imotorhome emagazine issue 19 - feb 16 2013
DESCRIPTION
Australia & New Zealand's only dedicated motorhome magazine – published twice monthly and available by free subscription from www.imotorhome.com.auTRANSCRIPT
Battery Myths ExplodedCollyn Rivers sets the record straight
Rearview!Suncamper Sovereign seeks new home...
iMotorhome .com
.au
because getting there is half the fun...
Issue 19: February 16 2013
Sampling Sunliner’s most expensive real estate...
Monte Carlo DreamingSampling Sunliner’s most expensive real estate...
T he issue of Freedom Camping I raised in last issue’s editorial seems to
have touched a nerve: It has elicited more reader comments than any other and is proving a subject on which passions run deep.
The website freechoicecamps.com.au has been established by concerned individuals to help unite and galvanise the fight against restrictions on free camping. On its homepage it not only accuses caravan parks of being behind the anti-free camping campaign, but also caravan and motorhome manufacturers. Whilst I support the cause, I find the notion that
RV manufacturers would be seeking to limit the freedom of their customers (and by doing so jeopardise future profits), odd. I know many manufacturers personally and those with whom I’ve discussed this are baffled (and not more than a little annoyed) by the accusation.
Apparently one of, if not the main force working against free camping, is the Caravan, RV and Accommodation Industry of Australia Ltd (CRVA). The argument that manufacturers are in cahoots with the CRVA stems either from inaction to refute its claims, or membership of the Association, thereby
being seen to legitimise its aims.
There is a significant weight of research documenting the economic benefits communities reap when people are allowed to free camp, responsibly, in their vicinity. Yet the overwhelming feeling is the CRVA is winning the PR war.
In reality this is a deep, complex issue that crosses State and Federal boundaries and there is no silver bullet or quick-fix solution. The CMCA seems to come in for a lot of criticism for its perceived lack of action, or perhaps more correctly the perceived lack of results from its actions. Unfortunately, there are many armchair experts but
On my mind...
5 Melrose Dr, Wodonga 3690 • Ph: 02 6024 4222 • awrvworld.com.au
• Campervans • Motorhomes • Caravans • Hobby Haulers
• Camper Trailers • Off-Road Caravans • Pop-top Caravans• Hard-top Caravans • Campervans • Motorhomes
• Campervans • Motorhomes • 4x4 Campers • Caravans
Continued...
FREEDOM AND A NAME CHANGE3
The iMotorhome Team
Richard RobertsonPublisher & Managing Editor
Malcolm StreetConsulting Editor
Agnes Nielsen-ConnollyDesign & Production Manager
©2013 iMotorhome. All rights reserved. Published by iMotorhome. ABN 34 142 547 719. PO Box 1738, Bowral. NSW. 2576. Contact us on 0414 604 368 or Email: [email protected]
few people willing or capable of furthering the cause effectively, while there are many behind-the-scenes maneuverings the majority of us will never be privy to.
So does this mean we should trust the process and move on? Certainly not. For a start, visit the CRVA’s website here and subscribe to its newsletter. Also let them know what you think
– in a calm and civilised way, of course.
We’ll be following developments on an ongoing basis, but in the mean time it would be good to hear from people inside the RV Industry. So far, Industry reaction has been mute.
Finally, the big news around the Industry is Winnebago launching the Avida brand next week (see NEWS). Rumours
have been swirling for weeks and the name first surfaced just before the Newcastle show last week. Is it a gamble, will it work and does anyone really care? I posted the breaking news on Facebook 7 hours ago, in which time 81 people have read it, but not a single person has Liked or commented. Now THAT is news...
Richard
A long-time freelance RV, motoring and travel writer, Richard is a dedicated, long-term motorhome enthusiast.
He has held senior editorial positions with some of the best know recreational vehicle magazines in Australia. Richard also has a passion for lifestyle-enhancing technology, which is why he is the driving force behind the new iMotorhome eMagazine.
Unquestionably Australia and New Zealand’s best known RV journalist, Malcolm is a fixture at CMCA rallies and RV shows and is now in his second decade as a specialist RV writer.
If it’s available on either side of the Tasman, Malcolm has probably driven it, slept in it, reported on it, knows how it’s made and can tell you just how good it really is.
Agnes is an experienced and talented graphic designer with extensive experience across a wide range of disciplines, including travel and advertising.
Designing and producing iMotorhome issues since June 2012, Agnes does much of the behind-the scenes work to ensure every issue looks great and is easy to read.
...Continued
On my mind...On my mind...
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INSIDE INSIDE
26 REARVIEWStately Sovereign – Suncamper’s first Sovereign seeks a new home
10 NEWSHappenings in the RV world
14 TESTEDMonte Carlo Musings – Malcolm Street samples Sunliner’s finest
3Free camping and a new beginning
ON MY MIND
6A new place so you can have your say
ON YOUR MIND
31 SHOW FEATURESummer Sizzler – Newcastle puts on a hot show in more ways than one
NEXT ISSUE50What’s coming up, plus our show calendar
MOBILE TECH46Captain’s Log Communicator – for the Trekkie in all of us!
36 PROFILETrakka helps out with the big business of small business
40 TECHNICALBattery Myths – Busted!
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On your mind...
1st $50 Winner!FIAT DUCATO RADIO TIPThe 2012 Fiat Ducato radio can be reset to stay on for 3 hours while stationary. I own a new 2012 Winnebago Birdsville which had the same problem, so I Googled and found a UK Fiat forum website with the answer. I can't understand why local motorhome manufacturers using the Fiat Ducato haven't got onto the remedy and reset the radio in the factory. Here is the remedy copied from the website.
• Turn radio on using central ‘power’ button
• Within 15 seconds, simultaneously press ‘FM AS’ and preset button ‘2’. Each time this pair of buttons are pressed the display will alternate between ‘NORMAL POWER MODE’ and ‘CAMPER POWER MODE’
• Ensure ‘CAMPER POWER MODE’ is displayed, then press ‘MENU’
• Using the ‘UP’ and ‘DOWN’ button now changes the display to show various adjustable items. Cycle through the options until ‘RADIO OFF’ and a number of minutes is shown on the display. This will take approx. two presses of the ‘UP’ button or seven presses of the ‘DOWN’ button.
• With ‘RADIO OFF’ shown on the display press the ‘LEFT’ or ‘RIGHT’ button. Each press of either button will alternate the number of minutes shown between ‘180’ and ‘0’
• With ‘180’ showing on the display the setting is complete and three hours of radio operation should be possible. Press the ‘POWER’ button to exit the menu and return the display to its usual view.
Please note that in ‘NORMAL POWER MODE’ the same subsequent steps detailed above can be followed, to choose between ’20 mins’ and ‘0 mins’ of radio operation.
I can assure you it does work. I read your magazine each month on my iPad.
