GORV - Digital Magazine Issue #26 | Page 19

RV REVIEW “THE VAN EMPLOYS A SYSTEM OF SANDWICH PANELS COMPRISED OF 30MM ONE-PIECE WALLS AND A ONE-PIECE ROOF PANEL.” Naturally, there are plenty of other features and comforts not listed here, though I will point out the roof-mounted Dometic air-conditioner, specifically how it’s mounted. Back at the factory, I saw a finished roof before it was fitted to a van. Within the foam core was an extruded aluminium frame to support the weight of the air-con – I couldn’t help but be a little impressed. SUMMING UP I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again: the Coromals of today can’t be compared to those of two or three years ago. Night and day. Apples and oranges. It shows that a van can be much more than a stick and tin construction. It is lighter and just as tough – if not tougher – than many of its counterparts The payload capacity is 384kg. Is that enough? Much depends on how you travel, but it is 84kg greater than the historical standard for single- axle vans. With its ‘automotive-style’ chassis and composite construction, and overall decent fitout, the Coromal Element 553 Evolution RTV has a lot of potential and a lot to offer. / 19