ModCAP redefined truck-based camping with an innovative component-driven design. The revolutionary ModCAP offers overlanding solutions that are engineered to evolve with the user. It’s the ultimate modular system that grows with you. Starting with the ModCAP Base as your foundation, you may add on different rooftop options like the ModCAP Flat Roof, ModCAP Canopy, ModCAP Camper or the ModCAP Family Camper. And now there’s a brand new and cost effective compact camper option.
The latest addition to the ModCAP range is smaller, smarter and saves space on top of your vehicle so that you may add more storage. The Compact Camper answers the call for agile overlanding.
Ishmael Ariefdien started as a junior draftsman at Alu-Cab seven years ago, and is now an engineering technical lead. Tasked with designing a lighter version of the ModCAP Camper, Ish was inspired by everything from Mexico’s Baja Race to nature. Attempting to build something with minimal weight, compact size and reduced drag, while still allowing someone to have a good night’s sleep on top of their car, he had to balanced weight savings with comfort and weatherproof resilience. Read on to discover how Ish did all that, as he takes us through his journey in designing the new compact camper.
Product Purpose
I wanted to build something for the customer who doesn’t want a bulky unit. People who need garage compatibility, easier parking and tight-space access. It had to look like a canopy but function as a camper. I imagined someone using their vehicle for work and camping. Packing tools in during the week and switching to camping gear on weekends. We landed on a lightweight camper that’s ideal for shorter trips rather than month-long expeditions.
Comparison to Other ModCAP Roof Options
The bigger two- or four-sleeper roof options are more premium and designed for long-term camping. With added features like USB ports and extra packing space. This is simpler, 50kg lighter than the two-sleeper and has no cab overhang. Think of it as the LT-50 of the ModCAP range. As the design scales to include extra and full-size cabs, weight savings will increase since the midsize requires more material for the sleeping area.
Design Innovations
In making a lighter and more compact camper, it was important to balance aesthetics with functionality. We kept it low-profile so that it sits only 6 inches above the ModCAP base. It’s 60% lower than other campers while still accommodating bedding and a mattress. Unlike other models, this has no cab overhang and everything sits on the canopy, maximising packing space on top of the vehicle.
Development Process
There’s a weekly review process with our CEO Warwick Leslie and founder Jeremy Bergh. The entire engineering team is also in attendance, as team input is critical and different perspectives catch overlooked details. Everyone was really excited to see how the camper opens up at the back. How it looks like a canopy and you can only see that it’s a camper when deployed.
Real-World Use
Our team camp regularly, testing the units where they’re intended to be used and then giving direct feedback. A single camping trip won’t reveal much, but prolonged use highlights real issues. Jeremy took the prototype to Namibia for three weeks and our marketing team used it in the Cederberg. After their feedback, we reinforced the camper with supports for safety and improved on water resistance, dust ingress, vibration on corrugated roads and noise.
Launch Expectations
This is a great new addition to the ModCAP platform. We’re onto a winner. The ModCAP Compact Camper will be a strong seller because it’s lightweight, compact and cost-effective. It’s in a league of its own. Aerodynamically efficient with unmatched packing space for its size. It’s the lightest, most compact camper on the market. No direct competitors offer this blend of aerodynamics, utility and value.