Alan Steel Canberra
Thanks Alan, a very helpful tip and thanks for sharing it with us. I hope the fuel card will help further your travels a little and perhaps spur you on to discover more useful tips! Owners of pre-current model Fiat Ducatos should note that it doesn’t appear you can do the same thing with older vehicles. Sorry...
It’s only fitting that since Ed has his say in On My Mind, you should be able to have yours too. If you have anything to say – or ask – just drop a line to [email protected] and we’ll share it with
our readers. We’ll also reward the most interesting, useful or thoughtful letter each issue with a $50 Caltex fuel card to help you on your way.
WIN A $50 CALTEX FUEL CARD!
Love your freedom.Love your Horizon.
www.ball inacampers.com.aup. 02 6681 1555 • 299 River St, Ballina NSW 2478
Your freedom is well deserved and Horizon Motorhome is your perfect reward. Established
in 1995, our motorhomes are built in, not bolted on, and use
Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen Crafter and Fiat Ducato as base vehicles with the option of two or four wheel drive. A choice of five models with a huge selection of tailorable features allows you to personalise your motorhome to your travelling needs. Our quality interiors offer clever layouts to maximize storage and convenience, and our entire range is easy to drive and simple to park. Experience the difference.Test drive a Horizon Motorhome today.
On your mind...
MAN UP!Hi Richard, The Cabin Park (sorry Caravan Park!) strategy against Freedom of Choice Camping has so far failed their members (profits); failed valid scrutiny; failed "other" businesses income; failed to increase tourists to destinations; failed to sway travellers to use CPs and failed society's principles of a fair go.
I cannot believe Councils or State Governments can remain so "hoodwinked" as to defend the strategy, with the amount of evidence against it.
One positive is a more united front by travellers and associated membership bodies against the CP "strategy."
Surely Councillors or MPs with some commonsense and nous would be able to see the problem/s and fix it/them? However, it appears that some aren't prepared to stand up and say, "This current situation is wrong." Why not? Too scared that it looks like a backflip? MAN UP! That's what you were elected to do: The best interests of the ratepayers, businesses, visitors and your jurisdiction are paramount, not the "profits" of one!
Regards Motorhoming Mitch Brisbane
Thanks Motorhoming Mitch (great name!), I’m sure you’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to people wondering why we all seem to be being sold up the river by our elected representatives. Stay tuned, this topic will become an ongoing one with us now as we try to help redress the imbalance.
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On your mind...
Hi Guys.
Firstly, congrats with the iMagazine. I really enjoy reading it, just like I like reading the Wanderer. Anyway, just a note about free camping.
My husband and I plan to start our new empty nester life in three years when our last child leaves home. We are too young to retire, can't have a motor home and a home, so we are selling everything, buying a motorhome and travelling and working around Australia.
For this lifestyle to work for us, when we are working we will be in a caravan park, being able to afford the rent and boost the local economy with any of our living costs, while putting money away. But when we are travelling in between work commitments, to keep this lifestyle and be able to help smaller communities the best way we can with doing volunteer work as we travel and using their services, we will be relying on free camping.
I can't understand why the big picture is not seen. If more people are out and about enjoying this fantastic country we live in, “leaving not trace,” spending money on fuel, food, clothes, etc, in towns that would otherwise not have this influx of revenue, what is
the problem? If they cut out free camping, the only ones really gaining are the caravan parks. Less people will be able to travel, and if they still can, the money that they would spend in going to a cozy little restaurant will be spent on caravan park fees. There will be minimal “spreading the love” of money to the economy, and less people being about to actually do the travelling and enjoying it.
Why make motorhomes that are self sufficient for up to seven days if you can’t use what they can do? I am really looking forward to waking up in the morning and the only sound we’ll hear is the wildlife around us, not the caravan parked next door with loud children, or someone sleeping who snores really loudly.
The Government should be happy that people want to travel. When we are self-sufficient by working as we go we are still paying taxes, not claiming any benefits and are able to help other communities both financially with the money we can spend and socially with the help we can give whilst volunteering. How can this hurt anyone if we have one day here and two days there free camping? I would imagine that over an average year, most travellers would spend at least 8 to 9 months at a paid site. Let’s
face it: Not everyone is happy to free camp. But some of us are really looking forward to it. We have been working at our goal for two years now and with three years to go we will be devastated and wondering if we are making the right choice, if having freedom is taken away from us.
I would love to hear what the final decision is and what other people think on this issue. I don’t know how to solve some of the problems when careless campers leave a trail of mess behind. Maybe they can have free camping only for vehicles that pass specific requirements, and that the owners sign an agreement with regards to leaving any mess behind. I don’t know what solution would work.
Hope my thoughts can help towards the campaign.
Kind Regards Allana Townsend
Thanks Allana, great to hear of your travel plans and we’re as mystified as you about why Authorities seem to be missing the Big Picture. Let’s hope all our small efforts can make a big difference. Be sure to keep in touch and let us know about your travel preparations, vehicle selection and life on the road. Very exciting!
MISSING THE BIG PICTURE?
Paradise Motor Homes www.paradisemotorhomes.com.au 245 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, Queensland, 4216 , Australiaph (07) 5597 4400 - fax (07) 5597 5500 - email [email protected] Paradise Motor Homes products are protected by registered designs, patents and copyrights ™ © 2012
Enjoy the prestige of owning Australia’s best quality motorhome
Paradise Motor Homes is excited to announce we have moved to the former Swagman premises located at 245 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters, Queensland.Our new headquarters houses a state-of-the-art production facility specially designed to meet the high demand for our new price-competitive Integrity Series. The exciting news for those wanting to trade will be the new 15,000sqm Paradise RV Sales & Service Division which will offer:
• Paradise New & Used Sales• Consignment Listings• Annual Motorhome Body Servicing• Solar & GenSet Supply & Fitment• Tilta Car Trailers & A Frames
This exciting move into such a high profile and well-known location will delight you with its easy accessibility, improved parking and extended services. We look forward to seeing you at the new home of Paradise.
• Trade-ins • Repairs to all makes & models• Insurance Repairs• Upgrades & modifications• RV Shop
Paradise Motor HomeshaveMoved
WINNEBAGO LAUNCHES “AVIDA” BRAND
In a press release dated Valentines Day, embattled Australian motorhome
manufacturer Winnebago has ended months of speculation regarding it future direction. The press release reads:
Winnebago Australia, after months of deliberation, has announced that it will be rebranding all its motorhomes effective February 28, 2013.
The new brand name is called Avida
Avida Motorhomes will be promoted initially as the makers of the Australian Winnebago to provide credibility to the new brand by associating Avida with the best known Motorhome brand in Australia and New Zealand.
Ben Binns, CEO of Avida Motorhomes said, “We have always considered operating with two distinct brands in the marketplace however the legal battle over the
rights to use the Winnebago name in Australasia has convinced us that we need to create our own Australian identity”
Winnebago Industries of Iowa in the United States of America, a company not associated with Winnebago in Australia has, after a period of over four decades, decided to take action to prevent Winnebago Australia from using the name despite having signed an agreement in the early 1990’s.
