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Overland News of the Week

Horsepower Automotive Group Acquires C4 Fabrication

In this week’s Overland News of the Week, Horsepower Automotive Group has acquired C4 Fabrication, a respected manufacturer of off-road armor and accessories for Toyota vehicles. This partnership aims to expand production, improve service delivery, and support continued product innovation without compromising C4’s reputation for quality and craftsmanship. C4 will maintain its full product lineup, with improvements such as reduced lead times, direct shipping, and powder-coated finishes. Founder Caleb Rupp will remain closely involved in product development and marketing to preserve the brand’s original vision. With Horsepower’s backing, C4 is positioned to serve the off-road community better while accelerating growth and delivering enhanced value to its customers.

horsepowerautomotivegroup.com

The Secret Kingdom Documentary Explores Wild Britain

The Secret Kingdom is a short documentary that follows adventurer Billy Ward and Northumberland local Darren Smith as they explore the wild and remote landscapes of Northumberland, one of the most untouched regions in the UK. Traveling in fully outfitted Land Rover Defenders, the pair journey through coastal cliffs, expansive moorlands, and historic sites, encountering both the natural beauty and strong community spirit of the region. Filmed by a small team based in the North East, the documentary marks the first episode in a new series that celebrates local exploration, meaningful connections, and the enduring appeal of overland travel in Britain. Watch the trailer here.

adventureaf.com

VMoto CPx Pro Completes 5,000-Kilometer Charity Ride from Malaysia to Thailand

The VMoto CPx Pro, designed for on- and off-road riding, plays a central role in the Journey of Hope, a 5,000-kilometer charity ride from Malaysia to Thailand that raised almost $120,000 for childhood cancer treatment and humanitarian aid. Led by endurance rider Dr. Pepper Lim and supported by Ebixon, the ride seeks national recognition for the longest electric motorcycle journey in seven days. Launched at the Malaysia Motor Show 2025 and flagged off by the Prime Minister, the event showcases the CPx Pro’s real-world performance. Previously part of a Guinness World Record relay, the scooter continues to demonstrate its durability and long-range electric capabilities. *Not available in the US.

From $5,402 | vmoto.com

AEONrv Named Nevada’s Manufacturing Company of the Year

AEONrv, a Reno-based manufacturer of high-tech recreational vehicles, has been named 2025 Manufacturing Company of the Year by Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. The award recognizes AEONrv’s contributions to advanced manufacturing, technological innovation, and regional economic development. Known for its off-road-capable RVs built on Ford Transit chassis, AEONrv integrates marine-grade materials and off-grid systems tailored for modern adventurers. With over 60 units produced and a target of 100 by year’s end, the company has rapidly expanded its 70,000-square-foot facility. AEONrv also partners with local educational institutions to support engineering students and reinforce Northern Nevada’s role in advanced manufacturing.

aeonrv.com

Alpine Sea Co. Launches Modular Lineup of Small-Batch Utility Bags

Side Pack

The 3-liter Side Pack is designed for outdoor activities such as running, hiking, and mountain biking. Ergonomically shaped to sit comfortably at the small of the back, its non-slip mesh panel prevents shifting or bouncing during movement. An organized interior enhances convenience, making it a practical daily crossbody sling for essentials. The new 11-liter Cove Bag offers versatile functionality for daily use or travel. Handmade in Hood River, Oregon, from environmentally friendly, water-resistant materials, this bag features a spacious front stash pocket and a large main zippered compartment. An interior aluminum key clip and two slip pockets efficiently organize smaller items.

Cove Bag

$135/Side Pack, $95/Cove Bag | alpineseaco.com

Teton Debuts the Nanda Adventure Travel Line

The Nanda Adventure Travel Line from Teton debuts with two products designed for versatile use in travel and outdoor adventures. The 30-liter Nanda backpack combines urban and outdoor utility, featuring a hidden magnetic pocket for valuables, a padded sleeve for laptops up to 16 inches, hydration-ready compartments, and mesh storage for water bottles. Its weather-resistant ripstop nylon construction and travel-rated hardware ensure reliability. The 55-liter Nanda duffel provides flexible storage with a clamshell compartment, an interior divider, stowable backpack straps, and an expandable laundry bag that conveniently separates soiled clothes.

