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NEWS
Shiny new pop-top from Regent
First full composite van from 25-year old Melbourne manufacturerCelebrating its 25th anniversary in 2017, Melbourne’s Regent Caravans has re-introduced its XTreme pop-top model, which was last available around 10 years ago.
However, the latest version of the Xtreme, which is currently only available as a 19ft 6in tandem axle model, is a far cry from the original as it's the first Regent van in a quarter of a decade to feature timber frame-free, full composite construction.
StyroMax RTM-X XPS 32mm thick fibreglass composite panels were used for the roof, sides and floor, according to Jack Green from Regent Caravans’ national distributor Green RV.
“The Xtreme is the first of our composite bodied caravans, but we’re looking to introduce a complete range of them,” Green told Caravancampingsales.
The Xtreme pop-top is also the first Regent to be fitted with Cruisemaster XT coil independent suspension and a Hitchmaster DO35 hitch that together with a galvanised Austrail chassis and 2in lift kit, make it ideal for some rough road abuse.
Regent will also be introducing a new full-height caravan using the same composite construction, based on an 19ft 6in on-road prototype currently in Queensland.
“We will still offer both (aluminium cladding and composite panels). I think there is still a market for the timber frame at the moment,” Green said. “Obviously there’s a price difference between the two so if some-one wants to invest a little bit more money composite construction is the way to go.”
With a Tare weight around 2000kg, and a 400kg payload, Green says the 19ft 6in Xtreme is around 100-150kg heavier than an equivalent van built with traditional aluminium cladding.
Priced at $79,990, the Xtreme’s layout includes a queen bed, kitchen with four-burner cooker , microwave and 190 litre fridge, an L-shaped dinette and an ensuite with separate shower and toilet.
Other standard features include roof-top air-conditioning, 190 litre water storage, two 9kg gas bottles, 23 litre gas/electric hot water system, external hot/cold shower and entertainment locker, roll-out awning and a digital TV antenna.
Established in the early-1990s, Regent has had a turbulent history more recently, going into receivership before being rescued by Caravans Australia and then changing hands again in 2012 when it was bought by the giant Chinese RV Daide Group which has retained a manufacturing base in Melbourne.
After the most recent change of ownership, Gympie, Queensland-based Green RV took over as national distributor and there are now three Green RV outlets selling Regent vans: two in Queensland, one in NSW and a new Victorian outlet in Somerton.
In business for around eight years, Green RV also sells the NextGen brand of caravans, which are built by another Melbourne manufacturer. It was also a dealer for Queensland-built Customline camper trailers, which together with Armadillo Campers was placed under administration this month.
Green RV will be updating the Regent Caravans website shortly to include details about the new Xtreme pop-top.
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Written byChris Fincham
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
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