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Our first Winnebago EKKO walkthrough, while popular, wasn’t really the full review we wanted to publish. We were only able to get a little bit of footage during the hectic launch schedule. Certainly not the kind of in-depth review that we’re known for. It was enough to get everyone started, but we always wanted to go back and finish the job.
Well, the stars aligned, and we were able to make another trip to Winnebago for some quality time with the EKKO prototype. Here you go, but get comfortable, this review is over an hour long!
The coach we’re reviewing in this video is literally the same prototype we showed you in our first review. Since we first walked through it, Winnebago has been hard at work trying to break it (literally). They’ve been torture testing it, and they even had it on a shaker table to simulate years of road use. It held up really well, and it’s interesting for us to get a flavor of the kind of testing they put a new design through.
Also – while we were at Winnebago, we were able to sneak around the grounds and have a look at some other EKKOs in various stages of assembly. So we learned about some things that will be different in the finished vehicles from this prototype. Where we know of those, we call them out in this video, with pictures of the updated versions. We mention about 20 or so changes in the video. We also went nuts with a tape measure, and you’ll find dimensions scattered throughout the review. We had the coach to ourselves for the better part of a day, and we used that whole time gathering the hours of footage that make up this review
All in all – if you’re interested in the Winnebago EKKO and you have questions: this video is probably your best (and for now, likely only) way to find out the answers. Seriously – it’s that complete.
Anyway, hope you enjoy the video.
(I think we should have made a trailer for the video, it’s so long!)
Hey There! One thing no one covers is how much of the standard Ford Transit safety package really makes it to a chassis build like the Ekko.
Is the “Lane Assist” Active (it steers for you) or just alerts? How does the cross wind stabilization work? The Sprinter active lane keeping is pretty well complained about, so understanding how the Transit ekko drives and how it helps with driver fatigue would be a GREAT BLOG POST 😉 and I don’t understand why it’s not heavily covered as a topic. Thanks!
You are correct that not all of the vehicle options are available on a cutaway chassis like Winnebago uses to build the EKKO.
In the case of the EKKO, that’s Ford’s doing. I believe Winnebago orders their chassis loaded with all the safety features they can get. So if a safety feature isn’t on the EKKO, it’s because Ford doesn’t offer it – not because Winnebago didn’t order it.
But as to your immediate questions:
Lane assist is active. I wouldn’t say it “steers”, but it definitely nudges the steering wheel.
Cross Wind Stabilization I don’t think is working on the EKKO. If it is, I’ve never felt it working. But I don’t think Ford offers that on a cutaway chassis because they have no idea what size/shape/weight of box will be built on the back – there would be no way for them to properly calibrate a system like that.
In short, the EKKO drives very well-mannered. Neither Stef nor I have any complaints. It’s pretty darn easy.
Do you know the curb to curb turn radius of the EKKO 22?
Thanks
Dan
We don’t, but (apart from the overhang at the back) that’s going to be governed by Ford. I’m sure they have a specification on that somewhere.
Hi Guys!
I’m sorry that you guys have not received your Ekko yet! I reviewed this in-depth video again and have a couple of more questions.
It does not appear that the compartment for the propane tanks locks. Will locks be provided on the production units? Also, you indicated that there is no way of telling how much propane is available from within the coach. Does the auto switch over have any sort of gauge on it?
On the dual wheels – I’ve seen a device which connects the two wheels together so that the same pressure is maintained in each tire. The unit has blow-out protection so that if one tire is punctured the second tire retains the air. It also eliminates the difficulty in filling the inside tire. Seems like a good idea, thoughts?
Do you know if there is enough room under the solar panel to install a small roof vent for the bathroom? It looks like the channel added for the wiring for the TV could be used to route power to the vent.
Again, thank you for your reviews and information!
Answers that I know right now:
There will be no locks on the propane compartment doors. It’s a fire code thing. Emergency personnel should always be able to get to the propane tanks to shut them off. Please don’t add locks.
The auto changeover regulator does have a kind of more red/less red aspect to it. It’s not super scientific, but it’s something.
We don’t plan to add any kind of pressure-equalizing device to our tires. You mention blowout protection, but what about a slow leak? Will a slow leak slowly deflate both tires?
Simpler solutions are always better, and I have extended tire chucks that make filling the inside tires easy. These: https://amzn.to/3hSkPx2
Winnebago aligns the wheels so that both chucks are accessible – I tried this with the test EKKO and it was easy.
We’re also adding these so that we don’t have to deal with valve stem caps anymore: https://amzn.to/2RB3xK9
The solar panels are a couple inches off the roof. You could probably add a small fan if it didn’t stick up very far. You could also raise the solar panels to be mounted *over* the roof rack instead of below it. We’re not interested in doing that ourselves. At least, not unless we have some evidence that there’s a problem there. We showered back-to-back in the test EKKO and didn’t have any issues, so I don’t think you’ll see us looking to install a fan.
