The Australian RV industry is witnessing the return of a historic nameplate as Prattline RV introduces the 2026 Low Tow, a modern redux of a telescopic trailer design that first debuted over half a century ago.
While the trailer features a cutting-edge aesthetic reminiscent of modern all-electric units, it is a reimagining of the original concept founded by Dick Pratt in 1957, according to an article by New Atlas.
Prattline was a pioneer in the telescopic hard-sided trailer category, utilizing a two-shell design where the upper shell nests over the lower half to improve aerodynamics and lower the center of gravity.
This revived version replaces the original manual hydraulic cranks with electric actuators that raise the 22.7-foot trailer to its full camping height of 9.3 feet at the push of a button.
The 2026 Low Tow is engineered specifically for off-road travel, featuring a high-clearance tapered galvanized-steel chassis and a 2,600-kg dual-shock independent coil suspension.
It rides on 16-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Goodride radial mud-terrain light truck tires and is equipped with 12-inch electric brakes to handle rugged terrain.
The body is constructed with a vacuum-bonded fiberglass frame, an anti-rot honeycomb floor, and a single-piece roof.
A significant design update includes a sliding dual-height door that functions seamlessly whether the unit is in its 6.9-foot towing height or its fully extended camping configuration, which provides 6.2 feet of interior standing room.
Interior amenities include a 78-by-59-inch island bed with a high-density foam mattress and a dinette that converts into a second sleeping area.
The floor plan is completed by a wet bath featuring a collapsible fabric upper body and an indoor kitchen equipped with a dual-burner induction cooktop and a 12V compressor fridge.
The trailer also caters to the growing demand for outdoor living with a slide-out exterior galley that includes a four-burner gas stove and a sink with an extendable worktop.
For off-grid capabilities, the unit is powered by a 600-Ah lithium battery system supported by 600 watts of solar power and a 2,000-watt inverter.
Prattline has spent two years developing the prototype and is currently accepting preorders at an introductory price of AU$79,990, or approximately $55,000. While the company is currently focused on the Australian market, leadership has expressed long-term interest in expanding to the United States and Europe.
This innovation demonstrates how vintage space-saving concepts can be successfully modernized to meet contemporary demands for off-road durability and fuel-efficient aerodynamics.
For RV manufacturers and dealers, the return of “low-tow” telescopic technology offers a solution for consumers who prioritize ease of towing and storage without compromising the security and insulation of hard-sided walls once at the campsite
Featured image by Prattline RV via https://prattlinerv.com.au