This EarthCruiser upfit sets a new standard in zero-tailpipe emission overlanding possibilities through its full integration onto the HUMMER EV Pickup chassis to offer adventurers the perfect blend of state-the-art technology, innovation and comfort to explore on- or off-road product.
It feels right, it feels like it belongs,” said EarthCruiser CEO and Founder Lance Gillies. “Using our years of overlanding expertise, we have ensured nothing is out of place, unnecessary or wasted in this vehicle. This collaboration with the GMC team has provided the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the zero-tailpipe emission possibilities for overland and recreational vehicle travelers. We have produced a comfortable, capable product, built to a high caliber of excellence – one that our customers can take pride in.”
A carbon fiber EarthCruiser house fully integrated into the chassis of the GMC- HUMMER EV Pickup.
Onboard solar power with 605W along with an innovative system of 6 kilowatt hours of 12V lithium battery to provide an estimated seven days of off-grid power, such as the ability to power appliances like a refrigerator/freezer for about a week.
The freedom to explore any season with EarthCruiser’s insulated tri-layered pop-up roof.
The epitome of intelligent design with EarthCruiser’s exceptional interior, crafted for versatility and storage optimization. EarthCruiser’s leading-edge build quality will empower users to embark on a journey that blends functionality and convenience. Amenities include a curated selection of appliances, indoor and outdoor shower, 120V and 12V outlets, purposeful storage and a flat-pack toilet.
An RV full-size bed to provide a comfortable night’s sleep on all terrains. 7-inch-diagonal touchscreen system control panel designed for ease of use.
An RV full-size bed to provide a comfortable night’s sleep on all terrains.
Intuitive, 7-inch-diagonal touchscreen system control panel designed for ease of use.
Charging your GMC HUMMER EV EarthCruiser overlander? No problem. Rest in your upfit until you are ready to hit the road again.
The GMC HUMMER EV EarthCruiser upfit is expected to be available to GMC HUMMER EV Pickup owners in 2024 through EarthCruiser. Additional product availability details will be released later this year. The EarthCruiser upfit is not covered by the GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty and GM is not responsible for independent-supplier alterations.
TAP’s EV Thoughts:
The growing EV market and developing EV overlanding category is certainly an emotive one. Comment range from total dismissive rants to thoughtful analysis of the challenges. When TAP sat down with Lance at the Loveland show, we addressed this directly with him. His answer proved to be responsible and honest and he showed genuine excitement for the category. Lance’s opinion is that the electric vehicle is here to stay and certainly we’ll see explosive growth (no pun intended) in the next decade.
” Is the technology without challenges? No, and development won’t be a straight line. It is however exciting times and we at Earthcruiser intend to embrace the future and alongside GMC, be one of the leaders in the EV overland category”
Honestly, we tend to agree with Lance’s assessment. There are certainly problems with range and infrastructure, however Henry Ford faced all these issues back in the day and look where we are now. What I am certain of, is that somewhere, someone way smarter than all of us, is currently working out how to solve these issues and barriers.
Keystone Outdoor Gear is proud to introduce TakTable®. Whether it’s weeks off the grid, an afternoon tailgating, a day at the beach, or working the north forty, this reliable portable table will make your outdoor life as easy as being at home!
TakTable® packs down to just 5” x 5” x 39” allowing it to be stowed anywhere, even the trunk of a Mini Cooper. In just seconds it deploys into a 30” tall, 18” x 39” sturdy table suitable for cooking, dining, work, outdoor sports, or games.
It weighs just 11 pounds and supports over 270 thanks to the patent pending construction including an aluminum top, coated steel legs, and reinforced nylon injection molded plastic parts. The moving parts of this portable table are pinned with brass and steel for a lifetime of reliable use, unlike some tables held together with bungee cords or plastic pins.
Custom stainless steel spring clips hold the base and top tightly together. The base quickly and easily glides between positions. Specially designed basket feet are suitable for any surface like sand, rock, gravel, and pavement. The incorporated foot holes can be used with the included stakes if you want to pin it to the ground for added security. Blustery day? The unique leg geometry creates turbulence in the wind, resulting in downforce that keeps the table put. Weatherproof and virtually fireproof, it can take some extreme use and maintain its integrity. Check out this video of a table that’s been pummeled and left outdoors for over a year and still performs like new.
TakTables® attach together in any direction to create a table of any size, anywhere. Use the attached quick-release pins to hold them together on the long edge, or optional short-edge connectors that hold the short edges together like a single unit. You can easily pack four into any vehicle and set up seating for six or eight people anywhere in the world in minutes for luxury dining under the open sky!
