Airstream is developing electric-powered trailers to help you save fuel - Automotive News & Information

A trailer powered by electric motors can be used in conjunction with your vehicle.

A trailer attached to a vehicle can be the best way to go camping under the stars and all the comforts of home for those who love to travel the roads. A fully-sized motorhome is a great option for some, but a trailer towed option works well for others who are looking for a quick getaway with limited options and a lot of cost. It’s not surprising that trailer-towed motorhomes have a lower fuel economy and significantly less aerodynamic performance than their fully-mobile counterparts. Airstream is a well-known name in the camperhome industry.

Airstream is developing electric-powered trailers to help you save fuel

McKay Featherstone was Airstream’s Vice President for Product Development and Engineering. He spoke to the guys at the road show by CNET and stated that the brand is focused on freedom and range. Featherstone says that range is crucial if you want to tow something long distance. Featherstone and his team have already developed a Smart RV app which allows you to monitor your Airstream’s stats and control lighting and heating. They are now exploring the possibility of incorporating an electric drivetrain into a camper. This would allow extra driving power and assist the car’s engine.

It would be necessary for the vehicle to communicate with the trailer in order for it to calculate the power required for forward motion. There isn’t currently an interface to do this, other than the connector that powers indicators and brake lights. Airstream envisions a fully autonomous camper that can drive itself to any destination. Airstream has an autonomous vehicle that powers itself. You go to sleep at night, and when you wake up, you are at Yosemite. This vision is far away, but it is possible.