For full-time travellers Jess and Allan from ExploreOz, the D-MAX is more than the vehicle that tows their caravan. It is also a standalone touring and filming setup, ready for the days they unhitch and head further afield.

Their 2023 Isuzu D-MAX LSU carries a complete Projecta power system inside a Utemaster Centurion MK4 canopy. The compact setup combines a PM635 Power Management Kit with a 7-inch display, an INVCHR3 3000W 12V inverter/charger and an LB400-HD 12V 400Ah high-discharge lithium battery.

“The biggest difference for us has been the independence it’s given the D-MAX.”

A complete power system in the canopy

The system gives ExploreOz serious storage, 240V capability and centralised control without taking the D-MAX out of its day-to-day touring role. Everything is packaged into the canopy alongside the rest of their travel equipment.

“With the PM635, 400Ah lithium battery, 3000W inverter charger and 7-inch display, we’ve got a level of power management in the back of the D-MAX that, not that long ago, we’d probably only have expected to find in a caravan.”

The Projecta system

• PM635 Power Management Kit with 7-inch display
• INVCHR3 3000W 12V inverter/charger
• LB400-HD 12V 400Ah high-discharge lithium battery

Power that follows the filming day

Full-time travel means filming can continue a long way from camp. Before this setup, flat drone or camera batteries could bring the day to an early stop. Now ExploreOz can recharge from the D-MAX and keep moving.

“Now, if we run something flat, we just plug it into the D-MAX, charge it back up and keep on exploring and filming.”

The same system supports the ordinary rituals that make long days on the road work: pulling up for a meal on the induction cooker or making a coffee wherever the route leads.

Clear control at a glance

The PM635’s 7-inch display brings the system state and controls together in one place. App control gives the passenger another practical way to manage the system while the D-MAX is on the move.

“It’s simple, easy to understand and gives us confidence knowing what’s going on with the system while we’re travelling.”

Built for independent exploring

The caravan remains home, but the D-MAX is no longer tied to it for power. Jess and Allan can unhitch, head out to film or explore for the day and still carry a serious amount of usable power and control in the vehicle.

That is the real strength of this build: not power for its own sake, but a compact system that gives ExploreOz more freedom to travel the way they want.

Build specification

• Vehicle: 2023 Isuzu D-MAX LSU
• Use: full-time touring, caravanning, remote exploring, filming and day trips
• Canopy: Utemaster Centurion MK4
• Refrigeration: Evakool drawer fridge
• Cooking: Travel Buddy 12V Marine Oven and portable induction cooker
• Connectivity: Starlink Mini and Oricom UHF 360R

ExploreOz website