The Life Chariot, which gained attention after winning design awards two years ago, has now inspired a next-generation creation known as the Unit 1. Developed by Polish manufacturer Da Orffo, this versatile trailer is built for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and even emergency scenarios. Designed with a modular platform, the Unit 1 can transform from a rugged kayak carrier to a compact camper, cargo hauler, or mountain-ready off-road utility trailer.
Originally developed for battlefield and rescue operations during the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, the Life Chariot’s platform has been repurposed for civilian use. Da Orffo, based in Krakow, has a background in producing both military and recreational support trailers since 2012. Their latest creation, the Unit 1, adapts the rugged resilience of the Life Chariot into an all-in-one recreational trailer for extreme conditions.
The Unit 1 features a welded steel-beam frame housed within durable fenders, offering a straightforward yet solid chassis. Its standout suspension includes rocker arms and oversized coilovers with eight-stage gas stiffness adjustment, giving it a remarkable 13.8 inches (35 cm) of ground clearance and 10 inches (25 cm) of wheel travel. This setup ensures stability and shock absorption across tough terrain.
From this rugged foundation, the Unit 1 builds upward in a modular fashion. The first component is a recessed storage tray within the chassis, followed by a raised platform rack across the fenders. Additional tiers can include left and right side lockers with drop-down hatch doors that serve as worktops or shelving, while the central open area can house bike mounts, kayak racks, or even a dirt bike carrier with a deployable ramp.
For those looking for full-width storage, Da Orffo offers both a cargo tub and the D1 adventure box, which has accessible hatches on all sides. These modules echo the design of Da Orffo’s original Sport Utility Trailer, offering both practicality and versatility.
Buyers can top off their trailers with more components, like upper platform racks or crossbars to support rooftop tents. Additional add-ons include hot shower boxes, water tanks, propane canisters, solar panels, and more, turning the trailer into a fully equipped mobile basecamp.
The base model of the Unit 1 trailer measures 10.8 feet (3.3 meters) long and weighs 827 pounds (375 kg), while offering a load capacity of up to 1,100 pounds (500 kg). A height-adjustable articulating hitch ensures compatibility with a variety of towing vehicles.
The starting price for the base Unit 1 trailer, including the chassis and fender-top rack, is PLN69,987 (about US$18,800). The XP version, with dual side lockers, central storage, and upper rails, is priced at PLN93,726 (US$25,200), excluding rooftop tents or camping gear. For motorcyclists, the moto-loading model with side lockers and retractable ramp is available at PLN103,320 (US$27,750).
With rugged flexibility and a modular system that adapts to virtually any use case, the Unit 1 shows how a military-grade concept can evolve into one of the most adaptable camping trailers available today.
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