$90/30-liter Nanda backpack, $100/55-liter Nanda Duffel | tetongear.com

Black Diamond Men’s Solution Hoody Is Designed for Various Outdoor Activities

The Black Diamond Men’s Solution hoody is designed as a versatile mid-layer suited to various outdoor activities. It features 60-gram PrimaLoft Gold Eco synthetic insulation, ensuring reliable warmth even when damp. Constructed from recycled materials, its 20-denier ripstop nylon shell has a PFAS-free, durable water-repellent finish to offer wind and light rain resistance. It weighs approximately 360 grams and is highly packable, compressing neatly into its left-hand pocket. The hoody includes practical features such as a helmet-compatible hood, zippered chest, hand pockets, stretch knit cuffs, and an adjustable hem, making it ideal for bikers, hikers, climbers, or the average joe.

$299 | blackdiamondequipment.com

Howler Brothers Introduces the Bermuda Triangle Mutation Clothing Line

Howler Brothers introduces the Bermuda Triangle Mutation, a distinctive spin on their popular apparel and accessories. This special collection, available exclusively at Howler Brothers stores in Austin and online, creatively reimagines standard offerings with a thematic design inspired by the mysterious Bermuda Triangle. The lineup includes themed T-shirts, hats, board shorts, and beach towels, complemented by two casual short-sleeve shirts. Adding practicality with playful aesthetics, the collection also features a floatie keychain. Notably, this release marks the return of the Del Mar Session Shell, a lightweight jacket ideal for spring weather.

From $35 | howlerbros.com

The Midland Spkmini External Speaker Is Built for the Outdoors

The Midland Spkmini external speaker enhances communication clarity for two-way radio users in compact and noisy environments. Measuring just 4.5 x 3 x 2 inches and weighing roughly 0.8 pounds, this speaker delivers robust audio output at up to 10 watts of power with an 8-ohm impedance. It features an IP67 rating, offering protection against dust and water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. The 6.5-foot heavy-duty audio cable connects easily to various radio devices. An adjustable 180-degree bracket provides flexible mounting options, making the Spkmini ideal for vehicles, boats, or other situations demanding clear and reliable audio.

$50 | midlandusa.com

Arcade Introduces the Stretchy Hardware Alu Belt

Arcade has introduced the Hardware Alu belt, an evolution of its popular utility category, combining durability, comfort, and adaptability in a lightweight design. Building on the success of the original Hardware belt, this version features a buckle made from aircraft-grade aluminum that resists rust and chipping while remaining strong and low-profile. The belt uses stiff performance stretch webbing with integrated industrial-strength rubber to provide both support and flexibility, which is excellent for older people. Additional details include micro-adjustability for a precise fit, silicone stays to prevent slipping, and abrasion-resistant fabric.

$45 | arcadebelts.com

Bajío Sunglasses Introduces the Greenland and Zapata Frames

Greenland

The Bajío Sunglasses Greenland and Zapata frames are designed for extended outdoor use and summer travel. Both styles feature wide temples for added sun protection, ergonomic rubber nose pads, and grippy temple tips to ensure secure, all-day comfort during activities like boating, fishing, or road trips. These frames incorporate Bajío’s proprietary Lapis lens technology, which blocks 95 percent of blue light and 100 percent of harmful UV rays, reducing eye strain and enhancing visual clarity. Available in glass or polycarbonate options, each frame also comes in reader versions, so no more lugging around two pairs of specs.

Zapata

$209+/Greenland, $209+/Zapata | bajiosunglasses.com

Truma Rolls Out New Dealer/Service Program

Truma has introduced an updated dealer/service program across North America to strengthen its service network and better support RV owners. The new program features two tiers—Premium Partners and Service Partners—both of which require completion of Truma’s exclusive training. Premium Partners are certified to retrofit both the AquaGo and Aventa systems, while Service Partners focus on AquaGo installations. The initiative aims to improve service efficiency, expand retrofit access beyond Truma’s facilities, and enhance dealer resources. With over 300 trained providers already eligible, Truma is now working to enroll them while offering continued support through spare parts access, concierge services, and training opportunities.

