Month: July 2025

ELKHART, Ind. – Alera Marine Group is officially open for business (aleramarine.com) and making waves from day one. The company, founded in the heart of Elkhart, Ind., enters the marine industry with a bold vision: to build watercraft with real performance, smart serviceability, and unmistakable presence.

Backed by over 200 years of combined marine experience, Alera’s leadership team includes Founder & CEO Coley Brady, General Manager Jordan Kistler, and VP of Marketing Joe Mehl—along with a growing team of 40+ passionate designers, engineers, and craftsmen who know what it takes to build a better boating experience.

“There’s a clear opportunity to bring something fresh and exciting to this space without cutting corners on what matters most,” said Coley Brady, CEO of Alera Marine Group. “We’re focused on doing the right thing for our dealers, our vendors, our customers and the people who walk through our doors every day.”

Alera’s debut model — the Model M pontoon — has already gained attention through private dealer events and early test rides. Engineered with precision and intention, the boat reflects the company’s obsession with the details that make ownership easier and performance stronger.

“Intentionality has been a constant theme since day one,” said Jordan Kistler, General Manager. “We’ve obsessed over the little things that add up in a major way for the end user. This boat wasn’t built for the showroom, it was built for the water.”

More than just a pontoon, Alera is positioning itself as a lifestyle brand with energy, culture, and values baked into every aspect of the business. The internal mission—Propelling people forward by doing whatever it takes—guides everything from product development to customer care.

“The Alera Era represents a wave of energy,” said Mehl “It’s about building something with presence—something that turns heads and makes people feel like they’re part of something bigger. We’re not just launching a boat. We’re launching a movement. It’s a vibe. And yeah… we’re doing it all with a little swagger.”

The team’s first model, the Model M, will make its public debut in the coming weeks, with boats arriving at select dealer partners later this year. Alera will continue rolling out new content, media, and dealer events throughout the summer.

For those watching the brand’s rise from idea to reality, one thing is clear: Alera isn’t chasing trends. They’re starting something of their own—and they’re doing it with momentum, pride and a clear commitment to dealer partners and customers alike.

Alera Marine Group is a pontoon boat manufacturer based in Elkhart, Ind. Founded by a team of marine industry veterans, Alera is focused on building high-quality boats that emphasize performance, serviceability, and thoughtful design. With over 200 combined years of industry experience, the Alera team is committed to delivering a product that is reliable, easy to own, and enjoyable to operate. The company’s first model, the Alera Model M, brings together smart engineering, functional features, and modern styling. Alera’s mission is simple: to propel people forward by doing whatever it takes—whether that means supporting customers, partnering with dealers, or building boats that stand the test of time.

The post Coley Brady & Team Introduces Alera Marine Group first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

NORTHERN INDIANA — The Goshen News recently published its annual look at the business community in the area, including a look at the RV industry that remains “cautiously optimistic” about its outlook. Titled Northern Indiana Business (previously Partners in Progress), the News also looked at the housing and farming industries as well as the Elkhart County economic outlook overall.

RV Industry Association (RVIA) spokeswoman Monika Geraci told The Goshen News that the RV industry was “cautiously optimistic” about the state of the industry while keeping a “close eye” on the tariff situation. Geraci shared with the News many of the same statistics that were shared at the RV Industry Power Breakfast, hosted May 8 by RVBusiness at the RV/MH Hall of Fame, including that RV owners are using their RV’s 50% more than they did in 2021 and that the demographic study showed RV owners are younger and more diversified with the median age now at 49 years old.

“There’s been a catalyst and transformation in the RV industry over the past five years. RVs have become more mainstream in travel. They’re more prevalent in commercials — hotels and truck ads pulling RVs. RVs have solidified as mainstream travel and that bodes well for the future of the industry,” Geraci told the News.

The Goshen News also spoke to Shipshewana’s Sunset Park RV, which increased its facility and production tenfold with the acquisition of Riverside RV in LaGrange, giving the manufacturer an additional 155,000 square feet. That extra facility has given them the room to increase production, have space for overflow parts, add two new lines and space for lamination in the future.

