Roof Tent & Electric Car: Does It Work?

Key Takeaways

• Rooftop tents can be easily mounted on electric cars – the roof load and the right roof rack system are crucial.
• Range and consumption can decrease due to weight and air resistance – plan for charging breaks.
• Camping with an electric car & rooftop tent is sustainable, quiet, and cheaper than with an internal combustion engine.
• Many campsites already offer charging infrastructure – with a bit of planning, a road trip is also possible.
• Lightweight, compact rooftop tent models such as the Track folding tent or the Elements Gen II rooftop tents are particularly well-suited for electric cars.

Overview of Installation, Rules & Advantages

More and more campers are asking themselves: Can I also mount my rooftop tent on an electric car? The answer is clear: Yes! Those who travel with an electric car and rooftop tent combine sustainable mobility with a pure outdoor feeling. However, there are a few things you should consider – from installation and range to legal requirements.

Camping with an electric car and rooftop tent – why it's a good idea

A rooftop tent makes you independent, spontaneous, and brings you right into nature. If you combine this with an electric car, your trip will not only be adventurous but also climate-friendly.

• No exhaust fumes, less noise
• Cheaper charging instead of expensive refueling
• Flexible travel with the same comfort as with internal combustion engines

Why an electric car with a rooftop tent is worthwhile

• Environmentally friendly travel: Electric instead of diesel or petrol – quieter, cleaner, more relaxed.
• Save costs: Electricity is (still) cheaper than fossil fuels.
• Comfortable sleep: A rooftop tent protects against rain and wind and offers a comfortable sleeping surface.
• Pure flexibility: Rooftop tents fit almost any car – including your electric car.

Important points: Safety & Installation

For a smooth trip with your electric car and rooftop tent, you should keep the following in mind:

1. Weight & Roof Load

Check the permissible roof load of your car. The rooftop tent including the rack system must not exceed this value.

2. Installation

An ExRoof roof rack ensures a stable base. Make sure all parts are correctly and securely mounted.

3. Range

The rooftop tent affects air resistance and weight – this reduces the range. Plan for sufficient charging breaks.

4. Legal Requirements

Before your trip, find out about permissible dimensions and possible restrictions in your destination country.

5. Safety

Regularly check the fastening, especially on longer journeys.

6. Parking & Pitches

With a rooftop tent, your car is taller – multi-story car parks or low underpasses can be problematic. Campsites are the relaxed solution here.

7. Insurance

Check whether your insurance covers rooftop tents and any damage.

Our recommendations for electric cars & rooftop tents

• Cloud rooftop tent - an extra lightweight rooftop tent with a large sleeping area
• Elements Gen II rooftop tent – modern folding tent with great comfort.
• Track rooftop tent – universal, fits almost every vehicle.
• Themis rooftop tent – ideal for anyone who values a high-quality rooftop tent.

Road trip with an electric car & rooftop tent – does that work?

Absolutely! The charging infrastructure is constantly growing, and many campsites already have their own charging stations. With a bit of planning, your road trip will be uncomplicated and relaxed.

Tips for your trip:

• Use route planner apps like A Better Routeplanner.
• Pack various charging cables.
• Test your charging cards before the trip.
• Consider taking a mobile charging station with you.

Conclusion: Rooftop tent + electric car = dream combination

If you want to travel sustainably and remain flexible, an electric car and rooftop tent are the perfect choice. With the right equipment – from the ExRoof roof rack to rooftop tents like the Elements Gen II, the Track, or the Themis – nothing stands in the way of your next adventure.