What kind of mileage is this rig expected to get fully loaded?
They don’t do the EPA testing on these rigs. But we’re thinking about 12.
Love the review. If anyone knows, you guys do! I am a bit horrified at the lack of interior storage. Lifting the bed to get to your closet is just SAD. And the galley . . . oh my . . . this is definitely for minimalists. I think you summed it up when you said that you guys don’t stay in one place long. This works well for that. I will look forward to your modifications. That all men had your skills!
Regarding the shower pump…does that mean that while taking a shower one has to have that pump operating, or is it just on all the time?
It’s just kind of on all the time. There’s a float, and when it senses that it needs to run, it does.
You don’t have to think about it.
What is the best price available for the basic EKKO without all the upgrades? The suggested list price is one thing but what should I expect to pay in current market place among dealers?
You have a lot of hands on experiences to share and I thank you for being thoughtful and imaginative. Discussing customizing the EKKO to suit your needs really makes the EKKO even more attractive. Right on!
One last question. What do you think the maintenance cost per year will be?
Craig
You may want to join the “EKKO Owners and Wannabes” group on Facebook. There are lots of “waiting to be” owners who will share their options and sometimes prices paid. We don’t get into that here.
And I would answer the “yearly maintenance” question for you, but I’m not a good one to listen to. I expect my maintenance cost will be zero! (of course, I do all my own work…). 😉
Thank you for the review. We’re liking the Ekko. We’d like a slide out so I hope they build one. We currently have a Winnebago Trend and the thing we love most about it is the skylight! Do you think we could have a skylight installed where the TV is in the Ekko?
I don’t know what’s behind the TV exactly. (Haven’t seen one on the line yet.)
I would be wary of cutting into a forward-facing surface for fear of getting wind-driven water into the coach.
thank for your. great. reviews. and the interior measurements.
Question
we. need. to sleep. 4 . from what you see do you. think. a childs. bed. could be created. over. the driver and. passenger seat. with. the other. bed as you demonstrated. on the. floor ?
do you know. when pictures of. the pop will be on line and will it be. covered with the. fibreglass roof ?
will be interested if the 2 C. will. allow for creation of improvised sleeping space with. the. slide.
Last. question do. you. have. any sense how the ford 4. wheel. drive. would. compare to the sprinter 4×4. ie. revel. in. going to more remote. camping ?
thanks
There are inflatable bed options that can span the two front seats. I know they’re out there, but have never investigated them.
The pop top will be identical to the one in the Winnebago Solis. You can look for our videos on the Solis to see them, and there are probably lots of other pictures out there by now.
The 24C is on hold. No further info is available on that one right now. Check the EKKO Owners and Wannabes group on Facebok for more details there.
The Transit is more properly called “All Wheel Drive”. It doesn’t have 4-Hi and 4-Lo like other 4 wheel drive vehicles. It’s more capable than 2 wheel drive for sure, but you won’t be taking it boulder crawling in Moab.
Love the review! Quick question on the bed. I’m single with a dog and two twins just seems like a lot of wasted space. Would rather have a horizontal oriented bed toward the back wall and mod a seated desk area on either side toward the front or the bedroom. Any thoughts on that? It’s my one massive hang up. Even if I was lucky enough to find a significant other, I’d think a horizontal bed toward the back would still suffice for two people. Thanks in advance!
Well, anything’s possible. Winnebago does provide cushions to fill in the space towards the back to make a queen sized bed. I suppose you could put a “regular” queen mattress in there and be done with it. The space to the front of your new bed *might* be usable. There are two wardrobe closets in there. That space would be available. But I wouldn’t count on being able to use any other space under the current beds. You’d have to remove the water tanks, and you probably don’t want to do that.
hey Ethan, I’m single with a cat and also not so lucky in the significant other arena (heh) and was thinking the same thing about wasted space! Leisurevan makes a “rear lounge” option for the Wonder vehicle but it lacks storage for my mountain bikes. I love that the EKKO is four season so I can use it in the winter for skiing. If I pull the trigger on one of these, I’m going to be looking for ways to mimic the lounge design from Leisurevan with a Murphy bed. And also retrofit a work space in the front like James did on the 20k project.
PS James thanks to you and Stephanie for all the work you’ve put into this. Cheers, Erin, Denver
Your review was very informative, just the kind of detail that engineers need to make decisions. My only concern after the watching the video is the towing capacity. Yes, it has the Ford OEM 5,000# rated hitch and brake controller installed. However, as you pointed out, it does not extend to the rear of the bumper. Plus the difference between the GCWR and the GVWR on the Winnebago web site is only 4,000# (15,000# – 11,000#). So, if a Blue Ox 12″ hitch extension is used to reach the rear of the bumper and allow the use of a ball, the tongue-weight capacity will be reduced by half for flat-towing a vehicle and will eliminate any trailer towing ability. So, the actual towing capability for the EKKO is considerably less than might be expected.
