The Auriga Explorer may at first look like a standard Ford Ranger with a retractable roof camper mounted on its flatbed, but it hides a surprising twist. Unlike typical setups, its cabin is seamlessly connected to the driver’s cab, allowing easy movement between driving and living spaces. Even more intriguing, it features only two doors yet is not a single-cab model, indicating a clever modification that expands interior space.
Built on the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok, the Auriga Explorer is a rugged off-road pickup camper designed for any terrain, from deserts to forests to mountains, even with its retractable features. Its GRP (glass-fiber-reinforced plastic) shell keeps it light, with a total weight under 3.5 tons. Once you have reached your destination, it expands into a roomy four-person lodge with a pop-up roof and three slide-outs, all activated by the press of a button.
The expedition vehicle measures 5.85m in length, 2.25m in height, and 2.10m in width. Inside, it offers about eight square meters of floor space, with a standing height of 2.05 meters when the roof is raised. The sleek shadow edges of the Auriga Explorer’s cabin not only define its striking design but also enhance aerodynamics and driving comfort.
Inside, the truck camper features a smart layout that ensures great comfort in a compact space. The kitchen, sleeping area, and storage are efficiently designed for self-sufficient travel.
The seating area serves as benches with a large pull-out table by day, and by night it easily converts into a 2m x 1.5m guest bed. The compact kitchen includes a diesel-powered two-burner stove and oven. Two slide-outs provide spacious closets for clothes and other items, plus an extra hanging closet next to the kitchen offers more storage space.
The vehicle can sleep up to four people with flexible options. In the alcove, there are two fold-up beds with a 20 cm mattress and Froli suspension for extra comfort. One person can rest while the other can start the day. The rear seating area also converts into two more beds for added sleeping space.
Lastly, the entrance area transforms into a generous shower, featuring a removable floor and fold-out walls. There is a smart water system that continuously recycles and treats the water during use. The bathroom has a space-saving dry toilet neatly integrated and can be pulled out when needed. The roomy rear garage provides ample storage for all your gear, from camping furniture to sports equipment.
As explained by the founder, Frank Haltermann, the Auriga Explorer combines the best of a compact all-wheel-drive pickup truck and the comfort of a luxury expedition vehicle. This container-compatible truck camper is still a prototype, and there is no word about pricing yet. We expect it to be completed this year.
Via: New Atlas / Vanlifemag
