The BougeRV Electric Wagon Excels in Uphill and Becomes a Threat on Downhill.
A high-capacity vehicle that flattens hills.
With some experience using folding carts, I had the opportunity to try the new BougeRV Electric Folding Cart. This innovative product can be particularly useful for those, like me, who need to transport heavy loads over relatively long distances; in my case, a 1 km trek from the parking lot to my surf spot.
I have used several folding carts over time, with prices ranging from $40 for lower-end options to models from well-known brands that reach $250, and even up to $800 for high-end ones. However, none have made it easier to transport 200 kg of cargo on steep inclines as effectively as this electric cart. While its price of $399.99 may seem high, I believe its cost is justified for those who frequently haul heavy objects.
Positive Aspects:
- Capability to climb steep inclines.
- Large load capacity.
- Folds for easy transport.
- Good range of autonomy.
Negative Aspects:
- Hard-to-read screen.
- Ineffective electronic brake and accelerator on downhill slopes.
- High price.
- Unclear water resistance.
BougeRV is known for manufacturing luxury gear for outdoor and camping enthusiasts. It's true that the company's name can cause confusion due to its similarity to the derogatory slang "bougie," but that does not detract from its quality.
The cart features a quiet motor that produces 11Nm of torque, although it really needs user assistance to get moving. The cart's capacity is 180 liters, extending to 250 liters with the opening of its rear gate, which is useful for bulky items like kitesurfing boards. It is sturdy enough to carry small children, adults, or even a tired dog.
BougeRV claims that their electric cart is water-resistant, although they recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to rain. This statement is not very reliable, as there is no official water or dust protection rating. Despite that, after leaving it outside one night in light rain, it worked without issues the next day.
The handling of the cart is peculiar, with two yellow levers for speed control and red sliders for the electronic brake. Despite its design, I found it more effective to use maximum acceleration due to the vibrations. The control screen, on the other hand, has visibility issues under sunlight.
Although different braking modes are offered, they do not function as expected on inclines. The electronic brake does not effectively stop the cart unless the mechanical brakes are engaged, which is inconvenient.
Regarding autonomy, BougeRV promised a range of up to 19 km with the 133Wh rechargeable battery, and it can also be used as a power bank for other devices. After using the cart for a 5 km trip, the charge appeared to be above 75%, demonstrating remarkable performance.
In summary, the BougeRV Electric Folding Cart has exceeded my expectations in terms of capacity and performance on inclines, making it a valuable option for those transporting substantial loads in various conditions.
