Global Caravan to introduce world's first carbon fiber RV

Designed with an aerospace and supercar-inspired monocoque structure and connected vehicle technology, GCT's CR-1 Carbon is part of a series of upcoming product launches that will feature travel trailers and fifth wheels, then motor homes and specialty vehicles.  The CR-1 Carbon will be unveiled mid-December from Dallara's IndyCar Factory showroom in Speedway, Indiana during the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show, held in Indianapolis.

GCT product ranges include CR travel trailers and CR5 fifth wheels, in Luxury, Limited, Carbon and Custom models featuring industry-first floor plans and options.  CR/CR5 pricing is expected to start from around $160,000MSRP to over $500,000MSRP for custom models.  Fuel economy in tow will improve by as much as 100 percent, and much of the product is recyclable.

Interiors of the CR/CR5 ranges are new for their price points, and will feature large spaces with luxurious appointments.  Designed with long-term and luxury camping in mind, amenities such as full height closets, tall ceilings, large walk-through master baths, oversize showers, washer and dryer, spacious kitchens, luxury flooring and private jet-inspired paneling are available.

Patent-pending exterior designs will reveal distinct body lines and new features for an RV. Unique CR/CR5 amenities include DryCamp, which is a completely off-grid power system, as well as MyControl, an iPad power management system which wirelessly controls an entire RV.

WORLD-CLASS DEVELOPMENT

GCT has strategically engaged firms from the automotive, aerospace, and motorsports fields, including Dallara, the world's largest producers of racing cars.  Headquartered in Italy and the USA, Dallara provides consultancies to advanced automotive and aerospace industries.  GCT is integrating Dallara's storied history of racing and composite expertise into RV manufacturing.

Dallara USA CEO Stefano DePonti views Dallara's engagement with GCT as an evolution of Dallara consultancies.  "For Dallara, helping GCT to design RVs applies our strengths in composites, testing, and vehicle dynamics, learned from decades of experience in racing car competition," DePonti said.  "It is fitting that Dallara is lending our advice and expertise to such a transformative project."

The CR-1 Carbon's design includes collaborations with international designers, as well as Cinimod Innovation, a firm managed by Keith Nagara, Director of Lawrence Technological University's Transportation Design Program.  Danny White, Director of Purdue Motorsports, is consulting to help GCT transform RV manufacturing, improving safety and standards.