Compact camper van design

A Japanese camper van called the Liberty 52 REi has been created by Annex RV to fit up to eight people while being shorter than a large European pickup truck. It measures around 5.20 to 5.23 meters in length, making it smaller than the Toyota Hilux and VW Amarok, which are both over 5.30 meters long.

Vehicle specifications

The van is built on a Toyota Camroad chassis, a specialized platform for campervans in Japan. It has a 3.0-liter diesel engine producing about 144 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and an option for 4x4 all-wheel drive. The body is made of GFK, a lightweight and strong material that provides good insulation for year-round use.

Interior layout and sleeping capacity

The Liberty 52 REi has a rear entrance that allows both sides of the van to be used for seating and furniture. A large U-shaped living area dominates the space, with a sliding table that can be used for meals or conversation. In the evening, this area becomes a sleeping space for three adults, while a second bed above the cabin accommodates two more people. This setup allows eight people to travel together, but only five can sleep comfortably, making it ideal for families or groups.

Camping amenities and kitchen

The kitchen is located near the rear door, away from sleeping areas to prevent odors and mess from spreading. It includes a two-burner stove, a sink, a microwave, and an 85-liter fridge with a freezer. A small bench-style sofa adds to the living area, giving the van the feel of a mini apartment with multiple "rooms" despite its compact size. A small bathroom with a sink, shower, and optional cassette toilet provides basic camping facilities.

Energy systems and market availability

The Liberty 52 REi is equipped with lithium batteries, up to 9.6 kWh in capacity, and a 3,000 W inverter. Solar panels on the roof can recharge the system, allowing the van to run appliances like an air conditioner and water heater for several days without external power. However, the van is currently only available in Japan with a right-hand drive and costs around 15.96 million yen, or about 95,000 euros, excluding additional costs for buyers in Europe.