Good points. Stef and I were actually looking to *stop* towing! That was one of our main motivators behind getting the EKKO.
If we ever did tow, the trailer we have is so lightweight, it shouldn’t present a problem.
But everyone needs to evaluate that against their planned use, for sure.
The problem I see is that not everyone who buys a 4WD, all-season, boondocking-capable RV evaluates their purchase as carefully as you and I would. In Colorado, many buyers of the EKKO will be planning to haul their boats and 4-wheelers to the mountains in sumner and their snow machines in winter. The trailers that haul those toys should not be towed with this RV, but many buyers will ignore the advice of Blue Ox and other towing manufacturers. That creates a danger to other motorists, particularly on steep, winding Colorado mountain roads. However, that problem could have been mitigated by using a properly designed, after-market hitch and receiver.
I have towed a travel trailer with a brake controller that I installed myself and a fifth wheel with a factory-installed, underbed hitch and factory brake controller. Both worked equally well for many tens of thousands of towing miles. So, I personally see no advantage and a major disadvantage to the Ford factory installation used by Winnebago..
Hello…
Just watched your latest video about the Winnebago Ekko you will be getting soon.
Your video showed TWO Lithionics batteries AND the generator but the specs I see for both the Winnebago Ekko models indicates one battery must be deleted if the generator is in those Ekko models.
Do you know of a way to get the generator AND two batteries?
Thank you and please stay safe.
Steve Keys
Winnebago will not add both the generator and two batteries. But some dealers are adding second batteries for their generator customers as a dealer-customization.
I’d suggest talking with your dealer to see if this is something they would do for you. It IS possible.
Nice RV. Any chance you could copare it against the leisure wonder RTB? I thought for sure the leisure van checked off your boxes. Thanks! Don
Yep. It wasn’t even close.
Did it here: https://www.thefitrv.com/blog/rv-model-comparisons-and-weve-chosen-our-next-rv/
Dang if I didn’t miss it. Thanks James! -Don
James and Stef,
Thank you for such an in-depth review of the W Ekko! I’ve been looking for an RV for about 2 years and have considered Coach House, Phoenix, Hymer Aktiv, SafariCondo and Coachmen Beyond and now Winnebago Ekko. The Hymer, SafariCondo and Ekko because of the high-backed, 3-point seat belted seats for safety. You guys had an in-depth look at the Ekko; how well do think it is constructed?
Again, thank you for you in-depth review of the Ekko and other RVs and equipment!
Well, we’re buying one for ourselves! That ought to tell you something.
Does the table seats have lock downs for a child Seat. To secure a child car seat to them
There are three point seat belts and the metal loops to anchor a child seat to.
Any Idea when there will be actual EKKO pictures showing the Green interior options?
We hope soon!
Thanks for this question/response on this topic. Been “Google-ing” every which way to see if we could see the Veredis with Slate Cabinetry. Please share when you all get wind of some images. (we ordered one anyway!!)
We ordered green as well. Sight unseen.
We’ll post images, probably on our social media first, as we have them.
Thanks for the reply. We ordered green as well. Decided it would look more modern. Also, great to here the Americanizer will become a a reality. Congrats.
Is it possible to install a removable folding seat between the beds on the third high “step”?
I suppose it would be, if you wanted to figure out how to support it.
Is the truma the one that works on gas and electric? Thinking a must have since if you are paying for electric at a site you my as well save on your propane when heating your RV.
The Truma units in this rig run only on propane. There is an electric add-on for the heater that is available in Europe (but it’s 240 volts, not 120). They have not brought that electric add-on heater to North America as of yet.
Me again:)
I woke up in middle of night wondering if Winnebago has considered changing the bathroom door to open opposite direction so when you come out of shower you enter directly into bedroom with bathroom door to “cover” for privacy to get dressed if you forget to close the front windows:)
Did I miss the actual brand of lithium battery that is used?
Thanks for your in depth reviews!
Haven’t heard anything about the bathroom door opening one way or the other. Getting into the shower while leaving windows open isn’t something we’ve really had a problem with, so it’s not on our radar.
The batteries are Lithionics. https://lithionicsbattery.com/
Thanks James:)
Are you aware of any Winnebago plans to install a solid bottom for the propane compartment to keep road dust, dirt, rain, snow, ice, and especially road salt from entering the propane compartment? I can understand the possibility of a leak and a manufacture’s concern, but other better solutions are possible. Thank you for sharing your EKKO video and your time.
I have not heard of any plans to seal up the compartment.
