News, Editorial and Press Release


Craig Lowndes has the XFactor!

V8 Supercar superstar Craig Lowndes has just taken delivery of a new bespoke Franklin X-Factor, from Kratzmann Caravans.

Developed specifically for Lowndes and his young family by Kratzmann Caravans, the one-off Franklin X-Factor marks a move into the caravanning lifetsyle for the four-time Bathurst winner, after several years with a camper-trailer.

"Our family has grown and we need that extra room and level of comfort, convenience and security that a caravan offers, so we contacted Gary (Kratzmann) to design something to suit our needs,"
Craig Lowndes explains.

"The Franklin X-Factor was a fantastic base to build on, all we did was refine it and create the features we wanted. I'm delighted with the result."

The Lowndes' sat down with Gary's son Clint Kratzmann to create their ideal caravan, adding specific features and products to the base Concept Caravans-built Franklin X-Factor van, which is built on a Preston chassis.

From NCE Australia's range the Lowndes' chose a TV, DVD player, radio, wind-up adjustable antenna, shower tap set and mattress, while the stove and toilet came from Thetford Australia, and the fridge, air-conditioning, hot-water service and roll-out awning from Dometic Australia.

Craig's wife Natalie personally chose the fabrics used throughout the caravan from Profile Fabrics, with the design and manufacture of all the soft furnishings handled by Trimfurn Upholstery.



Lowndes' new Franklin had its first outing just days after completion, the Lowndes family enjoying a brief break in what is usually a very busy schedule, towing it to the new V8 Supercar street-race event in Townsville. Craig then had to meet some sponsor commitments after the event, so Natalie was tasked with towing the new van home again.

"Because of my team and sponsor commitments I am not always going to be able to tow the van myself, so we wanted something that was easy for Nat to handle and set-up, which the X-Factor certainly is," Lowndes said.

"We just love the outdoors caravanning lifestyle … getting away and enjoying Australia … getting right away from the crowds … just spending time with Nat and the kids … I can't think of anything better."

Kratzmann Caravans is not just Brisbane's home of caravanning, with more than 20 percent of the market, it is also one of Australia's premier destinations for caravan expertise, advice and personal service. That's why people like Craig Lowndes come from all over Australia to buy from Kratzmann's.

At its Virginia base, home of the Kratzmann family business for more than 30 years, chosen brands like Franklin, Avan, Goldstream, Supreme, Track Trailer, Pioneer, Newlands and Concept have recently been joined by the stylish new Jurgens range.

With its free tow clinic for first-time buyers, lay by and easy finance options, a buy back policy and trade-in flexibility, it's no wonder Kratzmann Caravans is one of Australia's most highly-regarded and successful caravan retailers.

View the XFactor click here