EarthRoamer XV-JP: Live-Aboard 4x4 Solar and Diesel Jeep
After we posted about the 4x4 Van Conversion, reader "Blip Music" suggested we scope out a company called "EarthRoamer," who specializes in conversions of vehicles for long-term camping and outdoor use. So I did—and now I've got a powerful lust in my heart, having spent several hours this weekend looking over EarthRoamer's products and travel journals.
EarthRoamer makes two models: the XV-LT, a conversion of a Ford F550 truck, which they've been making since at least 2000; and the far more appealing XV-JP, a new model based around the extended-bed Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. While both models achieve the same goal—off-road-capable vehicles that can also provide comfortable living quarters—the XV-JP does it in a package that is far more practically sized, extending only about a foot in height more than a typical jeep.
I was seriously counting pennies for the first hour or so of looking at the the XV-JP until I happened on the price: a painful $77k, or $44k more than the Jeep itself. While that is certainly enough to make a man cry, it does start to make more sense when you recognize the degree of customization that has gone into each vehicle.
Each EarthRoamer XV-JP operates entirely off its diesel engine and integrated solar panel, providing hot water (heated from the engine block), an on-board toilet, a shower, lights, heating and cooling (by fan), and various other amenities, including a refrigerator. The water tanks and batteries are stowed under the frame to help maintain a low center of gravity. The top folds out into a tent with a queen-sized bed. Except for stops to occasionally empty the septic system and top off your water and fuel, you could go weeks without the need for any other modern convenience. Oh, and the whole thing has been blown out with aftermarket parts that can withstand off-road use.
Part of why the XV-JP pushes all my buttons is that it would be the perfect vehicle to use on a trip through Central and South America I've always wanted to take. Toss in a laptop, a DSLR, and a satellite internet connection (since money isn't a limitation, obviously) and I could putter around the jungle in my mobile off-road blogging platform. I am sighing so hard right now!
Product Overview Page [EarthRoamer.com]
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So it pushed a few buttons, eh? ;D
"...having spent several hours this weekend looking over EarthRoamer's products and travel journals..."
Yup, that about summarises my behaviour as well, only I'm going the Asian route; going from home, Sweden, "stopping by" at the Himalayas to hike (on foot) for a bit, then the rest of China and Mongolia and what not all the way to Japan. Well, now I'm back to checking out backpacks and sleeping bags, as those I might actually be able to afford! Oh, and as a bonus I'll be able to use them in my future XV-JP... (I wish).
Still, I wonder about spare parts, though. That's where a Landrover shines.
You know, a lot of people would load up a bike, and ride it, with quite a bit lower footprint.
http://www.adv-cycling.org/
(Or row/paddle a boat.)
Presently,the EARTHROAMER XV-JP is not a diesel. THe JEEP RUBICON Wrangler Unlimited 4x4 does not have diesel... yet...I would buy one today if a diesel XV-JP was available.
The EARTHROAMER XV-LT, based on the FORD crew or super cab, is diesel.
I agree the XV-JP is very unique vehicle. I am not a camper or RV person and this vehicle is so much more than an RV or camper.
If you like the EarthRoamer and Sportsmobile, you'll probably like this custom-built overland truck. Quite a bit bigger than an EarthRoamer, and more expensive, but not as cramped. And it is a diesel.
Joel - it's just the thing for you to travel in self-sufficient comfort. Start counting pennies again. Or persuade Happy Mutants that BoingBoing really should be writing travelmenturies about remote spots.
Alternatively, if you are prepared to forgo off-road travel and allure of exotic places, you could do it in maximum style.
funny just happened on this note. keep counting pennies, as its $77,000 more than $33,000 jeep, totalling $110,000 to get ya rolling.
how about a more economical Honda version? www.ursaminorvehicles.com