Introducing the Romotow T8 a unique caravan designed by the New Zealand architecture firm W2. This caravan stands out from any others you may have seen before, and it’s likely to come with a higher price tag than any other caravan you’ve come across.
Unlike many concept RVs and vehicles that undergo simplification and lose their original appeal during production, W2 remained faithful to the initial blueprint of the Romotow T8, preserving its inspiring design from 2012.
This dual-axle caravan, spanning 30.5 feet (9.3 meters), features a primary cabin that nestles within an open deck area while en route to the campsite.
Upon arrival, the cabin swivels outwards by 90 degrees, creating a spacious two-part area that includes a generous covered deck and a main cabin that can accommodate four to six individuals. An automated hydraulic system powers the cabin’s outward extension and rotation.
In 2018, a prototype of the Romotow T8 was initially revealed, and it has since evolved into a production model that is now available for purchase.
The caravan features a stationary chassis with a curved side, and the interior section can rotate up to 90 degrees. This mechanism functions similarly to that of a swiveling USB stick but on a much larger scale.
When the caravan is open, it provides an indoor-outdoor living space, featuring a spacious deck for enjoying the outdoors, and two large doors that lead to a covered living area.
Apart from its captivating design, there are several other impressive features of the T8 worth noting. It can be customized with wall-mounted televisions, an outdoor projector, a powerful audio system, and a bedroom equipped with either a single or double bed, using a 200-Ah lithium battery that is charged via solar panels situated on the roof.
The T8 caravan is also eco-friendly, equipped with a 200-Ah lithium battery that can be recharged using a 395-W solar array mounted on the roof.
A C-Zone integrated control system, complemented by a connected app, enables users to supervise and regulate the electrical components and other hardware. buyers have the option of expanding the battery capacity, installing supplementary solar panels, and adding an inverter.
For entertainment, the caravan offers pop-up or wall-mounted 32-inch 4K smart TVs, an outdoor projector system that boasts an 82-inch pull-down screen, and a multi-zone Fusion sound system.
The Romotow T8 weighs 7,495 pounds (3,400 kilograms) and has a gross weight rating of the same, is built with a mild-steel tube chassis and tandem Cruisemaster ATX spring suspension. An automated chassis system is included to ensure the trailer is level when parked.
The cabin is constructed with aluminum and features insulated composite walls, flooring, and roofing. The standard package comes with a 300-liter fresh water tank and a 300-liter gray water tank, as well as a Truma Combi space/water heater. Additionally, an air conditioner can be added as an option.
The Romotow T8 may also pose some inconvenience in certain camping locations. Some campsites may be narrow making it difficult to open up the caravan without colliding with neighboring RVs.
The Romotow T8 is notably pricey, the starting price is NZ$429,000 (about US$268,500), and the cost increases rapidly with the addition of options. AMC Motorhomes will manufacture the caravans in New Zealand, and W2 is targeting the New Zealand and Australian markets, but it does welcome inquiries from other countries.