Opera sings new tune
Funky caravan lets look-at-me campers sail into the sunset
A cutting-edge camper trailer inspired by the design of the Sydney Opera House was one of the stars of the 2010 International Caravan and Motorhome show in the UK.
Described by Netherlands-based manufacturer Your Suite in Nature (YSIN) as “a mobile designer suite in a class of her own”, the otherwise conventional looking ‘pop-top’ Opera camper unfolds via an electro-hydraulic power set-up system to reveal a funky canvas framed arrangement reminscent of the iconic Opera House ‘sails’.
Clever features continue inside, with two electrically adjustable beds that can be transformed into one; a boiler supplying warm water to the kitchen, fountain and exterior shower; hot air heating; ceramic toilet; 36-litre top loading fridge, and low-energy LED lighting from awning to floor.
The modular outdoor kitchen, which can be connnected to the vehicle’s onboard gas supply and folds up to fit in a cupboard, features a two-ring burner, barbecue and beech wood cutting board.
External construction comprises a full polyester external shell and stainless steel fittings. It comes in three colours, with a roofrail to carry gear and 75mm marine compass on the nose.
The interior also features coated teak floor and veranda, as well as oak, corian and stainless steel fittings, two wine drawers, and stainless steel sink with mixer tap.
Fitted with a 30-litre water tank and electric water pump, the Opera has a Tare of 1050kg.
On-road stability is impressive, according to YSIN, “thanks to its wide track, double axle, hydraulic shocks and very low centre of gravity”.
The original idea for the Opera was developed in 2006 by Rob Vos of YSIN, after which prototypes were developed in conjunction with the Enthoven Associates Design Consultancy in Antwerp.
The Opera caravan was first revealed to the public as a concept in late 2009, and Wallpaper magazine was so impressed the Opera received its 2010 Design award for campers.
A production version was displayed to more more than 70,000 visitors at the International Caravan and Motorhome show in Birmingham in early October.
YSIN has plans to sell the Opera throughout Europe and the UK, priced from around 30,000 Euros ($42,500).
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