This Self-Hitching & Self-Propelling Camper Hails From Ex-Apple & Volvo Pros
By Nicole Rodrigues, 20 Oct 2023
California-based startup Pebble is making waves in the world of outdoor enthusiasts with its innovative all-electric travel trailer, the Pebble Flow. Created by a team of former Apple and Volvo execs, this forward-thinking product aims to redefine the camping experience, promising a hassle-free and eco-friendly adventure.
One of its most prominent aspects is the fact that the Pebble Flow is entirely remotely controlled. It includes a built-in trailer mover for effortless positioning without needing a tow vehicle. Features like InstaCamp swiftly deploy or retract the awning, stairs, leveling stabilizers, and the electric parking brake with a single press. Notably, the Magic Hitch autonomously couples the trailer to your car using advanced robotic software that seamlessly senses its surroundings.
That said, it’s not entirely covered in sensors, so you will still have to be careful when controlling it and make sure you don’t run it into any rocks, trees, or other campervans.
The Pebble Flow’s power system is centered around a sturdy 45-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which is supported by a dual-motor Active Propulsion Assist System. What distinguishes it from typical travel trailers is its dependence on electricity, eliminating the need for propane, diesel, or gasoline. This self-sufficient trailer can venture off-grid for an impressive seven days. However, if you do need to charge it, options include regenerative braking, AC/DC charging, and rooftop solar panels, making it a versatile and environmentally conscious choice for camping enthusiasts.
The Pebble Flow travel trailer boasts a distinctive, fluid design, specifically engineered for optimal aerodynamics, resulting in a 300% increase in aerodynamic efficiency over traditional boxy travel trailers. It includes an Active Aero front nose cone that adjusts for optimal driving aerodynamics and unobstructed views when parked. Essentially, the Pebble Flow is positioning itself as the iPhone of campers.
In terms of specifications, the Pebble Flow measures 25 feet in length (including the tongue) and boasts dimensions of 90 inches in width and 104 inches in height. With a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GWVR) of 6,200 pounds, it features a single axle in the middle, offering a spacious overhang.
Inside, the Pebble Flow presents a modern design. At the rear, a Queen-sized Murphy bed can be easily converted into an office desk when needed. In the front, the dinette can be transformed into a comfortable sleeping area for up to four individuals. The trailer provides ample storage both inside and outside.
The kitchen is well-appointed with a removable induction cooktop, a four-in-one convection microwave, and a full-size six-cubic-foot refrigerator. The bathroom is equally impressive, featuring a separate full-size shower and a macerating toilet, complete with on-demand hot water and electrochromic glass for instant privacy.
Smart technology is integrated throughout the Pebble Flow, making it easily manageable through the Pebble App. This allows control over lights, locks, temperature, and more. Starlink connectivity is also onboard, facilitating over-the-air software updates and the introduction of new features.
The Pebble Flow is slated to begin shipping at the close of 2024, and preorders are currently open. The base price starts at US$109,000, with an upgrade option, the Magic Pack, available for US$125,000. The Magic Pack encompasses the dual-motor drivetrain and an array of app-controlled features, including remote control, Magic Hitch, and Easy Tow.
[via Fast Company and MotorTrend, images via Pebble]
This article was crafted with assistance from an AI engine, and has been manually reviewed & edited.