Arksen is taking the RV market by storm with a flawless transition from ultra-modern explorer yachts to a mind-blowing range of overland vehicles. Project Everest, or the Arksen UI700, is a fresh take on the iconic Mercedes Unimog, mixing top-tier technology with maritime-inspired aesthetics for the ultimate outdoor adventure.
Arksen emerged as one of the youngest and boldest luxury yacht builders, with a focus on explorer capabilities and increased sustainability. Arksen 85, the company's flagship, is an 88-foot (27-meter) beast that combines top-notch performance with some of the latest green technologies.
It starts with a sustainably-designed aluminum hull with up to 40% recycled content, continuing with hybrid-electric propulsion and solar panels. Rugged enough to cruise smoothly even in the most challenging climates, the Arksen 85 is also designed for extended self-sufficiency.
As the ultimate adventure toy at sea, it combines massive storage capacity (it features two separate stowage areas for tenders, submersibles, and smaller toys) with a world-cruising range of 7,000 nautical miles (12,960 km) at nine knots (10.3 mph/16.6 kph).
The first two Arksen 85 units, Project Ocean and Project Pelagos, were launched in 2021 and 2022, respectively. At the beginning of this year, the London-based builder made its US debut at the Palm Beach International Show.
The Arksen 30 took the spotlight as a smaller, speedier watercraft reflecting the same modern principles as the bigger Arksen 85. The Arksen 30 is part of the brand's Adventure Series, promising a thrilling 45-knot (51 mph/83 kph) speed and a modern take on accommodation, featuring an optional canvas sleep pod.
True to its pioneering spirit and visionary approach, the UK yacht builder did what no other yacht builder had done. It ventured further into the wild overlanding world with an amazing collection of ground-based adventure vehicles. The new branch, Arksen Overland, was launched under the slogan "Arksen Comes Ashore” and was born under the coordination of one of the most respected names in the automotive industry, Rich Brown.
Rich Brown was a strategy and innovation specialist at Ford for more than two decades and is now ready to make Arksen Overland one of the hottest brands in the industry. The idea was simple – take existing, proven platforms and rebuild them using the latest technology and unique marine-inspired aesthetics. It's all part of the parent company's fundamental principle of sustainable circular economy.
Photo: Arksen Overland
It looks like a noble goal – iconic vehicles are getting a second life. It's also better for the planet – Arksen says its new vehicles will save as much CO2 as a new 4X4 would generate on a trip around the world (40,000 km/24,850 miles). Last but not least, this fresh range is also about the highest level of comfort and the greatest off-road experience, where those inside feel strongly connected to the outdoors while still enjoying maximum protection.
Project Everest would be the top pick for those interested in generous accommodation and long-range. It's built on the legendary Unimog, one of the most iconic overland adventure platforms, topped with an entirely new expedition body. It's also the brand's flagship overland truck. It was a long and complex process for the Arksen team, which included full vehicle restoration, a six-seat extra cab conversion, and the integration of a bespoke four-berth expedition body.
As its name suggests, the Arksen UI700 is a UI700L restored from the ground up, with an extended cab and an all-new mounted expedition body. It's 7,450 mm long (24.4 feet), 2,450 mm wide (eight feet), and 3,625 mm high (11.8 feet). It combines a refurbished and upgraded drivetrain with 20" bead lock rims, 46.8" tires, and front, central, and rear diff locks for top-notch off-road performance.
Apart from the comfortable and spacious configuration, the new cab comes with premium air-ride seats, overhead air conditioning, full sound insulation, and full mobile connectivity. Project Everest is ready for extended off-road trips, thanks to reliable power sources and ample storage, among other things. In addition to the 400AH lithium battery system, it packs a reliable alternator and 880W of roof-mounted solar panels.
Photo: Arksen Overland
Its large-capacity fuel tanks can ensure an impressive on-road range of about 2,500 km (1,550 miles). It's also equipped with a 280-liter (74 gallons) freshwater tank and can be fitted with an optional 75-liter (19.8 gallons) greywater tank and a desalination unit.
As for storage, it has loads of it. On the outside, it offers storage across two zones, while the interior integrates numerous cabinets, drawers, and a pantry. The front and rear passenger seats in the cab provide extra storage, and, in addition to the cab rook rack, the UI700 can be fitted with an extreme-duty double bike rack.
If the rugged design and modern tech ensure excellent on-road and off-road capabilities, Project Everest’s interior is meant to be a comfortable sanctuary. First of all, it's spacious enough to comfortably accommodate a group of four or a large five-member family. The modern, flexible layout boasts a double bed at floor level and a retractable queen bed mounted on the ceiling.
The elegant living/dining area can seat up to five people, offering beautiful 270-degree views. It's part of an open-plan layout that also includes a luxurious kitchen. Ultra-modern and well-equipped, this kitchen reveals sturdy countertops, numerous cabinets, and premium appliances, including a large fridge/freezer, a built-in oven, and a portable induction hub. Together with the BBQ grill and external sink, this portable hub creates a perfect outdoor kitchen for those long off-road adventures.
Photo: Arksen Overland
Other adventure-ready features include the outdoor shower and an optional high-capacity washing machine. The Overlander's wet room comes with a basic shower, a composting toilet, and a fold-out stainless steel sink. When the weather is right, this comfortable cocoon turns into an extended outdoor sanctuary complete with an exterior kitchen, shower, an awning for sun protection, and an advanced infotainment system.
Black-out blinds, insect screens, and low thermal transfer windows are all part of the standard features that make Project Everest extra comfortable. Style-wise, its minimalistic, contemporary interiors use marine-derived style concepts and materials. This Overlander stays uncluttered and elegant while also exuding a homely ambiance.
A fresh take on the popular Unimog, Project Everest is meant to showcase Arksen's modern philosophy through a family-friendly, high-performance, and luxurious setup.
The Arksen UI700 is part of Arksen Overland's 2023 range and is up for grabs, with pricing available upon request.
Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News