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What is van life?
The van life is a very special way of life, consisting of living permanently or part-time in a vehicle that has been redesigned and refitted for the purpose. The term comes from the fact that people generally live in a van that has been modified with basic equipment and furniture, such as a bed, a small kitchen, solar panels, a toilet of some kind, 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 is a list of the most common characteristics:
- freedom of movement to live and work,
- a significant reduction in the cost of living,
- In some cases, it can mean a more sustainable lifestyle,
- a strong taste for adventure and greater control over your situation,
- a more economically sustainable way to travel the world.
This type of lifestyle is becoming very popular all over the world, not least because it is 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 have for van life?
An electric van is simply a commercial vehicle that runs on electricity, powered by an electric motor. battery rechargeable. 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 that an electric van can bring to van life. Let's take a look at some of the most significant benefits.
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, as it is the vanlifer's main cost... Electric vans are the solution! Depending on the region, the cost of recharging is about a third of that of petrol or diesel. So the cost of living in a van could be considerably reduced.
Let's take a concrete example to help us understand. To do this, we're going to compare the same model of van; on the one hand, we'll analyse the fuel consumption of a traditional (internal combustion) model and, on the other, we'll see how much it costs to run its electric version.
The models we will be comparing are the Fiat Ducato 3 Iii 2.3 Multijet 140 (internal combustion model) and the Fiat Ducato 3 Iii 2.3 Multijet 140 (external combustion model). Fiat E-Ducato (electric model). As they haveautonomy In order to have a standard and fair measure of comparison, we're going to calculate the fuel consumption per 100 km travelled. Starting with the Fiat Ducato 3, it consumes 6.5 litres of diesel every 100 km. At the current price in France of €2.15 per litre, that's almost €14 every 100 km. On the other hand, the Fiat E-Ducato has a fuel consumption of 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 using a domestic socket or the Wallbox With an average price of €0.17/kWh in France (€0.21 on average in Europe), driving 100 km with an electric model will cost you just €3.63.
Over a 1,000 km journey, this charging method will save you €106.40! That's a reduction of more than 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 journey of 1,000 km, 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. Over a 1,000 km journey, this charging method will save you €23! That's a saving of more than 15% with a very short recharging time.
| Refill method | Average cost per kWh | Total cost per 100 km | Savings (per 1,000 km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic socket / Wallbox | 0,17 € | 3,63 € | 106,40 € |
| Standard public load | 0,30 € | 6,41 € | 75,90 € |
| Quick charge | 0,55 € | 11,70 € | 23,00 € |
The dynamics of solar panels
Most vans designed to make van life possible and comfortable are fitted with solar panels on the roof of the vehicle. This provides users with a free, sustainable and 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 solar panels installed, providing the vanlifer with energy for their daily needs and a free, sustainable way of running their 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 drive 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 sustainable and efficient than internal combustion vans, they produce no CO2 and allow users to opt for a more renewable way of recharging their own van and travelling the world.
Vanlifers are often concerned by climate and environmental issues.This is because of their general interest in nature and exploring wild areas. Switching to an electric van could be an opportunity to make a difference, and considerably 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 living where you live in the vehicle, a significant reduction in noise can be a considerable advantage. In addition, virtually inaudible van noise will greatly reduce the possibility of disturbing local animals on your adventures. Looking at the Compett By analysing the difference in decibels between electric vehicles and internal combustion vehicles under various conditions, we can conclude that there is an average difference of 3-4 decibels between the two types of vehicle.
Favourable 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 grants 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), which 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 discussed topics regarding the complications of van life have been widely addressed and explored by many vanlifer experts and travellers in recent years. The stress of being constantly on the move, the high risk of breakdowns, isolation, productivity difficulties, cleaning problems, difficulties 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 can we 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 is 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 is still a long way to go. By 2022, we have achieved satisfactory ranges: in fact, some models like the Fiat e-Ducato 79 kWh can achieve up to 350 km of range on a single charge.
It is still obvious that for a traveller such as a vanlifer, this distance may not be able to meet all their needs. In this context, we need to highlight the fact that a lot of progress has been made in 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, making it possible to achieve very competitive ranges. In addition, general adaptation and government incentives will significantly advance the development of electric vehicles.recharging infrastructure throughout Europe.
The problem of recharging infrastructure
Another concern for many drivers is the possibility of recharging their vehicle as easily as they used to be able to fill up with petrol for internal combustion vehicles; and the scarcity of recharging stations, especially outside the big cities, seems to be a major drawback for 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. In addition, 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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The vagaries of the weather and the seasons
Generally speaking, the weather is always a disadvantage of van life, as poor weather 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 hot 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 American Automobile Association study has shown that in very low temperatures (below 0° C), battery life 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 vanlifers 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 travel frequently. At current petrol prices, the company estimates that customers could save up to €25,000 over 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 great freedom of movement. What's more, its volume of 15.1 m³ offers infinite possibilities for customising 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 a 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 model Fiat. E-Scudo is a medium-sized van, perfect for travellers looking for a more agile vehicle. Range 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 the latest proposal from Volkswagen100% vans, which is attempting to meet the growing demand for electric 100% 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 a fast charge. It's not available yet, 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, with 330 km, and a very similar price of €38,635. Perfect for those on a budget who still want a medium-sized 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 retrofit ?
Le retrofit allows you to transform your old petrol or diesel vehicle into an electric vehicle and much more besides.
It must be carried out by approved professionals who have obtained a licence to carry out the transformation process in accordance with the strict requirements of the regulations.
The aim will be to dismantle the original powertrain of the car in question and replace it with an electric motor and batteries. The aim is to 'save' an old car by giving it a new engine, or to continue to drive your favourite vehicle without emitting any emissions.
This transformation also allows the user to benefit from all the advantages of an electric vehicle, such as limited running costs, free parking in some towns, no traffic restrictions or reduced maintenance. The process of retrofit can also be used with vans - the concept is the same, but the size is different! So if you own an old 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 retrofitDon't hesitate to consult it.
Fitting out your electric van
Now that we've explored the different aspects and features of electric vans for travelling, we can move on to the most exciting part of van life: the inner transformation!
What does fitting out your van involve?
What we call fitting out your van simply involves taking ordinary vans and transforming them into a type of vehicle suited to the needs of van life. It's a highly customisable and personalised 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 your holidays, you won't worry too much about having all the comforts (like running water or a freezer), but you'll base your transformation more on a flexible and basic style.
On the other hand, if you want to live in the van for long periods (or use it as a residence), you want to make sure you 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 plugs and special converters (if required), it is 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 extra free, clean electricity for your adventures!
Is it realistic to convert a van to electric power? As we saw in this article, it's entirely possible, if the conditions are right. This type of lifestyle would be better suited to slower travellers, because of the constraints of autonomy. If you're looking for a relaxed way to get around and want to save on your road costs, electric vans are certainly for you. In this case, you can consult our catalogue on electric vans. electric vans.
