Another new entrant to this class of van-based, compact RVs is also available.
Meet the AEONrv. This motorhome was created by two software engineers and debuted at Overland Expo West. We stopped by their booth in order to learn more about this unique RV. It’s very similar to the Winnebago Ekko, and the AdvancedRVB-Box.
AEON is an acronym for All-season Electric, Offroad, New and Modern RV. However, the term “Electric” in its name doesn’t refer directly to the powertrain. The Ford Transit’s 3.5-liter V6 is decidedly not electric twin-turbocharged 3.5 liter V6. It refers to the 24-volt marine power system of the camper and software-controlled onboard electronics. The AEONrv has a lot of electrical capacity. It includes 7.7 kWh lithium-ion batteries that can be upgraded to 12.8 kWh and a roof-mounted 700-watt solar array.
The Ford Transit all-wheel-drive chassis cab is used to build the motorhome. However, the vehicle has single rear wheels as opposed to dual like the Ekko. The AEONrv, which is also unlike the Ekko’s, has a lifted suspension at both ends and skid plates. It also comes with off-road wheels with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires. The AEONrv is ready to go off-roading. A winch is an option.
The AEONrv is capable of surviving in colder climates, as we can see from its construction. The walls and doors are thickly insulated and the windows are made of dual-pane acrylics.
It is unique in its layout, with the tall refrigerator behind the driver facing the side door when you enter. The wet bath is located immediately behind the passenger. It appears to expand in front the side door, giving more space when it’s in use. A dinette for two is located across the aisle from the fridge. It features a decently-sized sink, counter-top two-burner electric range and an optional microwave. You will reach the bed by a few more steps and some storage.
The AEONrv has impressive storage capacities. It can store a huge 66-gallon freshwater tank, 28-gallon gray water tank, and an 8-gallon hotwater heater. It also has a 65-foot garage area below the bed, which is accessible from the outside.
All this awesomeness costs $194,500, not including taxes and fees. There are many options available, including a composting toilet (instead of the 4.75-gallon cassette toilet), an onboard air compressor ($500), and any other color (est. $2,000+).
The AEONrv seems promising and is priced between the Ekko ($163,662) & B-Box (built to suit starting at $300,000).