CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF: Photo Tour 2018

Departure to New Horizons / Motorhomes with Fuel Cells
Mercedes-Benz Vans, Hall 16 D 18

At CARAVAN SALON 2018 Mercedes-Benz presents forward-looking ideas for the motorhome segment – from fully connected homes on wheels to alternative drives. The Concept Sprinter F-CELL is synonymous with the mega trend “emission-free driving”. This concept vehicle demonstrates the possibilities of a powertrain technology for local, emission-free mobility with a long range (up to 530 kilometres) and quick refuelling. These are all properties of the fuel cell drive that are perfectly suited for use in mobile homes. Another plus: if need be, the fuel cell can be used as a stand-alone, powerful source of energy for living areas.

Trend Camper Bus/Van: Grand California on a Crafter Platform
Volkswagen AG Nutzfahrzeuge, Hall 16 D 22

Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge launches the Grand California at CARAVAN as a global premiere. A completely new development, this motorhome is based on the very modern Crafter. By introducing the Grand California Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge extends its motorhome range to include a six-metre model including wet room. The Grand California will be available with a loft bed for children in addition to the large rear berths. The launch of the new motorhome is slotted for spring 2019. The California introduced in 1988 and based on the VW “Bulli” bus is the most successful motorhome worldwide with over 160,000 units. Volkswagen has capitalised on the experience gained with this cult camper van over three decades to design the new Grand California on the technical Crafter platform. In future, both California series will be available in parallel.

Sporty Van / Study CUVolution
Weinsberg - Knaus Tabbert GmbH, Hall 15 D 03

Compact RVs such as camper vans are becoming ever more popular. They are agile and easier to manoeuvre and therefore also suitable for everyday use or city trips. Fully fitted camper vans now account for almost half the motorhome output and have replaced the medium-sized, partially integrated motor caravans at the top of the registration statistics. Knaus Tabbert GmbH refers to this vehicle category as “CUV” and uses the CARAVAN SALON for an exclusive presentation of the vehicle prototypes Knaus CUVision as well as Weinsberg CUVolution. The CUV studies feature extremely striking vehicle fronts: the Weinsberg models CaraTour and CaraBus score points with an eye-catching colour design, large 22” alloy rims with the corresponding tyres and massive air intakes. Matt decorative stripes in anthracite skilfully contrast with the Liquid Chrome Orange paintwork. The roof spoiler not only stresses the sporty slant of the vehicle but also improves its aerodynamics. Thanks to smart solutions such as the integration of a new 105 l water tank into the body side wall up to 25% additional storage space is created. The new grooved, sandwich-type floor structure with integral insulation virtually clings to the body floor.  

Lifting-Roof Caravan Silver Evasion 430 CP: Compact but Spacious
Trigano, Hall 11 D 07

Silver is unrivalled as a producer when it comes to compact caravans. The lifting-roof caravan Evasion 430 CP is designed to fit into a standard garage with under two metres height overall and just under 2 metres width – provided the garage is long enough. Because this might prove a little tight with a length overall of 5.98 metres. Furthermore, the French score points with low weight and drag and, hence, reduced fuel consumption. The superstructure is made of glass fibre reinforced plastic, the water-proof XPS-foam insulation ensures efficient and durable dampening. The standard model includes heating, combined shutters, LED lighting, three-burner cooker and one 85 l refrigerator. Optional extras include a boiler and fresh and waste water tanks. The Evasion CP with transversal bed retails for about EUR 21,500.

Tomorrow’s Living Ideas: Caravan Prototype HARMONY 3
Bürstner GmbH, Hall 10 C 43

The feelgood factor is key for Harmony 3. With this new vehicle prototype Bürstner GmbH presents living concepts for tomorrow’s caravans. The unique colour scheme and shape alone make the exterior design of the Harmony 3 an eye-catcher. While the front looks beefy the side walls with their partially fixed, large windows have a filigree touch to them. A wealth of new ideas and solutions can be found once you enter the vehicle. A completely new layout surprises us already in the entrance area. The kitchen is roomy and modern and more reminiscent of a contemporary eat-in kitchen you would have at home. A scratch-resistant stone-look worktop, large, fully extendible drawers, a cooker with an induction hob and a fully automatic coffee machine integrated into the fridge make you feel at home here right away. Next to the kitchen spacious seating invites caravanners to relax. Located above is a queen-size drop-down bed set off to the side, which can be lowered easily and conveniently for the night. The floor-level panorama window allows plenty of light to enter the vehicle interior thereby adding to the feelgood atmosphere of this caravan. And the rear bathroom is nothing short of spectacular either. Occupying nearly the complete width of 2.50 m it provides plenty of space and freedom of movement. Furthermore, the Harmony 3 study combines design with utility and boasts latest technology and many clever details.  

