Overview
The camper van in Outbound runs on an electric motor that needs a constant supply of power. Players start with a bio burner and progressively unlock three renewable energy sources: solar, wind, and water. Each type has distinct advantages and limitations that vary depending on the environment and weather conditions.
Solar energy
Solar arrays provide consistent daytime energy. They require clear weather and proper panel orientation to generate power efficiently. On overcast days or at night, solar output drops significantly. Players who rely heavily on solar power need to plan their activities around daylight hours or supplement with other sources.
Wind energy
Wind turbines generate power regardless of the time of day, making them a useful complement to solar panels. However, they need elevated positioning and open terrain to work effectively. Placing a turbine on top of the van or in a sheltered valley produces different results. Wind conditions vary by biome and weather, so a turbine that works well in The Outdoors might perform differently on The Coast.
Water energy
Hydro-powered generators harness flowing water sources like rivers and streams. This provides steady energy as long as the van is parked near running water. The limitation is obvious: you need to find water. This makes hydro power location-dependent, encouraging players to scout for good parking spots near waterways.
Energy strategy
Different regions reward different energy strategies. A mixed setup with solar panels and a wind turbine covers most situations, but specialized builds can be more efficient in specific environments. The energy system creates natural incentives to adapt the van's configuration as players traverse the map. Managing energy output is the central ongoing challenge of the game.