AL-KO ESC available for older caravans
The world's first anti-sway system for electric-braked caravans can now be installed on suitably-equipped older modelsAvailable since mid-2012 on a growing number of new caravans, AL-KO’s revolutionary new electronic stability control (ESC) system is now available for retro-fitment to existing caravans at a number of specialists around the country.
Currently, only a handful of caravan repair centres and dealership in Victoria and South Australia have been trained by AL-KO as certified installers, but it’s expected a nationwide network of more than 100 installers covering all states and territories will be up and running by the end of March.
However, the AL-KO ESC can only be fitted to older caravans already fitted with AL-KO brakes, axles and approved suspensions, which currently include AL-KO’s Independent Rubber Suspension (IRS) or beam axle and leaf springs, Simplicity, Cruisemaster, Control Rider (heavy-duty), and Austrak.
AL-KO expects the price of retro-fitting the stability control system to an existing caravan will be around $1200-$1500, or about the same it adds to the price of a new caravan.
Developed in Australia, the AL-KO ESC corrects excessive sideways movement of the caravan by automatically applying the van's electric brakes. It can be fitted to single or tandem axle caravans, but while the unit is waterproof, it’s not suitable for serious off-road use.
AL-KO says the anti-sway device has already been readily accepted by caravan manufacturers, with more than 30 manufacturers including major players Jayco and Supreme, now offering ESC as standard equipment or an option on their new caravans.
The Melbourne-based company is also on track to launch its innovative safety product on the lucrative US market within the next two years.
“Since launching AL-KO ESC for new caravans in mid 2012, we have had a huge interest from the public regarding installation of the product for their existing caravans, and we already have a significant waiting list,” said AL-KO International managing director, Sven Mannfolk.
"We are extremely pleased and proud to be able to make electronic stability control technology available for the majority of Australians with existing caravans. We believe this is a new era in towing safety, and a technology that will ultimately save lives.”
For the latest list of certified installers, visit the AL-KO ESC website.
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