A Federal Court decision in July 2012 decided in favour of the US giant, however Winnebago Australia has appealed the decision, which is due to be heard in March of this year.
“Avida is a brand which will be with us for many years irrespective of the result of the appeal and to assist in providing credibility to the Avida brand, we intend to promote Avida as the makers of the Australian Winnebago, linking our heritage since 1965 to the newest motorhome
brand on the market” said Mr Binns.
Avida and Winnebago continue to build the largest range of motorhomes in Australia and demonstrably the strongest; after all, with 48 years of manufacturing experience building motorhomes in Australia behind them, who better would understand what is required to withstand the harsh road and climatic conditions found throughout Australia.
iMotorhome will be attending the official launch function of the Avida brand next Wednesday (20th) at the opening of Adelaide’s Caravan & Camping Show and will feature a full run down in our March 2 Issue. Interestingly, supplied images of the new 9-vehicle range seems to show the Avida name Photoshopped onto all existing Winnebago models, which seems to indicate the Company has little confidence in a positive outcome for its impending appeal.
News...
News...
LDV VANS LAUNCH IN AUSTRALIA
In a move likely to (eventually) have implications for all light commercial vehicle brands
currently being sold in Australia, Chinese brand LDV has just launched locally.
For the motorhome/campervan market this could lead to lower-cost vehicles becoming available while the new start-up seeks to build market share. Built using established European technology and with enormous financial backing, LDV could well become a significant player, locally, in its market segment. A press release reads:
The launch of the LDV V80 cargo van range signals the first entry into the Australian market for China's largest automotive manufacturer and promises to be a game changer in the hotly contested van market.
Shanghai Automotive Industrial Corporation (SAIC) is not only the largest automotive company in China, but also the most accomplished and experienced with long standing joint ventures with two of the world's largest automotive companies, GM and VW.
SAIC is actively engaged in manufacturing, sales, R&D and investment in passenger cars, commercial vehicles and components registering annual sales of more than four million vehicles generating more than $AUD 51 billion in 2011.
According to Neil Bamford, CEO of WMC, the Australian distributor of LDV, SAIC brings vast resources and expertise to the market delivering high levels of build quality, specifications, standard features and comfort.
“No manufacturer in China has as much expertise and ability as SAIC and with the LDV's established European design and engineering we have a package that will go toe to toe with any of the established European, Japanese or Korean vans on the Australian market.
SAIC purchased the British commercial vehicle operation and intellectual rights to the van from the company in 2009 and has invested in further R&D and engineering to ensure it meets the latest European standards.
WMC will initially launch a three model range of LDV V80 cargo vans,
followed by a number of passenger vans and cab chassis models later in 2013.
The initial line-up will include a single short wheelbase variant as well as long wheelbase cargo vans with the choice of either a mid-roof height or a high-roof version. The range will feature load capacity of between nine and 12 cubic metres and a payload of up to 1.8 tonnes.
The LDV vehicles will also come with a high level of standard features which are not available or are options on other brands (including LED headlights! - Ed)
These standard features include rear barn doors; 16" alloy wheels, dual sliding side and wide opening 180 degree rear barn doors.
LDV vans meet European crash and safety standards and the VM Motori diesel meets the latest emission standards. The LDV van suspension and handling has also been tuned by MIRA, one of the leading automotive design and engineering consultants in Europe.
We’ll keep you posted as more details emerge.
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News...
MOST AffORDABLE HyBRID
Honda will launch Australia’s most affordable hybrid – the
Jazz Hybrid - this month with a price tag of just $22,990* (MLP).
“The Jazz Hybrid is another example of Honda’s commitment to producing fuel efficient engines for fun, stylish and practical cars,” Honda Australia’s Director and General Manager Sales and Marketing Mr. Stephen Collins said.
The all-new Jazz Hybrid retains the versatility of its petrol-powered stablemate, with Honda’s compact IMA system ensuring the ultra-flexible “Magic Seats” and large boot capacity are maintained. With the rear seats folded flat the Hybrid provides a surprising 722 litres of boot space up to the window.
The Jazz Hybrid has a 1.3 litre i-VTEC engine coupled with the IMA system and Variable Cylinder Management delivering 72KW @ 5800rpm and 167Nm of torque at 1,000-1,700pm. This combines with a Continuous Variable Transmission with Grade logic Control.
The fuel economy figure is 4.5 litres/100km (combined urban/extra urban) with an emission count of just 107g/km of CO2/km.
The Hybrid’s features include Auto idle-stop, Eco Assist, ECON Mode, rear privacy glass, a temporary spare wheel and an 8-year unlimited kilometre warranty on the IMA battery.
Safety is assured with six airbags (front, side and full length curtain) ABS and Brake Assist. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Traction Control System (TCS) are combined with an Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body structure. The audio system features an AM/FM radio, CD with MP3 and steering wheel-mounted controls. There is an Auxiliary Jack, Bluetooth and USB connectivity that is iPod compatible.
Visually, the Jazz Hybrid is distinguished from the rest of the Jazz range with headlights that have a chrome blue surround, clear rear LED tail lights, chrome blue front grille and a chrome tailgate garnish.
News...
Brisbane-based Charles Gibling has released an interesting camper
conversion of Renault’s baby Kangoo van, designed specifically for solo travellers, under the S-Camper Lifestyle Vehicles banner.
The compact Kangoo has a lounge that converts to a long single bed and plenty of creature comforts, including a 30-litre fridge, sink, gas cooker, porta-potti, house battery, LED lights, ‘plenty’ of storage space, plus an awning and
privacy blinds. It also comes with sheepskin seat covers, sat-nav and even a kettle, toaster, a full set of crockery and cutlery and more!
We’re itching to get our hands on one to bring you a full report, along with Charles’ equally distinctive Ford Transit conversion for two, but in the mean time you can find out more by calling him on 0421 850-288 or Cory Cark at Bryan Bert Renault, Mt Gravatt, on (07) 3347 9900.
S fOR SINGLE13
Sunliner’s range-topping Monte Carlo offers a wide range of choices for the well heeled buyer... Review and images by Malcolm Street
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
MUSINGSMonte Carlo
Within the motorhome range of Melbourne-based
manufacturer Sunliner there is a considerable variety of motorhome layouts and designs; everything from the Toyota Hilux-based PRV to the range-topping luxury Monte Carlo. And even the latter offers a choice of base vehicles and slide-out positions, plus some have drop-down electrically-operated beds.
The Vehicle
For Monte Carlo motorhomes there are three base vehicle
choices: Isuzu, Mitsubishi
Fuso and Iveco Daily. Our review Monte Carlo, the M71 variant, came with an Iveco Daily 70C17 cab chassis. From a motorhome point of view the Iveco comes with an advantage the other two do not – a flat floor design, which means that driver’s cab swivelling seat feature can be utilised.
