At this point, when it comes to human powered recreation and camping, we’ve seen it all. Or, so you would think. That is until someone like the Latvian based team of Zeltini comes along and introduces something that is completely unique. According to their site and founder/designer Aigars Lauzis, Zeltini usually focuses on product design and prototyping, along with some landscape and urban design, and large scale 3D printing thrown in for good measure. But when it comes to products, Zeltini states that, “our main focus is on building amphibian mobile homes and vehicles for human resilience and fun.” Which is exactly what they’ve come up with in their Z-Triton Amphibious E-Tricycle Camper. Yes, you read that right.
Shown as a prototype, Zeltini expects the first Z-Triton models to be ready by 2021. Just what is a Z-Triton? A bit of everything, really – while being all in one. Forget a bunch of frame bags, an inflatable packraft, and a vehicle to get you there. With the Z-Triton, you can pedal to the water, put in, cruise around, and even sleep on board.
When it comes to pedaling, the Z-Triton has what looks to be a modern high-wheeler at the front with two smaller wheels for tricycle-stability in the back. Pedaling the front wheel kicks in two 250W electric motor hubs to help propel the creation down the road.
Once you’re to the water, all three wheels flip up, and inflatable pontoons underneath the rear wheels provide extra protection against tipping over. The same electrical system that powers the e-bike hub motors also propels an electric outboard boat motor, which is said to provide up to 40km of range on land, and 30km of range in the water. Solar panels are there to provide backup juice, though it’s not clear how long it would take to recharge the system using solar alone.
When it’s time to turn in, the boat’s cabin turns into a camper big enough for two. Thanks to the sliding roof, you can choose to sleep in an enclosed space or under the stars. There’s even a small kitchen on board for meal prep.
When it comes to actually purchasing one, Zeltini sees that happening a few different ways. They imagine that complete models will cost between €7-9k depending on the spec, and can be delivered fully built. You’ll also have the option of building your own from a DIY kit, or even creating your own with an open source 3D model. Currently, Zeltini is taking pre-orders for either €100 or €4000, with the more expensive option landing you a discounted price, and a guaranteed spot in the first batch of Tritons in the first half of 2021.
If this is something you’d rather rent than buy, Zeltini is planning to offer rentals out of their Studio in Latvia, if you happen to be in the area next year.
