Campa USA Expedition Vehicle Sytem

[Nullifier]

Well Amigo's I have some interesting news. On our Baja 1000 expedition last fall. Chris Cole (campa USA), Mike Lokey (Lokey Trucks), and myself were up late talking over the usual rederic of expedition vehicles, outfitting etc. Always intreaged with new ideas and improved old ones, we were discussing the merits of trailers vs self contained vehicles. Me being the only one planning on using a self contained rig, and it being a truck got us to talking about an expedition truck with good reliability and a fully contained camping system like how the campa trailer system is. We were talking about various ways of cutting up my truck etc and Chris Cole secretly formed a plan in his mind reguarding the all the talks.

After returning home I got a call from Chris at Campa and we discussed at length the merits of the various Toyota Truck offerings and where to get one. After having been to Toyota of Dallas it was decided that working with Ben and Jacque would be the best plan to buy and outfit a new '07 Tacoma for the build. Getting one complete with and OME suspension system and front and rear ARB locker was no problem from T.O.D. so the truck was ordered and in a few weeks Chris flew out to pick it up.

After 2 months of Fabrication and custom work here is the product. I will have more firm specs in a bit but Chris emailed me some build and final pics. It features lights, custom bumpers, dual batteries, hot shower, 22 gallon water tank 39 gallons fuel, engel, honda generator, full kitchen, tent suystem, hard case mounts on top rack, compressor system ome suspension w airbag, 33" tires dual arb lockers, manual tranny propane tanks, and a whole lot more. The system will be offered as a complete buy it and drive truck with plans for a diy kit. This rig is amazing and I can't wait to see it in person. Anyway without further ado here is the Campa USA Expedition Vehicle System.

First the basic Tacoma witht he composite bed removed.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3735.jpg

Then the OME suspension witht he air bags intalled.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3745.jpg

The heart of the electrical system.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3737.jpg

The first office pic.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3742.jpg

Office pic #2 showing switches in the center console.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3743.jpg

Some shots of the main bin and rear kitchen bin under construction before wheel well storage bins.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3703.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3704.jpg

The modified All Pro Offroad front bumper with winch.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3725.jpg

the under hood battery management system.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3732.jpg

This are all the under construction images I can show for now but this covers the basics of it.

[Nullifier]

Now for some of the final pics. There were a few changes to the bin for the final. It is taller then the early prototype pics. This was to gain maximum storage capacity. You will also note the side storage wheel well bins, propane tanks

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_088.jpg


In this image you will see the tent covered and the rear flood lights. You can also see the rear kitchen bin. It has 2 burner stove, spice rack, plates, bowls, cups, utensils, cutlery and more in it. You can also see the l.e.d. tail lights.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_087.jpg

A front shot shows the custom bumper and winch set up.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_086.jpg

This gives you a perspective against the trailer system. Note the taller bin on the truck and matching wheels on the trailer the truck and trailer each can carry a matching spare tire no problem.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_084.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_082.jpg

And here are the shots set up and deployed.

Note the Pelican cases mounted up top forward of the tent. You can get to your clothes and stuff from inside the tent this way.
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0082.jpg

Here you can see the tent with the drop down room. The drop room features a zip down door for all weather kitchen access. You can also see the Engel fridge which is on a custom slide as well here.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0075.jpg

A front angle same side. Keep in mind there are some zip on awnings that will run down the side of the truck/tent when deplyed. They can be put on both sides.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0076.jpg

Driver side shot.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0074.jpg

Close up of drivers side bin system.Note the Kitadyne expedition water filter and hot water shower systems. You can also see the side awning rolled up.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0078.jpg

[Nullifier]

And finally a front shot with the Campa USA trailer in the pic too.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/PIC_0077.jpg


The amazing thing is that in 10 minutes up can be set in camp or break down. % if you hustle and don't set out a bunch of stuff. The system here is basically the same as what we used in baja. It is just mounted right on the truck.

[gjackson]

That is flat out awesome! Very nice build. With both truck and trailer that is a lot of space! Thanks for the details.

:bowdown: :bowdown:

cheers

[Lost Canadian]

:smileeek: .......speechless.....:smileeek:

[Boston Mangler]

Awesome!

Top notch build for sure! :punk03:

[oldhockeyvb]

and zoooo:

How much?

Vern

[pwc]

I don't :drool: much but DAMN

:drool:

[detailbarn]

that setup is damn near my perfect setup that I want , time to start selling off stuff and saving the penny's. :elkgrin:

[offroadchef]

The choices this one or the chaser you have to love it. choices

[jeffryscott]

that is amazing - looks very well thought out and functional. :bowdown:

[StumpXJ]

That is rediculously cool. How much? :D (typical words of the consumer right?)