Built using Sunliner’s fibreglass composite “Thermo Tough” structure with nicely moulded front and rear ends, this motorhome offer a single slide-out behind the driver’s cab. Of interest are the roof mounted side bars, presumably included for aesthetic reasons.
Seitz double glazed acrylic windows are fitted all round, including an opening one above the driver’s cab: good for both natural light and a bit of air flow when driving
With alfresco living very much in mind, one of the Monte Carlo’s many deluxe features is a fully equipped outdoor slide-out kitchen. Done camper trailer style, it includes a two-burner cooktop, sink with hot and cold water and a small wine bottle fridge – all the essentials for relaxing under the awning on a warm balmy night.
In addition to the external kitchen bins there is plenty
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo’s sleek B-class body profile sits well on the Iveco Daily cab-chassis. It’s also available on an Isuzu or Mitsubishi cab-chassis.
MUSINGS
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of other external storage, even though some bins are dedicated to a pair of 150 amp hour house batteries, 3 gas cylinders of 4 kg capacity each, the Thetford cassette toilet and a 2.3 kVA generator. With the slide out extended the gas cylinders and generator bins do require some crouching down to get to. Although there are plenty of storage bins, none are large enough for something like golf clubs. On weighty matters, this motorhome has a load capacity of 1500 kg which is extremely generous but could lead to the temptation of carrying too much unnecessary gear.
The roll-out kitchen makes outdoor living even easier.
From any angle this could only be a Sunliner...
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
A sinewave inverter is also standard equipment.
On the Road
At nearly 9.5 m (31 ft) the Monte Carlo M71 is indeed a long vehicle,
but certainly not a difficult one to drive. Remembering the length when going around corners and overtaking is definitely essential, but the Iveco-powered motorhome is quite a pleasure to navigate across country, thanks to its 3.0-litre 130 kW turbo-diesel motor. Useful are both the large rear view mirrors and the reversing camera, which is built into the non-Iveco radio/CD player.
Driving along, the Iveco’s six-speed automated manual transmission (AMT) feels smoother than the same transmission in other Iveco-based motorhomes and I think it’s because of the Monte Carlo’s extra weight. Speaking of that very matter, the M71 has a tare weight of nearly 5495 kg and a GVM of 7000 kg, putting it into the Light Rigid truck category of driver’s licence. Some potential owners get into a bit of a tail spin about that but obtaining an LR licence isn’t that traumatic or difficult and does mean a greater choice in motorhome layouts.
Living Inside
Stepping inside the Monte Carlo reveals considerable space that
is effectively divided in two: the front being living/dining and
Long and low, the Monte Carlo cuts an impressive profile.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
The Iveco/Monte Carlo combination is the most refined of the three base vehicle choices available.
Cab access is good and the Iveco is well equipped and easy to drive.
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the rear being living/sleeping/bathroom. I can’t say that the interior colour scheme did a great deal for me – there was a bit too much beige and the overall effect of the internal décor was a bit retro, but to each their own.
In some ways the M71 layout looks familiar. In the front area the kitchen bench fills the nearside wall, next to the entry door. On the opposite side the slide-out has both an L-shaped lounge and the 215-litre fridge. In the cab area, both seats swivel and the area above the cab has been nicely opened up with alcoves on either side and the roof window. Back in the rear, the drop-down bed occupies centre stage, with a TV viewing area underneath, whilst a full width bathroom entered from the offside sits across the back of the vehicle.
The overall beige interior might not suit all buyers.
With the slide-out extended there’s plenty of room. Note the extra-large fridge/freezer.
Swivelling cab seats will likely only be used for occasional, extra seating.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
LED lights are used throughout the Monte Carlo and are generally well placed, except for the drop-down bed where there are no reading lights and just recessed lights on either side, mid bed. All the 12V switches, along with a radio/CD player, are located on a panel above the entry door. Other essentials like the solar panel regulator, generator controls and 240 volt mains circuit breakers are fitted into an overhead locker above the kitchen bench. This leaves items like the awning and slide-out switches, Webasto space heater and Truma hot water controls handily located on the wall beside the entry door.
Lounging Around
Having a drop down bed in a largish motorhome is certainly a bit of
thinking outside the square, because they are mostly used for space conservation
There’s no bedside storage with the roof bed lowered.
Main electrical control area also houses a substantial entertainment system.
Tank gauges, circuit breakers and the generator controls hide in a kitchen cupboard.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo 19
in smaller motorhomes. In this case it gives two quite separate lounge areas and a considerable amount of sitting-around area.
Opposite the kitchen, the L-shaped dinette offers a good size table, which can be moved backwards and forwards for ease of access. The dinette orientation is an interesting compromise: It’s okay for easy access to the adjoining fridge and for viewing one of the two flat-screen TVs (mounted on the bedroom wall). However, it doesn’t work so well with the swivelling cab seats (particularly the driver’s) should visitors come by, when the whole seating arrangement becomes a bit awkward.
For television viewing in the rear (beneath the bed when it’s raised) there’s a comfortable two person lounge facing an 81 cm (32 in) wall-mounted flat screen TV in an area set up to be a small home theatre, right down to the cupboard under the TV for the DVD collection!
Time to Eat
In just about all the Monte Carlo designs the same L-shaped kitchen design
is used. It looks relatively small but really isn’t. Like a few other things in the Monte Carlo it too has a little surprise. Standard are the Thetford three-burner cooktop and grill/oven, stainless steel sink, two overhead lockers and three drawers of different sizes. This tricky double-function kitchen cupboard shows some
innovative thinking!
An over-cab skylight brightens up the front of the Monte Carlo.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
Located in the overhead locker area above the sink, the microwave oven is set quite high at 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in) and is a tad awkward to get at.
Below bench level, what appears to be a cupboard isn't. Instead, the cupboard door opens to reveal three wire basket drawers, but push the button tucked into the corner and the entire end of the bench facing the entry door slides out to reveal two large wire basket shelves! It’s a novel idea and the locking mechanism is somewhat like that of bonnet catch of a car. I’d suggest the wire baskets would have to be packed quite tightly or with a few towels to avoid anything rattling around too much. A full
Looking aft: The TV bulkhead allows bedroom access down both sides.
For such a big vehicle there’s precious little kitchen bench space.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo 21
height pantry sits at the rear end of the kitchen bench and offers plentiful space for a few week’s worth of supplies.
Not exactly a kitchen item and more usually found in an RV bathroom is the Lemair top-loading washing machine, hidden in the waist-high cabinet between the living and bedroom areas.
