Expedition on iconic route highlights off-grid capabilities

We have successfully completed a 500-mile expedition around Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500 (NC500) to demonstrate our Freedom campervan’s off-grid capabilities.

CamperKing and our partner Renogy took on the epic tour using the new Freedom campervan to test the effectiveness of its advanced power system without relying on an electric hook-up when pitched up at night in real-world conditions.

We named the tour ‘Freedom 500’ to illustrate just how much freedom there is when travelling long distances. The Freedom’s integrated Renogy power system meant the campervans were self-sufficient by operating entirely off-grid using advanced battery storage, inverter technology and solar charging.

What was the expedition trying to find out?

Freedom 500 was designed to answer a simple question – can a campervan featuring innovative new technology genuinely support extended off-grid touring in real conditions? After completing the route, the answer is a clear yes.

The performance of the Renogy system throughout the five-day tour was incredibly impressive, and the data we gathered gave us real confidence in what the Freedom campervan can offer our customers. It’s not so much about being able to camp off-grid but about the choices it opens up when Freedom campervan owners book their campsites, and the flexibility they have when it comes to functions like heating, cooking and lighting without needing an electric hook-up. In turn, this can also help reduce costs.

CamperKing vans pitched up at Kinlochewe Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite

A CamperKing T7 Freedom conversion on a scenic pass at Bealach na Ba

A CamperKing T7 Freedom conversion on the shores of Loch Lomond before arriving at the NC500

Taking a responsible approach

Alongside the technical testing, the NC500 route provided a dramatic and often remote backdrop to illustrate the self-sufficient nature of the expedition. Importantly, CamperKing and Renogy placed strong emphasis on completing the route around the Scottish Highlands responsibly and sustainably. Throughout Freedom 500, the team committed to following official NC500 guidance and ensured all overnight stays took place at authorised sites.

This included:

• Taking the official North Coast 500 Pledge

• Using recognised campsites and approved overnight stopovers

• Supporting the Highland Council stopover scheme

• Respecting and supporting local communities, infrastructure, and the natural environment throughout the journey.

As routes like the NC500 continue to grow in popularity, responsible travel is more important than ever. We wanted our Freedom 500 expedition to demonstrate not only what’s possible with off-grid travel, but how it can be done responsibly – supporting local areas and using authorised overnight locations throughout the trip.

Tour successfully demonstrates advanced power system

The Freedom 500 tour marks a major milestone for both CamperKing and Renogy by validating the capability of fully integrated off-grid systems and reinforcing growing demand for self-sufficient campervan touring within the UK.

Performance data, trip insights, and behind-the-scenes content will continue to be shared across CamperKing’s digital channels in the coming weeks. For more information, head here or check out the Freedom 500 journey on social media using #Freedom500.

CamperKing partner Renogy supported with its advanced power system

Our CamperKing vans at the famous John O'Groats landmark

Technical info: Freedom’s energy efficiency

Throughout the trip, the CamperKing and Renogy teams monitored and recorded battery performance, energy consumption, and overall system efficiency in changing weather conditions and across a variety of overnight locations. Key battery performance highlights included:

• The highest recorded overnight battery retention level: 93%

• The average daily battery usage: 39%

• Lowest recorded battery charge: 21%

• Total number of days completed without external hook-up: 10