers the ability to be off-grid indefinitely. The company claims two other firsts for the Volterra; is the first travel trailer with an induction cooktop and the first RV with integrated high-speed Starlink Satellite Internet from SpaceX.

“We brought the first electric travel trailer with lithium iron phosphate batteries to market, and now the evolution to our Volterra model marks the final step to being fully electric,” said Geneva Long, CEO and Founder of Bowlus. “The new Volterra will benefit customers as the perfect complement to an electric vehicle. You can charge your Bowlus while you drive and have a fully electric experience once you arrive; and, with Volterra’s new solar panel set up, you can live off-grid indefinitely and sleep with confidence knowing you’re helping preserve the great outdoors while you enjoy its splendor.”

Starting in 1934 as the creation of designer, engineer, and aircraft builder Hawley Bowlus, the company created the world’s first aluminum-riveted travel trailer but stopped building them in 1936. The iconic design was revived in 2014 by Long, who began conceptualizing the return of the brand while at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

The Volterra’s Streamline Moderne design has been reimagined with modern technology including heated floors, WiFi, remote temperature control, as well as luxurious features. It is the first travel trailer to feature an induction cooktop, according to its maker. This provides faster and more energy-efficient heating than its gas counterparts, with precise temperature control and less ambient heat. A 50-gal tank gives a 150% in fresh-water storage capacity.

The trailer is 27 ft, 1 in (8250 mm) long, 80 in (2030 mm) wide, with an exterior height of 8 ft, 6 in (2590 mm). Its base weight is 3250 lb (1474 kg), with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 4000 lb (1814 kg). The interior, with a height of 6 ft, 4 in (1930 mm), can accommodate four people for sleeping and dining.

Since Volterra is fully electric, it has no pollution from generators and no off-gassing from propane. In addition to the quiet operation of electric power, this helps those who have chemical sensitivities.

The travel trailer offers the RV industry’s most advanced battery system and largest power bank, with 17 kW·h of lithium iron phosphate batteries—a more than 100% increase in battery capacity from the company’s Terra Firma model. Equipped with 20-A outlets for emergency charging of other EVs, the increased battery capacity can extend their emergency charging range to about 65 mi (105 km). An electric connection to a towing EV continuously recharges a Bowlus, offering power on the way to a destination.

The AeroSolar system charges while driving and camping with no need for setup or activation. With up to 480 W of solar power absorption, the solar panels feature monocrystalline cells with PERC (passivated emitter and rear cell) technology that are up to 12% more efficient than conventional solar cells. They are claimed to be three times lighter compared to aluminum-framed glass panels and are designed for aerodynamic surfaces like those of the Volterra.

Optimized for maximum efficiency in all conditions including partial shade, the AeroSolar system is paired with an ultra-fast MPPT (maximum power point tracking) solar controller to optimize the match between the battery, the roof-mounted solar panels, and two optional suitcase panels for extra use.

Most people living an off-grid lifestyle still need strong Internet for connecting for work or leisure. Volterra’s satellite-based system provides fast and reliable internet for Starlink’s growing network in the U.S. and Canada. It provides up to 250-Mb/s download speeds, which enables streaming, video calls, and large file downloads across multiple devices at the same time. An LTE SIM cellular card serves as a backup so owners can rely on cell service in urban areas.

A backup camera helps to easily back into tight camping spaces late at night thanks to full-color night vision. It offers 120-degree viewing, and it is rechargeable, waterproof, and compatible with all iOS and Android devices.

The Volterra is now available for order as part of the brand’s 2023 product lineup starting at an MSRP of $310,000. Bowlus is also offering over-the-air monitoring and updates focused on keeping the trailer’s power management up-to-date.