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What is van life?
The van life is a very special way of living, consisting of residing permanently or part-time in a vehicle redesigned and refitted for the purpose. The term comes from the fact that people generally live in a van modified with basic equipment and furniture, such as a bed, a small kitchen, solar panels, a toilet of sorts, a sink and storage space.
Why do people choose this kind of lifestyle? The answer may vary from case to case, but generally speaking, there are specific characteristics that attract and fascinate people who aspire to this type of lifestyle. Here's a list of the most common characteristics:
- freedom of movement to live and work,
- significant reduction in the cost of living,
- in some cases, a more sustainable lifestyle,
- a taste for adventure and greater control over one's situation,
- a more economically sustainable way to travel the world.
This type of lifestyle is becoming very popular worldwide, not least because it's now possible to work and keep in touch with the rest of the world via a simple Internet connection. What seems to be the strongest trigger for vanlifers is the feeling of freedom and reconnection with nature, which is generally lacking in a more "standard" lifestyle in big cities.
What is an electric van and what advantages does it offer for van life?
An electric van is simply a utility vehicle powered by electricity and a rechargeable battery. In other words, it's a conventional van with a different type of engine.
But beyond its definition, what's interesting are the various advantages an electric van can bring to van life. Let's take a look at some of the most significant advantages.
Lower fuel costs
Once the van has been purchased and refitted for a comfortable daily life, the only remaining expense is the cost of fuel. The more the van owner wants to travel and explore, the higher the fuel bill at the end of the month. If only it were possible to reduce this expense, since it's the vanlifer's main cost... Electric vans are the solution! Depending on the region, the cost of recharging is around a third of that of petrol or diesel. So the cost of living in a van could be considerably reduced.
Let's look at a concrete example. On the one hand, we'll analyze the fuel consumption of a conventional (internal combustion) model, and on the other, we'll see how much it costs to run its electric version.
The models we'll be comparing are the Fiat Ducato 3 Iii 2.3 Multijet 140 (combustion model) and the Fiat E-Ducato (electric model). As they have very differentrange capacities, we're going to calculate the expenses per 100 km driven, in order to have a standard and fair measure of comparison. Starting with the Fiat Ducato 3, it consumes 6.5 liters of diesel every 100 km. At the current price in France of €2.15 per liter, that's almost €14 every 100 km. On the other hand, the Fiat E-Ducato consumes 21.35 kWh/100 km. In this second case, we need to look at the 3 main different options offered by electric vehicles:
Recharging at home with a domestic socket or Wallbox: with an average price of €0.17/kWh in France (€0.21 on average in Europe), driving 100 km with the electric model will cost you just €3.63.
On a 1,000 km journey, this charging method will save you €106.40! That's a reduction of over 75%!
Standard public charging: with an average price of €0.30/kWh in France, driving 100 km with the electric model will cost you just €6.41. For a 1000 km journey, this charging method will save you €75.90! More than 50% off!
Fast charging: with an average price of €0.55/kWh in France, driving 100 km with the electric model will cost you just €11.7. On a 1000 km journey, this charging method will save you €23! More than 15% reduction with a very short recharging time.
| Refill method | Average cost per kWh | Total cost per 100 km | Savings (per 1,000 km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Household socket / Wallbox | 0,17 € | 3,63 € | 106,40 € |
| Standard public load | 0,30 € | 6,41 € | 75,90 € |
| Fast charging | 0,55 € | 11,70 € | 23,00 € |
Solar panel dynamics
Most vans designed to make van life possible and comfortable are equipped with solar panels mounted on the vehicle's roof. This provides users with a free, sustainable, off-grid means of supplying energy for a variety of purposes (from charging a phone to running an oven or fridge). With an electric van, it would be possible to connect the vehicle's battery to the installed solar panels, providing the vanlifer with energy for his daily needs and a free, sustainable way to power his four-wheeled home.
Even if this can't be considered the only way to recharge your van (due to weather variables and very slow charging capacity), this type of electric dynamic could be a game-changer for some van enthusiasts.
A more sustainable mobility solution
The main reason why electric vehicles have been developed is probably to overcome the environmental problems associated with the transport sector. Electric vans are more durable and efficient than thermal vans, they produce no CO2 and allow the user to opt for a more renewable means of recharging their own van and traveling the world.
Vanlifers are often concerned by climate and environmental issues, due to their general interest in nature and wild areas to explore. Switching to an electric van could be an opportunity to make a difference, and significantly reduce CO2 emissions and air pollution in general.