I’m not concerned about those tanks at all. It’s about 300 times more protected up there than underneath the typical class B van. And considerably more protected than on a typical travel trailer tongue.
Hey Guys,
Awesome walk thru.
The insulated cab curtain looks awesome, Im glad someone thought of that, It will help out when driving, The cab AC/heat will be able to keep just the cab area climatized, eliminating the need to run the AC/heat in the back area.
1. what is the ford chassis, so I can research it.
2. Is the front drive of the AWD a solid axel or independent, Im looking to put a suspension lift on it if possible.
3.Is there or will there be a diesel option.
Here’s what I know:
1. Ford Transit Cutaway – 3500 – Ecoboost engine.
2. Don’t know, but expect you can find that out from the chassis.
3. No diesel is planned.
Cheers!
Have you driven it yet? How hard is it to drive?
Haven’t driven it yet – only ridden short distances.
I don’t expect it to be an issue at all.
Great video. Thank you.
After looking at the bedroom and garage, do you think there may be a way to create an access hatch to store and retrieve small containers in the garage from the bedroom?
Perhaps, but you’d have to do it from underneath your pillow, or perhaps from the very small area on the very top step riser. The tanks block access from all other points.
We had thought about trying to put a litter box back there for Mel, our cat, but decided it was too much work (and a lot to ask of the cat).
Hello James and Steph,
Thank you for the in-depth review of the Ekko. With my firms new work from home policy I am able to take advantage of this benefit. And I have been exploring the idea of getting an Class B or Class C to travel and be able to work from. I had come across this RV after the announcement, but kept going back to the B. One because of size and the desire not to have a slide out. But with this updated review, you have solidified the need to get the Ekko. I too am not looking to the outdoor kitchen and generator (loving the expandable battery option). I also have a cat and dog that will be traveling with me. And your ideas for the cat litter positions are great. I was also thinking shoe storage on the side as you come in from the door under the kitchen sink, just a thought. But, I do have some questions.
Q1: Are you going to install a self leveling system? If so, which system are you looking to install? I do like the telescopic system Advanced RV has.
Q2: Do you think there is space to install an air compressor on the Ekko?
Q3: Also would it be hard to install air suspension system?
Hi Joe – Welcome aboard!
Your questions are still things I’m investigating, so I don’t have definite answers.
I absolutely want to install a leveling system. And I want to install a telescoping one to preserve ground clearance. I haven’t decided yet, but the ARV E&P system is still a contender.
There’s plenty of room underneath for a compressor – I assume you mean for the air suspension.
The worry I have about installing air suspension is that the exhaust runs right over the rear axle near the passenger side wheel. I don’t know what kind of clearance is needed between an airbag and the exhaust, but that’s my open issue there.
Hi James and Stephanie~
A thought popped in my head the other evening, 🙂 , Do you know what is under the first two “steps” in the bedroom? Pondering making them a storage space either with a lift top or drawer if there is nothing underneath that space, like pipes etc.
You’ve guessed the issue. I’m sure Winnebago would have put storage under there, but… The VarioHeat lives in that space, as well as (most likely) a bunch of water lines.
Ahhh,, just as my husband expected and I would have been surprised if you didn’t notice that as a potential spot for more storage 🙂
Thanks for taking time to reply!
James, with your knowledge of bikes, in your opinion, would a tandem bike fit in the rear storage compartment?
Oy!
While I know a bit about bikes, I know very little about tandems.
If the front wheel comes off like I’m familiar with, I have to think it will fit. As long as the remaining length is less than 80 inches.
There’s still a bit of question in my mind about how much height you lose when you take that wheel off. But even then, I think you could get one in the door by tilting it diagonally.
You might need a partner to get in on the other side and guide things in to keep from damaging the bike, but I think you could do it.
How does the pull up parking brake work with the swivel drivers seat. Does it need to be down (and off) to spin the seat?
You know, I never noticed it while I was fighting with the swivel seat.
So I guess it’s not much of an issue.
(Wish I could say the same about swiveling the driver’s seat itself…)
Hi, James & Stef! Great Review! We and our two kitties love our 2019 59K Travato (it’s our 2nd one). We like the idea of a little more space in the EKKO. And the spare tire! Wow. But I can’t imagine putting the cat box entry in the kitchen. Any other ideas for where to put it yet?
Well, we’re just thinking of putting the door in the kitchen. The box itself would be in the outdoor kitchen storage area.
You could always give up one of the wardrobe cabinets under the bed. That’s pretty easy.
Another thought is to put the litter box under the L-shaped dinette that I’m going to build. Imagine something like this, but sturdy enough to sit on: https://amzn.to/2XT9mCg
Thanks, James! We were thinking putting it in the wardrobe under spouse’s side of the bed.;-) Can’t wait to see what you all do!