Something that will be an asset to RV manufacturers in the area is having a place where their customers can comfortably stay while their units are being repaired as well as another facility for rallies. That is currently in the works with the development of North Trace RV Resort in Syracuse. The resort-style RV campground is being built close to the Kosciusko-Elkhart County lines by Steve Showalter of Showalter RV in Nappanee. They broke ground in the fall and plan to have two phases of development, with hopes to have phase one open in 2026. Phase one will include 82 campsites, a welcome center, event center, fitness center, dog park and playground. Showalter told the Goshen News that despite the fact that Elkhart County is the RV capital of the world, there are not very many RV campgrounds.

The Goshen News also included data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on employment, wages and spending, including:

• The unemployment rate in the US for the period of March 2024-March 2025 grew from 3.9% to 4.2%, while unemployment decreased in Elkhart County from 5.2% in 2024 to 3.6% in 2025. Unemployment also decreased in the cities of Elkhart and Goshen in that time period.
• Average weekly wages (all industries) for the 3^rd quarter of 2024 for the US was $1,394 and for Elkhart County, $1,138.
• The average annual spending per category in 2023 was fairly close between the Midwest and the country as a whole. Those living in the Midwest spent $22,123 annually on housing, ($25,436 US); $12,517 on transportation ($13,174 US), $9,627 on food ($9,985 US), $6,588 on healthcare ($6,159 US) and $21,720 on all other items ($22,526 US).
• Changes in employment by industry sector showed little to no change in most industries from March 2024 to March 2025 with a drop in manufacturing, which was the largest sector at 60.8 (numbers in thousand)—it was down by -0.8 in 2024 and grew to -1.3 in 2025, trade, transportation and utilities was at 20.2 and dropped from -0.2 in 2024 to -1.0 in 2025 and leisure and hospitality at 7.0 dropped from -0.2 to -2.8. Growth occurred in mining, logging and construction at 4.3 from 0.1 in 2024 to 2.4 in 2025, professional and business services at 9.7 grew from 0.5 to 5.4 and the biggest growth was in the information sector at 0.6 thousand grew from 0.1 to 20.0 in 2025.
• Average hourly wages in May of 2024 in the Elkhart area was also close to the country at large with “all occupations” paying an average hourly wage of $27.41 ($32.66 US), buyers and purchasing agents were paid $35.36 an hour ($39.29 US), Mechanical drafters $31.73 an hour ($35.59 US), Sheet metal workers were paid $29.80 an hour ($31.78 US), electronic equipment installers & repairers, motor vehicles $28.82 ($24.16 US), industrial truck and tractor operators were paid $21.97 per hour ($23.00 US) and cabinetmakers and bench carpenters were paid $20.76 per hour ($22.82 US).

Overall, despite a lot of uncertainty in the country and the state, the economic and job outlook in the area, at least for now, is steady and diversification was cited as the key to success, regardless of industry.

The post ‘Goshen News’ Looks at N. Indiana Business, Including RVs first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

NORTHERN INDIANA — The Goshen News recently published its annual look at the business community in the area, including a look at the RV industry that remains “cautiously optimistic” about its outlook. Titled Northern Indiana Business (previously Partners in Progress), the News also looked at the housing and farming industries as well as the Elkhart County economic outlook overall.

RV Industry Association (RVIA) spokeswoman Monika Geraci told The Goshen News that the RV industry was “cautiously optimistic” about the state of the industry while keeping a “close eye” on the tariff situation. Geraci shared with the News many of the same statistics that were shared at the RV Industry Power Breakfast, hosted May 8 by RVBusiness at the RV/MH Hall of Fame, including that RV owners are using their RV’s 50% more than they did in 2021 and that the demographic study showed RV owners are younger and more diversified with the median age now at 49 years old.

