Okinawa launches project to test new stay model with car camping

Oka Motors from Takamatsu unveiled the electric camper Miniature Shimauser CP based on the Honda N-VAN e:. The model debuted at the Japan Camping Car Show 2025. It has a range of 245 km. The built-in DC12V air conditioner can run for up to 40 hours on the 29.6 kWh traction battery. The bed system accommodates three people.

The city of Munakata and the Japan RV Association (Yokohama) have signed an agreement on dispatching motorhomes during disasters. Under the agreement, the association will provide vehicles upon the city's request to supplement evacuation centers and rest areas for personnel. The agreement follows cooperation since 2021 at the 'Michinoeki Munakata' roadside station. Mayor Misako Izu and association president Kenji Araki signed the document in late July. This year's October event will focus on disaster preparedness.

Japanese company Towa Motors unveiled the Kleinare camper based on the Suzuki Every microvan. It features a sleeping area of 188×136 cm (up to 248 cm with an extra mattress), a 15-liter fridge with freezing down to -20°C, a microwave, a ceramic heater, and an air conditioning system powered by a 200 Ah lithium-ion battery. The price has not been announced yet.

The Midorigaoka Forest Park Campground in Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido, has begun full operations after a large-scale renovation. The site now offers 14 powered auto campsites, free auto sites, dedicated overnight parking for camper vans, rider sites, and bungalows. Sanitary facilities have been upgraded with showers and laundry. The campground is now managed by the operator of the popular Fukuro no Keikoku campground in Abashiri. The season runs through October 31.

Nissan Peeds Field Craft, a direct Nissan dealer in Tokyo, has introduced the Space Camper NB-COOLs based on the Nissan Caravan. The camper van, sized like a minivan (4695×1740×2100 mm), comes standard with a built-in air conditioner, microwave, 18-liter refrigerator, three heated lithium batteries, two 100W solar panels, a 2000W inverter, a Webasto FF heater, and a 15.6-inch monitor with navigation. Powertrain options include gasoline, diesel, and part-time 4WD diesel.

A meeting was held at Nobeoka City Hall on August 24 to discuss challenges and countermeasures related to sleeping in vehicles during disasters. The city plans to create a manual based on the opinions expressed at the meeting.