Hardcore off-road RV manufacturer Bruder has released the first 'real world' photos and more details about its soon to be released, new range-topping EXP-8 expedition caravan.
The tandem axle EXP-8 couple's caravan from the Brisbane based manufacturer will set back Australian buyers more than a quarter million dollars in standard form, or over $300,000 with a few option boxes ticked, making it one of the most expensive full off-road, off-grid caravans to hit the Australian market.
Priced from $284,900 including GST, the 19ft 6in (body length) EXP-8 comes standard with a two-pac painted, 125mm x 75mm x 4mm fully sealed chassis with off-road coupling, 18in alloy wheels and 33in mud tyres, 12in electric disc brakes, and rear-mounted Warn winch, reversing camera and twin tow recovery points.
Like other Bruder models, the EXP-8 rides on a unique multi-link independent air suspension with eight vertically mounted shock absorbers to deliver up to 300mm wheel travel.
Bruder's new range-topper is also designed for extreme hot and cold conditions with its epoxy-bonded, closed cell insulated composite body delivering an insulation R-Value of "over 5.1", while its roof is engineered to cope with heavy snow loads.
Other stats provided include a relatively narrow 2150mm body width and 6840mm overall length, with a standard Tare weight of 2600kg and 3500kg ATM. Travel height is also adjustable between 2580mm and 2900m.
Other standard features include a tyre inflation kit and exhaust and pressuring air filtration systems, with a total of 350 litre freshwater and 75 litre grey water capacity. The drinking water tank and waterlines are also located internally to prevent heating and freezing.
Power for off-grid camping is provided by a 12V/48V lithium battery system with 12,500Whr (1000Ah) battery pack, 5000W inverter and 1600W rooftop solar bank; all controlled by a touchscreen power management system.
The couple-friendly interior layout includes a front section incorporating a corner combination shower/toilet, 188L fridge/freezer, a storage area and a compartment for the industrial size dust filtration system.
The L-shaped lounge/dinette with drop-down table is centrally located, opposite the kitchenette with twin burner induction cooktop, stainless sink with filtered water tap and a premium benchtop with 12 bottle wine holder, together with marine grade stain and water resistant flooring.
The (1530mm x 2030mm) north-south queen bed at the rear has cupboards on both sides, with another large storage area under the bed.
Internally, the EXP-8 also gets 12V fan ventilation, ducted air-conditioning, diesel powered air/water heating and multi-colour zone and LED strip lighting.
A black-on-black exterior colour scheme is standard, as is two-tone matte grey or white gloss internal cabinetry.
A long list of options includes bespoke interior and exterior colours, different tyres and stud patterns, powered awning, annexe, washing machine, leather sofa, portable generator, stone guard protection, recovery planks, and a wi-fi signal extender.
Ticking all the option boxes gets the price closer to $340,000 which would make the EXP-8 one of the priciest Australia-built caravans of all time.
The EXP-8 is available to order now, and Bruder says there are "limited build-spots available from 2023".