Lightship, a San Francisco-based company, is gearing up to start production on its innovative self-propelled electric RV trailer. The first batch of 50 units will be known as the AE.1 Cosmos Edition. This revolutionary trailer is equipped with a built-in battery and powertrain system that helps alleviate the strain on the towing vehicle.
One of the biggest challenges for electric vehicles when it comes to towing is the significant impact it has on driving range. While electric trucks like the Rivian R1T, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and Tesla Cybertruck can handle towing heavy loads, attaching a trailer can drastically reduce their range. This can be particularly frustrating for those who enjoy cross-country RV trips, as frequent stops for recharging become necessary.
However, Lightship’s AE.1 offers a potential solution to this issue, albeit at a cost. This self-propelled RV features its own electric powertrain and a built-in battery capable of storing up to 80 kilowatt-hours of energy. This setup means that the towing vehicle, whether electric or traditional, won’t have to work as hard to pull the trailer, as the RV’s electric motor assists in movement, increasing overall efficiency.
In addition to its innovative powertrain, the Lightship AE.1 is designed with aerodynamics in mind, making it ideal for long highway journeys. The trailer sits at a similar height to a Ford F-150 Lightning while on the road, but once at the campsite, the roof can be raised to provide additional interior space for standing and sitting comfortably.
The initial release of the Lightship AE.1 will be the limited-edition Cosmos model. This exclusive version boasts a full-solar roof, accommodations for four adults, and luxurious amenities such as an automotive-grade HVAC system, a fully equipped bathroom, and a Galley Kitchen complete with a dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, convection oven, and induction cooktop.
Ben Parker, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of Lightship, expressed excitement about the AE.1 Cosmos Edition, stating, “With the limited-edition Lightship AE.1 Cosmos, we’re delivering a dream travel experience for sustainable travelers, tech lovers, and EV enthusiasts. Our mission is to bring RVs into the electric age with the AE.1. The Cosmos Edition is the first premium realization, and we have other trims to fit travelers’ needs coming quickly down the road.”
The AE.1 Cosmos Edition is priced at $250,000, with initial deliveries scheduled for the summer of the following year. Lightship also has plans to release three more affordable versions in the near future, named the Atmos, Panos, and Terros. These models will offer a range of options to cater to different types of travelers.