Choosing a vehicle for retirement road trips: EVs, petrol cars, and RVs compared

Jiangxi Qifeng Special Vehicle Equipment Co., Ltd., based in the Xinjian Economic Development Zone in Nanchang, has reported growth in production and exports of its campers. Annual production capacity is 700 units, and since March this year, overseas orders for special vehicles have exceeded 6,000 units. The company uses JMC chassis and its own 48-volt electrical system, and operates 40 service centers across China.

BAW's Ruisen brand has announced the dimensions of the Ace Camper M7: 5240mm long, 1870mm wide, 1950mm high, with a wheelbase of 3200mm. Based on the Ace M7 long-wheelbase version, it features a retro long-nose front and a rear-mounted 90kW electric motor. The rear cabin is specially outfitted for camping and leisure. Fuel and electric versions (E-M7) are also available.

Geely will showcase its new EGOE LIFE camper van at the Chengdu RV exhibition (September 19-21, 2026). The vehicle features an electric pop-up roof, a 51.4 kWh battery with a 375 km range, and prices starting at 145,800 yuan for the base version and 159,800 yuan for the flagship. It sleeps up to four people.

The Wuling Journey (征途) has become a popular base for budget camper conversions. A basic 3,000 yuan setup includes a folding bed frame and mattress, while a 6,600 yuan package adds electrical and water systems for longer trips. The vehicle measures 5.15 meters in length with a 3,180 mm wheelbase, offering about 2.7 meters of interior length and 1.4 meters of width when seats are folded. Legal compliance requires retaining original seat mounting points and registering roof racks under 30 cm height.

The Great Wall Pao Hi4-T pop-top motorhome was officially launched at the Chengdu Auto Show. Based on the Hi4-T platform, it features a 2.0T engine and P2 motor with a combined output of 310 kW and 750 N·m, a 33.1 kWh battery supporting 6 kW external discharge. The vehicle stands 2165 mm high, fits into some 2.2-meter garages, has a 26° approach angle, 21° departure angle, 220 mm ground clearance, and part-time four-wheel drive. Inside, it offers a 1400×1950 mm double bed, toilet, kitchen, and more; outside, a 42 L fridge, integrated outdoor kitchen, 270° awning, and 290 L external storage.

Beijing Automobile Works has not yet announced the official price of the Ruisen Wangpai M7 camper, but based on its plug-in hybrid positioning and competitor pricing, it is expected to be in the 150,000-200,000 yuan range. The vehicle is based on the Ruisen Wangpai M7 MPV chassis with a factory-modified camping box, ensuring legal road use. Reference tests from similar models show fuel consumption of 3-5L/100km in city conditions and 5-7L/100km on highways, with an electric-only range of about 150km. Official pricing is expected at the 2026 Chengdu Auto Show or by year-end.