Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m a sucker for nicely executed retro-inspired car designs. Also, I’ve been prone to pining after a variety of VW vans since my pre-driver license years. So with those two facts in mind, it should come as no surprise that the electric Lifestyle Vehicle from Canoo has caught my eye.
Canoo is based in Los Angeles and currently has three models on their production docket. The Lifestyle vehicle is planned for launch later next year and starts at $34,750, with premium models topping out at $49,950. With an advertised battery range of 250 miles, 300 horsepower, and 332 foot-pounds of torque, it seems, at least to me, to be an electric adventure van in the making.
READ MORE: This Pint-Sized Electric Overlander Has A Geodesic Dome
Canoo even plans to offer an Adventure trim package that includes a roof rack, improved ground clearance, enhanced bumpers, and a skid plate. The interior includes the same wraparound rear seating as the premium trim level, but with adventure-focused accessories incorporated into the build. Pricing for the Adventure trim level is currently unavailable.
Photo by Canoo 
Photo by Canoo 
Photo by Canoo 
Photo by Canoo
All three of Canoo’s models will be built on a modular skateboard platform. Utilizing an industry-first steer-by-wire system Canoo is able to eliminate mechanical steering connections. This design feature allows incredible flexibility in where the steering column is located in each of the three models while using the same platform for all three vehicles.
If you aren’t feeling the micro-bus model, the pickup version will be available in 2023, and preorders are currently open. I’m getting strong Volkswagen Doka vibes from the Canoo truck, and I mean that in the most complimentary way possible.