The specially engineered edges firmly and easily accept accessories for even more utility. Beyond simply inserting S-hooks to hang your stuff, there are twist-lock attached cup holders, paper towel holders, bracers, and gun/fishing rod rests. And more are coming constantly — look for garbage-bag holders, knife sheaths, faucet attachments, canopies, and lantern posts. Keystone Outdoor Gear can design and 3D print whatever you need in days! If you have an idea for a new add-on – and they design it – you’ll get it for free to test out.
TakTable® is 95% recyclable and made from recycled materials due to its predominantly steel and aluminum construction. All items from Keystone Outdoor Gear come with a 30-day return policy and 2-year warranty.
Jeep® enthusiasts can take two-way radio communication to new levels with the help of Midland Radio’s MXT275J Jeep® MicroMobile Two-Way Radio. Whether it’s a trip to Moab, the Rubicon Trail, or a trip along the East Coast, this 15 Watt GMRS two-way is packed with features that will ensure reliable, clear, and impressive communication on the trails.
Midland Radio’s MXT275J MicroMobile Two-Way Radio features Midland’s sought-after Fully-Integrated Control Microphone, meaning all controls are on the microphone. This allows adventurers to store the radio head unit away under the seat, in the center console, etc. to save dashboard space in the vehicle. The MXT275J’s microphone features Jeep branding, the perfect accessory for fans of the leading off-road manufacturer.
Take the trails and transmit with authority. Midland’s MXT275J is built with 15 Watts of GMRS power, triple the power of traditional handheld two-way radios. Jeep adventurers can head to the trails knowing they’ll be able to stay connected with reliable communication for help spotting, vehicle issues, and emergencies. This radio also packs a punch with eight GMRS Repeater Channels for radio range that can be stretched even further.
Midland’s new Jeep-branded MicroMobile GMRS two-way radio also features a USB-C charging port. Adventurers can plug in walkie talkies, tablets, and cellphones for the fastest charge time possible while making their ways through the road less traveled.
With the help of the new MXT275J, off-roaders can make safety a priority because of NOAA Weather Radio. NOAA Weather Radio brings the most accurate information to users straight from the National Weather Service. Off-roaders can rest easy knowing they’ll have the time they need to get off the trails and seek shelter if severe weather is headed their way.
The MXT275J Jeep MicroMobile Two-Way Radio is compatible with all of Midland’s FRS and GMRS handheld two-way radios. Off-roaders can easily communicate in and out of the vehicle. This ensures users can conquer obstacles, keep connected with others, and more.
Other notable features of the MXT275J Jeep MicroMobile Two-Way Radio include Split Tone Capability, Silent Operation, Channel Scan and Monitor Mode, Programmable Squelch, Keypad Lock and Keystroke Tones, Backlit Display, and more.
In the box off-road adventurers will find the MXT275J Jeep MicroMobile Two-Way Radio, Flip-Frame Detachable Mount, mounting hardware, Jeep-branded Fully-Integrated Control Microphone, microphone holder, Magnetic Mount Antenna with 6 meter cable, 12V power cord with car adapter, Quick Start Guide, and Owner’s Manual.
The Timberleaf Trailers Pika Teardrop borrows many of the features and design inspiration from its big brother, the Classic, such as the over-built fully welded and powder coated 2-inch by 3-inch 11 gauge steel frame, enamel baked aluminum sides, and our signature skylight.
Starting out at 1,025lbs, the Pika sits on a 54-inch by 96-inch frame and is well suited for travelers who are seeking a lighter, nimbler trailer, or don’t feel the need for the bells and whistles of the Classic, but do want the ultimate in comfort as they camp.
Available three suspension, our most compact teardrop trailer can be equipped with our Standard highway package, All-Road package, or Off-Road package to make a trailer well suited for all types of travel behind nearly any vehicle. The Pika is the ultimate in small camping trailers.
Bringing many of the details from our Classic Teardrop into the Pika, we offer all of the same retro-inspired laminate options to make up a 21-inch by 54-inch main countertop, and 10-inch deep upper countertop. A pair of sliding bypass doors, four USB ports, a 12-volt accessory port, and a 110-volt GCFI outlet. Dual overhead LED dome lights on the inside of the hatch are activated by a switch on the power panel adjacent to the USB ports.
Our standard Pika galley features two drawers in the center below the countertop and a cabinet with a door on either side. This layout has proven to be very popular and allows for a well-organized camp kitchen.
As an option, we have built the galley to accommodate a Dometic’s CFX3-35 12-volt refrigerator; with 35 liters of capacity, the fridge allows you to keep your food cold and fresh for days on end with no concern of ice ever again. The fridge slide can also accommodate a Yeti 35-liter cooler as well.
