AOR tweaks Quantum hybrid

After pioneering the hybrid camper concept back in 2008, Queensland-based Australian Off-Road has now tweaked its concept of a sustainable remote-area RV with a new, lighter, more durable and more self-sufficient Series 5 version of its top-selling 14ft Quantum pop-top model.

Due to enter production in December 2022, a prototype has recently completed a 15,000km off-road test by Moon Tours across five deserts and some of the toughest, remote tracks in Australia.

On the eight-week shakedown, the pre-production Quantum R&D camper visited Ceduna, Port Hedland, crossed the Nullarbor following the Trans-Australia railway, the Connie Sue and Anne Beadell Highways, before tackling the David Carnegie Road, the Gunbarrel Highway and completed a short stint on the Canning Stock Route – all without a service.

Employing more aluminium components in its construction, plus a new nose cone and stronger weight-reduced flooring, the Series 5 model features both a reduced Tare and a lower ball weight.

Combined, they allow a significant increase in the model’s payload, while the new slimline windows, branded mudflaps and its exo-skeletal construction system result in a more modern, sharper design, according to AOR.

The Series 5 Quantum is also better equipped for longer-term remote off-road adventures with up to 700W shade-tolerant, lightweight rooftop solar panels and up to 540Ah of lithium battery power. Solar power of 350W and a 300Ah lithium battery are standard.

To give it a real-world workout, the R&D Quantum Series 5 was also fitted with AOR’s new durable aluminium body protection system, Defend Wrap, that's designed to minimise off-road travel damage.

The latest Series 5 configuration also features a new and improved external kitchen layout that allows more living space under the awning.

AOR says the new kitchen is a simpler set up and easier to use thanks to its slightly lower height, while its stainless steel work bench/preparation space is made of stronger aluminium.

The three-burner Thetford stove and sink combination unit is a new design, with the sink aligned to the adjacent prep space for ease of use, while the sink features a quick connect hose and the cooker now has cast iron trivets. For added longevity, the aluminium kitchen body is now powdercoated.

In other detail improvements, pantry accessibility is improved, an 82-litre external fridge/freezer is fitted, and the multi-use kitchen pantry aluminium drawers gain more space and removable dividers.

A new switchable white and yellow light on the inside of the pantry is also fitted to discourage flying insects.

Inside, the Quantum also gets larger tinted windows incorporating both fly and privacy screens and a full-size queen bed with a new upholstered bedhead as standard; new lightweight aluminium cabinets; three under-bed storage drawers; and a four-person dinette with swing-away table.

Guaranteed dust-proof, AOR claims the S5 Quantum with its narrow 1950mm body can go anywhere off-road that its tow vehicle will take it.

The AOR website is yet to announce pricing for the new model but it's expected to start in excess of $140,000...