Campingmesse: Das sind die wichtigsten Neuheiten des Caravan-Salons in Düsseldorf

The Caravan Expo in Düsseldorf showcased a host of new developments in the caravan industry, despite high fuel costs and increased prices for new vehicles. According to Daniel Onggowinarso, the CEO of the German Caravaning Association CIVD, demand for recreational vehicles is still strong, as evidenced by the small increase in registrations and the large turnout at the 65th Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf (August 28 to September 6).

Caravan manufacturers are constantly striving to meet a wide range of customer preferences, leading to a wide variety of innovative offerings, from 4x4 campers to autonomous living spaces.

One key trend observed was the growing demand for 4x4 vehicles, with the Düsseldorf exhibition organizing the 4x4 showcases under a single Offroad area. The Camper-Van CV 595 X-Edition, a six-meter-long box van with a double bed in the rear, was introduced for the popular brand Carado, marking its debut as an all-wheel-drive model.

Mercedes Sprinter, with its excellent off-road capabilities and lower price points, played a significant role in this trend. Other manufacturers like Pössl and Hannes-Camper also introduced Mercedes Transporter models at competitive prices.

Autonomy was another prominent theme, with campers increasingly focusing on self-sufficiency through solar panels and additional lithium batteries that generate power onboard. This allowed for longer periods of campsite-free travel, powered by induction cookers, compressor refrigerators, and diesel heaters. The demand for comfortable on-board shower facilities led to the development of combi-shower units and new floor plans with larger rear shower areas. This trade-off involved forgoing a rear garage, but the trend remains strong.

A significant innovation was the transition to a 'Queensbed' alternative, featuring either a double bed or two single beds, which can be folded down above a seating area. The new Spanish Benimar Yrteo Y885 and Hobby T740 WE models showcase this concept, with the latter incorporating two side-beds alongside the rear shower area. The French Rapido group introduced two new models, the Rapido V64 and Dreamer D64, featuring a large rear bed within a Fiat Ducato.

The German subsidiary Westfalia's new Columbus Liner Premier takes this concept further, integrating the roof and rear terrace into the living space, offering luxury on three levels.

Despite the emphasis on box vans, their dominance has slightly declined, accounting for over 50 percent of the market, while integrated models have gained popularity. The larger integrated models, such as the Hymer B-Klasse Master-Line, continue to be favored by families and rental companies for their spacious interiors and affordable prices.

The Alkoven, a popular choice among families and rental businesses, offers ample room and reasonable pricing. The updated Forster A699, available in three variants with seven and even eight beds, starts at 59,000 euros.

Electric mobility remains a niche phenomenon in campers, with only a few full-electric models, such as the Eifelland Camper-Van based on the Nissan Interstar, being available. Most studies have not materialized, citing the weight limit of 3.5 tons as a hindrance. With the new EU regulation raising the limit to 4.25 tons, manufacturers are already working on solutions, anticipating that developments will continue even after the 2028 deadline for implementing the regulation.