“There’s been a catalyst and transformation in the RV industry over the past five years. RVs have become more mainstream in travel. They’re more prevalent in commercials — hotels and truck ads pulling RVs. RVs have solidified as mainstream travel and that bodes well for the future of the industry,” Geraci told the News.

The Goshen News also spoke to Shipshewana’s Sunset Park RV, which increased its facility and production tenfold with the acquisition of Riverside RV in LaGrange, giving the manufacturer an additional 155,000 square feet. That extra facility has given them the room to increase production, have space for overflow parts, add two new lines and space for lamination in the future.

Something that will be an asset to RV manufacturers in the area is having a place where their customers can comfortably stay while their units are being repaired as well as another facility for rallies. That is currently in the works with the development of North Trace RV Resort in Syracuse. The resort-style RV campground is being built close to the Kosciusko-Elkhart County lines by Steve Showalter of Showalter RV in Nappanee. They broke ground in the fall and plan to have two phases of development, with hopes to have phase one open in 2026. Phase one will include 82 campsites, a welcome center, event center, fitness center, dog park and playground. Showalter told the Goshen News that despite the fact that Elkhart County is the RV capital of the world, there are not very many RV campgrounds.

The Goshen News also included data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on employment, wages and spending, including:

• The unemployment rate in the US for the period of March 2024-March 2025 grew from 3.9% to 4.2%, while unemployment decreased in Elkhart County from 5.2% in 2024 to 3.6% in 2025. Unemployment also decreased in the cities of Elkhart and Goshen in that time period.
• Average weekly wages (all industries) for the 3^rd quarter of 2024 for the US was $1,394 and for Elkhart County, $1,138.
• The average annual spending per category in 2023 was fairly close between the Midwest and the country as a whole. Those living in the Midwest spent $22,123 annually on housing, ($25,436 US); $12,517 on transportation ($13,174 US), $9,627 on food ($9,985 US), $6,588 on healthcare ($6,159 US) and $21,720 on all other items ($22,526 US).
• Changes in employment by industry sector showed little to no change in most industries from March 2024 to March 2025 with a drop in manufacturing, which was the largest sector at 60.8 (numbers in thousand)—it was down by -0.8 in 2024 and grew to -1.3 in 2025, trade, transportation and utilities was at 20.2 and dropped from -0.2 in 2024 to -1.0 in 2025 and leisure and hospitality at 7.0 dropped from -0.2 to -2.8. Growth occurred in mining, logging and construction at 4.3 from 0.1 in 2024 to 2.4 in 2025, professional and business services at 9.7 grew from 0.5 to 5.4 and the biggest growth was in the information sector at 0.6 thousand grew from 0.1 to 20.0 in 2025.
• Average hourly wages in May of 2024 in the Elkhart area was also close to the country at large with “all occupations” paying an average hourly wage of $27.41 ($32.66 US), buyers and purchasing agents were paid $35.36 an hour ($39.29 US), Mechanical drafters $31.73 an hour ($35.59 US), Sheet metal workers were paid $29.80 an hour ($31.78 US), electronic equipment installers & repairers, motor vehicles $28.82 ($24.16 US), industrial truck and tractor operators were paid $21.97 per hour ($23.00 US) and cabinetmakers and bench carpenters were paid $20.76 per hour ($22.82 US).

Overall, despite a lot of uncertainty in the country and the state, the economic and job outlook in the area, at least for now, is steady and diversification was cited as the key to success, regardless of industry.

The post ‘Goshen News’ Looks at N. Indiana Business, Including RVs first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DETROIT – Grounded, the Detroit-based electric RV startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, today unveiled its most advanced camper van to date: the G3, according to a press release.

Built on the all-electric General Motors BrightDrop platform, the G3 delivers a 286-mile combined range on a single charge and introduces industry-leading advancements in modular design, all-season comfort, and sustainability.

Headquartered at Michigan Central, Detroit’s new hub for mobility innovation, Grounded is part of a growing wave of companies shaping the future of how we move and live. The G3 reflects that mission by combining off-grid capability with smart, sustainable design for travelers who want freedom without compromising their values.

