The Conqueror 345's rugged charm is all too much for me to resist! It has a military-tough build and camouflage exterior, yet beneath its tough exterior lies a personable and dependable companion, perfect for tackling tough terrain and adventures.

First introduced in 2013, this little camper has proven its worth on many battlefields. Its strength and character have earned it a loyal following, and it's easy to see why! The UEV345 is a great travel companion that will stand by you when the going gets rough.

Conquerors South African stakeholders began their life as military parts manufacturers, and over time, the company expanded its product range to include civilian off-road trailers.

As a military manufacturer's requirement, Conqueror still manufactures nearly every aspect of the trailer from the ground up in-house, with very little outsourcing, allowing for a unique product to be built.

The Conqueror product is vastly different to any other trailer. In short, it is a very time-consuming and expensive process to build a trailer like that of the UEV345. Still, thankfully, Conqueror's military background and huge production line allow them to create these skeletal masterpieces, like giant Meccano sets, without resorting to the less expensive “traditional” design of a chassis with a body built separately and then attached. Instead Conqueror extensively utilise true monocoque design where the entire construction is intragally linked to the chassis and body.

The UEV345 rides on heavy duty leaf springs with gas struts with a tough specifically designed chassis.

Conqueror UEV 345

Whilst a few things have changed, the principles remain the same. The Conqueror UEV345 is a rugged, lightweight, and highly capable camper that's perfect for off-road adventures. Its clever design prioritises ease of use, with every feature and accessory carefully considered to make camping life easy and enjoyable.

With a king-size bed, generous water storage, and ample storage space, this camper has everything you need for a comfortable trip. The Conqueror's philosophy is simple: "Make it easy, and you'll use it. Make it complicated, and you'll miss out on life's great adventures."

Built on sturdy Al-KO running gear, the UEV345 features a 50 x 50mm solid axle, shock-absorbed seven-leaf slipper springs, and 10" over-ride brakes. It rides on Firestone 245x70x16 all-terrain tyres, mounted on rugged black alloy mags, making it a force to be reckoned with on any terrain.

Over-ride brakes have their time and place in the market, especially amongst the hire sector and for those towing with multiple vehicles. Seriously dedicated off-roaders will probably opt for the “Escape” upgrade to the UEV345, which gives a totally new and longer nose cone, Vehicle Components DO35 coupling and completely replaces the axle to include 10” electric brakes. I like over-ride brakes; however, they can cause problems if not kept properly maintained, especially in downhill scenarios. They can also get stuck in ruts and gullies, making it almost impossible to back up. It probably won't happen to most travellers, but trust me, there will be that one time!

I can personally testify to the overall body strength in the general construction.  I know because I witnessed a larger model being rolled over a few years ago. Please note that the incident was caused by driver error and had nothing to do with the trailer. However, it showed me first-hand just how strong Conquerors really are. We rolled it back on its feet and drove away unperturbed!

Masterclass In Off-Road Design

The Conqueror UEV-345 is a masterclass in off-road design, with its compact dimensions allowing it to follow your tow vehicle anywhere. The main body shell is constructed from 1.6mm powder-coated steel, riveted and bonded with Sikaflex for massive strength and flexibility, similar to those employed in aircraft construction techniques.

The LED lighting and accessories are added in Australia to ADR's.

The galvanised steel chassis and A-frame drawbar provide a solid foundation, while the light tare weight of 760kg makes it incredibly maneuverable. With an ATM of 1,500 kg, it offers an impressive 850kg payload, and its lightweight ball weight (30-40kg dry) makes it suitable for smaller RVs.

The Conqueror UEV-345 features a solid jockey wheel and adjustable jack stands, although the latter could be improved with a simpler locking mechanism. The huge 150L water capacity is a highlight, with external taps for easy access – although their positioning in the return angle could be improved to prevent damage in extreme terrain.

Out in front, its large “boot” contains the electrical switchgear and panels. You will be astounded by the size and construction of all of the hinges and fittings on the Conqueror; they are truly military grade, and the dust and water protection is first-rate. It features a simple yet effective electronics package with a single 100 AH deep-cycle battery, recharged via the Anderson plug. There is a set of Breaker switches, and the entire unit has overriding earth leakage protection. There is also an Experia power “Health system” digital control showing available power and charging readouts above a set of individual switches for fridge, lights, power, water pump (with filter cartridge) and accessories, as well as the 12 volt outlets.

Storage Space

Great storage and accessories but you will need to catty a portable stove and gas bottles, or cook on a campfire.