Silent comfort
Another secondary, but nonetheless important, feature of an electric van is the almost total elimination of noise from the running engine. This may seem marginal and less important, but in the context of van life where you live in the vehicle, a significant reduction in noise can be a considerable advantage. What's more, virtually inaudible van noise will greatly reduce the possibility of disturbing local animals on your adventures. Looking at Compett 's study analyzing the difference in decibels between electric and combustion-powered vehicles under various conditions, we can conclude that there is an average difference of 3-4 decibels between the two types of vehicle.
Favorable European directives
The European Union plans to ban the sale of combustion-powered cars in 2035. Generally speaking, the European Union is increasing restrictions and taxes on internal combustion vehicles to encourage the switch to electric vehicles, with a view to enabling the EU to become carbon-neutral by 2050. In addition, a number of bonuses and incentives are available for the purchase of a new electric vehicle, as well as tax benefits and other general facilities (such as free parking) are available and will be further strengthened in the future.
The disadvantages of electric vans for van life: myth or reality?
Although van life may seem like a dream, there are many problems and drawbacks to this adventurous lifestyle. Some of the most talked-about topics concerning the complications of van life have been widely addressed and explored by many vanlifer experts and travelers in recent years. The stress of being constantly on the move, the high risk of breakdowns, isolation, productivity difficulties, cleaning problems, difficulties in finding places to stay overnight, are just some of the pitfalls of van life. But what about electric vans? What could be the complications of this type of lifestyle approach?
How to overcome the problem of autonomy?
The first problem that generally springs to mind when we think of electric vehicles is their limited range, which is closely linked to the technology used to power them. In this context, it's important to mention that electric vehicles are a relatively new transport system compared with the century-old history of internal combustion engines, and although impressive progress has been made in recent years, there's still a long way to go. By 2022, we have achieved satisfactory autonomies: indeed, some models like the Fiat e-Ducato 79 kWh can achieve up to 350 km of range on a single charge.
It's still obvious that for a traveler such as a vanlifer, this distance may not be able to meet all their needs. In this context, we must emphasize the fact that many advances have been made over the last five years, and more will be made at an exponential rate in the near future. Better batteries will be incorporated into the next generation of electric vehicles, enabling highly competitive autonomies. In addition, general adaptation and government incentives will significantly advancecharging infrastructure across Europe.
The problem of charging infrastructure
Another concern for many drivers is being able to recharge their vehicle as easily as they used to fill up with petrol for combustion vehicles; and the scarcity of recharging stations, especially outside the big cities, seems to be a major drawback to the life of an electric van.
But the improvement is tangible and exponential; the European Union plans to reach 1 million public charging stations in Europe by 2025, which will fully meet the demand for electric vehicle charging in all European countries. What's more, thanks to intensive research and development in the recharging sector, electric vehicles can be recharged from 20% to 80% in less than an hour, thanks to fast-charging stations. This aspect will be implemented even more in the future, reducing charging time to just a few minutes, which will considerably increase the possibilities of approaching life in the van with an electric vehicle.
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Weather and seasonal hazards
Generally speaking, the weather is always a disadvantage of van life, as poor atmospheric conditions can have various negative effects on a vanlifer's daily life. But when it comes to electric vans, the situation can be even worse. While warm temperatures barely affect the performance of electric vehicles, cold temperatures can exponentially reduce the vehicle's range. This is because lithium batteries perform poorly in extreme conditions, but especially when it's very cold.
A study by the American Automobile Association has shown that in very low temperatures (below 0° degrees), battery autonomy can be reduced by 40%, especially if the heater is used. Given the already unimpressive range of electric vans, the combination of this factor could make it almost impossible for vanlifers to travel. Various solutions are available and many more are under development, but for the moment the problem remains unsolved. Our suggestion? If you want to tackle van life in an electric vehicle, go to warm places!
Top 5 electric vans to convert into a van
1. Fiat e-Ducato 79 kWh
100% Ducato. 100% electric. That's the slogan that introduces this model, showing how Fiat has tried to offer the same features of this iconic model, but in an all-electric version. With a volume of up to 17 m³, this van is perfect for vanlifer looking for as much space and comfort as possible. But the most impressive feature of the Fiat e-Ducato 79 kWh is its range: with up to 370 km of autonomy, this vehicle is perfect for those who plan to move around and travel often. At current petrol prices, the company estimates that customers could save up to €25,000 in 5 years compared with the internal combustion version.
