by Expansion of Chinese Automakers
Chinese automotive brands, having already established themselves in Western markets with SUVs and pickups, are now focusing on more niche segments, including ready-made campers, which are gaining popularity.
Among those responding to this trend is the Chinese company LDV, which has just introduced the Deliver 9 camper in Australia – a factory-ready kit for life on the road that costs approximately half as much as a similarly sized VW Crafter Kampervan.
Exterior and Dimensions
Built on the basis of the long-wheelbase version of the LDV Deliver 9 van with a high roof, the camper has a length of 5940 mm and a height of 2925 mm. Its distinctive appearance is emphasized by gray-red graphic elements, a sliding awning, and a roof-mounted air conditioner.
Interior and Equipment
A large sliding door with an electric step and a mosquito net provides access to a true mini-apartment on wheels.
The kitchen is equipped with a sink, refrigerator, freezer, microwave oven, and induction cooktop. Next to it is a compact bathroom with a shower, and for convenience, an external shower is also provided.
Two rotating front seats, a folding table, and a rear bench form the dining area. A double bed is located at the rear, which can be assembled or disassembled in a minute without blocking access through the rear doors.
Due to the absence of a second bed, the camper is designed for two people, unless someone is willing to sleep on the front bench.
Technical Features
To ensure the operation of all systems, a 2.56 kWh lithium-ion battery, a 190 W solar panel, two 100-liter tanks for fresh and used water, as well as a 16-liter waste tank are installed.
Under the hood, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with 145 hp and a torque of 375 N·m is at work. It has rear-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic transmission, and an 80-liter fuel tank.
The maximum trailer weight is 2800 kg, which is convenient for transporting boats or bicycles.
Price Advantage
The main advantage of the LDV Deliver 9 is its affordable price. The model starts from AU$ 89,990, which, according to the manufacturer, is significantly lower than similar campers.
For comparison, the VW Crafter Kampervan starts from AU$ 157,990 excluding additional costs, meaning its full price is more than double that of the Chinese competitor.
LDV Australia’s General Manager, Dinesh Chinnappa, noted that campers are becoming increasingly popular among Australians who choose to travel on their own terms. He is confident that the factory-ready Deliver 9 camper, ready for use immediately after purchase, will contribute to the development of this market segment.
The appearance of the LDV Deliver 9 on the Australian market could significantly influence the demand structure, as it offers a full-fledged camper at a price accessible even to the middle class. This could accelerate the democratization of road trips and stimulate other manufacturers to lower prices or improve characteristics in this segment.
