Tekton Expedition Vehicles, based east of Melbourne, has introduced the CX-Series, a composite camper canopy designed to transform pickup trucks and utility vehicles into compact expedition platforms. Developed as part of the company’s expanding lineup of off-road travel equipment, the CX-Series aims to address common challenges associated with traditional touring canopies, including weight, thermal inefficiency, and limited modular functionality.
Tekton Expedition Vehicles has focused its design efforts on producing expedition systems that combine structural strength with relatively low weight. The sleek and stylish CX-Series reflects this approach through advanced composite construction and a monocoque body structure. Instead of relying on conventional aluminum canopy designs, which often transmit heat and cold and can add significant weight to a vehicle, the CX-Series is built from structural fiberglass composite panels combined with a high-density foam core. This construction method creates a fully insulated shell intended to improve thermal efficiency and structural rigidity while reducing overall mass. The improved thermal stability also has implications for onboard appliances, such as refrigerators, which can operate more efficiently when the surrounding environment remains relatively stable.
Weight reduction is another central objective of the CX-Series design. Tekton states that many conventional aluminum touring canopies can weigh between 550 and 770 pounds before additional equipment is installed. By contrast, the CX-Series canopy itself weighs approximately 243 pounds for the dual-cab model. When installed as part of a complete service body with integrated guards, toolboxes, and a rear bar, the system weighs roughly 298 pounds. This reduction in base weight can help vehicle owners maintain safe gross vehicle mass limits, particularly when additional gear, water tanks, and camping equipment are added for extended travel.
The CX-Series is designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including common Australian dual-cab utes such as the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux, Isuzu D-Max, and Mazda BT-50. Tekton also offers versions sized for larger American pickup trucks such as the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado. Dimensions and weights vary by configuration, but the canopy typically measures approximately 66.9 inches (5.6 feet) long, 72.8 inches (6.1 feet) wide, and 36.6 inches (3.0 feet) high for a standard dual-cab installation.
Beyond its structural design, the CX-Series functions as a modular expedition platform. The canopy incorporates double gull-wing side doors that open along the length of the body, providing access to interior storage systems and equipment bays. Inside, the layout can be configured to suit a variety of travel needs. Tekton offers kitchen modules that may include refrigerator enclosures, pantry drawers, work surfaces, and sink provisions, allowing the canopy to serve as an outdoor cooking and food preparation area during extended trips.
Optional equipment further expands the canopy’s capabilities. Depending on the configuration, the system can be fitted with induction cooktops, diesel hot-water systems, water filtration systems, and integrated water pumps. Storage options include multiple drawers, overhead cabinets, and open shelving for cooking gear and provisions. The modular approach allows owners to configure the canopy as a simple storage and utility box or as a fully equipped expedition kitchen and support system.
Sleeping accommodation is typically provided through rooftop tent systems that mount directly to the canopy roof. Tekton offers several compatible rooftop tents, including clamshell and dual-lift hard-shell designs that integrate with the canopy’s structure. These rooftop units provide a sleeping platform measuring approximately 2.2 meters long and 1.35 meters wide, allowing two adults to sleep above the vehicle. Additional accessories such as retractable ladders, roof racks, LED camp lighting, and awning systems can also be added to support extended off-grid travel.
Pricing for the CX-Series in Australia (there are currently no US-based distributors) varies depending on vehicle compatibility and configuration. Entry-level dual-cab versions start at approximately US$21,000, while models designed for larger American trucks can exceed US$32,000 before additional accessories and service body components are added.
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