TruckHouse Introduces BCR, a Rugged and Capable Carbon Fiber Overland Camper

Mind you, this is not a custom build from TruckHouse, though, but a full-on collaboration between the two companies. The fruit of the partnership is an impressive overland expedition-style camper that is based on AEV’s top-tier Prospector XL package, which itself is built on the Ram 3500, and brings luxurious living to the most remote corners of the world.

For many, overlanding is a great opportunity to discover things that make life worth living. You might revisit old places that bring back good memories or go to new and exciting places to create fresh ones. And for this, you need a reliable, self-sufficient rig capable of long-distance journeys, whether it be on-road or off-road.

The BCR is the second-ever adventure vehicle coming from TruckHouse, a company that started in 2021. Its first off-road model was the BCT, a rig meant to bridge the gap between large overlanders and camper vans and which aimed to infuse old-school 4×4 charm into a modern vehicle with state-of-the-art technology and high construction quality.

While the first model sits on top of the Toyota Tacoma truck, which many considered the wrong chassis for the job as it had too low payload and power, the BCR has its living quarters on top of a Ram 3500 Prospector XL - a high-payload 1-ton truck touted by AEV as the ultimate backcountry and off-grid rig.

The PXL is modified with a slew of upgrades, such as a 3-inch DualSport RT suspension system, 17-inch wheels clad in massive 40-inch tires, and Highmark fender flares. The truck also comes complete with a steel off-road front bumper and a 74-gal (280-liter) fuel tank, which makes it suitable for long-distance overland trips. Optional upgrades include auxiliary lights and a 20,000 lbs (9,072 kg) winch.

Moreover, the RAM can be configured in either a regular cab or a crew cab, while power options include a Cummins diesel or Hemi gas engine.

These are all features that recommend the heavy-duty pickup truck as a capable foundation for an overlanding vehicle. Now let's move on to BCR's living quarters. According to the company, the BCR is made with aerospace-grade materials, boasting a carbon fiber monocoque shell crafted using the vacuum infusion process. This single-piece shell is fully integrated with the truck chassis underneath and secured via a carbon-reinforced torsion-free mounting system. A pass-through truck cab is also available as an option.

The camper floor alone (without the cabover) measures 10.7 feet (3.26 meters) in length, while the entire expedition vehicle reaches 25 feet (7.6 meters) long if built on a double-cab truck.

In terms of design, the example presented by the two companies features a dark metallic grey exterior with flush-mounted dual-pane windows that give it a clean aesthetic and ensure optimal thermal regulation.

Considering this vehicle is meant to often go off the beaten path, the carbon camper shell boasts some protection-focused features, like rub rails along the top to protect it from branches and rock sliders at the front and rear.

A notable feature of the new BCR is the patent-pending "HiPR Foil" technology that aims to improve the vehicle's aerodynamics. The HiPR foils are basically pressure-reducing inlets on the front of the cabover that act as air curtains. According to TruckHouse, they "reduce the naturally occurring high pressure in front of the cabover by redirecting and controlling drag-induced vortices down the side of the camper."

The interior of the truck camper is a true home on wheels, favoring luxury and functionality. It boasts an open-plan design and a standing height of 6′ 6″ (1.98 m), so there is no need to hunch over while inside the camper. It can accommodate up to four people thanks to a cabover king-size bed and a U-shaped dinette at the rear that can convert into a full bed. Those sleeping in the cabover can also enjoy stargazing at night through the big skylight/hatch over the bed.

The U-shaped dinette is surrounded by huge windows, allowing almost panoramic views of the surroundings. There is also a large kitchen area equipped with an induction cooktop, a convection oven, a two-drawer fridge/freezer unit, a sink, and a microwave. There is no mention of a shower, but prospective owners have three toilet system options to choose from - cassette, dry flush, or composting.

Other noteworthy features include a roof-mounted, recessed awning, ventilation fans, StarLink compatibility for those who need to stay connected on the road, and a "robust” lithium battery bank fed by a massive solar array on the roof, which will power the onboard appliances and equipment. Air conditioning, heated floors, and a 32" LED TV will be available as options.

Designed to provide comfort and functionality on the road, the off-grid, four-season expedition vehicle ticks all the right boxes for a capable motorhome. The TruckHouse BCR Ram 3500 Prospector XL is already available for pre-order with a $10,000 refundable deposit. Deliveries are expected to begin in the spring of 2024, and the companies have remained tight-lipped about pricing for the time being. For reference, the TruckHouse BCT Tacoma builds cost between $285,000 and $380,000, but the newer camper model is bigger and comes with nicer features, so expect a higher price.