Transforming Electric Trucks into Mobile Coffee Bars: A Growing Trend
The Rise of Mobile Coffee Bars
Mobile coffee bars centered around electric trucks are gaining popularity as a unique and eco-friendly way to serve coffee on the go. While these trucks provide the necessary power for the operation, there are challenges involved in setting them up.
From Electric Pickups to Espresso Bars
The Rivian R1T and Tesla Cybertruck are not just your average electric pickups. They offer enhanced utility and functionality, making them ideal candidates for transforming into mobile coffee shops.
Powering the Operation
One key aspect of setting up a mobile coffee bar is power. Both the Cybertruck and the R1T have ample battery capacity to handle the load of a coffee shop. The Cybertruck, for example, provides 240-volt power, enabling the use of commercial coffee equipment.
Design and Engineering
Converting these trucks into coffee bars involves clever design and engineering. Features like a sliding rail platform, plumbing, filtration systems, pumps, and water supplies are essential components hidden beneath the espresso maker and bed of the truck. Extensive testing has been done in various pop-up settings to ensure functionality.
Unique Benefits of Each Truck
The Cybertruck’s design allows it to access spaces that traditional food trucks cannot, drawing attention and customers in the process. On the other hand, the R1T offers 110v power, making it suitable for lower-powered machines and specific coffee brewing methods like nitro cold brew and pour-over coffee.
Future Prospects
Currently, these mobile coffee bars are operating exclusively in Austin, Texas, and the Bay Area of California. However, as the concept gains momentum, we may see more electric trucks transformed into coffee bars in different locations. Despite the controversy surrounding these unique vehicles, their role in making coffee more accessible is a definite win.
