Safety Article – May/Jun 2021

RVing with an Electric Vehicle

Electric vehicles (EV) have been around since the late 1800s and have become more popular in the recent years. While electric recreational vehicles may not be common for some time, there are some RVers that are using EVs to tow small trailers or as towed vehicles. Although the new Ford electric pickup due in 2022 will have a towing capacity suitable for tag-a-long trailers, tow vehicles remain mostly petroleum fueled.

 

The use of EVs by RVers is creating some issues at campgrounds that we should be aware. First is that many campgrounds have been around for many years and as such have old electrical systems which may or may not be capable of charging EVs. These campgrounds also may not have a certified electrician on site, so electrical issues could be a headache when trying to charge an EV while using the same pedestal for powering your coach or trailer. This is especially true with those units requiring 50-amp service to power multiple air conditioners or heat pumps. I have even seen some EVs plugged into the 120-volt outlets on motorhomes. This practice also presents some concerns. Always check with the EV and RV manufacturer before utilizing this method of EV charging to prevent any unsafe conditions.

Typical Electrical Pedestal at Campgrounds

Campgrounds are getting requests for 2–3-hour site rentals for EV owners desperate for charging stations. While I am not an EV charging system expert, by any means, I would think that many of the older campgrounds are not equipped to handle the charging needs of an EV, especially if there are more than a couple in addition to the normal 30- and 50-amp RVs utilizing the electrical system. These types of current demands could cause issues throughout the facility. We could also see campgrounds installing EV charging stations as an additional income stream.

 

Something that could also create problems is that in some cases the person answering the phone or at the check-in desk may not realize that EVs can have different electrical charging requirements from the typical RV and that allowing the EV charging at a site with an RV may create an overheating of the outlet(s) and/or current reduction for one section or in some cases the entire facility during peak usage times. Some campgrounds have upgraded electrical systems, and these can handle the use of the 50-amp, 30-amp and 20-amp outlets at the same time.

 

What do we do if traveling with an EV as a towed vehicle or tow vehicle? Make sure that you determine if the campground allows the charging of EVs before you book your stay to eliminate any confusion and possible issues once you arrive. Follow the EV manufacturers recommended charging procedures and safety protocols while using the pedestal. If you encounter anything that does not feel, look, sound, or smell right contact the campground management immediately. 

 

Wishing everyone safe travels.

 

Butch Jones, Safety Chairman