Apocalypse-ready caravan breaks cover

Think Aussie hybrids are bulletproof?

Well, now you can actually buy a bullet-proof camper, with a new 5.5m long twin-berth model from American pod specialist Mammoth Overland that it's describing as a "fusion of rugged apocalypse-readiness and family-sized comfort".

The new Mammoth XLE (Xtinction Level Escape) off-road camper blends the best bits of the Washington RV builder's ELE and TL campers, and comes priced from US$123,994 (AUD$174,000), but for that you get one helluva man-cave camper...

Standard features (or should we say 'bulletproof basics') include a fully pressurized cabin with dual medical-grade HEPA air filtration, a reinforced rear vault door with multi-point locking system, rapid-access roof escape hatch, and an expedition roof rack with dual standing platforms.

The windows boast one-inch thick bulletproof glass, and come spring-assisted with 'remote blast shields' that feature 'instant hardening capability'.

Even the Truma VarioHeat heating system is protected by body armour, while weapons storage extends to a dual long rifle locker and dedicated gun safe. There's also a concealed under-mattress safe, plus an integrated medical kit for mid-battle patch-ups.

Under attack from some angry natives? Flick on the "perimeter defense on demand", quad remote-controlled bear deterrent system, or the remote-activated sonic defense system which delivers "non-lethal deterrence".

When the zombies (or drunk camping neighbours) get too close, there are also six remote strobe units designed to "disorient, signal, or control the scene", and a 360° night-vision CCTV array that delivers "total situational awareness, day or night".

Occupants can also sleep better at night knowing they have "full-spectrum awareness", thanks to the onboard HAM radio, weather station, and Geiger counter.

If that's not enough you can fork out for an extra line of defence, with an optional smoke and flare launcher.

"Remote-deploy 37-millimeter smoke and flare countermeasures reloadable from inside the cabin," is how Mammoth Overland describes the $8000 option.

Otherwise, the XLE hybrid gets all the off-grid comforts and conveniences you'd expect in an upmarket camper, including a portable generator and a 1200Ah battery system with 400W rooftop solar, to run the 12V fridge and air-conditioner.

There's also an onboard water filter, integrated Starlink and an indoor shower.

We're not sure who the target buyer is exactly (free citizen survivalists, doomsday preppers, or perhaps residents of crime-plagued American cities), but the XLE brochure specs wouldn't look out of place on a Hawkei.

"XLE has strobe light in addition to a sonic defense system, remote activated bear spray and night vision 360 security cameras. You’ll never feel more secure at camp then in one of these," says the American company that also manufactures Vashon light aircraft.

You can push the price up further with a custom wrap (like the one pictured) for another $7500.

Listed with a circa two tonne tare and 2360kg ATM, Mammoth Overland is currently taking $5000 deposits via its website to secure a spot in the production queue.

Related: Apocalypse-ready RAM camper unleashed