Howdy James, we plan to get a 24C model when it comes out. Wife hates cassette toilets based on our European RVing experiences. So did you see possible black hose mounting areas underneath? We have a 2015 View. Thanks, We enjoy your videos.
I haven’t been under a 24C yet. Obviously, it’ll be quite a bit different under there, since it’s longer, and with a slide. But I have to imagine there’s room for a hose.
You can put this on the cassette toilet, it is called the SOG.
This helps keep the smell out, it is in the UK.
Hopping i can get it in the US or have them send it to me.
Also you the wall by you feet you can put a hanging net to hold thinks and when you need to open it up, remove the net with your stuff.
I’ve been looking into the SOG. It’s in the plan.
Thanks for the detailed review!
I have ordered an Ekko with the dual battery (Generator Delete). The total is around 8k watt hours. Do you know how many estimated hours that would allow you to run the A/C (I am hearing only 4hours)
Just curious as we go on long hikes and sometime need to leave pet alone. Also spend a lot of time in very hot areas where would like A/C through the night.
I know the thick insulation will help!
In our experience, the air conditioner will draw up to 1400 watts in use.
So, worst case, the air conditioner doesn’t cycle and it draws 1400 watts the entire time.
8,000 / 1400 = about 5.7 hours, depending on what else you have running.
Hello James and Stephanie~
Some more questions for you two. We enjoy your amazing in depth, attention to detail, in all your videos. We are retired Military and the details is where it’s at when making decisions.
1) Did the drop down table get in the way of your legs when sitting in the left of the two “rear” seats?
2) Was there, do you foresee needing to add, any additional protection to the small container for the shower pump that is located under the “rear” seats?
3) Are the puck lights in the garage LED powered by the RV or traditional C or D batteries?
4) Do you know, did Winnebago test, the load capacity for the hinges on the garage doors? How much weight can those Molly brackets load up without torquing the hinges?
5) Did you see under the kitchen sink, the possibility to move the kitchen facet to the left side of the sink?
THANK YOU both and we do hope to meet you one day out on the road:)
Quick answers.
1. Not really. Though it’s obviously roomier under there while sitting in the inboard seat.
2. No. There’s no danger from damage from anything, and it’s secured to the floor.
3. All lighting is powered by the RV power systems. Not separate batteries.
4. Don’t know what a load rating on the doors is. I’m not super excited about the MOLLE stuff, so it hasn’t been on my radar.
5. Should be possible, if you want to drill and plug the holes.
Best of luck! See you on the road!
Thanks for taking the time to reply James:)
We appreciate your feedback with your expertise in van camping.
Have a great one and we anticipate meeting you all one day on the road:)
All the best to you and Steph~
Hello, we enjoyed your video. Question: Do you know how production is going at the Winnebago factory? We ordered a Solis due to arrive in May and were just wondering if they are up and running, and how your order is going? Will you be receiving it soon?
We’re told we can still expect ours in March sometime. We don’t have any further info than that.
Thanks for getting back to us. Good things come to those who wait!..All the best!
My wife and I have been looking for three years for a small RV. Do you think Winnebago will offer an induction cooktop as an option? We like the 24C. When do you think we will see the interior of one? Also, have you seen the green color scheme? Finally, do you think full lithium with no generator will give you enough power? We have been watching your videos for three years and really glad that you were so involved with Winnebago and the presentation of the new Ekko. This video gave us information on several more items than the recent one hour Lichtsinn RV video. We really appreciate your videos and hope you will review the 24C!
I think Winnebago will eventually offer an induction cooktop. But it may take them a couple years. We intend to replace ours quickly. I’ve done it before, and it’s really not a difficult modification at all. The laminate countertops actually make this easier, and something one could do at home.
I know they are working on the 24C prototype. I expect it soon, but I have no dates to give you. I am sure we will eventually be reviewing the 24C, but as far as I know, we are not part of the official launch of that floor plan.
I looked through your library of videos and found your comparison video on the two kinds of lithium battery systems that Winnebago offers. After viewing that video, I am certain that we won’t have any problems. In any energy budget the refrigerator seems to be the largest constant user of energy. 70 to 100 watts an hour seems typical. So my wife and I just looked in a new 2021 View with a 10.5 Cu. Ft. compressor fridge. I looked at the tag in the door and it uses 102 Watts in Day mode and 75 Watts in night mode. So I figured 1,632 wats day and 600 night. 186 Amp/hours at 12 volts. Even the entry level system in the Ekko could take caer of this. Thanks again for great videos. The information is so useful as we explore our options as we move closer to making a purchase. We will do a spreadsheet and rate our must haves, much like you on your November 18th, 2020 blog post. P.S. We live in Northern Arizona, about 3,500 ft and can appreciate your comments about the A/C use in the desert in your battery video.
Glad our videos helped.
