The multi-functional caravan from the USA.

OK, folks. You read it here first, but there are some interesting new caravan ideas coming to the UK at the start of next year. And there’s a clue in the current relative weakness of the US dollar versus the good old pound sterling.

First off, check out the name Eterniti, it’s on a range of all-new caravans with slide-out sections. They’re from America but built on chassis from BPW in Germany, using a GRP shell constructed in the US, and promising full UK specifications and reasonable weights. They’re expected to retail around the £20,000-£25,000 mark. Definitely one to keep an eye out for.

Next up is a concept so new it doesn’t actually have a brand name yet. It’s being made under the working title of the “multi-functional caravan”, using a special box-construction chassis and frame, again from the USA.

Here, though, the finished design will feature a drop-down tailgate designed to allow accommodation for wheelchairs, electric bikes, scooters etc, with an interior featuring an equally innovative bunk bed design and more…

There’s plenty more going on to suggest 2012 is going to be a very interesting year for new caravans. I’ve previously mentioned briefly the all-new Artemis folding caravan, from Pennine. Monthly magazine Practical Caravan broke the news about this exciting new venture, and the Pennine company reported instant sales when the Pennine Artemis made its debut at October’s Motorhome and Caravan Show.

Time for something new? Watch this space for future developments on the multi-functional caravan.

For too long now, Gobur has had the folding caravan market to itself with its Gobur Carousel models. Superbly well made, I’ve a feeling even so that – maybe only secretly, Gobur is looking forward to some competition – especially,  as I’m proving here, it’s a chance to talk up the many attributes of such units: fuel- and space-saving, easy to tow, and more, versus a normal caravan.

Meanwhile, a quick update on Automotive Leisure from Dorset, who are now fully affiliated agents for new Eriba Touring caravans from Hymer. These diminutive little tourers – you may recall the iconic Eriba Puck – are available now that full-scale production is back up and running, having switched from France to Germany.

Also, I think an interesting niche that’s set for development is that for “over-width” touring caravans. The UK has fallen into line with the rest of Europe in deeming  2.55m (8ft 4in) as the acceptable maximum width towable by “normal” cars, I’m expecting a bit of demand for relevant Dethleffs Nomads models as well as the highly competitively priced, yet stylish Adria Astella.

But, don’t get carried away thinking it’s all about imports. I know there are new models in the pipeline from major UK manufacturers Bailey, Coachman, Elddis and Swift especially. It’s a bit too early to say too much. But, if I were a gambling man, I’d put money on something like: additions to the Swift Challenger/Eccles Sport line-ups; new fixed single bed additions to the Pastiche and VIP ranges from Coachman; and a stunning flagship Crusader Hurricane from Elddis.
Otherwise, I’m sworn to a bit of secrecy at this stage, so watch this space…

Next blog: Living with the new Pennine Artemis folding caravan.