After Hours
Having a drop down bed changes the bedroom area from
the more normal arrangement. Measuring 1.9 m x 1.37 m (6 ft 3 in x 4 ft 6 in), the bed is set in a north-south arrangement with walkways on either side. It can be lowered by the flick of a switch but only down to a
height that still requires a small jump to get into. There are no bedside shelves or alcoves of any sort, however between the rear bedroom wall and the bathroom, there’s a small multi-shelved area squeezed into the nearside space and a full height cupboard on the opposite side. A neat little idea is the strip lighting used in the
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
Malcolm tries out the home theatre’s cosy two-seat lounge.
With the roof bed retracted the bedroom becomes a private home theatre!
With the roof bed lowered the home theatre becomes your bedroom.
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
aforementioned rear corner multi-shelved area, which saves peering into dark corners.
Being slightly narrower than usual, the bathroom does look a bit squeezed, but the shower cubicle is quite spacious and there is certainly room for the cassette toilet, wash basin, a full-height bank of shelves and a multi-shelved cupboard in the offside corner: the door of the latter doubling as a bathroom door if required.
What We Think
Sunliner’s Monte Carlo range is certainly very well appointed, if the M71 model I looked at is any guide. It doesn’t want for
much in the luxury department and the slide-out offers generous living space in the front area. I’d have say that this particular layout, with the drop down bed/home theatre set up, would not be my first choice, but for anyone looking for a layout that is a bit different then the M71 is certainly it!
The full-width rear bathroom is well equipped and relatively spacious.
These cleverly lit shelves are the only near bed-head storage.
A full-size shower cubicle is a welcome inclusion, although the loo sits quite close by.
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With it’s distinctively styled and coloured rear trim, wheel-arch flares and roof rails to disguise the bulge the bed retracts into, the Monte Carlo could only be a Sunliner!
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo
Manufacturer Sunliner Motorhomes
Model Monte Carlo M71
Base Vehicle Iveco Daily 70C17
Engine 3.0-litre turbo-diesel
Power 125 kW @ 3200 rpm
Torque 400Nm @ 1250 rpm
Gearbox 6-speed AMT
Brakes ABS Disc
Tare Weight 5495 kg
Gross Vehicle Mass 7000 kg
Licence LR
Passengers 4
External Length 9.5 m (31 ft 2 in)
External Width 2.45 m (8 ft)
External Height 3.2 m (10 ft 6 in)
Internal Height 2.02 m (6 ft 7 in)
Rear Bed Size 1.9 m (6 ft 3 in) x 1.37 m (4 ft 6 in)
Cooktop Thetford 3-burner with grill
Fridge Waeco RPD 215-litre 12 V compressor
Microwave Whirlpool
Lighting 12V LED
Batteries 2 x 150 Ah
Gas 3 x 4.0 kg
Heater Truma 14-litres
Solar Panels 2 x 135 W
Air Conditioner Air Command Ibis
Hot Water Heater Truma 14-litre
Space Heater Webasto
Toilet Thetford cassette
Shower Separate cubicle
Fresh Water Tank 250-litres
Grey Water Tank 90-litres
Price Australia $ 264,911 on-road NSW
Specifications
Contact
Price
Ph: 02 4948 0433W: australianmotorhomes.com.au
Australian Motorhomes
31 Pacific Highway,Bennetts Green, NSW 2290.
Click for Google Maps
• Relativelyeasydrivingdespitelength
• Wellset-upelectricalsystem• Classylookingexterior• Generouswindowspace• Kitchencabinettrickery• Interiorusablewithslide-out
closed.
On-roadandstampduty.ForanyRVwetrytolistthedriveawayprice.However,thatdoescreateaproblemfordealersthatalsosellinterstate.InthiscasetheMonteCarloregisteredinNSWattractsstampdutyof$11,500,butforabuyerinQldit'sjust$5000-aconsiderablesaving.Pleasekeepthisinmindwhencomparingprices.
Pros
Cons• Microwaveinveryhigh
position• Externalbinsizenot
particularlylarge• Internalcolourscheme• Swivellingdriver’sseatabit
ofafiddle
Tested: Sunliner Monte Carlo 25
Rearview...
Suncamper first Sovereign seeks a new home...
For Suncamper, the 2005 release of the Sovereign marked
an evolutionary design development towards larger and more luxuriously appointed models. Built for two people, the then ‘new’ B-class Sovereign brought a whole new layout featuring plenty of natural light and fresh air, plus an open an inviting floor plan. Eight years on and the very first production model is now ready to find a new home. With only 88,000 km on
the clock it surely won’t have to look too hard.
Built on the sixth Generation Ford Transit rear-wheel drive and featuring such niceties as electric windows, air conditioning, central locking, electric mirrors and power steering, this model Transit also had the first of Ford’s highly successful 2.4-litre common-rail turbo-diesel engine, driving through a five-speed manual gearbox.
It’s worth noting that although
this vehicle is listed on Suncamper’s website as a 2003 model, that’s when the base Transit was built – in the December. By the time the cab-chassis was shipped to Australia and Suncamper built it up, it was early 2005.
Construction uses a welded aluminium frame on a steel base, with interior paneling and cabinetry of wood (glued and screwed together, not stapled) and an outer skin of fiberglass, with insulation
Rearview...
sandwiched in between. The roof is Suncamper’s trademark one-piece unit, designed to reduce joints and minimise the chance of water leaks.
This Sovereign has a mid entry door with the kitchen immediately to your left (between the door and cab) and the dinette opposite. Across from the entry door is a secondary kitchen unit that also houses the upgraded fridge plus a microwave. Turning right, is a tall wardrobe unit and then the entry door
to the rear corner bathroom. The bed sits in the other corner, nestled between the secondary kitchen unit and the bathroom.
Picture Perfect
This particular Sovereign has been well maintained by
its original owner and also benefits from some worthwhile extras, including a reversing camera, external shower, roof-mounted aircon and solar panels, a TV/DVD system,
awning and an upgraded fridge. It’s also free of accident damage, stone chips and is described by Suncamper sales guru Mike Rowe as being in exceptional condition.
Being a B-class motorhome, the Sovereign lacks the over-cab bed of a C-class, but this opens up the interior and provides a real feeling of space. There’s easy through-cab access, again enhanced by the lack of an over-cab bed, and while the front seats don’t swivel there’s still good
This Sovereign has aged well and is still a modern, well equipped vehicle that would essentially suit a new vehicle buyer.
27
There’s secondary bench space aft of the dinette.
The rear corner bed has nicknack storage in the bathroom wall.
The TV hides in the over-cab cupboard.The cafe-style dinette is generous and comfortable.
lounge space in the form of a generous cafe-style dinette,
Two large roof hatches provide extra light and can also be opened for an abundance of fresh air, while the cheery colours of the upholstery and a real holiday feel and match well with the light timber tones of the cabinet work and flooring.
The rear corner bathroom is also a nice feature as it has a separate shower cubicle at the rear, a swivel-head Thetford cassette toilet and a corner hand basin, although the inward-opening door looks like it might require a bit of squeezing past.
