CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF: Guided Photo Tour 2021

The first electric motorhome by Knaus Tabbert: E.POWER DRIVE
Knaus, Hall 1

At the CARAVAN SALON 2021 exhibition, Knaus Tabbert AG will present a highly regarded vehicle survey, thereby reinforcing our own aspirations as an innovative leader in the industry: The “Knaus E.POWER DRIVE” - the first fully electric motorhome from Jandelsbrunn. In cooperation with HWA AG - a leader in the motor sport and engineering field and an experienced, internationally renowned development partner - we created this electrically-powered KNAUS motorhome using electrical drive. The vehicle survey “Knaus E.POWER DRIVE” is based on a KNAUS Van Ti 650 MEG Vansation. Optically it still resembles a conventional, partially integrated motorhome. But the complex technology of the KNAUS survey can already be seen in the cockpit. There is no need for a gear lever since you can dispense with the propulsion engine as well as the six-speed manual gearbox. In its place we have installed “push button automatics” with a system known from automatic transmission: P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive). A further two buttons on the panel turn on the vehicle heating (also heats up the traction battery when outside temperatures are low) or turn off the recuperation during adverse driving conditions such as ice or packed snow.

The e-motor performs at up to 180 kW and enables this fully equipped, four-seater motorhome to travel at over 110 km/h. It can, however, also recuperate during manual mode, meaning, it can produce electric energy which is stored in the high voltage battery installed close to the axis in the rear floor of the motorhome. At best, the lithium-ion cells of the front-wheel driven “Knaus E.POWER DRIVE” can be recharged within around three hours at a public wallbox charging point. The Range Extender reduces the charging time to approx. 35 minutes.

The range of the “Knaus E.POWER DRIVE” in purely electrical operation was determined at 90 kilometres in a WLTP test procedure. At the latest when the battery has reached its threshold level, but usually before then, the Range Extender starts up automatically during drive mode, which is coupled to a generator, eradicating the need for less convenient and time-consuming charging stops. The REX’s main job is to charge the traction battery but it is also able to supply electricity directly to the drive motor. At the same time the REX also supplies energy to the living space of the recreational vehicle. 

The installed DC/AC converter (direct current/alternating current) provides the living space with normal household 230 volt and in doing so increases the self-sufficiency of the motorhome.

Trend campervan: VanTourer
InterCaravaning GmbH, Hall 1 / A01

The shiny green VANTourer Urban is the eye-catcher at EuroCaravaning’s stand at CARAVAN SALON. Apart from its exquisite leather interior the coating of the compact campervan in “ElectroLight” especially catches the eye: the bright, radiant yellowish green is Axalta’s “colour of the year”. A major asset of the Urban with a Mercedes Vito base is its suitability for everyday use: this motorhome can be converted into a handy transporter without so much as an ado. In Düsseldorf EuroCaravaning will also exhibit an Office Module for the Urban demonstrating how well teleworking works in motorhomes with the right equipment. The VANTourer Urban is available from EUR 55,900, the exhibited show vehicle – a one-off with its individual leather interior and special colour – costs EUR 75,000.

Compact liner: Palace 88 G
Morelo, Hall 5 A 07

Both in terms of length (8.99 metres) and weight (unladen weight: 5,540 kg) the new Morelo Palace 88 G continues to bet on extreme understatement. In contrast to its slightly “bigger brother”, Palace 90 G, it is not only over half a metre shorter but also weighs in at 180 kg less – which becomes immediately clear when you look at the additional payload (1,950 kg instead of 1,770 kg). Nevertheless, its rear garage offers room for a Smart for 2. With these dimensions the newcomer is also suitable for “normal” pitches and commercial vehicle ports without XXL length. And, what’s more, with a technically permissible total weight of 7.49 tons it can even be driven by holders of the “old” Class 3 driver’s license. Roof and side walls boast the proven 38 mm RTM insulation and the glass-fibre reinforced plastic roof is hail-resistant. In the basic configuration it costs EUR 286,210.

