Swift Basecamp EVO concept caravan

We’re jumping the gun a bit as– at the time of writing – this is merely a prototype. It’s certainly a major indicator of Swift’s thinking regarding future touring caravans, however. And it’s up to you whether it makes it into full production.

Since unveiling its Basecamp EVO caravan model at the 2023 Motorhome and Caravan Show, Swift has been listening hard to potential customer feedback. In this video, we take a walk around the Swift Basecamp EVO concept caravan.

Hitching up to the Net Zero future

As a glimpse of the future, though, it’s a more than worthwhile exercise. The first Swift Basecamp crossover caravan debuted back in 2016 and our review concluded back then: “A bold step, but it looks like fun.” Welcome, then, to another bold step.

The EVO has the same dimensions, chunky bodywork and floorplan as the standard Basecamp 2. That means retaining the signature rear door access to allow carrying loads such as canoes, surfboards, bikes etc. The distinct large single front window and front locker are also here.

A deliberate policy to keep weights down help the cause, too. Indeed, overall weight reduction is a key aspect. Swift say the external mouldings are 85% recycled plastics, which in turn means some 75% reduction in CO2 emissions in their manufacturing. Also, around half of the EVO’s plastic fittings (such as the flaps for external sockets like the solar input) are made from recycled polypropylene.

Some 3D printing is involved, too. And the linoleum flooring inside again emits less CO2 in its making.

Swift sticks with GRP for its main bodyshell, but weight has been reduced by some 11kg. Insulation is thanks to some 1,750 recycled plastic drinks bottles.

Those diamond-cut alloy wheels are 17in, their low-profile tyres using a tread pattern that reduces rolling friction and hence makes for improved fuel economy when towing.

There’s also a solar panel arrangement that includes a plug-in portable 200Watt unit as well as 720Watts via the two fixed on the roof, all supplying the twin 6kWh leisure batteries set-up.

Lots of energy-saving appliances are here, too, of course.

Like the double induction hob, a microwave oven and grill combination, Dometic compressor fridge and the like. Swift says CO2 emissions are reduced by 92% when powered by renewable electricity, compared to their more traditional gas-powered equivalents.

At the front of the Swift Basecamp EVO, it’s a two-settee lounge.

As already pioneered in previous Basecamps, instead of traditional lockers there’s a mix of open shelving and removable canvas bags.

Each kilogramme of cushion filling contains some 42 recycled plastic bottles and soft furnishings are all from recycled material.

The layout comprises two settees at the front that can be used to make a transverse double bed some 1.98m x 1.83m or twin singles 1.83m x 0.69m. The kitchen is along the nearside and wardrobe and washroom offside.

The latter has a fixed hand basin. There’s also a shower here – a water-efficient design from Ecocamel, with a riser bar.

What looks like a conventional Thetford bench toilet has been adapted for a flush system which uses rainwater collected at the front of the caravan and channelled into a special 10 litre flush tank. Mirrors are made from bamboo and recycled Perspex.

No gas. No mains electricity. No problems. Just treat this a little snapshot of what caravans could be about in the not-too-distant future. And there’s every reason to expect all the features we’ve got used to having in our home from home.

Pricing? That’s all to be confirmed if and when the Swift Basecamp EVO caravan makes it into production, but current standard Basecamp prices in the region of £24,000-£26,000 offer a bit of a guide, although that’s ex-works, i.e. before customer delivery charges are added.

Meanwhile sign up here if you want to be among those who’d like to hear about future developments of this all-electric caravan.

Verdict: A natural progression for the Basecamp series?

Plus: Plenty of presence, a step in the right direction

Minus: Dare Swift go even further?

In-a-nutshell: Ten out of 10 for Net Zero ambitions.

To find out more about insuring a Swift Basecamp or your current caravan visit our caravan insurance page.

Alternatives: Knaus Sport 420 QD E.Power Selection