At $74,990 drive away (NSW) this used but obviously well loved motorhome looks like a sound second-hand buy that balances value with features in a still-modern vehicle. To find out more call Mike Rowe on 0419 305 300 or email [email protected].
Rearview...
Ph: 0419 305 300W: www.suncamper.com.au E: [email protected]
Click for Google Maps
Unit 3, 9 Sefton Road, Thornleigh. NSW. 2120
ContactMike Rowe - Suncamper
Specifications
A reversing camera is included.
After eight years she still looks good!
Bathroom has a separate shower cubicle.
Interior is bright and breezy.
• Lowmileage• Excellentcondition• Verywellequipped• Builtfortwo• Mechanicallysimple• Solarandmanyextras
Pros Cons• Noairbags/ABS• Nocruisecontrol
Rearview...
Manufacturer Suncamper
Model Sovereign
Base Vehicle Ford Transit
Engine 3.3-litre non-turbo diesel
Power 103 kW @ 3500 rpm
Torque 375 Nm @ 1600-2300 rpm
Gearbox 5 speed manual
Brakes Discs
Tare Weight 3300 kg (est)
Gross Vehicle Mass 4490 kg
Licence Car
Passengers 2
External Length 6.89 m (22 ft 7 in)
External Width 2.32 m (7 ft 8 in)
External Height 3.13 m (10 ft 3 in)
Cooktop Thetford Caprice MkIII
Fridge 140 L LPG/12/240 V
Microwave Yes
Lighting 12 Halogen
Batteries 2 x 110 AH
Gas 1 x 9 kg
Air Conditioner Yes
Hot Water Heater Suburban
Toilet Thetford Cassette
Shower Cubicle
Fresh Water Tank 110-litres
Price NSW $74,990 drive away
29
Forget greenhouse gases, we’re putting our money on the growing number
of RV shows for causing the wild and extreme weather we’ve all been experiencing lately.
Last weekend’s Newcastle Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo was a case in point;
run over three sweltering days and followed by severe thunderstorms, torrential rain and hail. Late last year in Wodonga we were knee-deep in mud, while in Bendigo in November the Mercury soared past 40° most days.
Despite the vicissitudes attached to attending such
shows, the RV Industry as a whole shows remarkable fortitude and keeps coming back – as does a seemingly endless supply of buyers, researchers and dreamers. Which reminds us of an anecdote told by a friend attending a major truck show in the USA some years back.
Show Feature...
Active Campers make an interesting range of quality slide-ons.
SUMMER SIZZLER!Newcastle kicks off the 2013 Show Season with good crowds and a merciless sun...
31
Show Feature...
A’van’s Ovation with slide-out was on display.Hoist Man is a fixture at these RV shows.
Last issue's test vehicle attracted lots of interest on the Trakka stand.
Sunday is always a family day, but crowds were good on all three days.
His host remarked they would need to be out of the show by lunchtime on the third day, “Because that’s when the Whistling Gophers arrive.”
“Whistling Gophers?” our friend inquired.
“Yes. They’re the ones that come up to you and ask, ‘So what does she go for?’ And
when you tell the price they just let out a long, low whistle...”
But we’ve digressed...
According to those working the stands, the Newcastle Show was
well attended on all three days and, as usual, the bulk of the sales were negotiated on the opening Friday. Saturday’s crowds also showed plenty of
serious interest, but Sunday, as is often the case, was more of a family day out and a hunt for bargains amongst the myriad accessory vendors and other stall holders. Judging by the number of people lugging boxes and big bags around late on Sunday afternoon, plus wheeling groaning trollies towards the car park, business seemed brisk.
Show Feature...
Frontline’s budget campervans attracted steady interest.
Sunliner showed off its new fifth-wheeler, generating much interest.
33
Show Feature...
In the motorhome department Trakka, Horizon Motorhomes, Suncamper, Frontline Campervans, Talvor, Sunliner, Avan, and Winnebago were all represented, either directly or through dealers. There was also a sprinkling of fifth-wheelers and slide-on campers, though some of the prices asked for slide-
ons – $35,000 for an old style Millard for example – made us wonder. Speaking of slide-ons, the ones manufactured in Coffs Harbour by Active Campers are particularly interesting, well thought out and well made.
If you’re seriously in the market for a new motorhome, campervan or whatever, shows
like these are a great place to twist a sales person’s arm. I noted Sydney RV Group, for example, was offering $10,000 off the drive-away price of its new Talvor motorhomes even before you begin to haggle.
Look out for our Adelaide Show report next issue!
Inside the pavilion it was cool, but almost all caravans. Only Puma had some slide-ons amongst its extensive display.
Winnebago’s Esperance Premium was the only A-class motorhome on display.
Show Feature...
Winnebago’s Esperance Premium was the only A-class motorhome on display.
Horizon’s 4x4 Acacia had lots of people dreaming.
Jayco had plenty of motorhomes on display, like this range-topping Optima
Horizon’s revamped Banksia gets the B+W treatment!
Trakka’s Alex and Martin were still smiling at the end of the show!
Suncamper crammed two vehicles into one space, but not very successfully.
35
TRAKKA Profile...
xxxx
OF SMALL BUSINESS.
BIGTH
E
BUSINESS
This week Trakka had the great pleasure of attending the launch of the ‘Small Biz Bus’ program.
On a gloomy, rainy Monday, in the middle of Taylor Square,
Darlinghurst, the ‘Small Biz Bus’ (AKA - Trakkaway 750), stood out like a sore thumb. A bright cyan blue giant on a grey Sydney day was pretty hard to miss, even surrounded by the colour of Oxford Street.
TRAKKA supplied a specifically designed Trakkaway 750 for this project, built on a Fiat AL-KO chassis with a 3.0L
multi-jet turbocharged engine.The Small Biz Bus is the mobile unit of the SmallBiz Connect program. The first of what is hoped to be a series of mobile offices touring the state providing advice and assistance to small business owners. In their own words it ‘accelerates small businesses’ by expanding support at a grass roots level.
The launch was a fairly big deal, red ribbon cutting and
all. Katrina Hodgkinson, NSW Minister for Small Business, was the cutter of said ribbon. “Small business experts will travel around the state to help link small business owners to local mentors and services,” Ms Hodgkinson explains. “During each stop, owners will also have access to face-to-face sessions with the experts.”
The idea of a ‘Bus’ was the brainchild of the NSW Small
TRAKKA Profile...
“...you’ve got to say it just looks sensational! You can’t miss it.”
Yasmin King, NSW Small Business Commissioner
OF SMALL BUSINESS.
This week Trakka had the great pleasure of attending the launch of the ‘Small Biz Bus’ program.
This Trakkaway 750 looks great with its work clothes on...
37
Profile...
Business Commissioner, Yasmin King, and was the result of a ‘listening tour’ that the Commissioner undertook when she was appointed. She found while most small business owners have all good intentions to get out from behind the desk and attend networking functions and events, the reality is it’s not that easy. Commissioner King said, “What we wanted to do was find a way in which we could go to places where it’s much harder (for the small business owner) to get out and engage with people.”
