Aussie Opus hits the road

Production versions of the British-Australian developed Opus camper trailer have broken cover at the South Australian Caravan and Camping Show.

Featuring a unique, pram-like unfolding mechanism, the Opus camper was initially released for UK’s ‘glamping’ market but an ‘Australianised’ version has been developed with tougher underpinnings and other changes to suit the Australian market.

Both on- and off-road models are available, with prices starting at $16,990 for the lightweight, 1170kg (ATM) on-road Drifter. The better-equipped, off-road Drifter XT has an ATM of 1530kg and starts at $19,990.

Both models come with a hot-dipped galvanised chassis and an easily erected tent structure which echoes the mechanism of a Mary Poppins-type pram.

Standard equipment on both models includes two double beds with inner privacy tents, club lounge that converts to an extra bed, tunnel boot, 12V LED lighting and 240V power outlets, fire extinguisher and awning.

The on-road Drifter has a five-leaf suspension, override brakes, 14-in alloy wheels, 50mm AL-KO coupling, wind-down AL-KO stabilisers and built-in sink with recessed tap and mains water connection.

The $3000 dearer Drifter XT is equipped with nine-leaf off-road suspension, extended drawbar, 15-in alloys, electric brakes, Trigg articulated hitch, 200mm AL-KO flip-up jockey wheel and drop-down AL-KO stabiliser legs, 98Ah battery system, 12V power outlet, two-burner cooktop, 50 litre water tank and storage box with twin jerry can holders.

For the Australian-spec Opus, the main box and lightweight canvas are supplied from China, with final assembly including fitment of locally-sourced Al-Ko running gear, furniture and appliances taking place in Adelaide.

Malcom Hill from Australian distributor Purple Line, said Opus production was ramping up in South Australia and retail sales would be launched soon from its Melbourne sales and distribution centre.

For further details visit the Opus Australia website.