The Conqueror UEV-345 is also a masterclass in storage and practicality. Just behind the nose boot, you'll find a small pack rack with six removable tie-down points, perfect for securing your gear. I loved the easily accessed mounting brackets for your shovel and axe, plus there are jerry can mounts on both sides.

There are drop down PVC liners to help keep the dust and mud out of all the cargo bays.

The driver's side compartments are a treasure trove of organisation. The first door reveals a canvas cutlery rack, a fully compartmentalised drawer with plates, bowls, mugs, and unbreakable glasses, and a slide mount for the optional 90L National Luna stainless steel fridge/freezer. Eight solid plastic "Wolf Pack" storage boxes are also included, with four accessible from the roadside compartment.

The second doorway becomes a prep bench with an extendable rack for wash tubs, and features another tray of crockery and a mini bar. The rear bumper bar features recessed LED lights, reflectors, and a spare wheel with a detachable fire grate. The lid swings up to reveal additional storage, including four Wolf Pack boxes and a portable table rack.

The kerbside doorways mirror the roadside, with ample storage and cubby holes. Inside the front door is a multi-purpose storage area that is large enough for a generator or a portable hot water system - possibly both. The only thing missing is a portable cooker, but that can be easily remedied.

The UEV345 has plenty of storage room on board for military style storage boxes.

We found a lovely campsite out at the Bigriggin Park at Rathdowney, around 90 minutes’ drive south west of Brisbane. It wasn’t exactly a challenging off-road adventure, but instead a very popular camping destination, especially on a sunny August weekend. However, we found plenty of surrounding rough and tumble to give the little soldier a thorough workout.

Later, whilst I got busy setting the essential campfire, Conqueror’s Thony Miller set about assembling the camper for an overnighter. Thony, with his extensive Australian Military background, was thrilled to work with the Conqueror range, finding it incredibly familiar and satisfying.

Setting up the UEV-345 is a breeze, taking just minutes to erect the folding soft floor tent. The 8oz military-grade ripstop canvas is both lightweight and incredibly strong, equivalent to around 12oz in Australian ratings. The tent boasts a massive 2.1 x 2.1m King-size bed with ample headroom and a spacious floor space.

The UEV345 is a strong, and very serious offroad camper trailer at a great price.

Some notable features include:

  • Easy Setup: The bed extension folds over for full bed width, operable from floor level with the detachable aluminium ladder

  • Weather Protection: The Tropical roof erects automatically, and the window awnings can be operated from inside with pull cords

  • Standard Accessories: Two portable LED strip lights, three internal lights, touch-up paint, cups, and crockery for six people, and a fire extinguisher

  • Convenience: The tent can be pinned up off the ground to dry before final fold-over, making life easier for campers

The UEV-345's compact size belies its impressive capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and spacious camper for their adventures.

You will be content sleeping in the king size bed.

Conqueror UEV345 Camper Trailers - The Wrap

Should you prefer electric brakes, a hot water system, and a host of electronic upgrades, Conqueror also offer an “Escape” package option for the UEV345. However, I’m inclined to work on the “KISS” principle (Keep It Simple Stupid) with the overall appeal and packaging of this tough little soldier.

In a previous test I said, “A military-grade rig that packs heavy artillery into nominal dimensions, that’s the Conqueror UEV-345 camper trailer.” It is truly a compact hero with the capacity of many trailers, more than twice its weight.

Hits & Misses 

I Liked

  • Compact and lightweight

  • Storage

  • King-size bed

  • Military tough

  • Sensible accessories

  • Pin-up tent drying

  • Water capacity

 

I Would Have Liked

  • Gas stove

 

Specifications

Tare: 760 kg

ATM: 1500 kg

Suspension: 50 x 50mm solid axle and seven-leaf slipper springs with shock absorbers

Brakes: 10” over-ride brakes

Coupling: Al-KO 50mm ball coupling

Drawbar & Chassis: Galvanised monocoque

Body: 1.6mm powder-coated steel riveted and bonded with Sikaflex

Wheel/tyre: Firestone 245x70x16 all-terrain tyres

Style: black alloy mags.

 

Dimensions

Length:         (hitch to tail lights) 3.9 metres

Tent size      2.1 x 2.1 metres floor space

 

Accessories

Gas cylinders: No

Water: 2 x 75 litre poly

Cooktop: No

Kitchen: Not really?

Battery: 1 x 100 amp deep cycle

 

Supplied by Conqueror Australia, Sumner Park, Qld.

 

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