Sodium-ion batteries for motorhomes to launch in 2026

Toyota has introduced a special package for the Noah minivan, designed from the start for overnight stays. The package includes a sub-battery and inverter power system, a heater, navigation with ETC 2.0, and a solar panel. The equipment allows the vehicle to be used for daily commuting and as a travel base without major aftermarket modifications.

The "Sakaihama Rakuten Onsen Shofuku" hot spring facility in Osaka ranked 6th nationally and 2nd in Western Japan in last year's popularity ranking for motorhome and camper van overnight stays. The ranking was compiled by the platform Carstay based on booking data. The overnight fee per vehicle is 1,500 yen on weekdays and 2,000 yen on weekends, with additional options available.

Japanese converter Toy-Factory unveiled a limited-edition camper van at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. The Da Vinci 6.0 Star Wars Edition, based on a Fiat Ducato, is produced under official Disney and Lucas Films license with only five units made. It features a 2.2-liter diesel engine (180 hp), four sleeping berths, a full kitchen, and a waterless toilet. The price is approximately €140,000.

Japanese outdoor blogger Genya has compiled a list of 10 key items for beginners in motorhome and camper van travel. The list includes a leveling mat, an inflatable mattress, an electric kettle, a ceramic heater, and a portable induction cooktop. The recommendations are based on personal experience from a 2100 km trip across Japan.

The Carstay platform has released its 2025 booking rankings for overnight parking spots for motorhomes and camper vans in Japan. The top spot was taken by the 'Michi-no-Eki Ueda-Bigahara Kogen' station in Nagano Prefecture, known for its panoramic views. The top 10 list includes locations with hot spring facilities and a station on a highway. The network comprises about 350 stations, with electrical hookups not being a primary factor for popularity.

An author with over seven years of vanlife experience recommends three sleeping bag models for winter use. Key selection criteria are material (down is preferred over synthetic) and a mummy shape for superior insulation. The recommended comfort temperature range for winter conditions is from -5°C to -15°C.