Chinese caravans are increasing in popularity with Australian buyers with typically lower priced RVs compared with some Australian-made brands. Pricing appears to be the driving factor for the sales surge with the prices significantly lower on many of the Chinese-built models. But technology appears to be emerging as another key competitive front.
There are more than 30 Chinese-built RV brands selling in the Australian market, including popular names such as Snowy River, EzyTrail and MDC, brands offering great value and choice for Australian buyers.
While RV imports from China have seen a significant rise in popularity with buyers recently, this is far from the first time that Chinese-manufactured goods have presented major competition for Australian-made goods. One of the key reasons for the demise of many manufacturing sectors in Australia was being unable to compete with the lower costs of imported goods. We’re seeing a similar scenario play out in the motor vehicle market where the Chinese brands new to the Australian market are also seeing strong sales.
The rise in Chinese caravan sales has been noted by the local industry with the launch of a campaign by Australian caravan manufacturers to support the local sector. Supporting Australian-made products is still an important consideration for buyers of many products. For caravan buyers with an eye on the dollars, this may present a dilemma – opt for the lower-priced Chinese brand or support the local industry with an Australian-made model?
When deciding which particular RV brand and specific model to buy, buyers need to consider a range of factors including how they intend to use the van, where they plan to travel, for how long, and what level of facilities and inclusions they require.
To assist buyers with their decisions, we provide a summary of some of the features of Chinese-built compared with locally made caravans and how we may add even greater value to their choice with our competitive rates on RV finance.
Chinese Caravans vs Australian-made Features
So how do Chinese-built models stack up against the locally made product? After all, the Australian industry claims to have taught overseas manufacturers how to build caravans when setting up manufacturing facilities in China.
- Price: Chinese brands typically offer lower prices with some models $10K-$20K lower than an Australian-made equivalent.
- Quality: Quality of imports was previously a sticking point with many buyers. Importers claim quality has improved significantly in recent years and rivals Australian-made models. The composite body panels used offer improved rot-resistant qualities. In the top-of-the-range sector, Australian-made models are still considered to be superior to the imports.
- Build: Chinese-built brands generally involve the build of the chassis, framing, composite walls and cladding being done in China and the finishing in Australia.
- Weight: Construction methods used in Chinese-made RVs may contribute to some models being lighter in weight. This may present an easier towing option. But lighter-weight models are also available from locally made brands.
- Design: Buyers can access designs suited to Australian travellers in Chinese brands. Some Chinese brands such as MDC selling in Australia will have models designed in Australia and have their manufacturing facility in China. EzyTrail also has manufacturing overseas. But Chinese models tend to be narrower as they need to be shipped in containers. For wider, roomier options, buyers may need to consider Australian brands.
- Customisation: Limited at best on Chinese brands. Part of the experience in buying a new caravan has always been customising the vehicle to suit individual preferences, travel style and possibly budget. Australian brands usually offer buyers the opportunity to select floorplans, finishes and inclusions. Chinese brands do not generally have the ability to cater for individual requirements.
- Delivery Time: An Australian-made caravan is typically built-to-order and can take some time to deliver depending on the buyer's specifications and the manufacturer’s order load. Imports may have as little as a 3-month delivery time but may face unexpected delays at times due to shipping issues.
- Technology: Some Chinese brands are claiming more advanced technology and innovation.
- Compliance: Buyers can be assured that Chinese caravans must comply with the relevant Australian rules and certification regulations. The gas and electricals are completed locally to ensure compliance.
- Model Range: A comprehensive range of on-road and off-road models is available across many Chinese and Australian caravan brands.
- Customer Service and Support: This is an area where many buyers considering a Chinese caravan may have concerns, particularly with after-sales support. While all products sold in Australia should be protected with warranties under Consumer Laws, the availability of parts may be an issue with overseas-built RVs at times.
If the cost of a new RV is your main concern, then a Chinese caravan brand may be your choice. If support for local manufacturers and having more input into customising your vehicle to suit your travel plans is the priority, then an Australian brand may be your choice.
Finance for Chinese Caravans vs Australian-made
While choosing which brand and which model can be a challenge, deciding on financing is much more straightforward, especially with Jade. All new RVs are financed with a Secured Caravan Loan as lenders accept both Australian and Chinese-made models as loan security. Fixed rates, fixed terms and fixed payments apply to secured loans on all brands and types of RVs.
The lower prices of Chinese models may mean deposits will go further and a lower loan amount is required, reducing the monthly payments and the total interest accrued over the term. To convert caravan prices to loan payments, use our Caravan Finance Calculator.
Your Best Caravan Finance Interest Rates!
We find your most affordable interest rate on caravan finance for all brands. Review our latest rates to see how competitive we are in this market and the value we can add to your purchase. Contact us online or by phone for a quote based on your financials and credit profile.
For competitive rates on loans for Chinese caravans, contact Jade Caravan Finance on 1300 000 003 or connect online.
DISCLAIMER: THE DETAILS AND INFORMATION IN THIS CONTENT ARE PREPARED AND PRESENTED PURELY FOR INFORMATION AND NOT INTENDED IN ANY WAY AS THE SOLE SOURCE OF FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR CARAVAN PURCHASING. IF ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL ADVICE IS REQUIRED, READERS SHOULD REFER TO A FINANCIAL ADVISOR. NO LIABILITY IS ACCEPTED FOR ANY ERRORS, PRODUCT DESCRIPTION VARIATIONS, OR OTHER MISREPRESENTATIONS OF INFORMATION AS PRESENTED.