Entry-level caravan: Beachy
Hobby Wohnwagenwerk Ing. Harald Striewski GmbH, Hall 9 B 05

Sun, sea and sand:  that holiday feel served as an inspiration for Beachy – Hobby’s new sub-brand. Inspired by a host of emotional holiday souvenirs such as driftwood, seashells and sand, the whole Hobby Team is passionate about this new vision of an unpretentious holiday companion. The result: a genuine beach feel on wheels. Keep it simple: the interior of the Beachy is simple and unique at the same time. Fabric-coated baskets and tightening straps rather than the usual wall cabinets provide plenty of storage space. The cosy corner seating unit features sand-coloured upholstery with a natural linen look and can be turned into a comfortable sleeping area at the flick of a wrist. A compact kitchen as well as a walk-in wardrobe, which can be fitted with an optional porta potty, are always part of the game. The new Beachy comes in three different models that build upon each other sizewise. The Beachy is a symbiosis of a campervan and the first Hobby caravan. It is compact and particularly charming with its round shape. A highlight is the large rear door: sitting on the bed while looking at the water, this is genuine Beachy feeling. In the basic configuration it costs EUR 12,950.

Upper-class caravan: Estate 600 GDL KS
Kabe, Hall 9 A 35

After ten years Kabe is now replacing their Classic model series with the new Estate. Externally the Estate projects a modern look with a plain-sheet body, black window frames and contrasting red & black 3D-look stickers. The interior design features a plain and simple language of form. The caravans in this series can be used as recreational vehicles all year round. The Estate as an entry-level series comes complete with winter-proof features such as standard hot-water heating (including floor heating), ventilation flap and pull-out ski tray. The Estate is available in a total of 10 models and 14 different layouts. Kabe’s Estate 600 GDL KS is available from just EUR 50,000.

Perfect for big families: Alkoven Activa One 690 VB
Eura Mobil, Hall 10 C 43

The various models in the alcove series Activa One are so much more than just motor caravans: their fresh interiors convert the first impression of robust generosity into a genuine feeling of freedom. Regardless of what angle you look at the interior of the Activa One from – there is multitude of handy cupboard and shelving storage options with all five different layouts. The 37 cm high double floor also safely holds bulky family luggage. The Activa One 690 VB is especially well-suited for extended families. Eura Mobil transports and sleeps as many as six people – on just under seven metres length. This is made possible by smart use of space with an alcove bed, a complete dinette for 4, a classical kitchen module, a variable bathroom with integral shower tray as well as a children’s room in the rear with a small dinette for two and two bunk beds that can be widened. The basic price for the Eura-Alkoven stands at just under EUR 65,000.  

Integrated top class: chic c-line I XL
Carthago Reisemobilbau, Hall 16 A 22

Elegant, comfortable and extremely practice-oriented at the same time. With these attributes the chic c-line defines the ascent to Carthago Liner’s premium class. Add to this the unsurpassed versatility of the chic c-line. Forming the solid base are the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Fiat Ducato with special AL-KO low-frame chassis as two or three-axle vehicles and with optional automatic transmission. The chic c-line embodies Carthago’s unique DNA – with a wide range of layouts and versions, comfortable interiors, a total of four styling worlds and three different furniture decors, comprehensive on-board technology, a highly stable, top-class superstructure with full-aluminium sandwich walls, fully fledged double floor “basement” and long-lasting quality. Last but not least, the three-axle top-of-the-range models chic c-line XL are now also based on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles – meaning there is a fleet of ten chic c-line vehicles with a “star” as an alternative to the Ducato.  This qualifies the chic c-line more than ever as the entry point for Carthago’s Liner premium class. The prices for the Carthago chic c-line I start at EUR 100,320, the vehicle on display in Düsseldorf costs to the tune of EUR 124,000.

Partially integrated motor caravan: Neo BD
Frankia, Hall 17 A 20

Thanks to the Frankia Neo BD these partially integrated motor caravans now also have a vehicle with a transversal bed in the rear in addition to the Neo GDK layout. This means the new Neo can clock in at under seven metres. Due to an innovative vehicle concept using Mercedes-Benz as its base vehicle with an AL-KO deep-frame chassis, visitors can look forward to a unique blend of lightness, great sense of space, modern interior design and excellent vehicle payload. The new Edition Frankia Neo Black Line scores points with its special design plus many extras that add convenience. The Neo is presented in Düsseldorf with two layouts with 3.5 or 4.5 tons. Prices range from EUR 77,900 to EUR 88,900.

