Knaus Tabbert unveiled a first-of-its-kind electric RV with a Wankel rotary range extender at the 2021 Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf!
Knaus Tabbert is a German-based company specializing in manufacturing motorhomes, caravans, and camper vans. These vehicles are sold through five brands under the Tabbert umbrella, including Knaus, Tabbert, Weinsberg, T@B, and Morelo.
The company also provides a holidaying rental service—Rent and Travel—for those who wish to experience the campervan/motorhome lifestyle. For 2021, Knaus Tabbert plans to take things even further by offering an emission-free RV called ‘Knaus E.Power Drive’ to satisfy one’s thirst for wanderlust without harming nature.
The prototype is based on a Series 8 Fiat Ducato, already equipped with all the bells and whistles one expects from a modern motorhome, such as full LED headlamps, a digital instrument panel, a 5’ color TFT dash with a built-in radio, storage compartments on the doors (including cup holders), wireless charging for smartphones, and a suite of driving assistance systems to keep you safe on the road. With a comprehensive platform on board, Knaus planned to swap out the stock diesel engine and 6-speed manual combo for an in-house electric drive with a range extender.
The German brand teamed up with HWA AG to build and install the electric drivetrain, a 35-kWh lithium-ion battery pack powering a single 241 hp front-driven electric motor. Knaus quotes a WLTP range estimate of 56 miles on a single charge, although that can be increased further with the range extender.
However, unlike other traditional plug-in hybrids, the Knaus E.Power gets a Wankel rotary generator unit instead of an Otto or Diesel engine. Knaus went down the rotary route due to its unique characteristics such as lesser mechanical complexity, ability to set its ideal rpm range, compact size, and smooth operation.
It also hooked up the rotary generator to an AC/DC converter to help power onboard appliances and systems without needing a separate power source. Knaus claims that the rotary alone could provide juice for a week. If the system proves successful, the rotary could be powered by hydrogen to reduce emissions even further at some point in the future.
Furthermore, in what is dubbed the ‘HMI Concept’ or Human-Machine interface, you also get a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen with all the creature comforts and settings, plus an additional drivers’ instrument cluster to display telemetry of the vehicle’s systems. Other optional features include the smart silwyREADY cup holders, the Velocrate upgrade package (GPS Tracker), and a world-class Pioneer navigation system.
The Knauss E.Power is perfect for campers or adventurers interested in enjoying the Great Outdoors while reducing their impact on their surroundings.
More details on Knaus’s website
Gallery: Knaus E.Power Drive