~James

[calamaridog]

:bowdown:

[seth_js]

Sick, but I'd probably have to sell my house to afford that thing.

[Andrew Walcker]

WOW!!! Very nice!!! Between the Taco Chaser and this offering from CAMPA, it is changing my perception of an expedition rig:26_16_2:

[elcoyote]

Kudos! Nice job!

[Nullifier]

Well guys i'm not really sure on the pricing yet. I do not know that Campa has nailed that down. I'm sure it will be up there since it is a complete turn key expedition rig, but not near earth roamer rigs obviously LOL! I think the plan is to offer the tacoma set up which I guess could be done in x cab and d-cab long beds, that would affect pricing a bit. As well as plans for a unit that slides in the existing factory bed of a pick up. Alowing a removable bin/ tent configuration. I think Chris has even planned on offering a DIY kit to some effect but no details yet. I know that he doesn't have plans on retro fitting older trucks in his shop since older truck can have issues with abuse, rust etc, but there will be exeptions I'm sure.

I think he also has plans to build a unit for full size trucks in the future so setting up a f-250/350 or chevy2500/3500 or Ram, tundra etc would be possible. This is just the first offering to come I'm sure on that.

If you want price info I would contact Campa and talk with them. I'm sure there are several options that can be added or subtracted from this exact truck. I think Mike Lokey will pop in here and be able to provide more info then me. I was just consulting with them on this project but am not on the inside price loop discussions LOL!

[kcowyo]

I know cool, and that is cool! :bowdown:

[Nullifier]

oh I almost forgot. All the bins hardware hinges tent platform etc are stainless stel. No worries of rust or wear. Even the frame that the bin sits on is stainless. The only aluminum is the lower compartments for electrical and the rear step plate on the bumper

[Joaquin Suave]

VERY COOL!!!!

one question....

Where you the yak's live?

[ArchaeoTaco]

Wow - phenomenal work! That is a true expedition vehicle!

[mountainpete]

Simply wow. Very, very nice.

Where is the spare carried?

[Nullifier]

Simply wow. Very, very nice.

Where is the spare carried?

Stock location undernieth on the truck and infront of the main bin on the trailer. the 22 gallon stainless water tank and 20 gallon fuel tank were made to fit inbetween the tacoma chassis and the fram for the campa unit so the toyota factory crossmembers are all in place and functional.

[mountainpete]

Stock location undernieth on the truck and infront of the main bin on the trailer. the 22 gallon stainless water tank and 20 gallon fuel tank were made to fit inbetween the tacoma chassis and the fram for the campa unit so the toyota factory crossmembers are all in place and functional.

There more I look at the pics the more I am impressed. It's great to see innovations like this continuing to come out. Way to go.

I've actually never seen one of the Campa trailers in person - you need to bring one up the Canada!

Pete

[Nullifier]

Well no that it will matter to you probably but the units will be in moab in a month or so. I'll find out when. not sure if it's easter jeep or not.

[DaktariEd]

Fantastic job! :D
Great to see U.S. manufacturers (like Adventure Trailers & Campausa) getting into quality custom expedition rigs like the Aussies...

:26_7_2:

[mountainpete]

Well no that it will matter to you probably but the units will be in moab in a month or so. I'll find out when. not sure if it's easter jeep or not.

Send me one and I'll take it up to Prudhoe Bay with me in August :p

[OverlandZJ]

Extremely nice!

Campa and AT sure are raising the bar on well thought out and useful equipment.

I need to find an MJ... :p

[bigreen505]

Wow, that is impressive!

[campausa]

Thanks everyone for the great response to our Campa EVS. :jumping: Brian thanks for your help and a special thanks to our team at Campa USA that built this truck from scratch in 5 weeks. Keep an eye on our website for more information. Mario, great job on the Taco Chaser too.

Kind Regards,

Chris

[mike h]

Very sweet build - well thought out, looks great! Looking forward to hearing about your first field trip.

m.

[campausa]

Our first road test was about 800 miles last weekend to Washington DC and it was great. The next trip is to Moab for the EJS. We will also have our other vehicle (my trusty Jeep with 115,000 miles wih its Campa DRS in tow). The Campa DRS unit has over 95,000 miles on it. From Moab we head back home via Dallas. Then the first real expedition will be to Guatemala in May and include Belize. Looking forward to that one! Any advice would be welcome.

