Chinese LDV motorhome by 2020

Ateco Automotive, the local distributor for Chinese brand LDV, is still contemplating the business case for the LDV RV80 – a motorhome based on the V80 commercial vehicle chassis.

But with the "legal and logistical issues" facing the importer in having the RV80 homologated for Australian Design Rules it's unlikely the short-wheelbase Ducato rival will arrive here before next year at the earliest, when LDV will launch an all-new model of the V80.

"There's a number of issues there that also involve things like fuel filler flaps..." explained Ateco spokesman Edward Rowe.

"I think realistically, you won't see an RV80 in the current vehicle, but you could well see it [here] in the next generation of V80."

Rowe says that the process would take so long that the current model would barely gain type approval before its replacement is due to arrive in the local market.

"Obviously you wouldn't launch that vehicle and replace it 10 minutes later."

Rowe explained that the attraction for Ateco in bringing the RV80 motorhome to Australia is its coachbuilt nature. The RV80 motorhome comes from the factory completed on the same production line as the V80 vans and light trucks, and its pricing and features should appeal to grey nomads – older buyers with fewer restrictions on their year-round migratory movements.

The RV80 in its current form – and likely true of the next model too – features insulation, double glazing, heating as well as cooling, and more storage for clothing and other items carried on extended trips.

Another point about the RV80 seen at a recent LDV and MG drive day in Shanghai is its twin (bunk) beds. There's no double bed in sight.

"You'll find that quite a number of 'grey nomad' vehicles are [fitted with] twin beds, I suspect because the happy couple have been sleeping together for 40 years – they prefer to sleep separately," Rowe commented.

Nevertheless, the RV80 at the Shanghai motor show last year (pictured) was fitted with a double bed, so presumably the new model will offer both options.

By being built entirely in the one plant, the RV80 should cost less to import than the all-up price of a motorhome conversion after the cost of the chassis and the conversion are added together. Although there's no official pricing published yet, the price is anticipated to undercut volume-selling short-wheelbase motorhomes built on a European chassis.

And having the RV80 serviced just the once – at the nearest LDV dealer – should yield ownership savings. Converted motorhomes frequently need to be serviced twice: for the vehicle itself and separately for the motorhome conversion.

The current RV80 is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel, producing 330Nm and driving through a six-speed automatic for an official fuel consumption figure of 8.7L/100km.