Sounds like you’re taking a considered approach to the purchase – good for you!
Looking at the propane bottles, you mentioned that you can swap bottles. Just be careful with that. Not sure of the situation in USA, but some RV manufacturers in Australia use bottles that are nominally the same capacity/size, but vary slightly from ‘standard’ such that a swap bottle doesn’t fit.
Interesting. I didn’t know that.
Here in the USA, they’re all pretty much the same size. It’s not an issue.
I know in Europe though, it seems like every country uses their own standard for the bottles.
What are your thoughts on going with the added lithium instead of the generator?
Well, we took the generator out of our own RV years ago and never looked back: Our Generator-Free RV – Lithium Battery, Solar, Alternator, and Inverter
We have no desire to get back into a generator.
Thank you both for the detailed video with tape measure.. Awesome.
2 questions:
If opting for OS kitchen, do you know if that water line can be drained in isolation and keep all others going? I see it has a valve, but unsure if it has a gravity drain for just that…
Also wondering as you were on your underneath journey, could you tell that all entry points in the floor were well-sealed. Thinking mice entries … Not sure that was something you explored while down under…
Thanks much..
I don’t know if you can drain ONLY the outdoor kitchen, but I doubt it. It is located mere inches from the galley faucet, so there are likely water lines in common.
As far as entry points underneath – I honestly didn’t see many. The ones I did see were gooped up pretty well with sealant. So I’m going to say they were sealed just fine. (But then again, we travel with a cat, so we don’t pay too much attention to rodent issues.)
James,
#1 Looking at the O.S. kitchen compartment, I noticed the round plastic plugs at the edges of the upper cabinetry. So, does Winnebago use some kind of cam-type assembly for their cabinetry? If they do, then do you think that maybe the lower panel below the 2 kitchen drawers could be easily removed for modifying that space into a third drawer and still have additional storage below? Was thinking about terminating the Truma duct as it enters this space and turn the passive vent into an active register. Thoughts?
#2 It appears that the under bed storage would not need to be accessed that frequently and thus a portion of the south end of the bed platform could be cut and permanently attached. This would allow for the arc of the bed platform to swing further away from the walls, allowing for the construction of additional storage with maybe a TV mounted to a hinge for access to the storage.
#3 What is the camper exterior frame constructed from?
#4 Will you be exploring the purchase of an extended warranty?
#5 Will you be doing any undercoating under the house unit?
OK, I’ll stop. Thanks
1. I do believe the panel could be removed, through some means. Personally, I would wait and see where I needed help before changing any Truma venting.
2. I’m not too concerned about the bed. Personally, I think we can get what we need without mucking around with the beds. We don’t plan to add a TV.
3. Metal frames fiberglass exterior, block foam inside the walls.
4. LOL. Extended Warranty? Uh… no. I’ll probably void the warranty before driving off the lot. And I don’t let RV dealerships work on our RVs under most circumstances.
5. No. Not unless I determine it’s needed. Winnebago has been building RVs for a while. I’m going to assume they know a thing or two about the undersides.
Thanks for the behind the scenes view of the kitchen slide out rails. At 7:47 it looks like a hole cut in the back where the rails continue beyond the storage compartment. Is that hole sealed from road dust? Goal is a 2nd freezer accessible on a slide out but if purchased from Winnebago would want to unbolt(?) and leave at home the frame above for the cooktop and sink. Better to delete the kitchen & buy NorCold and figure out sliders & 12V outlet on my own? Thoughts? Thanks for insight to places no one else videos.
I don’t think the top of the outdoor kitchen unbolts exactly. Winnebago’s option actually includes two sets of sliders, and the fridge is on the second set.
If it were me, I would forego the exterior kitchen and work out some kind of solution myself.
Are they not including the bedroom window? Do you know why? Seems like it’d be a little claustrophobic without it back there.
Yes, the bedroom windows are included. It will just be a different model and tint of window – but the same size.
The model and tint of the scheduled production windows are the same as the windows in the galley and bathroom in this prototype.
James,
What were your impressions on build quality? Especially the bathroom, cabinetry and fixtures. Thanks for all the great information!
We conducted this review AFTER Winnebago had this unit on the shaker table for literally weeks. This is a kind of torture test for RVs to simulate years of use. (Watch our video on it here: Winnebago’s RV Shaker Table vs. Stef’s Car Sickness, then imagine a day of that – let alone a week or more.)
In spite of all that, we saw nothing broken, nothing loose. (Except the tires, which were nearly destroyed from holding the rig in place on the shaker table.). The Winnebago parts held up incredibly well.
So… draw your own conclusions about build quality. It seemed great to us.
It sucks. Had a bunch of wires fall out the back, Solar wiring likewise awful. Sid not adjust all the compartment doors…stick put in all directions. Worse, did not clean up silicon around any of the exterior, Very poor quality,
Hello and thank you for the great review.
