Grand re-brand for Melbourne caravan builder

Melbourne's Grand City Caravans has changed its name to Grand Caravans, while also boosting its line-up with the release of a new top-spec 'timber-free' off-grid caravan model called the Grand Peak.

Designed for luxury Outback adventures, the new Peak full-height off-roader is available in nine variants, including single and tandem axle configurations; all with couple ensuite layouts and with body lengths from 15ft 6in to 22ft available.

Unlike Grand's more traditional timber-framed 'vans, the new Peak model is "100% timber free", according to Grand Caravans' Managing Director Neth Kudagama.

Body construction includes a fibreglass-reinforced honeycomb floor and fibreglass XPS sandwich panels (28mm thick for the side walls, 38mm front and roof), supplied by Queensland's Link Composites, and protected externally with a polyurethane coating.

Kudagama said the use of 3D modelling has "allowed us to implement composite technology efficiently", while the interior cabinetry and benchtops are made from a lightweight ReLite PET foam core material.

"By using timber free materials, we offer a lifetime rot free guarantee for the entire caravan," he said.

Other stand-out features on Grand's optioned-up 19ft 6in Peak demo 'van include a LooSeal Elite waterless bag sealing toilet, and a Grand Monster A-frame toolbox and rear bar with fire wood and jerry holders, while the "gasless interior" boasts a 274L compressor fridge/freezer, twin induction cooktops, microwave, 3kW air-conditioner and a hydronic diesel hot water and space heater.

Standard suspension is Cruisemaster XT coils but the demo 'van is fitted with Cruisemaster's top-spec BCS ATX airbag set-up. While its up-spec off-grid package includes four 215W flexible roof solar panels, three 315Ah lithium batteries and Victron electricals including a Multiplus 3000 120A inverter charger, controlled by a Cerbo touchscreen.

There are also a few nice powered 'convenience' features fitted, like electric stabiliser legs, an electric jack, and a powered entry step and roll-out awning.

"We still have gas for either a slide-out kitchen or a BBQ in the tunnel boot, however this can be deleted for more storage if preferred," he explained.

"There is also space in the tunnel boot or toolbox for a dedicated drinks fridge or slide-out kitchen."

"Another unique feature is our two-way access drawer, which can fit a Breville coffee machine, blender or air fryer, and be accessed from both outside and inside the caravan."

The FP steel chassis has been beefed up with rear skid-plate recovery points and an X-Guard polyurethane coating, while a Camec Invictus keypad entry door and Fusion speakers are among a long list of standard features.

"We also have our own in-house interior designer who specialises in colour selection and helps our customers when they design their caravan colours, as well as our demo caravans," Kudagama said.

Pricing for the 19ft 6in Grand Peak starts at $124,999, while base Tare weight is 2330kg (3500kg ATM). The optioned-up demo 'van hits the scales a lot heavier and also hits your wallet harder, with an asking price of $196,000.

Grand Caravans has opened a new dealership called Challenger RVs, located in Craigieburn, Victoria, and you can also check out the latest Grand 'vans at Melbourne Leisurefest, on at Sandown Racecourse in Springvale, Victoria from September 18-21.

Related: Grand City Royale 2024 Review