2. Ford E-Transit
Second in this category, but just a few points behind the Fiat e-Ducato. With its long range of 317 km, the Ford E-Transit gives you plenty of freedom of movement. What's more, its volume of 15.1 m³ offers infinite possibilities for customizing the interior, allowing you to build a real little house. Recharging is equally impressive: the company claims that the battery can be recharged from 15% to 80% in 35 minutes on fast charge, making it the perfect model for those who don't want to wait for the next adventure!
3. Fiat E-Scudo 75 kWh
In third place, we again find a Fiat model. The E-Scudo is a medium-sized van, perfect for travelers looking for a more agile vehicle. Autonomy is one of its main assets, with 330 km available it will be a faithful ally in your future adventures around the world. 5.3 m³ will be available for your personal layout, enough for a minimalist but complete design.
4. Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo
This is Volkswagen's latest proposal to meet the growing demand for 100% electric vans. The range offered by the Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo is impressive: 419 km of freedom! But that's not the only incredible feature: the charging time is extremely competitive, even for models with a much shorter range. The company guarantees a 30-minute charge from 15% to 80% on fast charge. It's not yet available, but we'll be able to see it on the market by the end of 2022!
5. Opel Vivaro-e 300
With the same size as its Fiat E-Scudo cousin (5.3 m³), theOpel Vivaro-e 300 has the same range as the Fiat e-Scudo at 330 km, and a very similar price of €38,635. Perfect for those on a budget who still want a mid-size van, theOpel Vivaro-e 300 is also impressive in the context of fast charging: from 20% to 80% in just 25 minutes. Just enough time for a quick snack and a coffee!
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Retrofitting vans
What is a retrofit?
Retrofitting allows you to transform your old petrol or diesel vehicle into an electric vehicle and much more besides.
It must be carried out by accredited professionals who are licensed to carry out the transformation process in accordance with strict regulatory requirements.
The aim will be to dismantle the original mechanics of the car in question and replace the original powertrain with an electric motor and batteries. The aim is to "save" an old vehicle by giving it a new engine, or to continue driving your favorite vehicle without emitting any emissions.
This transformation also enables the user to benefit from all the advantages of an electric vehicle, such as limited running costs, free parking in some cities, no traffic restrictions or reduced maintenance. The retrofit process can also be implemented with vans - the concept is the same, but the size is different! So if you own an older van, this could be the perfect solution for you, and it will also save you money compared to buying a brand new electric van. We've written a more detailed article on retrofitting, so don't hesitate to check it out.
Fitting out your electric van
Now that we've explored the different aspects and features of electric vans for travel, we can move on to the most exciting part of van life: the inner transformation!
What's involved in outfitting your van?
What we call van refitting is simply taking ordinary vans and transforming them into a type of vehicle suited to the needs of van life. It's an extremely customizable and personalized process - there are no specific rules, the only limits are the laws of certain countries and your own creativity! In general, vanlifers base their transformation on their specific needs in terms of comfort and travel objectives. For example, if you only plan to use the van for a few weeks during the vacations, you won't worry too much about having all the comforts (like running water or a freezer), but will base your transformation rather on a flexible, basic style.
On the other hand, if you're going to live in the van for long periods (or use it as a residence), you want to be sure to have as many comforts as possible. Some people have even installed a functional toilet and shower in their van! So it's really up to you and your needs to decide on the style of your converted van.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of converting an electric van?
The layout of the electric van is not very different from a more traditional conversion. The space inside the van is exactly the same, and there doesn't seem to be any difference in vehicle temperatures. The only noticeable difference is that you already have a massive battery (sometimes even more than one) perfectly installed in your van. Given that it's very common for van enthusiasts to install an electrical system in their vehicle, to power all their appliances, and that they have artificial light, this can be seen as a big advantage.
Especially as the batteries and converters available on the market are quite expensive. With the right installation, additional electrical systems, appropriate sockets and special converters (if required), it's possible to use the van's battery both to move the vehicle itself and to power lights, heating and any appliances you decide to have on board.
What's more, as we've already mentioned, this system can be linked to solar panels installed on the van's roof, providing you with additional free, clean electricity for your adventures!
Is it realistic to make a van go electric? As we've seen in this article, it's entirely possible, given the right conditions. This type of lifestyle would be best suited to slower travelers, due to the constraints of autonomy. If you're looking for a relaxed way to get around, and want to save on your road expenses, electric vans are certainly for you. If so, have a look at our electric vans catalog.