[adventureduo]

I wish someday i can build a rig like that..

:clapsmile

[tacoma_AL]

WOW!!!:bowdown: the ultimate truck has arrived.

I like the trailer and tent setup. Awsome rig guys, hope it works out great in Guatemala and Belize.

[COONASS]

Our first road test was about 800 miles last weekend to Washington DC and it was great. The next trip is to Moab for the EJS. We will also have our other vehicle (my trusty Jeep with 115,000 miles wih its Campa DRS in tow). The Campa DRS unit has over 95,000 miles on it. From Moab we head back home via Dallas. Then the first real expedition will be to Guatemala in May and include Belize. Looking forward to that one! Any advice would be welcome.


The truck looks great Chris! I can't wait to see it.

Jacque

[p1michaud]

Now for some of the final pics.

That is one cool build up. :jump:
As others have said, nice to see some new expedition rigs come out.
Cheers,
P

[teotwaki]

Any details on the battery management system? Looks like dual batteries with some electronics?

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/100_3732.jpg

[campausa]

There are two batteries; the main battery and the auxiliary battery. The main battery is the OEM Toyota battery and is only responsible for the Toyota Tacoma power systems. The auxiliary battery runs all the accessories including winch, compressor, dual ARB lockers, water pump system, all the Campa EVS lighting systems, etc. The blue item you see in the above photo is a solid state switch from Perfect Switch see http://www.perfectswitch.com/highcurrentswitch.htm. This “switch” prevents the main battery from being drained through using the auxiliary battery on all the Campa EVS electrical accessories. This way you can completely drain the auxiliary battery, an Optima Blue Top deep cycle battery, without affecting the main battery at all and so still start the truck. The “switch” also can “sense” the voltage levels of both batteries and apply charge from the alternator to the battery that needs it most (usually the auxiliary) and bring it back to full capacity and then the “switch” can “manage” both batteries and keep them both at an optimal charge level.

The other really cool thing is that the Toyota Tacoma can run off the auxiliary battery too so should the Toyota OEM battery completely fail, the auxiliary battery will keep both the Toyota and the Campa EVS running.

[jingram]

Wow, absolutely phenomenal build. Now, if only Toyota would provide us with a diesel, I would be all over one. Excellent work and thanks for the write up!!

Jack

[TheBlueOx]

chris the rig looks phenomenal!!!!!
hope to see you and the rig in FL soon


Cory
OFFROADFEVER.com (CORY@OFFROADFEVER.com)

[Grim Reaper]

There are two batteries; the main battery and the auxiliary battery. The main battery is the OEM Toyota battery and is only responsible for the Toyota Tacoma power systems. The auxiliary battery runs all the accessories including winch, compressor, dual ARB lockers, water pump system, all the Campa EVS lighting systems, etc. The blue item you see in the above photo is a solid state switch from Perfect Switch see http://www.perfectswitch.com/highcurrentswitch.htm. This “switch” prevents the main battery from being drained through using the auxiliary battery on all the Campa EVS electrical accessories. This way you can completely drain the auxiliary battery, an Optima Blue Top deep cycle battery, without affecting the main battery at all and so still start the truck. The “switch” also can “sense” the voltage levels of both batteries and apply charge from the alternator to the battery that needs it most (usually the auxiliary) and bring it back to full capacity and then the “switch” can “manage” both batteries and keep them both at an optimal charge level.

The other really cool thing is that the Toyota Tacoma can run off the auxiliary battery too so should the Toyota OEM battery completely fail, the auxiliary battery will keep both the Toyota and the Campa EVS running.

Very intersting device. The web site didn't give a price. What does it run?

[calamaridog]

Very intersting device. The web site didn't give a price. What does it run?

The price can vary quite a bit depending on which one you get. I'm looking at getting a 250 amp, single rectifier isolator. Last I checked it was around $350 or so.

[Tucson T4R]

Here's a link to one serveral of us 4Runner owners installed with our dual battery systems. It manages the primary and secondary batteries a similar fashion. Very nice design and it protects your primary. We also have a switch on our dash to manualy connect the batteries so you can force a self jump from the secondary, if your primary is shot. :-)

http://www.surepower.com/pdf/separatorinterconnect.pdf

[ChuckB]

Just saw this today... WOW!!!

[JayP]

WoW! I can't believe it, I too just discovered this thread. That's one amazing truck! If you may, please post some more pics of this badboy. :bowdown:

[blupaddler]

The price can vary quite a bit depending on which one you get. I'm looking at getting a 250 amp, single rectifier isolator. Last I checked it was around $350 or so.

