Race to build first carbon-fibre caravan
A high-priced, hi-tech, mostly recyclable caravan co-built by a race car manufacturer could be coming to AustraliaAn innovative new American company is attempting to drag caravan manufacturing into the 21st century with the release of the world’s first carbon-fibre caravan later this year.
Dubbed CR-1 Carbon, the “futuristic green super-luxury RV” is collaboration between Indiana-based Global Caravan Technologies (GCT) and Indycar manufacturer Dallara, bringing hi-tech composite construction techniques used in top-level motor racing to the RV industry for the first time.
According to a press release, the new model will be “designed with an aerospace and supercar-inspired monocoque structure and connected vehicle technology”.
The CR-1 Carbon is the first of a number of innovative new caravans, fifth wheelers, motorhomes and specialty vehicles planned by GCT “featuring industry-first floorplans and options”.
While no images have been released yet, the carbon-fibre model promises a slippery shape with as much as 100 per cent improvement in fuel economy under tow. GCT says the “patent-pending exterior designs will reveal distinct body lines and new features for an RV”. Much of the caravan will be recyclable too.
Interiors “will feature large spaces with luxurious appointments” with “amenities such as full height closets, tall ceilings, large walk-through master baths, oversize showers, washer and dryer, spacious kitchens, luxury flooring and private jet-inspired panelling”.
There’ll be plenty of techo-wizzardry too, including an iPad power management system called MyControl which wirelessly controls the entire RV.
They won’t come cheap though, with pricing expected to start from around US$160,000 (A$170,000) to as much as US$500,000 (A$533,000) for custom models.
GCT has set up a facility in Speedway, Indiana next door to the IndyCar factory of Dallara, the world’s largest producer of racing cars.
As well as engaging firms from the automotive, aerospace, and motorsports fields, GCT says it has collaborated with international designers on the CR-1 Carbon’s design.
GCT’s CEO is Charles Hoefer, Jr, whose father co-founded American RV brands Dutchmen RV and Four Winds RV; now both part of Thor Industries, one of the world’s largest RV manufacturers and also owner of Airstream.
The space-age vans could also make their way Down Under, with the company stating “our product strategy is tailored for market acceptance in North America, Europe, and Australia, and also capitalizes on the high growth opportunity in China, where RV sales may approach the US in the coming decade”.
The CR-1 Carbon is set to be unveiled in mid-December at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show in Indianapolis.
Check the GCT website for latest updates.
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