JAYCO, which has already snared around 50 percent of Australia's RV
market, has turned to the Americans for its latest venture.
The Victorian manufacturer has joined forces with Airstream, builder of
North America's iconic "silver bullet” caravan,
to relaunch the funky Airstream brand here in
Australia.
The $84,000 single-axle, 5-metre Airstream Base13 will be the prelude to
two larger International models in the $130,000 to
$150,000 range later this year.
They will be partly built in America ̶
where a similar Basecamp model is already produced ̶
completed here in Australia and then distributed at five Jayco dealers
across the country ... the Australian Caravan Company (SA), Brisbane
Camperland (QLD), Caravanland (WA), Jayco Newcastle (NSW) and Page Bros.
RV (VIC).
But caravanners spoken to by Caravanning News thought the
partnership was a "no brainer".
Jayco owner Martin Joyner, who is on a year-long adventure around
Australia, believed Aussies would shun the new Airstream.
"Imports have a bad name and most people tend to shy away from them," he
said. "And anyway, who in their right mind is going to splash out over
$80,000 for something the same size as a small camper trailer?
"I think this venture
is doomed to failure."
'Good luck
with that. I'm sure they'll sell ... in their tens!'
|
Meanwhile, one member of the Web's biggest
caravanning online forum
commented: "Good luck with that. I’m sure they’ll sell
... in their tens!"
Founded in 1975 by Gerry Ryan, Jayco has been committed to the Australian
caravan market with nearly 200,000 RVs rolling off its production lines.
"In many ways, Jayco Australia is the Australian RV market,"
Airstream chief executive Bob Wheeler said.
"Their customer-centric approach and commitment to quality aligns with the
Airstream brand, and we couldn't be happier about partnering with such a
trusted leader.
"Jayco's national network of dealers, combined with their industry-leading
in-country support, will serve Airstream customers well for many years to
come"
Mr Ryan was "pleased" with the new partnership.
"The iconic nature of Airstream caravans, combined with the great
reputation the company has had for more than 85 years, should serve our
dealers well while offering a unique product to Australians across our
great country," he said.
"We look forward to many years of success with this partnership."
The Base13 is a blend externally of the unique retro airstream styling of
shiny silver curved aluminium panels, exposed riveting system, but with a
distinctive tinted wrap around front window that provides a striking
modern appearance.
Internally, the unit is enhanced with modern conveniences such as a 110lt
12V compressor fridge, 12V power systems, clever design and décor styling,
which coupled with Airstream’s handcrafted care and attention to detail
sets it above all others.
Designed to accommodate two people, the cleverly combined hot-water
equipped ensuite and recessed kitchen allow the caravan to feel roomy,
whilst still only being a small RV.
Coming in at just 1300kg tare, the Base13 is suitable for most small to
mid-size towing vehicles.
The funky, eye catching caravan is expected to appeal to a broad consumer
base.
Built like a "tank, moves like an Airstream and modern in design” sums up
the Base13 in one sentence.