Northstar Campers adapts the all-electric formula of their GMAX 600 mid-size pop-up camper and launches the full-size GMAX 650. Now with 300Ah of lithium and 400-watts of solar standard, Northstar’s all-electric revolution is charging ahead!
Believe it or not, sometimes the origin story behind a new truck camper model is as simple as a customer request. Hold that tantalizing thought for a moment.
Late last year, Northstar launched the GMAX 600, a bold all-electric pop-up truck camper for mid-size trucks, including the Jeep Gladiator, Toyota Tacoma, and Ford Ranger. The GMAX 600 bristled with technology, including a 280Ah lithium battery bank (now 300Ah), 400 watts of solar, 3,000-watt inverter, Freo air conditioner, and Heat Storm HS1000WX electric heater—all standard.
The all-electric concept of the GMAX 600 with its capable lithium, solar, and inverter system raised eyebrows across the industry and marketplace. Then the $28,475 MSRP (USD) sent shockwaves. Rex Willett, President of Northstar, made it no secret that he wanted the GMAX 600 to be nothing less than a “paradigm shift” toward lithium/solar/electric systems, and a highly competitive value.
Above: The GMAX 650 inside Northstar’s pre-shipping area
When Rex contacted us about announcing the GMAX 650, we asked about the origin story behind this new model. He explained that a Northstar customer requested a full-size version of the GMAX 600. As he put it, he answered, “Why not?” and made it happen. Let there be no doubt that Northstar listens to its customers.
Compared to the GMAX 600, the new GMAX 650 is 9 inches longer in floor length at 7 feet long, and 7 inches wider at 7 feet wide.
The GMAX also has a larger true RV-queen bed in the cabover, and increases the fresh water capacity by 13 gallons (30 gallons total). Beyond these dimensional and tank capacity differences, the GMAX 600 and GMAX 650 are effectively the same.
Above: The GMAX series now comes with 300Ah of lithium standard
When Northstar says the GMAX series is all-electric, you’re not being gaslighted. There’s no propane compartment, propane tank, propane lines, or propane components in the GMAX 600 or 650.
Every system, from climate control to cooking, runs on electric by a 300-amp-hour lithium battery, 400 watts of solar, and a 3,000-watt inverter.
A Freo 6,000 BTU air conditioner and Heat Storm HS1000WX infrared heater manage climate control, while a portable electric cooktop replaces the traditional propane range.
A 3.5-cubic-foot Star RV 12-volt compressor refrigerator, MaxxFan Plus, electric roof lift, LED lighting, and a full suite of 12-volt and 110-volt outlets complete the all-electric theme. Available options include electric jacks, a grey-water holding tank, exterior solar hookup, and awnings up to 10 feet long.
Above: For only being 7 feet long and 7 feet wide, there is a lot of storage in the GMAX 650
The GMAX 650 features Northstar’s SubZero insulation package with block foam in the walls and floor, a laminated insulated roof, and an insulated soft wall with a screened window. Folks are often surprised to hear that Northstar Campers are some of the warmest campers we’ve ever camped in. It’s true.
Inside, you’ll find a teak sink insert, aviation-style latches, a Lagun table system, and a Sure Sleep 6-inch gel/foam mattress.
The GMAX 650 weighs in at 1,405 pounds with jacks, and 1,300 pounds without. That keeps the camper within reach of today’s half-ton short-bed pickups and an easy match for three-quarter and one-ton trucks.
What makes this especially compelling is the company behind it: a 65-year-old, family-owned manufacturer that still believes in time-tested, renewable, and easily repairable wood framing and hung-wall construction. As Rex Willett puts it, Northstar is combining the proven methods his family has evolved over 65 years, with the latest in all-electric thinking, technology, and components.
Think of it like a Fender Stratocaster (first introduced in 1954) that now features digital modeling electronics—aka, the American Ultra II. The design philosophy is the same: Old school does new tricks.
At $29,775 USD, the GMAX 650 continues Northstar’s aggressive charge into an all-electric future. It also marks the next evolution of the company’s all-electric vision, and one of the most advanced pop-up campers ever to roll out of its Iowa factory.
For more information about Northstar Campers, visit northstarcampers.com. Click here to request a free Northstar brochure.