“The G3 is a next-gen offering for travelers who want to live, work, and roam in comfort, grounded in what matters,” said Grounded CEO Sam Shapiro. “The G3 builds on everything we learned from our customers and from the G2. It’s a ground-up reimagining of our smart, fully-electric RV that’s based on real-world use. We replaced wood cabinetry with durable aluminum frames and 100% recycled tree-free materials, refined every wall panel and furniture module to deliver designer-grade aesthetics with pro-functionality, added a motorized lift bed that transforms into a California King, and designed a new insulated rear door that improves energy efficiency without sacrificing the view. We also reengineered the electrical system for 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging and added self-heating batteries to enable four-season travel. Every improvement from materials to layout was shaped by feedback from G2 owners. The G3 is smarter, stronger, and more adaptable than any other offering on the market today.”

Key Features of the G3

The G3 is Grounded’s most capable and comfort-focused electric camper van yet. Built on the Chevrolet BrightDrop Zevo 400 or 600 chassis, it is engineered for year-round performance. With a single-charge range of 286 miles and all-wheel drive, it’s ready for both long-distance travel and rugged conditions. Its reinforced aluminum substructure supports a full suite of onboard systems, including rooftop HVAC, 1000W of solar, and Starlink internet, while maintaining structural integrity and maximizing space.

Up to 20kWh of modular, self-heating LiFePO batteries power the G3’s living systems, and can be recharged through rooftop solar, shore power, or a newly developed 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging system. With improved insulation and winterization, the G3 is built to operate in temperatures as low as 0°F without compromising comfort or power availability.

Inside, the G3 introduces a refined, industrial-grade approach to materials: cabinetry is framed with aluminum and finished with 100% recycled materials in customizable colors and textures. The new cabinet system is more durable and low-maintenance than traditional RV interiors. These materials resist warping, scratching, and wear over time.

The redesigned rear of the van replaces the roll-up garage door with a full-width swing-out entry, improving thermal efficiency and adding functional mount points for storage and gear – in addition to increasing interior standing height. Large windows throughout, including one in the rear door, provide natural light and panoramic views.

All systems onboard are managed through Grounded’s integrated Grounded+ App, which gives users remote access to power usage, tank levels, appliance controls, and system diagnostics via LTE or Bluetooth. The app’s layout auto-adjusts to match the configuration of each customer’s build.

As with all Grounded vehicles, the G3 is backed by BrightDrop’s 8-year/100,000-mile platform warranty and includes a one-year interior warranty. It’s compatible with CCS fast chargers nationwide and comes with a CCS-to-NACS adapter for access to Tesla Superchargers. Combined with access to a growing BrightDrop service network, the G3 offers long-haul freedom with the reliability and support of a nationwide EV ecosystem.

An Industry-Leading Leap in Modular Architecture and Sustainable Materials

Grounded Chief Product Officer Nadia Meyer explains: “For our customers, the van is a culmination of their dream lifestyle and values. It’s an act of quiet rebellion to break out of the mundane and redesign their lifestyle to be filled with nature and beauty. The aesthetics and function of every detail are critical for such a compact space. Grounded’s design philosophy is form follows function.”

Cabinetry throughout the G3 is constructed entirely without wood, using industrial-grade aluminum framing concealed behind paneling made from 100% recycled materials including household appliances and single-use plastic utensils. Unlike veneered surfaces, these materials are homogenous, meaning they’re less prone to damage and never require edge banding or special finishes. They’re part of a specially designed capsule material collection available in a range of colors and textures – all of which can be previewed in Grounded’s new online Configurator Tool.

The Configurator Tool, available at configurator.groundedrvs.com, allows customers to build out every aspect of their G3 from floor plan tier to cabinetry color, bed fabric, and countertop texture, while watching their custom camper come to life in real-time 3D. An orbital camera lets users view the vehicle from any angle, inside and out, while each step in the process reflects their personal preferences and priorities. After submitting a build, Grounded’s team follows up directly to finalize details and assist with next steps.

