Honda has revealed a one-of-a-kind year-round camping concept to celebrate 30-years of the CR-V, one of the world’s best-selling compact SUVs. Based on the manufacturer’s first plug-in hybrid model for Europe, the ‘Dream Pod’ has been created to deliver exciting off-grid adventures.
Inspired by Japan’s capsule hotels and offering sleeping space for two people, the bespoke Honda CR-V ‘Dream Pod’ has been built using specialist camping equipment, genuine Honda accessories and some thoughtfully designed bespoke features, bringing home comfort to the great outdoors.
Offering an all-electric range of 79km, the plug-in hybrid ‘Dream Pod’ minimises its impact in the wild with silent power delivery and zero exhaust emissions when in EV Mode. While its 159mm ground clearance and advanced traction control modes allow it to tackle varying terrains with confidence. Alongside its spacious and luxurious interior and Honda SENSING 360 safety technology, comfort and safety are assured in even the wildest locations.
Honda CR-V ‘Dream Pod’ concept
At the heart of the ‘Dream Pod’ transformation is the EGOE Nestboard 650, a compact in-car camping solution that fits perfectly in the CR-V’s 617-litre boot. When the rear seats are folded flat, the unit’s double mattress can be quickly and easily unfolded to create a snug sleeping compartment for two adults. Concealed in the base of the EGOE is a drawer that slides open to reveal a cooking stove, a collapsible sink and ample storage for utensils, cutlery and plates.
The ‘Dream Pod’s’ interior features additional bespoke comforts, including ‘tech pods’ with LED reading lights and pull-out side tables, plus USB charging sockets. Additionally, tailored black-out covers for the rear windows, combined with a retractable blind behind the front seats, enhance privacy to ensure a relaxing environment and comfortable sleeping conditions.
Several Honda Genuine Accessories add to the opportunities for outdoor adventure afforded by the ‘Dream Pod’. At the rear of the CR-V, it is possible to attach a Honda-certified Thule bicycle carrier mounted to a detachable tow bar, which can also be used to take advantage of the e:PHEV’s 1,500kg towing capability. Inside, tailored rubber floor mats help keep the cabin clean when returning from muddy exploration, while the illuminated door sill trims add a welcoming touch at night.
One of the first people to experience the ‘Dream Pod’s’ unique capabilities was acclaimed astrophotographer, Benjamin Barakat, who travelled into the Italian Alps to capture some incredible images of the night sky. After finding the perfect spot, he set up camp and his cameras, using time lapse techniques to create beautiful pictures of Orion’s Nebula within the Milky Way, as well as the Pleiades cluster – made up of over 1,000 stars.
Despite being far from home, the ‘Dream Pod’s’ carefully curated comfort allowed Benjamin to confidently head off the beaten track in search of stunning celestial sights. You can see the exclusive film of his adventures with the CR-V here:
After capturing his awe-inspiring images, Benjamin commented: “Astrophotography is the process of going out, under the night sky and capturing it. It’s a huge difference compared to daylight, where you can see your subject clearly. You must be prepared to adapt to get the image, which is why the ‘Dream Pod’ was such a huge advantage. Knowing I would be comfortable and relaxed regardless of the location or time of day allowed me to perform at my best and deliver the most exciting pictures.’
Honda CR-V – 30 years of adventures
Honda kick-started a revolution when it launched its original CR-V, or Compact Runabout Vehicle, in 1995. Bringing a refreshingly bold approach to the mid-sized SUV market, it set a new trend for stylish and highly versatile four-wheel drive family models that combined car-like handling and comfort with SUV practicality. Now in its sixth generation, the CR-V was the third best selling SUV in the world during 2024, with more than 1 million units sold in Europe across its lifetime.
Nik Pearson, Honda Motor Europe, said: “The spirit of adventure has always been at the heart of the CR-V, a car which has championed family-friendly fun and versatility since its ground-breaking introduction in 1995. By combining car-like handling and comfort with SUV versatility, this is a model that single-handedly created the modern crossover sector. The ‘Dream Pod’ is therefore the perfect celebration of the CR-V’s pioneering success and its status as one of the world’s most popular SUVs.”
For an in-depth look at three decades of CR-V visit: https://hondanews.eu/eu/en/cars/media/presskits/532012/
