Since its launch in 2019, Alabama’s Storyteller Overland has been solely focused on the production of all-terrain camper vans, catering to a wide range from inconspicuous to powerful vehicles. However, the company is now taking a different direction with the introduction of their all-new Hilt, a heavy-duty camper truck that is specifically optimized for exploring remote, off-grid locations. The robust Hilt model houses a spacious and modern efficiency apartment on top of a Ram 5500 chassis powered by a 6.7-liter diesel engine, providing the ultimate off-grid experience anywhere in the world.
The launch of the Hilt truck comes after Storyteller’s acquisition of Global Expedition Vehicles (GXV) in January 2022. With this acquisition, Storyteller aims to expand their 550 HD-series adventure truck line through increased manufacturing in Alabama, while GXV continues to produce larger custom expedition rigs at their facility in Springfield, Missouri. The Hilt represents the first production-ready Class C truck camper developed as a result of the collaboration between Storyteller and GXV.
The 27-foot-long Hilt is an evolution of GXV’s Adventure Truck lineup introduced in 2019 and maintains some of its distinct design features. One such feature is the row of round auxiliary lights that stretch across the front alcove of the Hilt, reminiscent of the original Adventure Truck that featured a lighting-fronted rack over its cab. The Hilt takes this design further by incorporating a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic, with five KC HiLites placed across the width of the alcove. This is part of a 360-degree KC lighting array that extends around the entire edge of the roof. The front-mounted lighting has become a signature feature of GXV’s Adventure Truck line and continues to be a prominent design element in the Hilt.
While previous GXV Adventure Trucks offered the option of a Ford F-550 chassis, the Hilt sticks to the other half of the equation by utilizing a Ram 5500 base chassis. The Ram 5500 is equipped with a powerful 360-hp Cummins 6.7-liter turbo-diesel engine, capable of delivering up to 800 lb-ft of torque. The truck also features a LiquidSpring smart hydraulic suspension system that continuously analyzes driving conditions and adjusts damping and ride height accordingly, optimizing performance. With 41-inch multipurpose tires and beadlock wheels, the Hilt offers an impressive 10.5 inches of ground clearance, with the front reaching up to 22 inches.
The living module of the Hilt is constructed using a vacuum-infused resin process, ensuring a lightweight and durable structure. The module incorporates carbon and Kevlar reinforcements for added strength, and the interior is fully insulated with 2-inch closed cell foam. A specially developed “Zero Torsion” subframe connects the module to the 5500 chassis, reducing stress on the motorhome by isolating movement from the chassis.
Inside, the Hilt features a clean and neutral rear-lounge floor plan. The lounge area includes a spacious wraparound sofa that can comfortably seat four to five people around a central dining table. At night, the sofa converts into a large bed measuring 60 x 78 inches. The dinette is designed to accommodate four to five adults and can also be converted into a bed for two.
One of the standout features of the Hilt is its off-grid readiness. The camper is equipped with a 16.8-kWh lithium battery bank, supported by two 3,000-W inverters for efficient power distribution throughout the motorhome. A 1,325-W solar charging system harnesses solar energy to charge the batteries, while a Mission Control color command screen allows easy monitoring and control of the entire power system. The kitchen area on the passenger side makes effective use of the electrical system, offering a dual-burner induction cooktop, a 195-liter fridge/freezer, a stainless steel convection oven, a microwave, and an air fryer. The sink is connected to a Guzzle H20 water purification system, ensuring clean and drinkable water at all times.
The Hilt also features a wet bathroom conveniently located below the alcove double bed. The bathroom includes a shower, a flushable cassette toilet, a sink, an exhaust fan, a mirror, and storage space. A retractable clothesline is provided for drying wet clothing. The camper has a fresh water capacity of 454 liters and a gray water capacity of 189 liters. Additionally, it has a 197-liter diesel tank for long-range expeditions. Climate control is provided by a 10K-BTU hydronic heating system and a 15K-BTU air conditioner, allowing for comfortable year-round camping.
Storyteller Overland unveiled the Hilt at the Elkhart RV Open House in Indiana, alongside Westfalia, which showcased its anticipated return to the US market. The Hilt is being described as a market disruptor and the first camper truck of its kind to be built on a large scale. Jeffrey Hunter, CEO of Storyteller, explains that the aim was to make this type of vehicle more accessible and affordable, without compromising on quality. The Hilt is available at a limited introductory price of $398,786, with the expectation that prices will increase after the initial launch models are sold out.
For a theatrical glimpse of the Hilt in action, Storyteller has released an 18-minute mini-documentary, the first part of a three-part series, showcasing the truck’s capabilities and the journey it can take adventurers on. With its rugged design and luxurious features, the Hilt is sure to capture the attention of passionate travelers and off-grid enthusiasts alike.
[Source: Storyteller Overland]
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
