If you love cycling and camping, but don’t want to sleep in a tent, you might be interested in the Hupi trailer, a solar-powered electric bike camper that includes a bedroom and dinette. The Hupi trailer is a Finnish invention that combines the convenience of an e-bike with the comfort of a caravan.
Hupi trailer was designed by Urpo “Upi” Merranmaa, who wanted to take a multi-day trip on his e-bike, but didn’t like the idea of staying in a tent. He spent more than 5,000 hours of work to create an insulated aluminum-skinned trailer that looks as polished as any motor vehicle caravan. The trailer has a classic caravan shape and a step-through door. It weighs around 70 kg (150 lb) and can be towed by an e-bike.
The interior of the Hupi trailer is surprisingly spacious, with a 131-cm-high (51-in) ceiling that allows users to sit at full height. The trailer features a convertible RV dinette that transforms into a bed at night. The bed fills out the entire interior to sleep the single cyclist. In the morning, the foot of the bed flips up against the front wall, and the rest of the bed works as a cushioned bench seat. The underside of the folded bed section houses a flip-up table that provides dining and workstation space.
Hupi trailer comes with an extra electrical setup, featuring roof-mounted solar panels that can generate up to 250W of power. It includes an onboard battery, an inverter for interior and exterior lighting, and even a micro-fridge. Not only that, but the solar panels can also charge the e-bike’s battery while you take breaks. Pretty neat, right? For those who want more amenities, the Hupi trailer can be equipped with a propane stove, a portable grill, a skylight for stargazing, and even a TV.
Hupi trailer is not cheap, starting at around €5,990 (approximately $6,700 USD). If you don’t have an e-bike to pull the trailer, the company is happy to sell you one, too (complete with pre-installed tow hitch, of course!). The Hupi trailer is available from Finnish Commercial Vehicle Center (FCVC), based in Lahti.
The Hupi trailer is one of the latest examples of how electric bike campers are evolving and becoming more professional and interesting. It offers a unique way to enjoy cycling and camping with more comfort and convenience.