The Trakkaway 750 provides an environment that small business owners can feel comfortable sitting in. For many small businesses they’re not formal and want to feel free to engage with a mentor. As the Commissioner says “That’s what this van achieves. And wow, when it’s wrapped like this, you’ve got to say it just looks sensational! You can’t miss it.”
The Small Business Mentoring Service (SBMS), a non-for-profit association that has provided mentoring services to thousands of
small businesses for 25 years provide the expert mentoring service. CEO of SBMS, David Gregory says, “True small business support is one to one. It allows face to face contact with a business mentor and takes them on a journey that focuses specifically on their business needs.”
He feels the Trakkaway 750 allows them to go out into regional areas where traditionally people miss out. “Small business is one of the loneliest things you can go into,” says Mr Gregory. “Having a mobile office with an environment where it feels very homely and inviting is fantastic. There is a sense of coming into someone’s home and sitting down on the couch and having a good chat.”
One of the great advantages for the team from SBMS, is the Trakkaway 750 provides two meeting areas. This of course cuts down on waiting times for small businesses in various towns and gives the SBMS team the opportunity to take multiple meeting bookings. While the rear lounge provides a comfortable
and informal setting for up to 6 people, the front section has seating for 4 around a meeting table.
The Trakkaway 750 also provides vital facilities to make life more comfortable for both the SBMS team and the small business owners when they are on board. A quality kitchen to make tea and coffee, or lunch on the run; a spacious Switch Mode Bathroom with shower and retractable toilet; and ducted air-conditioning and ducted diesel room heating.
David Gregory was mighty impressed with the amount of available storage. “…this allows the mentor to take a wide range of important material with them to pass onto the small business owners.”
The awning also proved a major hit on the day of the launch. As the rain came steadily down, standing under it was the most popular place to be.
Phillip Millbourne, NSW State Manager for the SBMS felt the environmental features like
There is a sense of coming into someone’s home and sitting down on the couch. David Gregory, CEO of Small Business Mentor Service
Profile...
the solar panels on the roof are a great initiative and an important message to send as the Trakkaway 750 makes its way around the state.
He would know as he gets the fun job of driving the Small Biz Bus all over New South Wales. A veteran of 12 years with SBMS in Victoria, Phillip is very passionate about what the SBMS can do for small businesses in NSW and is itching to get out on the road and start helping people. “We’re not miracle workers, but if we can save somebody’s house and their
family and their life savings, well that’s success in itself.” he says.
David Gregory would like to see more vans on the road, “SBMS is a group of retired ex business people whose soul ambition in life is to give back to a community that has allowed them some degree of success. If we can help three or four hundred businesses via the small Biz Bus this year, then that is a platform to increase our fleet.”
The Commissioners dream is to also have more Small Biz
Buses on the road. “NSW is a big state and a lot of area to cover. My dream is to have 3 or 4 on the road so they can focus on different areas.”
We like that dream too Commissioner.
So if you live somewhere in NSW and you see a bright blue Trakkaway 750 drive through your town, give it a wave, because it’s there to help.
Katrina Hodgkinson, NSW Minister for Small Business (right), cuts the ribbon to ‘launch’ the Small Business Bus
39
Technology...
BATTERY MYTHSBUSTED“The problem is not what people don’t know, but what they think they know that simply isn’t true.” Ample Power Company, USA – one of the world’s largest battery charger manufacturers
by Collyn Rivers
Technology...
Myth 1: A close-to-flat starter battery can be partly revived by feeding it an aspirin and letting it sleep. This is a classic example of arriving at a partially true answer for totally wrong reasons. That battery can also be partially revived by playing it a Mozart concerto, reciting a short story, or arranging a Reiki (‘hands-on healing’) session!
The true reason why this vaguely works is that after a heavy discharge, a starter battery’s remaining energy is depleted around the terminal and plate areas. After resting, the remaining charge (that can be seen as within the electrolyte) becomes more
evenly distributed and the battery may partially revive.
Aspirin in itself does nothing – it’s the sleep that does the job. About 30 minutes’ rest usually helps, which is also about the length of a typical concerto, a decent short story and a Reiki session (the latter is also aided by the warmth of the practitioner’s hands).
Myth 2: It takes several hours to recharge the starter battery after starting a big rig.This is an understandable myth probably reinforced by the heavy starter cables. In reality starting an engine requires several hundred amps, but only for two or three seconds.
Heavy cables are needed to carry that current, but the energy used is about the same as that drawn by an interior light for 15-20 minutes. This energy is typically replaced within a minute or so of starting the engine (the author’s 51 kg former girl friend could hand start his 1929 4.5 litre, four-cylinder Bentley with ease. The energy used was adequately replaced by a gin and tonic).
Myth 3: My standard alternator will fully charge my auxiliary 120 Ah conventional deep-cycle battery (from half-charge) within three or so hours of driving. The alternator will charge it to 60 per cent within 15 minutes, and to around 70 per cent about an hour later. It takes several more hours to reach 75 per cent and even longer to reach 80 per cent. In practice, few such batteries ever exceed 70 per cent. This does not affect the starting system. AGM or gel cell batteries reach a higher state of charge (and faster) from the alternator voltage available. The now available dc-dc alternator chargers, however, enable that 50 per cent onward charge to be done well with that time claimed.
Myth 4: Installing a bigger alternator will speed up charging. True, but only if the battery is close to flat. Then, it will
BUSTED“The problem is not what people don’t know, but what they think they know that simply isn’t true.”
xxxxx
41
charge faster to about 40 per cent. Over that, charging is a function of alternator voltage, so increasing its size will make next to no difference. The most practical way to increase charge rate nowadays is via the dc-dc alternator charging mentioned above.
Myth 5: I get more power from two 12 V batteries by connecting end to end (in series). That way I get 24 V, not just 12 V.The world does not work like that. This myth assumes voltage equals power: it does not. No matter how one interconnects those batteries, the energy stored is just the same. As Malcolm Fraser once
said, “There’s no such thing as a free lunch.”
Myth 6: I can charge my auxiliary battery from the vehicle’s alternator via 4 mm auto cable. Auto cable is rated by the size of the hole you can poke it through!
So-called 4 mm auto cable has a mere 1.8-2 sq mm of conductor. The ‘4 mm’ relates to its overall diameter, including the insulation. In effect it is the size hole it can just be pushed through. That cable size will limit charging to an amp or so! Depending on the cable length, to do this job properly you need anywhere from 8.0 sq mm to 25 sq mm cable.
Myth 7: I sometimes need to charge my auxiliary battery by running the engine for a bit. To speed this, I set the throttle so the engine runs at half speed. People say this damages the engine though.A vehicle alternator produces about two-thirds maximum output at idle. Little is gained by exceeding the idle speed by more than 10-15 per cent. Regarding damaging the engine, this is something that city commuters do twice each working day, so it isn’t that bad, particularly with the very high quality of today’s oil.
