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quoteWith literally hundreds of new-season caravans on display, narrowing down to five headline-grabbers is almost impossible. Nevertheless, that was our task when we went to Caravan Salon, in Germany. Why don’t you let us know what you think?
What is Caravan Salon?
This is by far the largest showcase for new motorhomes and caravans in the whole of Europe. It’s an annual event, currently held at the Dusseldorf Exhibition Centre in northern Germany
This year’s was the 57th Caravan Salon, and it recorded highest ever visitor numbers, with some 248,000 people coming through its doors to visit more than 600 exhibitors in 13 halls, as well as outdoor stands – featuring leading manufacturers, accessory suppliers, campsites, tour operators and more. There’s also overnight facilities for caravans and motorhomes in the extensive grounds near the show venue.
Next year’s Caravan Salon takes place from August 31st to September 8th. More information at www.caravan-salon.de.
Dethleffs CoCo
Whilst Dethleffs motorhomes are represented here in the UK, there’s no official importer for any of its caravans. Could that be about to change with this, the 1,100kg Coco?
Lightweight construction plays a major part in this – mass in running order starts at 708kg – yet it comes with fittings like a 142-litre fridge with freezer.
The floorplan puts the kitchen at the front, where it benefits from a distinctive sunroof design, while the lounge is also designed to act as a cinema or sunbathing area!
Bürstner Harmony 3
Same story at Bürstner, where again – its caravans aren’t available in the UK. Maybe this will make you think again, though? It’s just a concept, but who knows what the future might bring?
It’s not just the sleek, glossy exterior – although that’s stunning enough – inside, there are all kinds of clever, avant-garde ideas – from the sliding table to streamlined kitchen with induction hob, to wine chiller, “rainfall” shower, pendant lights, built-in coffee maker, voice-activated control system, drop-down double bed and more!
Just a dream for now, of course…
Weinsberg CaraTwo 390 QD
German engineering doesn’t come cheap… or light… but it’s a challenge Weinsberg is up for. It’s CaraTwo range comprises four models.
This is the 390 QD and, at 5.91m long, it’s very much the baby, although it can sleep up to four.
The 7.23m long 500 QDK range-topper, meanwhile, looks an ideal family tourer, with its potential to accommodate up to seven. Ask about the CaraKid Package option here – for £200 it makes it all the more child-friendly, with extra USB sockets, different fabrics, storage pockets etc.
Knaus Sport Silver Selection
Introducing the new Sport Silver Selection from Knaus – versions of its Sport models with enhanced specifications.
Models 500UF and 540UE will debut at October’s NEC Show in Birmingham. They feature a French bed and twin single beds respectively, with five-zone cold foam mattresses. Standard equipment also extends to 17in alloy wheels, interior ambient lighting and Knaus’s Cosy Home soft furnishings package as standard.
There’s more innovation in the pipeline from Knaus, too, with models Travelino, Deseo and Sport & Fun all featuring in its UK portfolio for 2019.
Lume Traveler
From the Netherlands, this 5.17m long, 1,000kg unit is made using an insulated aluminium sandwich construction, with a canvas roll-back roof and a full-height tailgate that opens for access to the kitchen (so you cook outdoors – although there’s an awning option should you want extra cover).
There are three versions to choose from – No1, Basic and Shell. All materials, inside and out, are chosen for their sustainability – with wool for the insulation, teak woodwork, leather detailing, linoleum flooring etc.
It’s the middle one of these that’s the most caravan-like. The price start at just under 40,000 euros. Not exactly cheap, then!
No sign of these coming to the UK yet, but the continent is only a short trip away…
Let us know what you make of these European caravans in the comments box below.
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