One of the most flexible features of the G3 is its multi-position bed platform, which can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. In its lower position, it supports a spacious sleeping arrangement that can expand to California King size. When not in use, the bed lifts out of the way, opening up a comfortable lounge or workspace below.

A new outdoor patio functionality with a pull-out drawer that has an integrated counter for cooking and dining, as well as compartments to store cooking equipment and outdoor chairs.

Rear seating for driving with additional passengers in the rear is also currently in development, and expected to be available for the G3 in the Fall of 2025.

“For the G3, we’ve combined sustainable materials with modular architecture that’s built to last,” said Nick Fitzpatrick, Head of Design at Grounded.

Modular Luxury Meets Customization

Using Grounded’s new Configurator Tool, G3’s can be customized across three tiers:

• G3 Form ($165K): A sleek, minimalist build with a queen bed and essential furnishings
• G3 Function ($180K): Adds expanded kitchen, lounge, and power for extended trips
• G3 Freedom ($200K): Fully loaded with max battery, Starlink, lift bed, bathroom, and bespoke finishes

Built on BrightDrop for Performance and Safety

Available on the Zevo 400 or Zevo 600 platform (now under Chevrolet), the G3 includes all-wheel drive, 11,000 lb GVWR, and industry-leading safety features like Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and more.

Grounded has recently expanded its builds to support commercial applications across mobile health, food and beverage, pet, trades, and office verticals.

About Grounded
Founded by ex-SpaceX engineers, Grounded is redefining electric travel through smart, sustainable RVs. With modular interiors, off-grid connectivity, and mission-critical design, Grounded empowers people to live, work, and explore anywhere — without harming the planet.

About Michigan Central
Michigan Central is a 30-acre technology and cultural hub in Detroit, where leaders, thinkers, communities, and creators come together to accelerate bold ideas and technologies that shape our collective future. By providing access to world-class infrastructure, tools, and resources, Michigan Central inspires innovators and community members to collaborate on real, ground-breaking solutions to global problems. Since opening in April 2023, Michigan Central has grown into a diverse ecosystem of nearly 250 companies and startups working at the intersection of mobility, technology, and society. Learn more at Michigan Central.

The post Detroit-Based Grounded Debuts World’s First Electric RV first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DETROIT – Grounded, the Detroit-based electric RV startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, today unveiled its most advanced camper van to date: the G3, according to a press release.

Built on the all-electric General Motors BrightDrop platform, the G3 delivers a 286-mile combined range on a single charge and introduces industry-leading advancements in modular design, all-season comfort, and sustainability.

Headquartered at Michigan Central, Detroit’s new hub for mobility innovation, Grounded is part of a growing wave of companies shaping the future of how we move and live. The G3 reflects that mission by combining off-grid capability with smart, sustainable design for travelers who want freedom without compromising their values.

“The G3 is a next-gen offering for travelers who want to live, work, and roam in comfort, grounded in what matters,” said Grounded CEO Sam Shapiro. “The G3 builds on everything we learned from our customers and from the G2. It’s a ground-up reimagining of our smart, fully-electric RV that’s based on real-world use. We replaced wood cabinetry with durable aluminum frames and 100% recycled tree-free materials, refined every wall panel and furniture module to deliver designer-grade aesthetics with pro-functionality, added a motorized lift bed that transforms into a California King, and designed a new insulated rear door that improves energy efficiency without sacrificing the view. We also reengineered the electrical system for 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging and added self-heating batteries to enable four-season travel. Every improvement from materials to layout was shaped by feedback from G2 owners. The G3 is smarter, stronger, and more adaptable than any other offering on the market today.”

Key Features of the G3

The G3 is Grounded’s most capable and comfort-focused electric camper van yet. Built on the Chevrolet BrightDrop Zevo 400 or 600 chassis, it is engineered for year-round performance. With a single-charge range of 286 miles and all-wheel drive, it’s ready for both long-distance travel and rugged conditions. Its reinforced aluminum substructure supports a full suite of onboard systems, including rooftop HVAC, 1000W of solar, and Starlink internet, while maintaining structural integrity and maximizing space.