What do you guys think, if this EKKO was one foot shorter by turning the beds sidesway (one queen bed)?
For the purpose of this question, let’s not worry about the fact that my suggestion would get taller people in trouble. Shorter EKKO, easier to park etc.
Thanks,
24 feet was our cutoff, and this is shorter than that.
Since we frequently have our bike rack deployed off the back of our Travato, it’s a wash. Before we had our Travato, we had an extended Sprinter which was about this same length. We never had any trouble parking it or getting it anywhere we wanted to go. I don’t think one foot makes that much difference.
Plus, after 10 years of climbing over each other to get out of bed, we’re really looking forward to the twin bed arrangement.
Thank you for all of your great content Jay and Steph. I am a bike rider/professional bike mechanic who is preparing to start RV’ing. and I would like to provide quality bike repair services to fellow bike riders as I camp across the country. I would provide basic services and tuneups and I will stock a limited complement of parts such as tubes, cables and housing etc. Please check out my business Facebook page “Rick’s Bikes” in Nolensville TN. As you are an experienced RV’er, I would love to hear your thoughts on the viability of this business plan.
There are a number of franchises for mobile repair stations already. You may want to investigate those for ideas, and to check out their business plans. Overall, it might work, but you’d have to be pretty dedicated to following around cycling events to ensure a reliable income.
I intend to camp primarily and be available within various campgrounds to fix bikes for family members, kids etc. My idea is to have a “magnetic sign” on the RV and set up my repair stand at my site when I’m not fishing, riding etc. Bike repair/income would not be my primary focus, merely an income supplement. I’ll be bringing my tools and supplies to maintain my own bikes anyway and I’m thinking I would have a captive audience with all of the bike riders in the campgrounds who get flats, throw chains etc. Do you think there would be a need for that service?
Thanks in advance for your feedback.
I do my own wrenching on the road, so I’ll let others respond.
Hi,
I wanted to see the hitch specification and how it is mounted along with towing capacity.
Other transit like coachman Orion only have 2000 pound capacity and I wand the possibility to two a small car.
They typically use a chassis extension that limit towing capacity
I believe they went with the Ford factory tow package. Which is required (I think) to get the trailer brake.
Yes. There’s a trailer brake. It’s a 5000 pound hitch.
Hi y’all, thanks for the walk thru…..wondering if there’s a battery disconnect to the engine battery for those periods the RV isn’t getting used much, which is apt to happen especially after owning it a while.
Not provided by Winnebago.
The chassis batteries are under the driver’s seat. You could install a disconnect there if you wanted to.
Hello James and Stef,
You have caused a huge hole in my retirement funds, we committed to an EKKO. I guess it isn’t entirely your fault. But finding your channel confirmed our choice. Great reviews. Will you be opting for the special indoor outdoor sealant the dealer is recommending?
Thanks for your work
Special indoor outdoor sealant? You mean, TruCoat? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2LLB9CGfLs
That is not a factory option. We won’t be getting it. Winnebago seals up all their rigs with the appropriate sealant. Nothing else is required.
James, I’m curious how the battery/inverter compartment dumps excess heat (in warm weather). Is there venting to the cabin? Venting to the outside? High and low vent openings (to encourage convective flow), or one opening?
Have you asked Winnebago for measurements of steady-state operating temperatures of battery and inverter in hot weather, with sun on the battery compartment, with high AC power output (e.g. aircon running)?
Thanks for the great review.
Well, uh. Since this is a brand new rig that they just invented… and it’s January… there’s no real-world hot weather data yet.
But you do bring up a good point about venting the battery compartment. Everyone worries about the batteries getting cold, but I’m actually more worried about them getting too hot. We’ve hit the high-temperature cutoffs for batteries and inverters with them in enclosed spaces – inside the coach.
There are no vents in the compartment currently, this is mostly because it needs to be kept safe from water and road debris. But adding venting to them is something I will be looking into as we head into warmer weather (and we get ours).
Readers not familiar with lithium batteries should keep in mind that elevated temperatures below the high-temperature cutoff *may* shorten the battery service life. I would imaging that the cutoff is chosen with regard to safety, not return-on-investment concerns.
I may have missed it, but I’m assuming all of the outer compartments lock, specifically the garage.
Yep. As far as I remember.
Have you given thought to where you are going to put the cat litter box? We travel with our kitty also. We need to find a way to block off the bedroom to keep the kitty in when we leave the unit so he doesn’t rush the door when we open it AND get out. How do you keep your kitty from getting out when you go into the unit? Any ideas greatly appreciated.
Leading locations for a litter box right now are in the exterior kitchen compartment (we won’t get the exterior kitchen and can cut a door through), or underneath a dinette bench seat that I’m going to build.
