Worried that you may lose some of your truck’s utility once you install a camper? The Drive-Off Base for the ModCAP and Canopy Camper is the answer!
The Drive-Off Base lets you remove your ModCAP or Canopy Camper and add it back when you need it. Just like our Khaya Camper. Whether you need your truck to be a workhorse or a fully-kitted overlanding rig, the Drive-Off Base makes it possible.
Eduan Kruyswijk is a design engineer passionate about how Alu-Cab products connect with customers. A mechanical engineer by qualification, Ed likes to solve problems creatively and takes great pride in seeing his products graduate from drawing board to the real world. Read on to discover what went into this new product offering.
Product Explanation
ModCAP stands for Modular Canopy, and is our evolving canopy solution that starts with a flat roof and can be upgraded to either a Compact Camper, 2-sleeper or 4-sleeper tent, and now includes a Drive-Off option. The product is not exclusive to ModCAP and can also be used with the Canopy Camper.
I led the development of the Drive-Off Camper, which is essentially a load bin shelf system that creates a closed, drivable unit. It interfaces specifically with ModCAP and Canopy Camper bases, creating a self-contained unit like the iconic Khaya Camper.
This allows customers to build out a camper, then drive the whole unit off their vehicle using the same mounting points. It’s perfect for weekend warriors who don’t want to commute daily with their full camping setup.
Engineering Challenges
The two main challenges were ingress protection and weight transfer. First we had to seal against dust and water. We created a silicone membrane that moves with the swivelling eyebolts used for mounting, with an undersized opening that maintains a tight seal at any angle. For the weight transfer we had to secure to the load bin floor, not the sides. We studied various load bin sizes to ensure compatibility across vehicles while keeping the base at the right height.
User Experience
There are four mounting points – two front, two back – to detach the unit. You loosen the eyebolts from inside, drop the chains down, then attach jacking feet to lift the unit clear. The first time you do this it might take some time, but it definitely gets faster with practice. Anyone familiar with our Khaya system will understand the process.
With this product we’re targeting existing ModCAP owners or Canopy Camper customers looking to upgrade. It’s for people who only really use their gear on holidays and don’t want the weight or drag during weekly commutes. They can then store the unit in their garage or driveway when not in use.
Design Process
Because of Khaya, the picture was half outlined already. We knew the Khaya’s mounting system worked. We just had to adapt it while making clear distinctions. The dimensions and mounting principles carried over, but the execution was unique.
We focused on perfecting the CAD data first. I’d rather refine for an extra week than fix prototypes later. Our first prototype was 95% there. The final 5% came from leadership reviews. Like optimizing those chain access points. Now I’m confident it’s show-ready.
Having our CEO Warwick Leslie and founder Jeremy Bergh’s input on the design was invaluable. For example, they highlighted the need for easier chain access. They also helped us find a solution that maintains sealing while adding accessibility. Their scrutiny ensures products speak our design language and work in real conditions.
Key Features
I prioritised interior flexibility adding T-slot rails along the floor so that customers can mount gear anywhere without interference. The rails sit flush, so fridges or ammo boxes slide right over them. This wasn’t mandated, but critical for user experience allowing people to build interiors that suit their unique needs.
The Drive-Off Base also has really great legs to store your camper when not in use.