Premium Motorhome: Luxus Liner Palace
Morelo Reisemobile GmbH, Hall 5 C 05

At the CARAVAN SALON Morelo presents the luxury liner Morelo Palace to the public for the first time. This first-class motorhome now sports an even sportier and more distinct design as well as a whole series of technical highlights. The 205 HP Palace comes with an 8-gear automatic transmission and is also available with WideAxle (a special front axle that is 20 cm wider than the standard axle affording improved driving stability). The front wheels are positioned further outside and therefore better in the wheel case. Morelo’s flagship continues to be offered on the basic vehicles Iveco Eurocargo and Mercedes Atego. With the new Palace this motorhome manufacturer from Schlüsselfeld makes an unmistakeable design statement: clear, elegant language of form and even more dynamism. Depending on the layout these vehicles measure between 8 and 9.5 metres in length. The superstructure is 2.4 m wide and 3.44 m high. The heatable garage has room for bicycles, scooters or a G-model SMART. The 380 l fresh water tank, 250 l waste water tank and 250 l waste tank allow users to travel independently for an extended period of time. Prices for the Palace start at EUR 217,900.

B-Klasse ModernComfort on a Mercedes Sprinter
Hymer GmbH & Co KG, Hall 17

Hymer GmbH & Co. KG unveils the latest results of its intense cooperation with Mercedes-Benz Vans: the Hymermobil B-Klasse ModernComfort. The fully and partially integrated motorhomes with 580 and 680 layouts are the only RVs available so far where the drive unit of the new Sprinter developed by Mercedes-Benz Vans “joins forces” with the body of a motorhome maker. Thanks to the combination with HYMER’s award-winning SLC Chassis this new generation of motorhomes boasts a particularly lightweight and stable superstructure plus that extra safety and driving comfort. For the vehicle interior the tradition-rich manufacturer from Bad Waldsee focuses on a completely re-vamped design and furniture style.  

Interesting Vehicles / Selected Innovations at CARAVAN SALON DÜSSELDORF 2018

E-Mobility: The First Caravan with its Own Electrical Drive
Dethleffs, Hall 11 A 25

Last year Dethleffs’ e.home, the first fully electrical mobile home, caused a stir at the CARAVAN SALON. This year the Allgäu-based manufacturer of recreational vehicles widens the horizon for our thinking and demonstrates how e-mobility can override the fundamental rules that have governed caravans for decades. Dethleffs’ e.home coco is the first caravan with its own e-drive. Equipped with high-performance batteries, two hub motors and smart control electronics the “passive trailer” becomes an active “living vehicle”. Of particular importance here is the strain relief module of the e.home coco. It controls the two electric drive motors of the axle so that the trailer load at the coupling head of the towing vehicle is reduced to a defined value – of 100kg for example. This allows even small towing vehicles to tow heavy caravans/trailers whose total mass far exceeds the car’s permitted trailer load. In combination with an electric car as a towing vehicle this means that realistic travel ranges can be achieved. When going downhill the batteries are recharged.   

Unadulterated Luxury: Performance S
Volkner Mobil GmbH, Hall 5 E 08

With Performance S the Wuppertal manufacturer Volkner presents a high-quality motorhome at CARAVAN SALON that is designed for luxury and convenience. Boasting a total length of 12 metres the Performance S provides room for “fully grown” passenger cars in its patented centre garage, such as a Porsche 911 GT2RS or a C-Class Mercedes Benz. The 500 HP vehicle is equipped with three air-conditioning and five heating systems as well as 1,700 Ah battery capacity and 1,830 kW solar modules. These batteries also supply the induction hob, the oven and the dishwasher with electricity. The 5kW gen set renders outside power supply superfluous even in winter operation. Those still not happy with the room available inside can expand it significantly with an optional slide out or wall-out element. Tank capacities can be customised and the following volumes are possible: fresh water: 780 l, grey water 680 l, waste tank 380 l, gas tank 100 l and 400 l diesel tank. The basic price amounts to EUR 966,0000 and the mobile home exhibited at the CARAVAN SALON retails for EUR 1,465,000 making it the most expensive vehicle on display in Düsseldorf.

