As a self-proclaimed expert in folding wagons, I recently had the opportunity to test out the new BougeRV Electric Foldable Wagon. Located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the parking lot, my little surf shack requires me to transport supplies and sports gear regularly. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various folding carts, ranging from budget options starting at $40 to high-end models priced around $800. However, none have matched the efficiency of the BougeRV electric wagon, especially when it comes to hauling heavy loads over steep inclines.
Priced at $399.99, the BougeRV Electric Wagon is worth every penny if you frequently carry significant weight uphill. This wagon can handle up to 200 kg (approximately 440 pounds), making it a powerhouse for anyone needing to transport heavy items. After testing it on 5% and 10% grade hills, I found that this wagon flattened terrains that had previously left me breathless, all while requiring minimal effort on my part. The electric motor allows the wagon to follow along smoothly, requiring only steering from the user.
The BougeRV wagon boasts a generous 180-liter capacity, expandable to 250 liters via its tailgate. This feature is particularly beneficial for carrying oversized items like kiteboards or deflated paddleboards. The wagon’s sturdy design can accommodate small children, adults, or even pets, ensuring versatility for various users. Equipped with two nearly silent rear-wheel drive motors that produce 11Nm of torque, the wagon’s performance remains impressive despite its reliance on human input for initial movement.
BougeRV claims that their electric wagons are "typically weather-resistant" and can withstand light rain. However, the lack of a precise IP rating for water or dust resistance is a concern. During my testing, I left the wagon outside overnight in light rain and blowing sand, and it functioned well the following day. If investing $400 into a wagon, I recommend purchasing a cover and removing the battery when storing it outdoors to enhance its lifespan.
Operating the BougeRV wagon comes with its quirks. The handle features two yellow throttle levers for forward and reverse speeds and two red sliders that activate the electronic brake. This design allows for one-handed control, making it user-friendly for both right and left-handed individuals. However, the display is challenging to read in sunlight, and some segments on my review unit were not functioning, which detracts from the overall experience.
The wagon includes several braking modes, but I found the electronic brake ineffective on slopes, even with light loads. A footbrake is necessary to prevent the wagon from rolling away, making the handling somewhat awkward when navigating inclines. In practice, I often resorted to shutting off the motor while descending hills to maintain control, which requires a bit of finesse.
The wheels of the BougeRV wagon performed well on a variety of surfaces, including pavement, cobblestones, and packed gravel. However, in deeper sand, the wagon struggled to maintain momentum. I would prefer traditional tires for improved traction and comfort, but the hard plastic wheels do help keep the cost low. BougeRV claims a maximum range of 12 miles (over 19 km) from its 133Wh rechargeable battery, which can also serve as a power bank for USB devices.
After ten days of testing, covering various terrains and inclines, I can confidently say that the BougeRV Electric Foldable Wagon is a remarkable product. Despite its minor flaws, it excels in performance, especially for those who often carry heavy loads over steep hills. Its impressive range and compact design make it easy to transport, ensuring that the $400 investment is justified for many users looking for a reliable, electric wagon.