Technology...
Myth 8: I give my auxiliary battery a good workout every month. It stands to reason that, like people, they need exercise. Battery-wise, this is mostly a myth. Lead acid batteries are like ageing Labradors: they like being kept up with food (i.e.
charging) but otherwise left alone. Their ideal life is not to be used at all (provided they’re fully charged), but who needs a 40 kg 12 V battery as a pet! NiCad batteries however do prefer being fully discharged before recharging.
Myth 9: A standard lead acid battery must not be charged in parallel with an AGM battery.Partially true, but needs qualifying.
Like greedy people, AGM batteries tend to grab more of what is available (in this case, the available charge). If charged in parallel with a conventional battery, this is likely to reduce the charge available to that battery. Battery makers therefore warn against this practice. Technical writers (including myself) used to do likewise.
However, if the conventional battery (particularly the starter battery) can be given first go at the cake – i.e. charging
Technology... 43
priority up to a safe starting voltage of about 13.6 V, it is then safe to switch an AGM battery in parallel. This can readily and reliably be done via a heavy duty solenoid that senses starter battery voltage and closes when above that voltage. By 2005 or so this practice became virtually the norm. Auto electricians are totally familiar with these relays and hundreds of thousands of vehicles are now set up this way, worldwide.
The above situation is changing, however, as by 2014 EU regulations will require variable voltage-controlled alternators, possibly as low as 12.7 volts. This is already happening and companies such as Redarc are now warning of this.
Myth 10: It is a waste of money buying ‘top quality’ deep-cycle batteries – they all last about the same time. This depends almost entirely on how batteries are used and maintained. If they are abused by persistent and severe over-discharging or left only partially charged over time, the statement is substantially true.
However, if used and maintained correctly, high quality deep-cycle batteries (such as Rolls, Surrette, etc.) will more than repay their extra cost. In practice, few conventional batteries are correctly used and maintained, so while in no way validating this myth, many users are better off buying cheaper deep-cycle batteries. Gel or AGM cell batteries will accept some abuse with less ill effect, but
both are affected by heat. If the battery is located under the bonnet a Gel or AGM cell will have a much shorter life.
About the Author: Collyn Rivers is an ex automobile research engineer, who now writes books in this and similar areas. Many of his published articles can be found on www.caravanandmotorhomebooks.com
Technology...
Look after your batteries and you’ll never end up like this by the road side...
Technology... 45
Mobile Tech...
CAPTAIN’S LOG COMMUNICATOR
“It’s a travel app Jim, but not as we know it...”
Mobile Tech...
S tar Trek Tragics rejoice! Now there’s an app that’s not only fun
and feeds your inner geek, it actually has practical applications as you boldly go where no non-gender specific person has (with appropriate authorisation) gone before.
This is an Apple-only app,
however, which is odd because androids feature prominently in Star Trek, but if you have an iPhone 4 or later you’re in serious luck. As one reviewer describes it:
“Using the Captain’s Log Communicator you can capture voice recordings, text entries, take photos and map
GPS locations of your voyages as you travel planet Earth. You can also select their preferred Enterprise class level, whether taking the role of Captain, Engineering, Science/Medical or assuming the identity an enemy Romulan or Klingon officer.”
“Now you can track your
Captains Log supplemental: Controls are simple and straight forward.
47
perilous mission to the outer reaches of the galaxy shopping mall with GPS precision and leave behind voice memo’s for your fellow captains to aid their own journeys. Share your findings on the vast networks of Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr, or just send the data
along to other users of the app.”
In more down-to-Earth speak, the Captain’s Log Communicator is handy as a travel aid because you can make a voice memo, take a photo and add a text note (or
just use one or two functions) and then pin it to a Google map. Pins appear as little Star Trek symbols on your map and you can choose to keep these private (for reference for example), share them with other Captain’s Log Communicator users
Mobile Tech...
Sharing options are extensive or you can keep your travel private: The choice is yours.
or post them on most social media sights, so friends can keep track of your travels by seeing your photos, hearing your memos and reading your notes.
For $1.99 it costs next to nothing and has some
handy features, as well as the requisite Star Trek sound effects and some pretty groovy animations. Particularly cool is the way you can ‘flip’ the communicator open and closed when it’s on the home page, accompanied by the authentic sound. Beam it
down today and may the force be with you. Damn, wrong movie...
Mobile Tech...
It might seem gimmicky, but the Captain’s Log Communicator has some worthwhile features for any traveller and is bound to appeal to your inner Trekkie (or geek!).
49
Next Issue...
Know of a local or regional show coming up that attracts and promotes motorhomes, campervans and the great RV lifestyle in general?
Drop us a line at [email protected] and we’ll happily promote it in this calendar.
February 22-24
Illawarra Caravan Camping 4WD Fish & Boat Show
Kembla Grange Racecourse
Wollongong, NSW 2526.
• Open 09:00-5:00 daily (4:00 pm Sun)
• Free parking• Adults $15• Seniors $11• Kids Free
• Website: www.campingshow.com.au
Click for Google Maps
February 20-24
Adelaide Caravan & Camping Show
Adelaide ShowgroundGoodwood Road, Wayville. SA, 5034.• Open 10:00-6:00 daily• Parking not advised• Adults $13• Seniors $10• Kids U 15 free with adult
• Website: www.caravanandcampingsa.com.au
22-24FEB
20-24FEB
1-3MAR
22-24FEB
20-24FEB
1-3MAR
We have a busy two weeks ahead as we rush to Adelaide
for the Caravan & Camping Show, then back to get it all into the next issue. Along the way Richard will be testing Horizon Motorhomes’ new, limited edition Banksia –
complete with an interior upgrade with a much more contemporary look and feel.
We’ll be talking to the CMCA’s new CEO, Rudi Fuhrmann, to see how his first weeks in the job have gone and hear his plans and hopes for the future of Australia’s largest RV club. We’ll also be looking more into Freedom Camping and the ways all of us can do our bit to help ensure we don’t continue to lose access to some of Australia’s
most beautiful and unspoiled campsites.
Finally, Collyn Rivers will be explaining batteries; not in an in-depth technical kind of way, but in a manner even the most technically challenged will find easy to understand. And that’s all just for starters! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news, thoughts and a bit of fun. Stay safe!
EXPLORING HORIZON’S NEW
Click for Google Maps
Click for Google Maps
March 1-3
Gold Coast Caravan, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show
Parklands ShowgroundParklands Drive, Southport. QLD, 4215.• Open 09:00-5:00 daily
(closes 4:00 pm Sunday)• parking not advised• Adults $15• Seniors $11• Kids U 16 fee with adult
• Website: www.campingshow.com.au
22-24FEB
20-24FEB
1-3MAR
50