Viscount caravans are back

After reviving the iconic Franklin as well as Newlands nameplates, big-selling Melbourne caravan manufacturer Concept has now brought back another famous Aussie brand, Viscount caravans.

Dating back to the mid-1950s, Viscount caravans were once a top-selling brand in Australia. At its peak in the late-1970s, around three out of every four caravans and camper trailers sold in Australia was a Viscount.

Not long after introducing the innovative Aerolite model, the company hit financial troubles in the 1980s and shut down, but many used examples remain popular restoration projects.

Like the latest Franklin caravans, the new Concept-built Viscount vans are pitched to budget buyers, with traditional ‘stick and tin’ construction but with smooth aluminium composite panels for the front, back and roof panels.

Pricing starts around $50,000 for the 17-foot, single axle Viscount V1 touring model, with the more rough road capable 21ft tandem axle V3 priced from around $55,000.

Up to eight variants will be available, including couple’s and family bunk layouts.

The range-topping tandem axle Viscount V3 features a sturdy gal chassis, leaf spring suspension and 15in alloy wheels and all-terrain tyres. Tare weight is 2280kg with a 500kg payload, and standard features extend to a roll-out awning, picnic table, audio system and TV, reversing camera, two 9kg gas bottles, 157 litres fresh water capacity, 120W roof-mounted solar panel and 100Ah deep-cycle battery, a water filter, hot water system, slimline Thetford fridge, top loader washing machine, microwave and reverse-cycle air conditioner.

The new Viscount vans are expected to be available at a number of existing Concept dealers, including NSW's ARV caravans.