Up to 20kWh of modular, self-heating LiFePO batteries power the G3’s living systems, and can be recharged through rooftop solar, shore power, or a newly developed 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging system. With improved insulation and winterization, the G3 is built to operate in temperatures as low as 0°F without compromising comfort or power availability.

Inside, the G3 introduces a refined, industrial-grade approach to materials: cabinetry is framed with aluminum and finished with 100% recycled materials in customizable colors and textures. The new cabinet system is more durable and low-maintenance than traditional RV interiors. These materials resist warping, scratching, and wear over time.

The redesigned rear of the van replaces the roll-up garage door with a full-width swing-out entry, improving thermal efficiency and adding functional mount points for storage and gear – in addition to increasing interior standing height. Large windows throughout, including one in the rear door, provide natural light and panoramic views.

All systems onboard are managed through Grounded’s integrated Grounded+ App, which gives users remote access to power usage, tank levels, appliance controls, and system diagnostics via LTE or Bluetooth. The app’s layout auto-adjusts to match the configuration of each customer’s build.

As with all Grounded vehicles, the G3 is backed by BrightDrop’s 8-year/100,000-mile platform warranty and includes a one-year interior warranty. It’s compatible with CCS fast chargers nationwide and comes with a CCS-to-NACS adapter for access to Tesla Superchargers. Combined with access to a growing BrightDrop service network, the G3 offers long-haul freedom with the reliability and support of a nationwide EV ecosystem.

An Industry-Leading Leap in Modular Architecture and Sustainable Materials

Grounded Chief Product Officer Nadia Meyer explains: “For our customers, the van is a culmination of their dream lifestyle and values. It’s an act of quiet rebellion to break out of the mundane and redesign their lifestyle to be filled with nature and beauty. The aesthetics and function of every detail are critical for such a compact space. Grounded’s design philosophy is form follows function.”

Cabinetry throughout the G3 is constructed entirely without wood, using industrial-grade aluminum framing concealed behind paneling made from 100% recycled materials including household appliances and single-use plastic utensils. Unlike veneered surfaces, these materials are homogenous, meaning they’re less prone to damage and never require edge banding or special finishes. They’re part of a specially designed capsule material collection available in a range of colors and textures – all of which can be previewed in Grounded’s new online Configurator Tool.

The Configurator Tool, available at configurator.groundedrvs.com, allows customers to build out every aspect of their G3 from floor plan tier to cabinetry color, bed fabric, and countertop texture, while watching their custom camper come to life in real-time 3D. An orbital camera lets users view the vehicle from any angle, inside and out, while each step in the process reflects their personal preferences and priorities. After submitting a build, Grounded’s team follows up directly to finalize details and assist with next steps.

One of the most flexible features of the G3 is its multi-position bed platform, which can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. In its lower position, it supports a spacious sleeping arrangement that can expand to California King size. When not in use, the bed lifts out of the way, opening up a comfortable lounge or workspace below.

A new outdoor patio functionality with a pull-out drawer that has an integrated counter for cooking and dining, as well as compartments to store cooking equipment and outdoor chairs.

Rear seating for driving with additional passengers in the rear is also currently in development, and expected to be available for the G3 in the Fall of 2025.

“For the G3, we’ve combined sustainable materials with modular architecture that’s built to last,” said Nick Fitzpatrick, Head of Design at Grounded.

Modular Luxury Meets Customization

Using Grounded’s new Configurator Tool, G3’s can be customized across three tiers:

• G3 Form ($165K): A sleek, minimalist build with a queen bed and essential furnishings
• G3 Function ($180K): Adds expanded kitchen, lounge, and power for extended trips
• G3 Freedom ($200K): Fully loaded with max battery, Starlink, lift bed, bathroom, and bespoke finishes

Built on BrightDrop for Performance and Safety

Available on the Zevo 400 or Zevo 600 platform (now under Chevrolet), the G3 includes all-wheel drive, 11,000 lb GVWR, and industry-leading safety features like Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and more.

