China eases motorhome travel restrictions; SAIC Maxus launches summer promotions

The article covers three modification options for the Tang DM: winter comfort upgrades (up to 500 yuan), rear seat flattening for a bed (800–1500 yuan), and a 28 kW fast-charging retrofit (2000–4000 yuan). Each addresses a specific pain point: cold and dirt in winter, lack of sleeping space on trips, or slow charging and high fuel consumption when the battery is depleted. Modifications may affect warranty, especially the charging system and seat alterations.

BikeX tested the folding e-bike Engwe O20 Boost priced at €1,299 (currently on sale for €1,099). The model features an aluminum frame, a 720 Wh battery, a hub motor with 75 Nm torque, an 8-speed Shimano chain drive, hydraulic disc brakes, and a hydraulic suspension fork. The bike weighs 27 kg, with a maximum load of 150 kg. Folded dimensions are 52.5 × 85 × 88 cm. It is noted that the bike is suitable for short trips from a motorhome but has a complicated warranty and service situation.

In Hunan province, the number of motorhomes surged from 400 to nearly 10,000 in seven years, with 53 standardised campsites covering all 14 cities. However, infrastructure gaps and low campsite profitability persist. China's Ministry of Commerce and eight other departments issued measures to support the RV sector, including simplified land approval for campsites. Yang Guolin, head of Hunan's self-drive tourism association, predicts the 'motorhome + road trip' segment will generate an additional 100 billion yuan for the province in the next 3–5 years.

JMC has introduced two camper models based on the Fushun chassis. The first is a long-wheelbase high-roof camper at 168,000 yuan, the second a short-wheelbase mid-roof camper at 138,000 yuan. Both are powered by a 2.0L diesel engine producing 107 kW and 355 Nm, with a choice of 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain carries a lifetime warranty. The long-wheelbase version features two living areas, a fold-out bathroom, and a 1.9×1.4 m bed. The short-wheelbase version seats five, includes a projector, and has a 2×1.7 m bed.

The article evaluates the Breeze PHEV crossover as a base for a camper conversion. It highlights a fuel consumption of 4.4 L/100 km in depleted mode, an electric range of 66 km, and a 1.8 m sleeping area when the rear seats are folded. Drawbacks include limited interior height (adults cannot sit upright) and reliance on external charging points.

An M8 electric vehicle owner spent the night at a self-drive campsite in Jingdezhen, using a tent attached to the rear of the car. The setup allows for convenient camping without a separate trailer.