As far as Mel rushing the door… he just doesn’t, so it’s not an issue. The RV is Mel’s safe space on the road. He’s more likely to rush IN!
How do you plan to configure bikes in the garage? For extended trips I’m hoping to take along two road bikes and a mountain bike.
Haven’t puzzled that out yet.
For now, our existing bike gurney will fit inside without modification, so we’ll start with that and see where it goes from there.
Will the garage accommodate 2 MTBs without removing the front wheels?
I highly doubt it. You will most likely need to remove the front wheels.
OK, so I can’t help but notice the generator cabinet
(that would obviously be EMPTY without a generator),
looks to be DIRECTLY below the cassette toilet…
So…
if you remove the cassette…
and do a little engineering…
could one not manage to drop the black “solution” directly down into a black tank?
Nothing’s impossible. You’d still have to find a way to cover the hole left in the exterior wall. And you’d have a hard time plumbing it into the existing plumbing system. You’d need a separate dump outlet.
Yes. Just kind of thinking out loud. But it does seem that if one just COULDN’T LIVE with a cassette toilet, that it wouldn’t be TOO big a deal to put a black tank in the generator’s place. The existing doors could be left in place (to cover the “holes”), and yes, a separate dump outlet would be needed, but, that said; dropping a tube from the bottom of the toilet, through the cassette compartment, and into a black tank seems like it would be a relatively easy mod…
The same thought occurred to me. Initially, at least, I’m leaning towards James plan to carry a second cassette. Two cassettes would be close to the capacity of the Travato. Once the first cassette is full, swap cassettes then as an opportunity presents itself, dump the full one. But, I can envision a possible construction that would connect directly to the toilet where the cassette connects and into a holding tank below with it’s own gated dump valve.
Great review! Thank you for all the detail. Do you know the capacity of the two batteries, in Amp Hours and /or Watt Hours? And is the generator gasoline or propane powered?
Sure. The batteries are two of these: https://lithionicsbattery.com/product/12v-315ah-e2107-gtx-battery/
And the generator is gasoline, it runs off the top three-fourths of the main (31 gallon) fuel tank.
Hi James from James – Did you measure how many amps produced for coach battery charging at highway RPM? Saw your video on the idle RPM but would like to also know highway RPM. Thanks for all your great work it is outstanding!
Uh… no.
I mean, it was a big building and all, but highway speeds weren’t in the cards.
Hahaha – highway SPEEDS not necessary – just highway RPM – hold your foot on the throttle pedal for a few seconds and measure. Can be done? I guess you still have to be concerned about CO output. Well I guess we’ll find out soon enough. Thanks man.
Lol.
The specs are on the Balmar site, if you want to dig deeper.
Great coverage. I was hoping you might get an interior shot of the alternate color scheme but I guess we’ll have to wait on WGO to release some pics. I can see from the sight of James in the bathroom that trying to replace the toilet with a composting toilet would be difficult as there just isn’t a lot of room.
Not a lot of room… AND the molded back side of the toilet where it meets the wall.
I won’t say it’s impossible, but you’d have to really love your composting toilet to try it.
Thank you for all the detail. Do you know if the Truma brings in fresh air so there wouldn’t be a need to leave a window open?
Good question with two answers.
1. The Truma does bring in its own fresh air for *combustion*. So you do not need to leave a window open for that.
2. The Truma does NOT bring in fresh air to circulate in the cabin. It’s like your home HVAC. There is an air return, and that’s the air it heats and/or circulates.
Wow, you two are the best. I must have missed it, but is the grey tank outside under the rig?
Nope… it’s INSIDE!!
Underneath the fresh water tank you see in the video. Literally nothing to freeze on this one.
James, I’m curious whether you have talked with Advanced RV about the carbon DIOXIDE (not carbon monoxide) issue that Advanced RV described in the video about their very similar “B-box” product.
For those that have not seen that video, ARV’s new model (with construction similar to the Ekko) is very very airtight, which of course is a *good* thing for energy efficiency and comfort. However they found that with breathing humans inside and all the doors/windows/hatches closed, the level of carbon dioxide rises to unhealthy levels. To address that, the “B-box” includes powered ventilation controlled by a carbon dioxide sensor.
I wonder if Winnebago has measured the air infiltration of the Ekko, or has put a CO2 meter inside while three people sleep overnight.
We should all celebrate that (some) RV’s are becoming so well built that CO2 levels have to be discussed.
I’ve seen that video. To my knowledge, CO2 testing is not something that Winnebago has tested for. That doesn’t mean they haven’t, it just means I don’t know.
I also don’t know that it’s a problem in the EKKO. As far as I know, nobody is camping in them yet.
Hi guys! Great walk thru. Do you have any idea on what the cargo capacity is going to be?
Approximately 1500 lbs. Depending on options.