Dazzling Airstream vans coming

The iconic, American-built Airstream caravan famous for its streamlined, polished aluminium design and Hollywood celebrity status, is about to officially go on sale Down Under for the first time.

NSW-based A & A Industries, which also imports the cutting-edge,
Aquarius A-class motorhome, will sell a range of the trendy Airstream travel trailers in Australia from next month, priced from around $120,000.

According to Alan Imrie from A & A Industries, 20ft and 24ft models will be available initially, targetting both commercial as well as recreational buyers.

But due to their high pricing, airplane fuselage-inspired styling and funky interior layouts overseen by fashion brands including Eddie Bauer and Ralph Lauren, Mr Imrie doesn't expect the typical "Mum and Pop" caravanner to be attracted to the Airstream brand.

With the 24ft model weighing up to three tonnes, buyers will also need a heavy-duty vehicle, although given the Airstream's exclusivity he expects more Porsche Cayenne than Toyota LandCruiser owners.

"(It has) a level of luxury inside and the finish of it (appeals) to that sort of demographic," Mr Imrie said. "They will appeal to people who want to go to the next level of luxury and the next step up (from a typical Australian-built caravan).

"That's why we won't be displaying it at caravan trade shows, we'll be taking it to lifestyle trade shows."

Airstream can also custom-build the vans to suit a variety of commercial applications, and restaurant chain Grill'd has already taken delivery of a purpose-built food van costing "close to $200,000", he said.

The Airstream vans sold here will have full Australian compliance, including 240V electrical appliances and doors on the left side.

Sold around the world, the Airstream vans have served a number of industries over the years, including the American military. They've also been a favourite of dignitaries as well as celebrities, including Hollywood heart throb Matthew McConaughey who has been known to live in one for months on end.

They also have a cult-like following Down Under particularly with hot rodders, who like to display restored or modified, vintage Airstream vans at car shows.

Ohio-based Airstream has been manufacturing its unique range of travel trailers since the 1930s, and in its home market currently offers eight main model ranges, from compact 16ft vans all the way to massive 31ft options.

Full details including model availability and pricing for the Australian-spec Airstream vans will be available closer to the official launch in early-September.