Grounded has recently expanded its builds to support commercial applications across mobile health, food and beverage, pet, trades, and office verticals.

About Grounded
Founded by ex-SpaceX engineers, Grounded is redefining electric travel through smart, sustainable RVs. With modular interiors, off-grid connectivity, and mission-critical design, Grounded empowers people to live, work, and explore anywhere — without harming the planet.

About Michigan Central
Michigan Central is a 30-acre technology and cultural hub in Detroit, where leaders, thinkers, communities, and creators come together to accelerate bold ideas and technologies that shape our collective future. By providing access to world-class infrastructure, tools, and resources, Michigan Central inspires innovators and community members to collaborate on real, ground-breaking solutions to global problems. Since opening in April 2023, Michigan Central has grown into a diverse ecosystem of nearly 250 companies and startups working at the intersection of mobility, technology, and society. Learn more at Michigan Central.

The post Detroit-Based Grounded Debuts World’s First Electric RV first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

DETROIT – Grounded, the Detroit-based electric RV startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, today unveiled its most advanced camper van to date: the G3, according to a press release.

Built on the all-electric General Motors BrightDrop platform, the G3 delivers a 286-mile combined range on a single charge and introduces industry-leading advancements in modular design, all-season comfort, and sustainability.

Headquartered at Michigan Central, Detroit’s new hub for mobility innovation, Grounded is part of a growing wave of companies shaping the future of how we move and live. The G3 reflects that mission by combining off-grid capability with smart, sustainable design for travelers who want freedom without compromising their values.

“The G3 is a next-gen offering for travelers who want to live, work, and roam in comfort, grounded in what matters,” said Grounded CEO Sam Shapiro. “The G3 builds on everything we learned from our customers and from the G2. It’s a ground-up reimagining of our smart, fully-electric RV that’s based on real-world use. We replaced wood cabinetry with durable aluminum frames and 100% recycled tree-free materials, refined every wall panel and furniture module to deliver designer-grade aesthetics with pro-functionality, added a motorized lift bed that transforms into a California King, and designed a new insulated rear door that improves energy efficiency without sacrificing the view. We also reengineered the electrical system for 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging and added self-heating batteries to enable four-season travel. Every improvement from materials to layout was shaped by feedback from G2 owners. The G3 is smarter, stronger, and more adaptable than any other offering on the market today.”

Key Features of the G3

The G3 is Grounded’s most capable and comfort-focused electric camper van yet. Built on the Chevrolet BrightDrop Zevo 400 or 600 chassis, it is engineered for year-round performance. With a single-charge range of 286 miles and all-wheel drive, it’s ready for both long-distance travel and rugged conditions. Its reinforced aluminum substructure supports a full suite of onboard systems, including rooftop HVAC, 1000W of solar, and Starlink internet, while maintaining structural integrity and maximizing space.

Up to 20kWh of modular, self-heating LiFePO batteries power the G3’s living systems, and can be recharged through rooftop solar, shore power, or a newly developed 1,400W vehicle-to-house charging system. With improved insulation and winterization, the G3 is built to operate in temperatures as low as 0°F without compromising comfort or power availability.

Inside, the G3 introduces a refined, industrial-grade approach to materials: cabinetry is framed with aluminum and finished with 100% recycled materials in customizable colors and textures. The new cabinet system is more durable and low-maintenance than traditional RV interiors. These materials resist warping, scratching, and wear over time.

The redesigned rear of the van replaces the roll-up garage door with a full-width swing-out entry, improving thermal efficiency and adding functional mount points for storage and gear – in addition to increasing interior standing height. Large windows throughout, including one in the rear door, provide natural light and panoramic views.

All systems onboard are managed through Grounded’s integrated Grounded+ App, which gives users remote access to power usage, tank levels, appliance controls, and system diagnostics via LTE or Bluetooth. The app’s layout auto-adjusts to match the configuration of each customer’s build.