Value-for-Money Teardrop, Starter Caravans from Latvia
Kulba Sia, Hall 10 D 78

Those looking for a starter caravan who are more focused on price, are perfectly catered to by the Latvian manufacturer Kulba Sia. The Kulba Teardrop captivates starters especially with its low weight. These compact mini caravans are made of wood and aluminium and retail for as little as EUR 5,100 as a basic entry price.

Retro Trend, Citroën Jumper Type H Wildcamp
Citroën GmbH, Hall 16 D 70

The retro trend can also be felt at the CARAVAN SALON. With its Typ H Wildcamp Citroën presents a French automobile legend in a new look. The Citroën Jumper forms the basis, the Italian company Caselani Automobili then converts the vehicle into the legendary Typ H with its corrugated-iron appearance by means of a fibre-glass refit kit. With an outlay of EUR 63,700 nostalgics will be to be able to choose from three engine options (110, 130 or 163 HP) and a number of layouts. In technical terms the RV is up to date, even the interior design is modern and contemporary but with a classic “outfit” that goes with the outside appearance of the Wildcamp.

Caravanboat
Metall- und Bootsbau Wolgast UG, Outdoor Premises 11-02

The self-supporting “Caravanboat” fuses a caravan with a houseboat. It is suited for versatile uses on land and on water. The Caravanboat complete with its trailers measures nine metres in length and is two metres wide. The entry and exit door forms part of a panorama window in the front part. The land-water hybrid features a 15 HP outboard motor and can therefore be steered on the water without any boating licence (from the age of 16). And skippers do not have to forego luxury either! The Caravanboat comes with a high-quality finish, a fully fletched kitchen, WC incl. shower as well as a roofed terrace and sleeps four people. Entry price is EUR 69,000.

Icon Caravan or mobile Beach Villa? Airstream Tommy Bahama Special Edition
Roka Werk GmbH, Hall 5 / E02

The Tommy Bahama Special Edition Airstream resembles a mobile beach villa that whisks away its users to tropical islands in no time. Inside the cult-status Airstream “skin” it offers a high-quality interior finish with many Caribbean-inspired details. The Tommy Bahama fabrics exude subtle sophistication while the finely crafted cabinets with louvre doors and wooden shutters add a touch of elegance. The Infinity woven floor is as beautiful as it is hard-wearing, and the Tommy Bahama accessories set makes the bathroom, beds and kitchen look homely from the outset. Since the contract between Airstream and Tommy Bahama was concluded for a limited period of time only, the number of vehicles available for the German market is strictly limited. The Tommy Bahama 19 superstructure measures approx. 5.1 m in length and 2.5 m in width. The version offered for Europe is expected to have a tare weight of 1,980 kg and a total weight of 2,500 kg. The tongue load will be about 130 kg. The Tommy Bahama Airstream sleeps up to 4 people and features a separate shower cubicle and a flush toilet.  CARAVAN SALON will see the exclusive premiere of the model costing EUR 98,385.

Ideal for Families, Alkoven Siesta de Luxe A65 GM
Hobby Wohnwagenwerk Ing. Harald Striewski GmbH, Hall 9 B 05

For a long time, alcove motorhomes were considered obsolete but now these RVs ideal for families are heralding a bit of a comeback. This type of vehicle features a sleeping alcove above the driver’s cabin. They are ideally suited for those wanting to go on holiday with the whole family and therefore require corresponding storage space – or for those travelling over extended periods with plenty of luggage on board. For the new season the three, family-friendly alcove motorhomes in the Siesta de Luxe series score points with more convenience “in the attic” as well as in the living area because both the alcove beds and the centre seating have been optimised. Each one of the three models sleeps at least 4 people and offers seating for 6. The Siesta de Luxe A65 GM is 6.23 m long, 2.34 m wide, and even boasts a rear bunk bed for kids. Basic price: from around EUR 60,000.

