Lotus Off Grid unveiled

After a sneak peek of its new baby off-roader last week, Lotus Caravans has released full imagery of its premium entry-level 14ft Off Grid model prior to its official launch at the Victorian Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow later this month.

The striking show van sports bold, bright green 'Alucomp' exterior panels with carbon fibre decals and matching black alloys and green suspension components, though it’s understood a range of exterior colours will be available.

Being a Lotus, there are plenty of nice bespoke touches including laser-cut, ‘Off Grid’ etched exterior grab handles.

The G&S galvanised chassis comes with single axle Control Rider independent, coil spring suspension, Hitchmaster DO35 coupling, 12in electric brakes, and 17in alloy wheels with chunky Cooper tyres.

The timber frame/'composite panel body also features plenty of side and underbody checker plate protection as well as a front toolbox and stone guard, rear recovery points and two 95 litre water tanks.

Other external features include a pull-out stainless steel kitchen with Weber BBQ and glass-lidded sink, external shower and Thule Omnistor pull-out awning that covers the outside kitchen.

Interior features include an east-west queen bed with inner-spring mattress, kitchenette with stainless steel sink, two burner cooktop and 80 litre Waeco fridge, leather-covered lounge seating, LED lighting, roof-top air-conditioner and fan, combination shower/toilet and plenty of storage thanks to floor to ceiling shelves and cabinets in the rear.

The quality interior finishes are complemented by a Fusion audio set-up and TV, and two 120Ah battery system with Redarc 20A charger and 300W roof-top solar panels.

Tare weight is around 1800kg with a ball weight of approximately 140kg.

Wayne Freeman from Lotus Caravans said the Lotus Off Grid will retail from around $69,990, which is slightly higher than some similarly-specced, Australian-built rivals.

However, he's confident it will be a hot seller for Lotus, which currently builds around five vans a week at its Campbellfield, Victoria factory.

"We have (already) received over 300 enquiries requesting more information so there is a huge market for this type of hybrid van," he said.

The new compact off-road van will be on display at the Melbourne Showgrounds from February 24-29 alongside Lotus’ larger, dual axle Freelander, Trooper and Tarmac models, ranging in size from 17ft 6in to 22ft body lengths.