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This German Startup’s Overlander Turns a Ford Ranger Into an Expanding Micro-Lodge

Auriga Explorer Voyager 0 Hero
Photo: Auriga

The overland camper scene has no shortage of expandable rigs promising to maximize livable space, but German startup Auriga Explorer is betting there’s room for one that’s a bit more athletic with its Voyager. Built on a Ford Ranger platform (with VW Amarok compatibility coming), this newcomer deploys the familiar playbook — pop-up roof, multiple slide-outs, sub-3.5-ton weight — but packages it in a surprisingly compact form that looks more rally raid than traditional camper box. Founded just two years ago in 2023, Auriga is the latest entrant trying to prove they can execute these concepts better than the competition.

Auriga Explorer Voyager 1
Photo: Auriga

Compact Rig, Massive Payoff

The Voyager overlander starts with a single-cab Ford Ranger and keeps the footprint surprisingly tight: 19.2ft long, 6.9ft wide, and 7.4ft tall when buttoned up for driving. That’s shorter than most Sprinter vans while delivering impressive off-road capability.

But here’s where it gets interesting: an electro-pneumatic system deploys a pop-up roof and three independent slide-outs (left, right, and rear), transforming roughly 86sq.ft of floor space into a proper four-person lodge with 6.7ft of standing height. The rear slide-out pulls double duty as a gear garage accessible through side hatches, while the lateral extensions house clothing cupboards — a smarter take on expandable space than we typically see in this segment.

Auriga Explorer Voyager 2
Photo: Auriga

Well-Designed Inside & Out

The rig’s distinctive dual-spare-tire setup integrated into the rear corners helps it maintain departure angles while providing an extra safety net for remote travel. The GRP (glass fiber reinforced plastic) shell keeps the entire rig under 7,716lbs, preserving that sub-3.5-ton sweet spot for licensing in most markets.

Inside, the split alcove bed features two 6.6-foot sleeping surfaces that each fold independently, so early risers can start breakfast without disturbing their partner. The convertible dinette handles six people during the day before transforming into a 5.9ft x 4.9ft transverse bed at night.

The kitchen packs a diesel range with a four-burner stove and oven (yes, an actual oven in a truck camper), while the bathroom uses fold-out walls to create a proper shower cubicle with a water recirculation system and pullout dry-separation toilet. Solar panels, underfloor heating, and a compressor fridge round out the essentials.

Auriga Explorer Voyager 3
Photo: Auriga

Spec Sheet

Base Vehicle: Ford Ranger Single Cab
Dimensions (Closed): 230.3″ x 82.7″ x 88.6″
Interior Space: 86.1 sq.ft (expanded)
Standing Height: 6.7 ft (roof deployed)
Weight: Under 7,716 lbs
Sleeping Capacity: 4 adults
Construction: GRP composite shell
Power: Solar panels with battery system

Pricing & Availability

Auriga plans to begin production in Germany before the end of 2025, with the Voyager sized specifically to fit inside standard shipping containers for worldwide export. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but those interested should check Auriga Explorer’s website for updates when production details are finalized.

Recap

Auriga Explorer Voyager Overlander

German startup Auriga Explorer just unveiled the Voyager, a Ford Ranger-based camper that expands in four directions with slide-outs and a pop-up roof to sleep four people in around 86sq.ft of space.

Auriga Explorer Voyager 0 Hero