Partially Integrated – Van TI Plus on a MAN Platform
Knaus Tabbert GmbH, Hall 4

By launching the VAN TI Plus Knaus presents the first mobile home on the new MAN TGE platform. The series model comes with a standard front drive but is said to be also available with rear or four-wheel drive upon demand. With the TGE MAN has developed an especially automotive basic vehicle that captivates buyers with extraordinary driving dynamics, state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and individual drive options – even with an optional four-wheel drive. Two layouts will be supplied for the time being: the 650 MEG with twin rear beds and an extendible bench in the centre of the vehicle and the 700 MF with a double bed in the rear and L-shaped centre seating. Identical in both models is the bathroom with swivelling washbasin. The partially integrated RV is 6.99 m long, 2.2 m wide, 2.9 m high and retails for just under EUR 65,000 in the basic version.

Trend towards Van Campers: Charming GT
Malibu, Hall 15 D 47

Van campers are particularly popular with newbies because these compact and “handy” RVs can also easily be used for everyday trips. The new Malibu Van Charming GT offers true motorhome convenience and an entirely new space and driving perception for a compact camper van/bus. The driver’s cabin is completely integrated into the living space. Two big panorama skylights, reaching well over the seating in the living room, make for heavenly views. The Charming series includes the 640 LE layout (twin longitudinal beds) and the 600 DB layout with a transversal rear bed. The cosy seating comfortably accommodates four people. Once the swivelled driving seats are pushed back all the way, even tall people or four-legged family members will find enough space. The Charming GT in the basic configuration is available from EUR 47,150.

Refreshingly Different: Lume Caravans – Small, Lightweight and yet Luxurious
Lume Traveler, Hall 9 B 75

The Lume Traveler is a rugged and durable caravan for sleeping and cooking. Its timeless design is 100% Dutch. Small, lightweight (weighing between 600 kg and 1,000 kg empty depending on the model) and yet luxurious it allows nature to be experienced with all the amenities you normally enjoy at home. The caravan is made of such sustainable and long-lasting materials as aluminium, wood, fulled wool and leather both inside and out. The fully fledged kitchen allows meals to be prepared outside in the shade of the tailgate. The kitchen is fitted with sufficient storage room, a two-burner gas cooker, a refrigeration box, stainless steel worktop with integrated sink and a gas connection for a grill. Thanks to its aluminium sandwich construction and mouldings specially designed for the caravan the Lume Traveler is not only well insulated but also stands out from other RVs with a very special look and feel. Lume fuses state-of-the-art design with rugged simplicity and latest technology. A characteristic design feature here is the use of pop rivets. The structure is self-supporting and mounted on a Knott Top chassis.

The Connected RV with Electric Power
Truma Gerätetechnik, Hall 13 C 31

Compact, high-performing – and now also smart: the Truma VarioHeat becomes part of the iNet system. From now on customers can control this gas heating conveniently by an App on their smartphone and even connect it with other devices. This means it is possible to incorporate a Truma air-con device into the system and also use the automatic climate control for it; or to check gas levels via the App using the LevelControl. The prerequisites for this digital connection: the Truma iNet Box and the new Truma CP control device plus VarioHeat iNet ready. Furthermore, Truma launches supplementary electric heating for VarioHeat, the e-Kit. It provides as much as 1,800 W power on top of the 2,700 W heat output (VarioHeat eco) and the 3,800 W heat output (VarioHeat comfort). Two 990 W heating coils can be switched on separately allowing the vehicle to be heated up even faster on cold days – an exciting option for winter campers.

For Winter Campers, Averso 580 TS Nordic
Bürstner, Hall 10 C 43

Wellbeing for any season is the concept underlying the “Nordic” caravan and a feature warranting particular attention in the development and engineering of this series. This decisive contribution paid off with such furnishing details as the powerful heating system with two blowers, the practical raised floor underneath the bed and the separate, heated drying cabinet. In addition to this, the rear ventilation for seating and beds creates the perfect indoor climate. The 70 cm wide entrance door, the spacious seating and the floor heating all form part of the standard furnishing that ensures comfort and homeliness even when temperatures drop outside. A ski box and winter package are optional and ideal complements for a winter vacation. Two basic layouts are supplied, the basic price stands at EUR 27,300.

Mobile Camping Kitchen, Kitchenbox
Go Outside OG, Hall 7 E 41

Fold-down modular systems are in these days. A newcomer to the market is the “Kitchenbox” made by the Austrian manufacturer Go Outside. Weighing in as little as 17 kg, this mobile camping and outdoor kitchen is easy to transport and ready to use in no time anytime and anywhere thanks to its clever folding system. The basic model is called Microbox but there are also various designs with pre-installed gas cooker, sink as well as water tanks. Prices start from EUR1,400.

