Chinese startup builds RV that sets up in seconds, drives itself

Skydream Caravans aims to create advanced travel trailers. These trailers combine new energy, automotive, and smart home technologies from China with RV manufacturing systems from Europe, the US, and Australia. Their first caravan will feature an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), a power-folding patio, an outdoor breakfast bar, and one-touch setup. It's designed to be a luxury hotel room that can be towed by an SUV.

Over the past few years, companies have been developing high-tech, luxurious caravans. These trailers can hitch and park themselves, provide their own power on roads, and offer wireless control like smart homes. Some even automate tasks like emptying black water tanks. Chinese innovators are now joining this trend. Evotrex, a Sino-American startup, has already introduced its PG5 trailer.

Skydream, based in Chongqing, is also entering this market. The company showcased its vision at last year's Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, the world's largest RV show. Skydream is now preparing for its American debut in San Jose later this month.

Smart Features and Power

Skydream's first trailer is 26.5 feet (8.1 meters) long. It has a spacious interior with a living room, bedroom, dry bathroom, and a kitchen that opens to the outside. A key feature for these high-tech trailers is a powerful, EV-grade battery. This battery keeps all electrical systems running when off-grid.

Skydream plans to use a dual lithium battery pack with 45 to 85 kWh of power. This battery will charge from an 1,100- to 2,200-W roof-mounted solar system. It also has an EV-style charging port and uses regenerative braking. Skydream aims for two weeks of off-grid power.

Another important feature is an integrated electric drive. This system reduces the trailer's effective tow weight. It also makes maneuvering in tight spaces easier and improves handling.

Skydream's ADAS system is designed to be very comprehensive. It helps drivers tow the 6,400-lb (2,900-kg) trailer on highways and narrow roads. The trailer can even locate the tow vehicle hitch and connect itself using an app. It can also disconnect and park itself with a single command.

Other ADAS features include drive support, anti-sway correction, hill start assist, traction assist, active steering assist, and regenerative braking. It also offers 360-degree remote monitoring. These features are usually found in advanced cars, not travel trailers.

Automated Setup and Interior Design

At the campsite, the Skydream trailer offers automated setup. With one button, it lowers stabilizer legs, levels the air suspension, deploys the front deck, extends the awning, and turns on the lights. This transforms the campsite in seconds.

The interior features a front bedroom and a spacious rear living room with a wraparound sofa. This sofa converts into a second bed. The trailer can sleep two to six people, with four people on two double beds being ideal. The living room has a dining table. The central kitchen has a long countertop that can serve as an outdoor bar.

The kitchen includes two flush-integrated induction burners, a microwave, a water purification system, a retractable range hood, a washing machine, and a large fridge. Video renderings also show a slide-out wine rack. Across from the kitchen, the dry bathroom has separate shower and toilet rooms.

A smart home control system connects the entire cabin. It uses built-in touchscreens, a portable tablet, and a mobile app. The system also supports full-vehicle voice control. One unique feature is an instant movie theater mode for both the living room and bedroom. With one button, a 60-inch projector screen lowers, lights dim, blackout shades close, and the bed or sofa reclines.

Skydream founder and CEO Felix Yang noted that the trailer is for "travelers who don't want to choose between adventure and modern living." The company has developed three working prototypes. Last month, it secured an ¥18 million (about US$11.6 million) funding round. Skydream will introduce more details when it launches in the American market on Monday, March 23.

Deep Dive & References: Skydream Caravans