J-Pod for tradies?
Jayco’s tiny, entry-level caravan could spawn a number of variations including a stripped out, tradie’s trailerA bare bones, tax-deductible tradie’s version of Jayco’s smallest and cheapest caravan could be available in the future.
Launched in February this year, the featherweight, two-berth J-Pod is a new version of the original teardrop camper born in the 1930s, albeit one with a more modern, moulded fibreglass body on a hot dipped galvanised chassis.
With around 30 produced so far at Jayco’s Dandenong mega-factory, the J-Pod remains very much a ‘minimalist’ camper, with a lift up double bed with innerspring mattress, 12 volt LED internal light, two tinted windows with blinds, roof hatch, storage locker, lift up rear door, spare wheel, wheel jack and fire extinguisher the only standard features on the 2.47m long camper costing $9900 -- almost $2000 more than originally anticipated.
However, ticking the options box for the rear tent/annexe ($694), roof racks ($247), toolbox with gas ring ($320) and a single bike rack ($172) will bring the price closer to $11,500.
Jayco marketing co-ordinator Chris Blunden admitted the J-Pod remains a ‘work in progress’, with additional options and improvements expected for future editions, including the possibility of an ‘Outback’ version featuring the latest JTECH independent suspension.
A stripped out version (minus the bed) that could be used as a dedicated storage or workman’s trailer is also on the cards, not unlike the customised J-Pod recently produced for Melbourne barbeque guru and author, Bob Hart.
Designed to house his three Weber barbeques and cooking equipment, the Jayco ‘Grill Pod’ (pictured) features a number of modifications including a black painted toolbox and chassis, ‘flame grille’ wrap, bbq slide-out and external tap.
Hart, who also owns an Avan Weekender (probably the J-Pod’s closest rival) plans to use the kitchen-on-wheels at his cooking shows around the country.
Other possible uses for the J-Pod, which has an ATM of just 749kg so doesn't require electric brakes, is as a mobile café or mini toy hauler for carrying bikes or other recreational equipment.
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