An electric motorhome is an eRV, powered by an electric motor that draws electricity from a large inbuilt battery which, like an EV, is recharged at a charging station instead of a gas pump.
While using similar battery technology to electric vehicles, eRVs also integrate renewable energy sources, such as solar panels for additional power, and include energy-efficient appliances and recycled materials. They can also be cost-saving for consumers, as traditional RVs consume large amounts of gas and are more expensive to maintain.
eRVs are still a niche market in the very early stages of development, but there is increasing innovation and options available. Extending the mile range will be important to increasing their appeal, as will expanding the available charging infrastructure.
The relation between climate change and RV living is complex and muti-faceted. 3.1 million Americans live full-time in motorized transportation like RVs, while an additional 11.2 million spend part of their time traveling in one, and those living in mobile homes and traveling in RVs are at an elevated risk from extreme weather impacts. At the same time, some Americans displaced by climate disasters, including wildfires in the Pacific Northwest, are now living in campers and vehicles. Other Americans, perhaps inspired by the growing #vanlife movement, have turned to living in motor homes as a way to connect with nature and to reduce their carbon footprint.
In April, 2023, the Grounded G1 electric campervan became the first electric motorhome available for sale in the U.S. followed by the G2 in July 2023. The latest model, G3, was unveiled in July 2025, with a single-charge range of 286 miles.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz was unveiled on June 2, 2024 and released in the 4th quarter of 2024.
The first fully electric van from Mercedes-Benz was released in 2024. The eSprinter has a single long wheel-base, high roof cargo body configuration, and two motor options.
The Winnebago eRV2 was expected to be the third eRV on the market, but it isn’t available yet. The zero-emission prototype has been in testing since 2023.
Although still a concept, the Thor Vision Vehicle will eventually be produced by the U.S.’ largest RV brand. Thor Industries has also unveiled their concept for the Thor Test Vehicle, the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome, expected to qualify as a Near-Zero Emission Vehicle under the Advanced Clean Truck legislation.