Truma.com

NEMO Introduces the Stargaze Evo-X Camp Chair

The NEMO Stargaze Evo-X is a reclining camp chair built for comfort and stability in outdoor settings. It features a steel frame with six ground contact points and flared feet for reliable support on uneven terrain. With a weight capacity of 300 pounds, it includes a padded headrest and enhanced seat cushioning. The chair offers a gentle swinging motion and an auto-reclining function that adjusts with body movement. Weighing 14.75 pounds, it folds into a compact roll-top carrying case with a shoulder strap, making it ideal for car camping and extended stays outdoors.

$179 | nemoequipment.com

Hipcamp Doubles US Campsite Listings

Hipcamp has announced a significant expansion, doubling its US campsite listings and becoming the first app to unify all types of camping experiences—now offering access to over 500,000 sites. Known for its private land stays, Hipcamp now includes everything from national parks and RV parks to treehouses and farm-based camping. This milestone addresses rising demand in the camping industry, where supply has struggled to keep pace with a 68 percent increase in campers over the past decade. Beyond helping campers find sites more easily, the platform supports rural economies, land conservation, and evolving generational preferences for diverse, accessible outdoor experiences. In the future, we will do a head-to-head review of the Hipcamp and Dyrt (a direct competitor to Hipcamp) apps.

Hipcamp.com

Benchmade Introduces Upgrades to Bugout and Mini Bugout Knives

Bugout

Benchmade is introducing significant upgrades to its Bugout and Mini Bugout knife families, focusing on premium materials and distinctive new finishes. The latest Bugout models include handles made from Redstone Richlite paired with Ash Gray aluminum and Crater Blue aluminum, marking a refined shift in construction. The Mini Bugout also sees its first aluminum handle in Woodland Green with a Crushed Silver Cerakote blade. These releases represent the brand’s continued push toward elevated design and performance.

Mini Bugout

$400 /Bugout, $310/Mini Bugout | benchmade.com

ZeroZero Robotics Expands Compact HoverAir Series

HoverAir X1

ZeroZero Robotics has expanded its compact HoverAir series with the X1 Pro and X1 ProMax, folding flying action cameras that build on the original X1’s controller-free format. The 191-gram Pro records up to 4K/60 frames per second while following subjects at 42 km/h, whereas the 192-gram ProMax is the first consumer drone to capture 8K/30 frames per second with a 14-stop dynamic range and 107-degree field of view. Both models fly for 16 minutes, resist level 5 winds, track riders with AI, and use OmniTerrain sensors to operate over water, snow, or cliffs. Companion Beacon and modular controllers extend transmission to one kilometer, simplifying hands-free operation.

HoverAir X1 Pro

HoverAir X1 ProMax

From $379/HoverAir X1, From $499/HoverAir X1 Pro, From $699/HoverAir X1 ProMax

hoverair.com

Ruroc Introduces the Limited-Edition EOX Iron Maiden Collection Helmets

Ruroc introduces the limited-edition EOX Iron Maiden Collection, featuring two helmets inspired by the iconic British rock band’s art that adorned many a teenager’s bedroom walls and denim jackets. The “Piece of Mind” helmet reflects Derek Riggs’s artwork from the band’s 1983 album, depicting mascot Eddie chained in a padded cell. The “Writing on the Wall” design captures apocalyptic themes from the band’s 2021 single, illustrated by Dan Mumford. Engineered with rider input, the helmets include a multi-density impact liner, Quad-Matrix carbon composite shell, and meet ECE 22.06 and DOT standards. They also integrate the Shockwave mesh communication system.

$600 | ruroc.com

Read More: Classic Land Rover Defender Upgrades: More Capability and Greater Reliability

Our No Compromise Clause: We do not accept advertorial content or allow advertising to influence our coverage, and our contributors are guaranteed editorial independence. Overland International may earn a small commission from affiliate links included in this article. We appreciate your support.

Graeme Bell is an author and explorer who has dedicated his life to traveling the planet by land, seeking adventure and unique experiences. Together with his wife and two children, Graeme has spent the last decade living permanently on the road in a self-built Land Rover based camper. They have explored 27 African countries (including West Africa), circumnavigated South America, and driven from Argentina to Alaska, which was followed by an exploration of Europe and Western Asia before returning to explore the Americas. Graeme is the Senior Editor 4WD for Expedition Portal, a member of the Explorers Club, the author of six books, and an Overland Journal contributor since 2015. You can follow Graeme's adventures across the globe on Instagram at graeme.r.bell