45 Years of Demountable Campers for Pick-up Trucks, Tischer Rarity T2-Bulli
Tischer GmbH Freizeitfahrzeuge, Hall 12 B30

CARAVAN SALON is the annual showcase for all innovations in the industry. At times, however, looking back also unleashes fresh energy. This year, Tischer Freizeitfahrzeuge celebrates its 45^th company anniversary and therefore brings a true rarity to Düsseldorf: the first ever Tischer camper shell on a VW “Bulli T2” bus. In line with the motto “Pickup the dream” trade fair visitors can be “beamed back” into the 70s. Needless to say, Tischer not only has nostalgia to offer but also a host of power-packed pick-ups. This is the first time that Ford Ranger, VW Amarok, Nissan Navara, Isuzu Big-Max (double shell with extended loading platform) and Dodge RAM share the exhibition stand with the new X-class. The Mercedes concept will be on show with a TRAIL 230S and full air-suspension; Tischer brings four matching demountable campers for the X-class to the CARAVAN SALON.

Folding Caravans: Tent Trailer TrailDog
3Dog Camping GmbH, Hall 14 A66

Folding caravans are also becoming ever more popular with camping and caravanning enthusiasts. 3DOG camping GmbH, a firm belonging to the Hymer group of companies, manufactures highest-quality tent trailers as well as rooftop tents. With their tent trailer, adventurers have their living and bedroom with them all the time – conveniently, fast and easily. Two components form the basis for all 3DOG camping’s tent trailers: a rugged special trailer and a tent superstructure. Trailers are supplied as road and off-road designs. While travelling the complete load compartment remains available for luggage. Handy: without the tent all vehicles can be used for transport trips. Upon demand the trailers can be upgraded to include a kitchen module with sink, 2-burner gas cooker, and 40 l fresh water tank. The tent trailer TrailDog can be expanded from nine to 36 square metres. Thanks to the integral tent flooring the living space of the main tent even stays dry on damp ground. And the tents grow with additional family members: the tents can be divided up into segments with partition walls and refitted with additional tents.

Trend: Vans/ Camper Buses: Danny 490 with Lifting Roof
Karmann Mobil, Hall 15 D 26

Enjoying particularly high demand this year again are the RVs categories camper vans/buses. These compact vehicles are popular with both families and couples of all ages. Karmann launches Danny – a new camper bus with pop top roof available in two versions. Serving as a platform is the Fiat Talento. The smaller Danny 490 is only 1.93 m wide and extremely agile due to its short wheelbase. Due to its electrically operated lifting roof Danny virtually outgrows itself at 2.06 metres thereby providing room for two additional berths under the starry skies. On the “ground floor” your berth is not quite as airy but all the more comfortable. On top of that, the camper van includes kitchen, air-conditioning, refrigerator, folding sofa, outdoor shower – the basic price is from EUR 42,490.

Expedition Mobile Homes: Container Principle as a Standard
Bliss Mobil BV, Hall 5 E09

Since 2012 the Dutch company Bliss Mobil BV has produced expedition motorhomes and custom-built, long-range vehicles. Self-sufficient and above all demountable shells are installed on such platforms as Mercedes Zetros, Allrad-MAN or Unimog. The demountable campers with all their key characteristics are engineered like containers. All safety-critical and operation-relevant components are installed in a protected way. The self-supporting camper shell is fitted with standardised container locks on all corners. This ensures easy handling for transport by ship, rail or truck. In terms of on-board technology, the engineers have focused on the highest degree of independence possible. For the 20-foot model six solar modules charge 16 Lithium batteries with 800 Ah in two parallel banks. Fail-safe redundant systems can be found nearly everywhere – also for heating and water supply. All technical devices can be monitored and controlled via Tablet. The superstructure weight ranges from 11 to 20 tons. Some facts and figures for the 20-ton model: 565 l fresh water are stored in two separate tanks, six solar modules generate approx. 1.9 kW in total. Two parallel battery banks provide a total output of 20kWh / 800 Ah. The freezer compartment holds 65 l. Air-conditioning, heating and many other components offer lots of convenience for luxury travels up to about 90 days. Additional tanks mounted on the chassis increase the range to approx. 2,500 kilometres.