Every component is connected within the caravan and camping world. Consider the rise of off-grid capability; new power systems are revolutionising how we camp, with climate control being a major driver. But this new technology has a ripple effect, influencing everything in your caravan from the solar panels on the roof to the hubs on your wheels.
The core issue is weight. Powerful systems that support high-draw appliances for climate control require multiple solar panels and large, heavy batteries. These systems are significantly heavier than the traditional 12V setups used for just a fridge and lights.
Thankfully, manufacturers are working towards the same thing. Advancements in air-conditioner efficiency, for example, mean they are compatible with a wider range of power systems. This makes air-conditioned comfort accessible to more caravanners towing with different size 4WDs and diverse setups. However, every saved kilogram counts, which is where suspension and hub design come in.
A key “under the bonnet” advancement that saves precious weight is modern hub design. By increasing available payload, holidaymakers who are looking for a lighter setup can enjoy all the off-grid comforts without fitting a second axle on their caravan.
A prime example is the hub assembly seen in the Holroyd HX3, which supports a 3-tonne aggregate trailer mass (ATM). According to Anthony Harrison from Holroyd, the HX3’s clever fin design is critical. “It draws heat away from the braking system,” Anthony explains. “That gives you longevity and a much lighter braking system, so now people get that payload.”
The heat-dissipating fins are just one part of the story. The entire assembly is engineered for durability and balance, featuring:
This technology isn’t just a concept; it’s being proven in the field. Leading Australian suspension manufacturers like ALPHA and ARV Suspensions (makers of ‘The Titan Range‘) offer Holroyd 3T HX3 hubs within their ranges.
At last year’s Tough Tested event, this Essential Caravan Highlander was fitted with a 3T-rated Titan-X suspension featuring this exact hub. The Highlander’s outstanding performance is great news for off-road enthusiasts who want the weight savings of a single-axle design without sacrificing the latest off-grid comforts. It proves that the right hub design is a critical link in the chain for building a capable, modern, and payload-efficient off-road caravan.
