This 1977 GMC Motorhome is not the usual motorhome. The Mobile Earth + Space Observatory (MESO) is a Science Center on Wheels, serving K-12 students in communities across Colorado and adjacent states.

While the first gas-engine motorhome is already on the road to transform classrooms into a space of innovation, discovery, and experimentation, Dimitri wants the second MESO to be electric.

The motorhome was bought seven years ago and doesn’t run. It served as a donor for the first MESO but they now decided to transform it into a more silent, less smelly and more sustainable MESO. A better MESO. “It is a bare shell that we will convert to our second Mobile Earth + Space Observatory.”

The vehicle is 26’ long, 8’ wide, and 8’ tall. With a curb weight of 10,000 lbs, the truck will need a large battery pack, but its chassis seems to be made for it (see picture below).  

Their local shop will restore and convert it to electric, but they need the right kit for this exceptional vehicle.

The motorhome is equipped with power steering and heating but no AC. For the conversion, considering that it will operate in Colorado, the battery pack will require thermal management (cooling and heating).

The vehicle will deliver educational programming within Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. They want it to be as powerful as the original—the 455 Oldsmobile was rated at 265hp at launch. They expect a top speed of 60mph and 130-150 miles of range. It will primarily charge overnight at its base, but there may be occasions when charging at public stations is necessary during deployments. 

They have no preference for the motor or the battery.

Finally, the black area behind the windows was intentionally designed to leave space for sponsor branding, which could be a valuable opportunity for potential vendors. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting project! 

No towing requirement.