Interesting vecicles/ selected innovation
at CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF 2021

Entry-level caravan with lifting roof: Trend 420
Silver, Hall 11 A 53

French manufacturer Silver is hard to beat when it comes to compact caravans. With their Trend 420 this brand belonging to the Trigano Group has designed a caravan that should primarily be used by couples. The lifting roof caravan will fit in a standard garage with less than 2 metres total height and 1.98 m width – its 5.90 m length over all should not pose a problem. Beyond this, the French score points with their low weight and low drag, which brings reduced fuel consumption. Silver showcases four layouts in their Trend line featured at CARAVAN SALON. The 420 model features a kitchen in the rear with adjacent bathroom, a middle dinette and a double bed in the bow. The admissible total weight is 1,200 kg and the basic configuration will be available for some EUR 19,500.

Trend campervan: Davis Trendstyle 590
Karmann-Mobil, Hall 15 E 24

Karmann-Mobil kicks off the 2022 motorhome season with a real head-turner. For the new Davis Trendstyle the manufacturer parts company with classic furniture looks for the interior and surprises us with textile microfibre for furniture fronts and cabinets. This new visual highlight fuses the benefits of modern design with the practical advantages of a modern, robust and wipeable surface coating for the van’s furniture. The fabric texture gives the Davis Trendstyle a stylish but cosy feel that is unusual for campervans while setting fresh new accents at the same time. Karmann-Mobil also takes a modern slant on its exterior design: designers have followed the automotive zeitgeist with a trendy, new Lanzarote Grey and black aluminium wheel rims, a black awning and anthracite brand emblem as well as tinted windows. The basic price is EUR 49,440.

Green Caravanning: forward-looking developments
AL-KO Fahrzeugtechnik, Hall 14 A 03

Platform and accessories specialists AL-KO Fahrzeugtechnik presents a holistic approach on how caravanning can be made even more eco-friendly at CARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf – proposing lightweight engineering solutions, electrification and higher ranges, optimised aerodynamics and CO2-optimised material selection and supply chains. Every year AL-KO manufactures approximately 60,000 caravan chassis, with an increasing number in the bionic and lighter VARIO X construction method. The approach: driving resistance is to be decisively reduced by consistent lightweight construction, a smartly controlled braking system in the trailer as well as optimised aerodynamics. The Green Caravanning approach for motor caravans brings distinct advantages for weight and aerodynamics through modern, lowered frame structures such as the AMC chassis. The Hybrid Power Chassis (HPC) allows emission-free, fully electric driving for motorhomes and light commercial vehicles. The electrified rear axle of the HPC with a peak performance of 124 kW can be switched on as required. The battery capacity is designed for a fully electrical range of 60km to 100 km. Other benefits of the Diesel-electric HPC concept include on-demand 4WD mode and the self-sufficiency ensured by battery use for supplying the motorhome superstructure with power.

Tandem axle caravan: Grand Liberty
La Mancelle, Hall 11 C 61

Grand Liberty designed by French manufacturer La Mancelle is a tandem axle vehicle developed exclusively for the German market. 2.25 m wide and 7.90 m long, the caravan captivates us with its extraordinary bow giving Liberty her dynamic look. The Mancelle Grand Liberty uses an AL-KO tandem semi-trailing link and scores points with its appealing design.  

Electric camper study prototype: Hippie Caviar Hotel
Renault S.A.S., Hall 16 D 03

Renault has announced a 100% electric campervan study for luxury camping (glamping) for CARAVAN SALON. Renault’s “Hippie Caviar Hotel” encompasses many convenient features and clever details including a delivery drone. While the characteristic front of the Renault Hippie Caviar Hotel originates from the Traffic line, the interior is inspired by the exquisite furnishing of a 5-star suite: the driver’s cabin features natural materials such as leather, wood, linen and wool in the green shade “Almond Flakes”, while the rear exudes a lounge air in anodised silver grey. The 5-star premium package rounds off the mobility services offered with the Hippie Caviar Hotel: on request a logistics module complete with wet room, sanitary installations and charging station is transported to the desired pitch. Likewise, orders can be placed online through the concierge service which are then delivered direct by a drone to the roof terrace. You can also have bicycles delivered to explore the surroundings by bike.  

Partially integrated vehicle with GRP monocoque: Nova M 4x4
la strada Fahrzeugbau GmbH, Hall 5 A 05

The top-range series by la strada is characterised by outstanding design. The flagship Nova EB received the red dot design award 2020 for its accomplished exterior design. Its new sister model Nova M is fitted out the same but is just shorter. Here, la strada also bets on a superstructure in an extremely long-lasting monocoque construction using glass-fibre reinforced plastics. This makes for good insulation, reliable water tightness and elegant lines. Flush awning, tinted windows and even coated air grilles can be found with the elegant superstructure. The Nova M is based on the rear-wheel drive Mercedes Sprinter. The list of extras for this compact “land-born yacht” ranging from 4W drive, automatic transmission and numerous assistance systems to 127 upholstery fabrics, partial leather and leather versions caters to just about every need. The Nova models are propelled by the latest Euro 6 engines with 163 or 190 HP. The Nova M 4x4 is available from about EUR 113,000.

