Smart tech for Swift vans

As well as a number of changes to make them even better suited to local tastes and conditions, the third-generation range of Swift Explorer caravans due to arrive in Australia by mid-2016 will feature game-changing smart technology.

Just released on Swift’s top-spec UK caravans and described as “a new era in caravanning technology”, the Swift Command system incorporates a digital multi-function touchscreen panel to control water, power and heating systems from inside the vehicle, with the added advantage of being able to access the same controls remotely via an app on your smart phone or tablet.

The Command technology (see video below for more on how it works) is based on C-Bus electronic architecture, similar to that already used in domestic and commercial building applications.

The Swift Command app will allow you to do a range of things such as remotely check how much power is left in the battery, the status of your solar panels, or how much water is left in your tank.

It can also be used to plan up to five days ahead and switch the central heating on via an inbuilt timer, or track your van using the built-in Google Maps function.

Other capabilities include dimming the lights and guaging temperature inside and out, or turning the awning light on at night as you approach your van.

The technology will also prevent the electrical system from overloading and ‘tripping’ by turning off a background electric appliance for a short time to reduce peak load when using more than one appliance.

As well as the trick Command system, the new MK III Explorer vans will feature a host of factory upgrades including two 65 litre water tanks and a 12V rangehood now fitted as standard, new front and rear panel design, more upmarket gloss cabinetry taken from Swift’s motorhome range, and around 25mm more ground clearance thanks to a new, heavy-duty Al-Ko galvanised chassis.

Other new standard features include a rear bike carrier, twin entry step, and outdoor entertainment locker including TV bracket and connections.

The new Explorer vans will also be built using Swift’s latest timber-free, fibreglass/composite body construction method introduced on the range-topping Elegance last year.

“It will have even more structural strength to the body than the current MK II Explorer model has, which means more fixing points for the cabinetry,” explained Swift Australia’s Alex Kammerlocher.

The first two new models to arrive -- a single-axle Explorer 560 and tandem-axle Explorer 650 -- will feature a brand-new layout that essentially creates three separate ‘living zones’: a master bedroom at the rear and kitchenette and lounge/dinette area towards the front, separated by a walk-through bathroom zone incorporating a separate shower and toilet.

The first MK III Explorer vans are expected to arrive in Australia in time for display at the Sydney Caravan Supershow from April 9-16.