Compact and spacious, rarely do such words work so well together. The Pika’s cabin is built around a double size mattress, slightly more compact than our Classic, at 54 inches wide, the Pika comfortably sleeps two in its cozy cabin making it one of the most comfortable small camping trailers.
To maintain the spacious feel inside, we strayed from our tradition and introduce a series of compact cargo storage locations – one on either side of the mattress by the doors, and a larger one above the foot of the bed. We have also included a pair of USB ports and 110v outlet at the foot of the bed.
The cabin is illuminated by three LED lamps, all of which are warm white, which adds to the warm inviting feeling of our trailer.
Every Timberleaf Trailers Pika comes standard with our large skylight, skylight shade, 4-speed electric fan, two doors, two windows, and mattress. Add pillows and a destination, and you’re ready to camp the day you pick it up.
Yes, the electric vehicle overlanding world is upon us. It seems like not too long ago; the Toyota Prius rattled the vehicle world with its hybrid drivetrain. That was over 23 years ago. Today, we have so many choices to power a vehicle. Gas, hybrid, hydrogen, and electric provide viable vehicle powered options. Over the past few years, the all-electric vehicle market has expanded dramatically. The major vehicle manufacturers offer all-electric vehicle options for the consumer. But, what about the adventurer? What about the overlander? Is there something out there that accommodates the demands of the adventurer and overlander? A vehicle engineered and built to travel over dirt roads, mountain trails, obstacles with the capability of accessing the remote backcountry of the US? Well, the Rivian R1T might just be that vehicle!
“Okay, I will try to remember all of this,” I said while looking at the touch screen and feeling baffled and overwhelmed as I tried to memorize the many features of the R1T. A Rivian spokesperson guided me through the R1T’s features.
“Don’t worry, reassured the Rivian spokesperson, as you drive the vehicle, things will naturally make sense. Soon, you will feel more comfortable.” As I drove the Rivian R1T into the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, I immediately knew that I was driving a unique vehicle. Electric or not. Over the next few days, my goal was to test the Rivian R1T to validate if this is truly a worthwhile overlanding vehicle solution. Would an adventurer and overlander find the R1T a viable vehicle to purchase? Would I?
Overall Impressions
The Rivian R1T “screams” luxury. The leather seats are heated and cooled; making micro-adjustments makes them comfortable and helps reduce overall driver fatigue.The interior color is warm and inviting with wood accents; creatively, the Rivian logo is hidden throughout. Do you want style and thoughtful design? The Rivian R1T is that vehicle.
The 16-inch screen on the dashboard is easy to read as well as to navigate from one function to the other. Input on the screen appears immediately and responsively. Design features are thoughtfully and creatively. Need a light for a quick look at something? There’s a spring-loaded flashlight inside the driver’s door. The central armrest has room for storage; and; of course, wireless charging happens when the iPhone is placed onto it. The driver’s cluster (i.e., dash) features all electric components. I found the dash easy to read and understand.
The backseat is roomy and offers plenty of space for my 6 feet, 2-inch frame. If someone else yelled, “Shotgun!”, I would have no trouble sitting and traveling in the backseat. That’s a first for me. The LED lighting throughout the interior makes sighting and locating items easy. The only negative that I found inside was the enormous sky light. Almost the entire roof is one, large sky light. I do not prefer large skylights, expecting something to break them; but R1T’s skylight is sleek and follows the body lines of the truck. Overall, the interior is stylish, luxurious, thoughtfully designed, and well-crafted.
I found the truck bed to be just that, a truck bed. However, the built-in air compressor serves to inflate tires once off the trail. The pass-through storage space located in front of the truck bed allows for ample storage of bags and gear. A door on each side provides access to this space. A person can stand on either door to access the roof and gear; as well, someone can use it as a seat. Rivian R1T’s can be ordered with a slide-out kitchen in that pass through, but I like the fact of using the space for storage, etc. The front hood, of course, does not hide an engine but hides plenty of room (11 cubic feet) to store much needed overlanding gear. Honestly, I think you could pretty much store most of a weekend’s trip gear inside the space. I don’t like a couple of things about the truck bed. The fact that the tailgate is manual. With all of the electronics on the Rivian, that tailgate should close with a touch of a button. Also, the truck bed is short, at just under five feet (4.5 feet). Too short in my opinion. I could not sleep in the back while camping, which for me is important.
