Honda wants to modernize the RV market with a funky, modular model dubbed Base Camp.
Honda today unveiled its latest adventure-focused vehicle. No, not a reborn Element, or in fact a vehicle with any motor of its own: the Base Camp Prototype is the Big H’s idea of what a modern RV should be.
Feeling right in line with the brand’s expanded TrailSport lineup, there is logic behind the Base Camp. Honda points out that over 80 million Americans go camping, and roughly 20-percent of them are new to the activity within the last two years. It’s a big market, and Honda sells so many other products that align with the lifestyle already. It’s almost a surprise it took this long.
The Base Station is a modular design with tidy dimensions: Honda says it will fit in a standard residential garage or parking space. Despite that compact footprint it has space for a family of four to sleep, with a fold-out futon providing a queen-sized bed and optional bunk beds. The pop-up roof gives seven feet of vertical space, and the tailgate is top-hinged for easy access.
Five large windows ensure plenty of natural light can make it to the cabin—if you so desire. Honda says they can be removed for a number of accessories. Programmable light rings around the windows should make it easier to set up camp when you’ve arrived later than expected.
To show off the prototype, Honda has fit it with multiple accessories including an external shower, an air conditioner, and a full external kitchen. A lithium battery and integrated solar panels are standard. As you’d expect from a company that builds generators, external power source capability is also standard.
Lightweight was a key focus of Base Camp development. Honda says a standard family SUV like the CR-V (or competitor models) can tow it, as well as electric models. You know, like the brand’s upcoming Zero series.
“Base Station is a perfect example of what can happen when you let a team of researchers, designers and engineers pursue bold new ideas to create new value for our customers,” said Jane Nakagawa, vice president of the American Honda R&D business unit. “Just like the Motocompacto, Base Station is the product of fresh and innovative thinking. We designed it to make camping more accessible and enjoyable for families across America.”
Honda didn’t give a timeline for when we can expect a production Base Camp, though it did reinforce that pricing will be competitive amongst the light RV scene.
What do you think? Should more automakers dip their toe in the trailer market? Would the Base Camp be the light camper for you? Let us know in the comments.
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Kyle began his automotive obsession before he even started school, courtesy of a remote control Porsche and various LEGO sets. He later studied advertising and graphic design at Humber College, which led him to writing about cars (both real and digital). He is now a proud member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), where he was the Journalist of the Year runner-up for 2021.
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