A Boondocking Boom, Jeep Unveils Retro Hybrid Concept, the Evolution of EV Charging, and Other News

Here’s what you might have missed this week in outdoors, innovation, and EV news.

Many RVers Prefer Going Off the Grid

Due to an influx in new RV travelers in the last few years, campground reservations have been harder to come by—but new battery technologies and more efficient charging and energy systems are allowing more RVers to stay off the grid for longer. In states with a lot of public lands, many RVers are opting for boondocking, or camping with no amenities or hookups, over dealing with crowded campgrounds.   

Read More (from UPI)

Jeep Debuts Vintage-Inspired Plug-In Hybrid

While many automakers are betting big on electric vehicles, Jeep’s latest concepts are largely gasoline-powered. The exception is the new Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys Dispatcher, revealed recently at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. The trail-focused Dispatcher is a plug-in hybrid with a vintage-inspired design that harkens back to “early post-war civilian Jeep SUVs,” according to Jeep.

Read More (from Green Car Reports)

Do You Suffer from Sunshine Guilt?

As anyone living in a gloomy place can attest to, those rare sunny days are meant to be soaked up and enjoyed. But what happens if you’re stuck at work, too tired to go outside, or have something else keeping you indoors on a warm, clear day? You’ll likely experience sunshine guilt, defined as the “regretful feeling that settles in whenever you stay inside on a nice day,” according to Bustle.

Read More (from Bustle)

EV Charging Has Come a Long Way

If you drove a non-Tesla EV five years ago, when fast chargers were few and far between, you likely ran into some regular charging challenges. An early adopter shares some harrowing personal stories that highlight how far EV charging has come in the last few years.  

Read More (from CleanTechnica)

REI Is Building a Campground Near the Grand Canyon

Outdoor retailer REI has purchased 20 acres of land near Grand Canyon National Park to build its fourth Signature Camp, which will provide new camping opportunities and guided trips—for those who can afford the hefty price tags. The campground will have tents on platforms, communal restrooms and showers, and more, and is planned to start operating in the spring of 2025.

Read More (from USA Today)

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