Mr Nelsen’s Ambush Campers is the ultimate “toy hauler” – the unique trailer base accommodates up to three dirt bikes, a quad bike or kayak and unfolds into a self-erecting tent at the push of a button.
The dual use – a camper and a trailer - means holidaymakers can tow both their accommodation and adventure toys.
Mr Nelsen, a motorcycle enthusiast, said the concept came to him while sitting in a traffic jam on the south coast more than 10 years ago.
“I had a camper sitting on the back that I just bought and the car beside me was a ute with swags in the back and bikes in a trailer behind,” he said.
In that light bulb moment, Mr Nelsen began to think how he could tow his two loves – his bikes and his camper.
“I spent that whole weekend working on the plans for Ambush Campers,” he said.
Fast forward a decade and Mr Nelsen obtained patents for the tent’s expandability and self-erecting capabilities with the help of Hills based patent attorney Andre Meyer.
“Traditionally toy haulers are big and bulky but my design is very light weight,” said Mr Nelsen who leant on his extensive engineering knowledge to build the prototype.
The Ambush Campers comes into its own once travellers reach their campsite. The electric set up means the tent takes less than 60 seconds to erect using a smartphone or remote control and unfolds in such a way that there is no need for support poles.
The main tent features eight large windows and doors and accommodates a double size air bed and plenty of storage space.
So where would Mr Nelsen like to see his labour of love go?
“I hope to be able to get my other businesses into a position of independence from me so that I can concentrate more on this. This has always been my passion because it started out as an idea of my own,” he said.
Mr Nelsen launched the all Australian made Ambush Campers 12 months ago and has been buoyed by the reaction.
“The feedback has been incredibly positive. I would to see a lot of units out there.”
To see Ambush Campers in action visit www.ambushcampers.com.au