I most appreciate Rivian’s attention to detail. The yellow styling on the brake calipers and interior features matches the truck’s body color wonderfully. The Rivian logo appears in unique and thoughtful areas. I appreciate the lights from the front mirrors that illuminate the logo onto the ground next to each front door. The Rivian R1T atheistically pleases the eyes; and, let’s be honest, we want our vehicles to look good. Well-done Rivian!
The Drive
Ready? You better be. The Rivian R1T is a blast to drive. The immediate response as I stepped on the skinny pedal threw me back in my seat and simultaneously plastered a smile on my face. Yes, the R1T excels and drives more like a high-end sport’s car rather than a 7,000-pound truck. It brags of a 3.3 second from 0-60 miles per hour time. I didn’t officially time anything, but it’s fast. The 20-inch all-terrain Pirelli Tires handle well and feel balanced on the truck. Once up to speed, the truck handled with ease and steering was immediate and responsive. The one recurring problem while driving is that I forget I am driving a truck. No, the R1T does not drive like a sport’s car, but the immediate throttle response is addictive. Overall, the drive and ride feel compliant and stable. The different drive-modes make a noticeable difference on and off pavement. The air suspension makes a somewhat noticeable noise when lowering and raising. To me, it is a nonissue. The regenerative braking takes a while to get used to, but I love it! Driving the Rivian R1T is purely pleasurable.
Overland Worthy?
Sitting in the R1T high in the Wasatch Mountains, I set the drive mode to “Off Road” and watched the vehicle raise to almost 15 inches of ground clearance. Impressive to say the least. The R1T crawled up and over the large boulders impeding my progress. The general ride stiffened; and the vehicle drove up and over the obstacles without issue. Head roll was minimal, and driver posture remained stable as I drove through the quaking aspens of the Wasatch Mountains. Most noteworthy: during the drive, quiet prevailed, and I listened to the birds and nature with my windows down. Simply an enjoyable experience. No engine noise. No muffler sounds. Big deal? Yes, in my opinion, it’s a standout feature of the Rivian R1T (all electric vehicles, too).
As I returned to the pavement, I lowered the truck and filled the tires with air. While returning home, I questioned the viability of the R1T to the true adventurer and overlander. The deciding factors to me are the range, 300 miles, and the availability of chargers. I could literally care less on how a vehicle is powered. So, will the R1T work for you? Overall, the R1T is the nicest vehicle I have had the pleasure of driving. Period. The features and build quality are top notch. The creative and subtle ways of styling are unique and gorgeous. The truck is built with a purpose. For the adventurer and overlander in mind? Indeed!
Consideration and Hesitation
For me, the hesitation to fully put money down on this vehicle and buy it is three-fold. First, the range of the vehicle, roughly 300 miles (other variants offer more), is tough for me to overcome with the remote backcountry places I travel in the West. Secondly, the range would not concern me if there were numerous charging stations. To Rivian’s credit, Rivian is installing the infrastructure as fast as possible. Fast chargers are in place along major highways and interstates. Rivian is placing chargers in the national parks. So awesome. However, in the many places I travel, chargers are simply not available. The lack of range and chargers would make me nervous as I adventure in the wilds of Utah’s Robber’s Roost or Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains. Lastly, Rivian is a new company. With any new vehicle company, determining the company’s long-term reliability is impossible. Is the Rivian R1T a capable, well-conceived adventure vehicle? Absolutely! Would it be a worthwhile and viable vehicle consideration when purchasing your next adventure/overlanding vehicle? Definitely! As always, check and map the infrastructure/chargers in place to lessen potential headaches. The R1T is a revolutionary truck and adventure vehicle. One to seriously consider for your next vehicle.
In-field contributors: Michael and Lilly Holland
Michael Holland is a professional educator and freelance adventure writer based in Park City, Utah. He travels with family and friends in and around the Western United States. During the spring and fall, they canyoneer through the slots of the Colorado Plateau or hike to remote rock art sites left by the Ancient Ones. In the summer months, they chase trout in the rivers of Wyoming and Idaho, mountain bike the single track of Colorado, and explore the backcountry landscapes. Mike’s passion is finding remote locations and the adventures there. Currently, Mike drives Abbey (named after author Edward Abbey), a fully-equipped 200 Series Land Cruiser.
Lilly Holland is entering 10th grade this fall. She loves exploring and adventuring outdoors in her home state of Utah. Her parents “drag” her to many natural wonders around the western United States. Her favorite activity is canyoneering through slot canyons of the Colorado Plateau.
A shovel literally saved us at 14,000ft in the Sierra when the TAP JKU was stuck on a high altitude pass. Now we never go anywhere without a good shovel, axe and tool set. Take a look here at the some of the leading brands.