Folding caravan – space miracle: trailer tent Family
Campwerk, Hall 3 C 70

Trailer tents are the unrivalled space miracles among caravans. Taken down they only require little space – when pitched they become space miracles with truly comfortable beds within minutes. The tent platform can be detached after the holidays so you also have a commercial trailer in addition to your tent trailer. Incidentally, a licence for driving trailers is not needed! Be it small cars, e-vehicle or off-road vehicles – trailer tents are the perfect travel companions. The “Family” trailer tent / folding caravan is designed for small families with 11m² (main tent) but can extent to 23m² any time (main tent plus additional tent).

6-cylinder integrated vehicle: Platin Final Six
Frankia, Hall 17 A 20

Frankia and Mercedes-Benz look back on a long cooperation. Frankia celebrates with all discerning motorhome enthusiasts the “last of their species”, the robust 6-cylinder engines in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. For the exclusive special edition Frankia Platin Final Six this premium manufacturer from Northern Frankonia focuses not only on a powerful 190 HP drive but also on self-sufficiency, especially convenient interiors, even more luxury for standard vehicles and a proprietary design concept for the 8m liner. Maximum relaxation and freedom of movement are guaranteed by the lengthways seating in conjunction with the large, longitudinal kitchen, the consistently high interior (2.03 m height) as well as the exquisite sleeping berth with longitudinal beds. The admissible total weight stands at 5,500 kg and the basic configuration will be offered for about EUR 179,900.

Trend campervan: Summit 540 Shine
Pössl, Hall 12 A 02

Campervan specialist Pössl is launching a relatively short van on the market – the Summit Shine. The 540 version is supplied on a Citroen Jumper or Fiat Ducato and equipped with three seats. On demand a fourth seat can be installed. The rear contains the transversal bed. Also completely new is the storage compartment above the driver’s cabin called Multiroof, which folds up to the roof for more headroom. All in all, the Summit Shine especially impresses us with original space-savings ideas. Prices for the Summit Shine start at EUR 40,500.

Unadulterated luxury, Elfer Performance
Volkner Mobil GmbH, Hall 5 C06

Wuppertal-based manufacturer Volkner presents a luxurious 3-room apartment on wheels at CARAVAN SALON – the Elfer Performance. A large slide-out bay enlarges the living space here across the entire length of the vehicle (11.40 m). Between the axles there is room for a passenger car, which is slid out of the patented middle garage on demand. The 460 HP vehicle has an admissible total weight of 18 tons. Customers can choose their personal interior of the luxury liner on either a Mercedes Benz or Volvo base vehicle. The basic price for this luxury vehicle starts at EUR 1,125,000 Euro – making the Elfer Performance one of the most expensive vehicles on display at this year’s CARAVAN SALON.  

Upper-class caravan: Alpina 663 HT
Adria Mobil, Hall 10 A 29

Slovenian manufacturer Adria has re-launched its premium caravan promising highest performance and all-year use. This upper-class caravan largely dispenses with wood for the superstructure and boasts an extra-large panorama window and built-in hot water heating for all-year use. The durable superstructure, high-performance chassis, high-quality insulation, comprehensive extras and the both luxurious and modern interior ensure comfort and a feelgood factor. The Alpina is available with ten layouts and costs between EUR 39,000 and about EUR 52,000.

Alcove expedition mobile home: LBX 434
Bimobil, Hall 5 A 03

The Bavarian manufacturer of 4W drive and expedition vehicles now presents a new alcove model based on the Iveco Daily Allrad: Bimobil LBX 434. The rugged living superstructure is characterised by a large rear seating unit, separate shower cubicle and an alcove with 2.11 m long beds. Permanent 4W drive, 180 HP and 8-speed automatic gearbox ensure drive comfort for this 7-ton vehicle. The special layout with comfortable longitudinal beds in the alcove, cosy rear seating and a separate shower offer an ultimate living experience, plenty of comfort, enormous storage space and yet, space to move around. The technical equipment is entirely fit for long-distance travel: the solid entry door and the rear panorama window of the living cabin close with a safety lock and additional espagnolette locks.