As with all Grounded vehicles, the G3 is backed by BrightDrop’s 8-year/100,000-mile platform warranty and includes a one-year interior warranty. It’s compatible with CCS fast chargers nationwide and comes with a CCS-to-NACS adapter for access to Tesla Superchargers. Combined with access to a growing BrightDrop service network, the G3 offers long-haul freedom with the reliability and support of a nationwide EV ecosystem.

An Industry-Leading Leap in Modular Architecture and Sustainable Materials

Grounded Chief Product Officer Nadia Meyer explains: “For our customers, the van is a culmination of their dream lifestyle and values. It’s an act of quiet rebellion to break out of the mundane and redesign their lifestyle to be filled with nature and beauty. The aesthetics and function of every detail are critical for such a compact space. Grounded’s design philosophy is form follows function.”

Cabinetry throughout the G3 is constructed entirely without wood, using industrial-grade aluminum framing concealed behind paneling made from 100% recycled materials including household appliances and single-use plastic utensils. Unlike veneered surfaces, these materials are homogenous, meaning they’re less prone to damage and never require edge banding or special finishes. They’re part of a specially designed capsule material collection available in a range of colors and textures – all of which can be previewed in Grounded’s new online Configurator Tool.

The Configurator Tool, available at configurator.groundedrvs.com, allows customers to build out every aspect of their G3 from floor plan tier to cabinetry color, bed fabric, and countertop texture, while watching their custom camper come to life in real-time 3D. An orbital camera lets users view the vehicle from any angle, inside and out, while each step in the process reflects their personal preferences and priorities. After submitting a build, Grounded’s team follows up directly to finalize details and assist with next steps.

One of the most flexible features of the G3 is its multi-position bed platform, which can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. In its lower position, it supports a spacious sleeping arrangement that can expand to California King size. When not in use, the bed lifts out of the way, opening up a comfortable lounge or workspace below.

A new outdoor patio functionality with a pull-out drawer that has an integrated counter for cooking and dining, as well as compartments to store cooking equipment and outdoor chairs.

Rear seating for driving with additional passengers in the rear is also currently in development, and expected to be available for the G3 in the Fall of 2025.

“For the G3, we’ve combined sustainable materials with modular architecture that’s built to last,” said Nick Fitzpatrick, Head of Design at Grounded.

Modular Luxury Meets Customization

Using Grounded’s new Configurator Tool, G3’s can be customized across three tiers:

• G3 Form ($165K): A sleek, minimalist build with a queen bed and essential furnishings
• G3 Function ($180K): Adds expanded kitchen, lounge, and power for extended trips
• G3 Freedom ($200K): Fully loaded with max battery, Starlink, lift bed, bathroom, and bespoke finishes

Built on BrightDrop for Performance and Safety

Available on the Zevo 400 or Zevo 600 platform (now under Chevrolet), the G3 includes all-wheel drive, 11,000 lb GVWR, and industry-leading safety features like Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and more.

Grounded has recently expanded its builds to support commercial applications across mobile health, food and beverage, pet, trades, and office verticals.

About Grounded
Founded by ex-SpaceX engineers, Grounded is redefining electric travel through smart, sustainable RVs. With modular interiors, off-grid connectivity, and mission-critical design, Grounded empowers people to live, work, and explore anywhere — without harming the planet.

About Michigan Central
Michigan Central is a 30-acre technology and cultural hub in Detroit, where leaders, thinkers, communities, and creators come together to accelerate bold ideas and technologies that shape our collective future. By providing access to world-class infrastructure, tools, and resources, Michigan Central inspires innovators and community members to collaborate on real, ground-breaking solutions to global problems. Since opening in April 2023, Michigan Central has grown into a diverse ecosystem of nearly 250 companies and startups working at the intersection of mobility, technology, and society. Learn more at Michigan Central.

The post Detroit-Based Grounded Debuts World’s First Electric RV first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.