Doubleback camper expands interior space
An innovative, rear slide-out for the VW Transporter creates motorhome-style space within a compact campervanWhen it comes to RVs, there’s no doubt Australia punches above its weight. Not only do we sell more caravans per capita than any other country in the world, we can also boast our fair share of industry-firsts, like the clever Sky-Deck caravan verandah.
But now the Poms have beaten us to the punch, it seems, with the introduction of the first campervan with a rear slide-out.
British inventor, Craig McCormack, came up with a new variation on the popular Volkswagen Transporter conversion, by adding an electric slide-out ‘rear pod’ that effectively doubles interior living space.
Manufactured from high-strength, lightweight aluminium, the 2.5m long, rear bed/lounge section slides out at the touch of a button, and is supported on stabiliser legs.
Along with the traditional pop-top roof and convertible bed, it also includes all the camping necessities like a built-in cooker and fridge.
The T5 Doubleback debuted in 2012, and is now being mass-produced by Bristol-based Danbury Motorcaravans, which converts a range of VeeDub campers including the original Type 2.
The Doubleback currently only offers a maximum of three belted seats, despite sleeping space for four, so a longer wheelbase, five-seater version of the van is currently being developed.
Brand new examples start at £47,999 ($73,800) in the UK, but the slide-out can also be retro-fitted to used vans.
We may not have invented it, but with the Doubleback conversions ready-made for right-hand drive markets, how long before we see them on sale Down Under?
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
