Caloundra, Queensland-based Sunseeker Caravans has added a new hybrid pop-top off-road range to its current Sunseeker and Marvel caravan model arsenal.
The new 12ft, 14ft and 16ft body length Vision hybrids feature full composite, timberless sandwich wall construction, in contrast to the smooth aluminum composite cladding over Meranti-timber framed walls of the Marvel range and the rivetted aluminium frame employed on its upmarket Sunseeker models.
The new Vision models, due for official release on October 8, are the only one of the three Sunseeker models that are locally built on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, being constructed in partnership with a local small volume camper and caravan manufacturer, whereas Marvel and Sunseeker caravans are contract-built by separate Campbellfield, Victoria manufacturers.
While pricing is yet to be revealed on the official website, the Vision campers will be pitched squarely against some of the most respected competitors in the top-selling Australian off-road hybrid markets, including Australian Off Road’s Quantum and Matrix, Northcoast Campers’ Titanium and Platinum and Rhinomax’s Renegade and Discovery, not to forget Track Trailer’s T4 from Victoria.
After working on the project for more than 12 months, Sunseeker boss Chris Michel is confident that the Vision is up to the task.
“We are filling a massive hole in what is probably the most hotly contested sector of the Australian RV market with a very well-engineered, premium model that incorporates everything we have learned with our caravans,” he said. “ A lot of hybrids are simply scaled-up camper trailers, but our approach is ‘top-down’."
The Visions’ standard specification is expected to include height-adjustable airbag suspension, disc brakes and a lithium battery, combined with ample rooftop solar power, ample fresh and grey water capacity to allow prolonged off-grid living.
As part of this ambition, Michel is currently looking for a factory close to Sunseeker’s existing retail HQ in Nicklin Way, Warana, where the Vision range can be built and potentially expanded.
All three new Vision Hybrid models are due to be put through a tough off-road test programme as part of an automotive-style product release at Land Cruiser Mountain Park, Jimna, on October 8.
Related reading: