EarthCruiser’s Carbon Pop-Camper Outperforms Fully Electric Hummer Expedition RV

As the world’s largest RV show kicks off in Germany, American adventurers are gearing up for the third installment of the Overland Expo, OX Mountain West, in Loveland, Colorado this year.

As promised, the most significant and most robust electric camper in the market has made its debut just in time for the Rocky Mountain edition of the show. EarthCruiser has transformed the modern Hummer into an off-grid expedition vehicle powered entirely by electricity, and it has done so with even more style than anticipated.

This includes outfitting it with a carbon fiber exterior shell and a spacious interior featuring a kitchen and dining area, all topped with a full-length pop-up roof. It’s a glimpse into the future of overlanding.

The GMC Hummer EV Pickup

The Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV are expected to become a more practical and accessible choice for electric overlanding and camping in the long run. However, since it will be several months or even years before the more common versions of these trucks become available, EarthCruiser USA decided to opt for the GMC Hummer EV Pickup instead. After all, the company’s customer base is accustomed to investing substantial sums in their camping vehicles, so an additional $100,000 for an electric base vehicle is not a significant concern.

EarthCruiser has built the new camper – which doesn’t go by any particular name more individual than “GMC HUMMER EV EarthCruiser upfit” – to fit the Hummer EV’s 5-foot (1.5-m) bed like a beanie. It employs carbon fiber construction to save weight and shapes the camper to match the rugged intensity of the Hummer itself. The slight angling of the front edge gives it a more streamlined look than the flat alcove face of the average pickup camper or topper.

EarthCruiser refrains from providing precise estimates regarding the impact of the camper on the Hummer EV’s range or its effect on the already substantial weight of the electric pickup.

Nevertheless, it’s evident that they have made diligent efforts to minimize these figures.

Hummer EV Pickup’s Road Trip Potential

Considering the GMC-estimated maximum range of 314 to 381 miles (505 to 613 km) and the DC fast-charging capability, which can add 100 miles (161 km) of range in just 12 minutes at the charging station, the Hummer EV Pickup still retains its potential for road trips.

Upon reaching the evening’s designated stop, the EarthCruiser camper deploys its roof to an elevated position, offering an interior space with a standing height ranging from 76 to 80 inches (193 to 203 cm) from the floor. It also provides 35 inches (89 cm) of sitting height above the alcove double bed.

We were initially expecting a basic camper or topper shell with a pop-up roof and bed, primarily designed to minimize weight and reduce the impact on the vehicle’s range. However, EarthCruiser has gone beyond that by providing the Hummer EV pop-camper with a more comprehensive interior layout. On the passenger side, there’s a fully equipped kitchen area complete with essential amenities like an induction cooktop, fridge/freezer, and sink. Just a few steps away, you’ll find a compact dinette featuring an adjustable table and an L-shaped bench.

Dinette Design in the Hummer EV Camper

In contrast to the retired EarthCruiser GZL pickup camper series, the Hummer model’s dinette does not convert into an additional bed, which means the new camper can comfortably accommodate two people overnight.

EarthCruiser has fully embraced electric power for its EV camper, incorporating a 460-Ah 12-V lithium battery bank that can provide up to seven days of off-grid electricity. Additionally, it features a 1,500-W inverter, a roof-mounted solar panel system generating 605-W, a touchscreen command center, and both 120-V and 12-V outlets.

This specific camper does not feature EarthCruiser’s trademark entryway bathroom with a retractable shower enclosure. Instead, it includes an outdoor shower and a collapsible, flat-pack toilet. Freshwater is stored in a 51-liter tank, while wastewater is collected in a 26.5-liter gray water tank. For hot water, a 12-V water heater ensures warm water flows from the taps.

Although EarthCruiser doesn’t mention an onboard air or space heater, they claim the camper is designed for year-round use. It’s worth noting that the fully meshed pop-up design might raise concerns about its insulation in cold winter weather. However, it’s possible to explore options for piping in heat from the Hummer itself if needed.

Leveraging Overlanding Expertise

“We’ve leveraged our extensive overlanding experience to ensure that every aspect of this vehicle is purposeful and efficient,” stated Lance Gillies, CEO and Founder of EarthCruiser USA. “Our collaboration with the GMC team has provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase the emission-free potential for overland and recreational vehicle enthusiasts.”

Following its debut at the Overland Expo Mountain West this weekend, EarthCruiser intends to make its camper available for Hummer EV Pickup owners in 2024. Reservations are currently being accepted with a $100 refundable deposit, although pricing details have not yet been disclosed. Unfortunately, for those considering the Hummer EV as a 4×4 or overland camper option at this moment, GMC’s reservation slots are already fully booked.

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