Time to Roam Magazine Issue 13 - February/March 2015 | Page 8

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upfront industry news
Jayco JPod

LOWERING THE
ENTRY LEVEL
Jayco is hopes to woo more of the iPod
Generation into camping in 2015 with its allnew entry-level camper called the JPod.
It costs under $10,000 and weighs
just 482kgs (minus camping gear), so it
can be towed even by a small car.
The rear hatch opens up with the aid
of gas struts to reveal a double bed with
innerspring mattress. A tent attaches to
provide extra living space. There are two
push-out double-glazed windows, a roof
hatch and two handy storage compartments.
All it needs is a USB point for the iPod.

WHAT’S NEW
FOR 2015
Australia’s caravan and RV manufacturers enjoyed a record
year for sales in 2014 and are expecting 2015 to be even
bigger. The show season has kicked off with most companies
releasing new and updated models, with big improvements and
more inclusions for buyers. Here’s a look at some of the new
trends to keep an eye out for from both here and overseas.

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MORE FOR
YOUR DOLLAR
The Australian Dollar slipping to a five
year low puts Australian manufacturers
in a much better competitive position
compared to importers and buyers can
expect some new and exciting inclusions.
Craig Blackler from Perkins Caravans in
NSW says companies are trying to keep
their prices down to appeal to younger
families. He says the segment just below
the $50,000 price mark is an interesting
and competitive battleground to watch.
“There are a larger variety of vans and
campers now supporting the lower end
of the market with manufacturers adding
great features and styling,” Craig said.