Despite the massive and unprecedented drop in U.S. oil consumption, the unfettered enjoyment of the open road is still considered a birthright by many Americans. So how can you enjoy it fully in an era of unprecedented energy costs? The answer is simple: construct a greener RV.

Built out of a stock Ford F-350 and a standard looking truck-bed camper, Utah resident Brian Brawdy has added some special modifications that allow him, given the right weather conditions, to achieve energy independence of a sort.  Six photovoltaic panels, mounted cleverly at angles to each other to provide ample power at various sun angles, and a wind turbine meet all the electrical needs of the vehicle’s camper.

Rainwater is collected and filtered naturally, providing a clean source of drinking water, that presumably covers the needs of the washroom, too. A weather radar system detects incoming precipitation and allows Brawdy to limit his water consumption to meet his likely supply.

While the vehicle still runs on conventional diesel fuel, some widely available biodiesel products are certified to function in traditional diesel engines, meaning that a biofuel algae tank and a biodiesel refiner might be all that’s needed to keep this RV on the road indefinitely.