BACKGROUND
 

Some 480,000 recreational vehicles drive around in the Netherlands and 4,000,000 in Europe. Every year, 80,000 new caravans and 125,000 new motorhomes are purchased in Europe. It is about time that this traditional and still popular means of travel is adapted to the digital age. E-Trailer is the first company to make recreational vehicles smart with new technologies. With intelligent sensors and software, every caravan- and motorhome owner can travel safely, comfortably and fully informed.

ACTIVITIES

The E-Trailer consists of sensors and an app that are easy to use and install in any caravan or motorhome, both existing and new vehicles. Through a smartphone, the user is kept up to date with all kinds of important data about the caravan and the journey. The app shows how full the battery is and informs the user about the load (ball pressure) and the tyre pressure.

Once arrived at the campsite, the app helps to easily level the recreational vehicle and automatically gives a signal when the water tank and/or battery is empty.

RESULTS

E-Trailer has already sold a considerable number of packages and has been able to attract large companies. For example, the smart sensors are already available as a standard option in the caravans and motorhomes of the largest dealer in the Netherlands (De Klerk Caravans) and in 2020 also at Hymer, the market leader in Europe. The company is now active in 7 countries, including France, Germany, South Korea and even Australia.

AMBITION

The mission of E-Trailer is to increase safety and comfort in the caravan and motorhomes market by means of smart sensors. E-Trailer is growing very fast and wants to keep their market leader position by continuously introducing new smart technologies for recreational vehicles. The app is universal so new smart sensors can easily be added. The investment of KIKK Capital will enable E-Trailer to further accelerate its expansion strategy.

FOUNDED

E-Trailer was founded in 2015 by Rick Lenssen (CTO) and Boy Trip (CEO). Rick studied aerospace engineering and dropped out of his studies for 2 years to participate in the solar car team of TU Delft (Nuon Solar Team). With this car he managed to become world champion twice, in Australia and South Africa. Rick and Boy wanted to apply the knowledge of the Nuon Solar Team's winning solar car to the recreational vehicles market. This led to the establishment of E-Trailer.

Why KIKK capital?

Boy Trip, CEO: “With the knowledge and experience of KIKK Capital in the field of international growth in the retail/consumer market, we can accelerate the global expansion of E-Trailer. This results in more people being able to go on holiday more safely and comfortably.

We were immediately very enthusiastic about the no nonsense approach of KIKK Capital. They give us straightforward feedback in a way that is genuinely useful. Because of their professional and fast approach, and also knowledge and feedback, we decided to get on board. The experience of KIKK Capital can contribute significantly to the development of our company”.

Added value of KIKK CAPITAL

Rick Lenssen, CTO: “KIKK Capital is very involved and consists of 12 shareholders with a lot of knowledge, experience and a large network that we can use. The division of tasks is very clear. We know exactly who to ask which questions and they are always easy to reach and willing to give advise”.