Nova first with wi-fi hotspot

Melbourne's Nova Caravans is the first RV manufacturer to offer a new wi-fi router kit specifically designed for caravans and motorhomes.

Developed and tested by new Melbourne-based company RV Wi-Fi, the RV-specific router is permanently fitted and creates a wi-fi hot-spot around your caravan, even while driving.

“The RV Wi-Fi routes use Telstra and Optus (pre-paid) 3G and 4G services so you only pay for the time you’re using the van,” said RV Wi-Fi’s Business Development Manager, Ross Irvine.

“So if you only go away at Christmas you can buy $30 of data, and you’re covered.”

The 19ft Nova Vita Workabout model on display at the Victorian Caravan, Camping & Touring Supershow, had the wi-fi router fixed to a wall inside a cabinet, with wiring running to a small, ‘hockey puck’ antenna on the roof

“At the moment we’re the only supplier of a product that’s specifically for the RV market,” Irvine said.

“When people go on holiday they still want Facebook, they still want email, those things that they do at home and they want to do it easily.”

As the router runs off the van’s 12V system, a wi-fi hotspot is available even when driving. The range is up to 92m with no obstructions, or around 40m with obstructions, such as other caravans around.

“As long as you’re in range of a (Optus or Telstra) tower you can connect (to a mobile phone, table tor laptop),” he said.

Irvine said the system is a better option than creating a ‘hotspot’ off a mobile device, especially when that can quickly drain your device’s battery.

“The external antenna also gives it superior range, and the fact that it’s built-in and running off the 12V battery means it’s always on and available.”

For a limited time at the Melbourne Supershow, Nova was offering RV Wi-Fi for free with any van purchased. It’s otherwise available as an option for around $400.

The Wi-Fi kit can also be retro-fitted to older vans, and Irvine is hoping to convince other RV manufacturers to offer it to buyers.