The Lightship L1 self-propelled travel trailer is ideal for towing electric vehicles

San Francisco-based startup Lightship aims to electrify the recreational vehicle sector much as Tesla electrified passenger cars.

On Wednesday, Lightship unveiled its first product, the L1, a travel trailer equipped with its own electric powertrain. The company is made up of former staff from several EV companies, including Tesla.

Like the Airstream electric trailer concept unveiled last year, the L1's self-driving system means that it consumes very little energy from the vehicle it tows, according to Lightship.

This means that an electric truck with a range of 300 miles should be able to travel 300 miles while towing the L1, assuming both vehicles are fully charged; the L1 will also help save fuel for gas and diesel trucks.

When the trailer arrives at its destination, the L1's battery will have as much as 80 kwh to power multiple appliances without the need for a generator. In addition, solar panels line the roof of the L1, which can charge up to 3 kwh in good weather.

The trailer is 27 feet long and can accommodate up to six people depending on configuration. The height is 6'9" and 10' in camping mode. Gross vehicle weight is 7,500 pounds when fully loaded.

The L1 is scheduled to go into production in late 2024. Lightship is accepting reservations and prices will start at $125,000. The company plans to unveil the vehicle at the annual SXSW festival, which kicks off March 10 in Austin, Texas.