I just got the 200 amp.
Of course I have yet to install it, (today hopefully)but anyone with questions should contact Scott at Mobi-Arc (aka perfect switch). He is very knowledgeable and will spend the time explaining every little detail throughly.






Oh, and the campa...
:bowdown: :bowdown: :bowdown:
I really like the way you made storage around the real wheel arches. The rear table/kitchen area is neat too! Very well done!!!



I would love to see on a Dodge crew cab diesel. That might be my future wheeler with th current direction of gas prices.

[campausa]

We will have more pics fairly soon. This week the Campa EVS gets nerf bars and hopefully a custom aluminum roof rack if the material arrives in time. We are also equipping the unit with satellite communication system. GPS is already a part of the package.

Also a note on the perfect switch. On later model Toyota Tacomas, the wire from the alternator goes to the battery via the main fuse box. The alternator wire needs to be separated from the fuse box and should be the only wire connected to the auxiliary battery side of the perfect switch. The wire from the starter and from the main fuse box would both be connected to the positive terminal of the main battery. This way the battery power for the starter and the Toyota electronics are protected as the perfect switch protects the main battery from being drained. The system is awesome. I completely drained the auxiliary battery and the truck started right up and after a short drive the auxiliary battery was back at full capacity.

I also disconnected the ground terminal from the main battery (I left the ground terminal and positive terminal of the auxiliary battery connected) and the truck fired right up too. (This was after the auxiliary battery was at full capacity).

The hot water shower system works really well too. The water is heated by the radiator fluid passing through a heat exchanger. You can adjust the temperature with both your heater controls and the engine rpm.

[TACODOC]

:drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool: :drool:

Beautiful...

[JonS]

Very nice seeing this being done here in the US.

[Willman]

What size tires are those????? 255 or 285's?????

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_088.jpg

[Nullifier]

What size tires are those????? 255 or 285's?????

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b318/nullifierx/Campa%20EVS/CAMPA_EVS_088.jpg

I think these are 305 tires.

[Nullifier]

I would love to see on a Dodge crew cab diesel. That might be my future wheeler with th current direction of gas prices.

Chris has been talking latelty about selling the Toyota and building a Dodge full size. It would not surprise me if in the next 6 months that this project is underway. He wants to do a crew cab diesel with a full EVS conversion.

[haven]

Does anyone know how much Campa USA wants for the Toyota EVS? The truck appeared on eBay in June. Bidding got to $25,000, which did not meet the reserve price.

A Dodge 3500 with diesel and single rear wheels would be a nice platform for another EVS project. If they start work now, they could be ready for SEMA. The show is a little early this year, Oct. 30 to Nov 2.

Chip Haven

[TACODOC]

Drool... :Astrologist:

[Cabrito]

Does anyone know how much Campa USA wants for the Toyota EVS?
Chip Haven

The website says $65k asking price :Wow1:

..

[Detslider]

Bumping to see if this cool idea/truck ever evolved any further

I see the original has changed hands a few times now
http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/threads/8016-Campa-Expedition-Vehicle-System-Prototype-For-Sale!!!!/page3

Did the Dodge version get built?

[Nullifier]

Chris will still do conversions. He just acquired a new expo platform that he has been planning for about 6 months. It will be amazing but I can not spoil te surprise. But let's just say 1000 mile range, 39" tires and all the amenities of home.

[Taco162]

I know what it is and have seen it too!!! Talk to Chris couple times a week.

[Gooseberry]

it all looks great but getting anything out of the fridge would be a little anoying.

[dodecagon2000]

I think these are 305 tires.

you really think these are 305's? i would like to know what size they are

[upcountry]

I think those are bo larger than 32". Notice the stock mudflaps are still on.

The only way to get a tire bigger than 33" without modifying the stock body mount and therefore removing the mudflap is to go with a box extension lift like an RCD.

Because the stock mudflap remains, it tells me they are likely maximum size of 285. More likely 275.

You can run a 285 without removing the stock mudflap IF you run near zero caster where the spindle axis is straight up and down moving the wheel patch forward and allowing you to have enough space in back of the tire to keep the stock mudflap.

[Willman]

285's or 295's.....Most likely 285's as those rims are only 7.5" wide.....

[upcountry]

BFG AT/KO 285/75/16 is my bet.

[dodecagon2000]

i think so too

[Nullifier]

That Tacoma was running 295 when Chris had it.