Polydrops hybrid camper slashes cost of towing

With a few exceptions many caravan designers and manufacturers, in Australia at least, pay scant attention to aerodynamics or towing weight. So it's refreshing to see the latest wind-cheating if somewhat unconventional design from American/South Korean manufacturer Polydrops that's just hit the road, and with an eye-catching Tare weight not far off a basic tent trailer's.

Polydrops was started by two South Korean architectural students in 2017, with the aim of using a unique polpolygonal teardrop design to produce an aerodynamically efficient and lightweight camper that could be towed by just about any vehicle.

Built in a California factory and priced from US$12,500, the original P19 and XP19 Polydrops pod-style campers will soon be joined on the production line by a larger P21 version that has enough room to sleep a family of four.

Like the Polydrops P19 teardrop, the 21ft long (overall) and 5ft 8in wide, P21 family camper is super light with a Tare (unloaded) weight of between 1200lbs (544kg) and 1800lbs (816kg). This is achieved with the combination of an aluminium 'rust-free' frame, composite sandwich panels and a Timbren independent suspension.

Polydrops is pitching the P21 at owners of EV vehicles, as its featherweight build and aero shape "minimizes the necessity for frequent EV charging." The company says a tow-test behind a Lexus RX500H achieved an average of 22MPG (10.7L/100km), or just a 15 per cent decrease in fuel efficiency.

Polydrops also says the P21 body boasts seamless, 'air tight' insulation, along with a total of six windows and roof vents to let in the natural light and breezes.

"The P21 offers an aerodynamically designed and impeccably insulated space that not only conserves energy but also streamlines your travel experience," it says on the Polydrops website.

CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) were used to refine the aero body shape, which features a sleek wedge front, flat underbody and side fenders, and a boat tail and small roof spoiler at the rear; all designed to reduce drag and allow for "seamless airflow and optimal performance on the road."

There's up to 1.8m interior headroom inside, while the architecturally inspired fit-out includes a pointy nosed front double bed area that converts to a lounge and dining area or work station. The kitchen with microwave, induction stove, sink and 25L portable fridge is an extra-cost option, as is turning the front storage 'cone' into a kids' bunk room.

Buyers can also tick the option box for an internal ensuite with sink, shower, and a portable toilet.

The all-electric P21 comes standard with 1300W integrated rooftop solar panels feeding a 5kWh lithium battery system, a 9 gallons (34L) fresh water tank and 1.3-gallon (5L) water heater tank, a seven inch touchscreen display, and an air-conditioner and heat pump system for year round climate control.

Production of the Polydrops P21 is expected to begin in late-2024, with the price starting at US$38,900. American buyers can secure a spot in the production queue by placing a $100 deposit on the Polydrops website.