New cut-price Fantasy caravans arrive

Fledgling Chinese RV brand Fantasy is releasing its first range of full-height, on-road ensuite caravans, with Tare weights as low as 800kg and pricing from around $30,000.

One example each of the latest Fantasy 10ft and 12ft full-height compact caravans arrived at Fantasy’s Moorabbin, Victorian headquarters last week, joining the existing range of pop-top hybrid off-road campers and hard-floor tent trailers.

The Euro-style compact caravans feature a blend of dimpled or smooth aluminium composite and fibreglass panel finishes, along with rubber torsion beam suspension, 14in wheels, over-run drum brakes and an anti-sway coupling, although Fantasy said this will be changed to an Australian-compliant coupling.

Both vans are fitted with internal combination shower/toilets, with the smaller 10ft Fantasy caravan featuring a front dinette that converts to a double bed, a small fridge and sink, and a number of internal and external storage options.

The larger 12ft van can sleep up to four, with twin bunks at the rear, a central ensuite and small kitchen with sink and induction cooktop, and a U-shape front dinette/lounge that converts to a bed.

Depending on the model, other standard features fitted will include air-conditioning, 12V battery system, hot water unit, LED TV, 60 or 80 litre water tanks plus a grey water tank, and a 60-80 litre fridge.

The 10ft Fantasy van is expected to weigh around 800kg (Tare) with the 12ft version coming in around 1000kg Tare, with an ATM of up to 1500kg depending on the model. Ball weights are also expected to be super-low, at around 60-80kg.

The new Fantasy lightweight compact caravans will be officially launched at the Melbourne 4x4 Show at the Melbourne Showgrounds on August 16-17, when full specifications and pricing are expected to be available.