World-first 3D printed plastic camper goes on sale
Eco-friendly Discover 3D teardrop camper made from recycled plastic bottles, and priced from around $19,500Queensland's Zone RV is leading the way in the production of 3D-printed caravan parts, but a European collaboration is going a step further with the launch of a new teardrop camper that boasts a body made almost entirely by a 3D printer.
What is believed to be a world-first for a production-ready camper (there has been the odd one-off 3D printed camper produced in the past), Swiss-based iScale3D and Ukrainian start-up Lemki Robotix used the latest FGF (fused granulate fabrication) printing technology to create the Discover 3D tiny camper, with each body shell constructed by melting polypropylene pellets sourced from around 7500 recycled plastic bottles.
There's also some fibreglass used to beef up the build, while the eco--friendly process also results in the camper being fully recyclable at the end of its camping life.
The egg-shape, single-axle trailer measures 3.2m long x 1.8m wide x 1.8 m tall and should be towable by most vehicles with a Tare of around 250kg, and maximum weight of just 400kg.
There's enough sleeping space inside the cosy interior space for up to three people, and like most teardrop campers there's also some shelving and space to store your gear inside. Lifting the rear tailgate reveals a kitchenette with two-burner stove and a sink, and the camper can also be equipped with water supply, gas and electrical and battery/solar systems.
Founded in 2023, iScale3D also has 3D-printed drone, art object, mobile office and backcare projects in the works.
"Welcome to the dawn of mass customization and building re-engineering with iScale3D," it says on the iScale 3D website. "Step into a new era where innovation meets precision, as we redefine the boundaries of construction. With cutting-edge technology and unparalleled expertise, we’re revolutionizing the way we build, one customized project at a time."
The 3D Discover camper will be available to buy or rent in Europe, with pre-order pricing for a turn-key unit starting at €12,000 (around AUD$19,500).
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.
