Our "8 Weeks of Awesome" trip was done in our 2015 Spacevan, towed by our Mahindra Scorpio. One of the main reasons we were able to travel as far and as long as we did, was because of substantially reduced fuel consumption.
The Scorpio's fuel economy was amazing, particularly when compared to Elmer's thirsty habits! We spent $1953.20 on diesel to travel 11,651 kilometres, mostly towing the Spacevan. Just 17c a kilometre.
In contrast, our 2020 "Big Loop" trip of 5000ish kilometres was made in Elmer, staying in budget accommodation along the way. Petrol cost for that trip - without towing - was $1,954.40 (or 39c per kilometre).
Fuel consumption and cost increased when Elmer was towing. I've calculated petrol cost on his last trip out to Carnavon Gorge, when towing the 2006 Spacevan, as 55c per kilometre. That's a hefty portion of our holiday budget.
Elmer the Gold was officially retired in November, when we returned home. It seemed fitting that after all his inland travel with us, his new owner planned a beachy retirement for the Fudd Truck - carrying tourists on Fraser Island! How good is that?!
We've kept his regalia and it may be that it gets displayed in the garden, with my collection of road train signs!
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