Ultra-light UK camper heading our way

A lightweight, super-stylish folding camper recently launched in the UK is set to go on sale Down Under later this year.

The multi-coloured Opus Camper was unveiled at Britain’s NEC caravan show last October, boasting a low-profile body and 1050kg ATM, making it suitable for smaller tow vehicles.

Measuring 4.6m long, 1.95m wide and 1.17m high when towing, the four-berth Opus can be fitted with a universal racking system for carrying bikes, kayaks or other bulky items.

At the campsite the one-piece canvas roof folds out to reveal an airy, light-filled interior, thanks to a clear vinyl ‘sunroof’ and up to 2.44m interior height.

The compact layout includes a 1.9 x 1.4m double bed at each end, with zip-up privacy curtains; a C-shaped lounge with separate table, and kitchen with twin burner cooktop, stainless steel basin, fridge and microwave.

Options available include a 110Ah battery, 23 litre water carrier, lounge bed conversion and a large annexe/tent to create more interior space.

Purple Line Australia, which distributes a number of RV accessories Down Under including the E-Go caravan mover and Aeroplus towing aid, is currently developing a prototype version specifically tailored for the Australian market.

Purple Line’s Malcolm Hill said he’s hoping to manufacture around 50 per cent of the camper’s components in Australia, including the “Ikea-style” modular furniture and a chassis from Victoria’s MacKay Trailers.

Pricing is expected to be around $15,000-$18,000 when it goes on sale either late-2013 or early-2014.

“It’s not too pricey but not super cheap, as we’ll be speccing it out inside with a nice lounge and furniture and it will be nicely appointed,” Hill said.

Like the UK version, it will also be available in a range of bright, contrasting exterior colours to make it stand out from the crowd.

“(It will be) one of those things; you will either love it or you hate it, rather than feel indifference,” he said.