Sales have leveled since recreational vehicle interest increased during the pandemic. But RV travel is still thriving.

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) estimates more than 34 million Americans are planning an RV trip in 2026, a 23 percent increase from 2025.

Perhaps not coincidentally, tire-maker Hankook reports two-thirds of American drivers are interested in an all-terrain or off-road driving adventure.

So maybe it’s time to hook a trailer to your off-road-capable sport utility vehicle or pickup truck?

Since the pandemic, more electric SUVs and pickups with increased towing capacities have debuted. Several startups have also rebooted the traditional travel trailer as more than big boxes on wheels.

The trick is adding electric propulsion and state-of-the-art connectivity to enable more functionality and convenience. The electrification includes a battery and an electric motor mounted under the floor with electromechanical braking.

The system assists the tow vehicle’s propulsion (improving EV range or internal combustion fuel economy). The connectivity helps reduce travel-related stress. These trailers feature a smartphone app that helps maneuver the trailer into place. The convoluted shift-into-reverse-and-check-the-mirrors-and-pray method is no longer required.

All of the trailers highlighted include a solar array to bring in additional power to enable longer off-grid living.

The newest offering is California-based Aboard, with its four-person T4. It’s likely the most avant-garde with large expanses of tinted glass and tapered front and rear ends. It helps aerodynamics but reduces space inside.

The big change is that the T4 is a range-extended EV. Its Shadow Drive includes a small gas engine that will help top up the 100kWh electric battery. It provides extra flexibility and capability.

The company claims the T4 uses automotive parts and “automotive-grade manufacturing including high-precision stamped body and door systems.” Aboard plans to build 1,000 trailers in 2027, citing an aggressively low starting price of $80,000.

But Aboard wasn’t first with an EREV trailer. The California-based Evotrex unveiled the PG5 at CES 2026. The company claims its trailer is sustainable, wood-free, and off-road capable. Unlike the T4, it’s offered in multiple configurations.

Rather than specify how long you can live without connecting to a power source, its unique Off-Grid Calculator provides a number based on needs, preferences and even weather. The adjustable air suspension and 33-inch tires encourages off-road adventures. Interior features include a TV projection screen that can move between living room and bedroom, and a 4-in-1 microwave oven. Production is scheduled at the end of 2026.

Two more simple, but perhaps less flexible, high-end electric powertrain setups, are already on the market. Colorado-based, six-year-old Lightship launched its AE.1 Cosmos edition trailer in the summer of 2025 and recently quadrupled its capacity to meet demand. Its proprietary “TrekDrive” system is designed to double the tow vehicle’s EV range or fuel efficiency.

It senses acceleration, braking and cornering. It adjusts its operation accordingly, adding power uphill and enabling controlled braking downhill.

A largest-in-class solar array aids the largest-in-class battery. Aerodynamics played a significant role in the design, aided by the automated raising and lowering canopy. One unique feature is the integrated outdoor shower. It’s great for washing off adventure-inspired dirt and grime. The company has also leveraged lessons from the AE.1 to develop the PowerSled. It’s designed for commercial mobile power solutions, which helps diversify its business model.

The Pebble Flow launched production in California in the spring of 2025. Lightness and safety are emphasized with an aluminum spaceframe with composite and sustainable materials. It’s boxier than the Lightship, but reducing drag is still highlighted. Pebble claims it’s “300% as aerodynamic” as a conventional trailer. It also features Auto Dump, a “game-changing waste disposal system designed to be hygienic, efficient, sustainable, and nearly touch-less.” An entry-level model starts at $113,500, but doesn’t include the Magic Pack electric propulsion system.

While all unique, the new RV alternatives  share a trait: They can improve the efficiency of a 20-year-old pickup or a new electric truck.

Visit:

https://www.aboardrv.com/

https://www.evotrex.com

https://lightshiprv.com

https://pebblelife.com

_{Cover photo: Aboard T4 travel trailer – Photo courtesy Aboard}