Hyundai Cradle is launching the “EV Camper Open Innovation Challenge 2026” and is seeking innovative solutions for electric campervans in the European market. Applications are open until March 17, 2026. The challenge is also aimed at Munich-based startups and innovators developing concepts for mobile living based on electric drives.
Innovations for a better camping experience
The focus is on further developing the user experience. Hyundai Cradle defines several innovation areas for this purpose, covering different aspects of EV camping.
comfort: new approaches to sleeping materials, ergonomic concepts and improved driving comfort.
Intelligent functions / technologiesInnovative window solutions, ambient lighting, noise reduction or entertainment systems.
Kitchen and usability: Modular kitchens, space-saving bathroom solutions, and cleaning concepts for compact rooms are in demand.
Energy and sustainability: Efficiency improvements, new solutions for power supply and concepts for extending range.
The following technologies are excluded from participation:
- Swivel seats and flat-folding second rows of seats,
- electric pop-up roofs,
- Solar panels for additional power supply,
- PDLC smart glass as well as
- Integrated camper controls.
Long-term cooperation
Hyundai Cradle offers selected participants a paid pilot project to jointly develop a prototype. If the participants achieve the defined goals in the pilot project, a long-term collaboration is possible.
Following the application deadline of March 17, 2026, an interview phase will take place in the second half of March. The winners will be announced at the beginning of April. Applications can be submitted via this form: https://utum.typeform.com/to/a9DdhuAD
