DARCHE 2nd Generation Eclipse 180 Awning with Side-walls

We love utilising our awnings and nowadays never go on a trip without one attached to our 4WD vehicles, be it during the winter or the summer months. We recently attached the new Generation 2 Eclipse 180 Degrees Awning to one of the TURAS 4WD’s and have been putting it through its paces over the last few weeks.

The new DARCHE Generation 180 awning with optional walls has been developed as a follow up on the previous and hugely successful 180 Eclipse awning model. With a number of NEW features that include a new high quality Aluminum hinge system, a new 320gsm poly/cotton grid ripstop canvas and a new lightweight box tube alloy rafters, the Generation 2 Eclipse 180 awning just got even better. Hinged from both ends, the awning spans 6m along the side of the vehicle and looks the business.

Walls

In previous issues of the magazine we have covered how the Australia Camping gurus DARCHE have taken the concept of an enclosed walled awning to an entire new level with the development of the pole pivot systems that give you extra covered camping space, and this concept is also available with the new Generation 2 180 Eclipse model.

The two pivoting alloy telescopic leg poles are cleverly and neatly stowed along the rafter when packed away but also making it easy to deploy when setting up the awning.This awning can easily be set up by just one person.

The NEW Aluminum hinge system. The addition of side walls to this top-quality awning offers a number of advantages including acting as a windbreaker, providing an enclosed sheltered space that allows the kids to play in comfort sheltered from the sun or while waiting for a shower of rain to pass. The additional wall completely enhances your base-camp by providing a space where you can cook and relax without worrying about the elements.

Another advantage includes being able to provide additional shelter for those who want to roll out a swag under the awning or even set up a small tent under the additional expansive space at night.

With walls fitted and anchored down, an impressive 16.5m2 of coverage can be achieved depending on the height of your vehicle.

Awning Walls Features & Specifications

1300mm wide zippered door on center panel
Zips separating panels allow for various wall configurations
260gsm poly/cotton grid ripstop canvas
1500mm PU waterproofing with HF seam sealing
Pegs and guy ropes included
Dimensions: 9500mm L x 2250mm H (Bottom length)
Packed down: 500mm L x 400mm W x 120mm H
Weight: 7kg

Weight

The new 180 Generation awning weighs in at 20kg and is covered by a 2-year manufacturers warranty.

Ultraviolet Protection Factor.

The Darche Eclipse awning canvas is rated UPF 50+, the highest achievable rating possible.UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor and is a rating system to indicate the UV (Ultraviolet) protection provided by fabrics. UPF measures how much of the sun’s UV radiation is absorbed or “blocked” by fabric, effectively protecting the skin underneath. UPF ratings range from 15 to 50, and a higher UPF rating indicates greater protection. Garments that are rated UPF 50+ offer excellent UV protection, this is as good as it gets when it comes to awning protection.

Mounting

This awning also comes with heavy duty mounting brackets that can be attached to most roof rack systems. The Eclipse 180° Awning can be mounted to either side of your vehicle and is ideal for dual,single and space cabs as well as general canopy and wagon setups.

Features & Specifications

8.2m² of cover easily mounted to passenger or driver’s side of the vehicle.(16.5m with the walls added)
Designed as a freestanding unit for easy setup and pack down only (Easily set up by one person)
(New) Aluminum hinge system. Hinged from both ends, the awning spans 6m along the side of the vehicle
(New) 320gsm poly/cotton grid ripstop canvas
(New) Lightweight box tube alloy rafters
The Eclipse 180° Awning features two pivoting alloy telescopic leg poles which are
neatly stowed along the rafter when packed away

Two additional leg poles in a separate carry bag are also included
1500mm PU waterproofing with HF seam sealing
 3 heavy duty brackets with fixings, holding straps, guy ropes and pegs included
 Optional wall available (sold separately)
* Ensure awning is anchored with supplied guy ropes and pegs at all times when in use
Dimensions: 6000mm L X 2000mm W x 2100mm H (average height)
Packed Down: 2200mm L x 150mm W x 200mm H