New 2015 Swift Bolero ‘Black Edition’ unveiled

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by Hayley McCrystal

Swift has announced plans to introduce a ‘Black Edition’ of the Bolero motorhome, promising a sleek and luxurious mobile home from the ever-popular UK manufacturer

Introducing the Bolero ‘Black Edition.’ As if put through a black and white filter, the Swift Bolero has undergone a makeover of the ‘Black Edition’ variety, joining the likes of the popular Kon-Tiki model.

In terms of looks, the new black edition will have numerous updates. It will feature a “striking black metallic cab and special graphics” and incorporates a streamlined Fiat cab making it look even more stylish than before. The cab will also have a colour keyed black metallic bumper, silver front grill and LED day time running lights. Sounds like this makeover will put this more reasonably priced motorhome in competition with other fancy vehicles we have seen recently. The new edition will also include 16″ alloy wheels.

From the sounds of it, the new Bolero Black Edition, Fiat cab will look more like the cockpit of a plane or space ship than that of a motorhome. The radio – now with a Techno-silver trim – will feature Bluetooth connection and a mirror-mounted aerial for better reception, along with a USB port for wireless connectivity. The instrument panel will also include an update to the graphics plus a gearshift indicator that shows you when to change gear for optimum economy – you may even save enough on petrol to cover the cost of the new motorhome, which is said to be “highly competitive” – but, alas, maybe that’s being optimistic. You also have the opportunity to get your hands on cab air-conditioning, cruise control, a New Status 550 TV aerial and a twin-view reversing camera, all as optional extras. Pretty snazzy, eh?

In terms of gadgets – a topic CaravanTimes is always eager to hear about – the Bolero Black Edition will include a BBQ point for those summer cook-outs and a solar panel, making your trip all the more eco-friendly.

The new model will be based on the Fiat Ducato with an AL-KO chassis conversion meaning a lower weight and therefore extra payload.

All models include 130bhp or 150bhp, 2.3 litre engines with 6-speed gearboxes. Larger models are available with the Fiat Comfort-Matic automatic gearbox with 150bhp engine, or the more recent 130bhp automatic engine for the shorter models.

Swift’s SMART Construction, which is being launched across the whole Coachbuilt Motorhome range in 2015, will be used for the new Bolero. This means a strong timber-less body frame made with a strong polyurethane material called ‘PURe’ that is resilient to moisture.

It’s not all about the exterior for the new black edition, however, it’s also what’s inside that counts and that includes comfort. New ‘Captain-chair’ style cab seats have been used for the new Bolero including an integrated headrest, wider backrest, better side support and improved seat comfort – always important for those long road trips.

In a stylish, monochrome combination of grey, black and silver, the Bolero ‘Black Edition’ is sure to be class on wheels. Interior touches such as vector chrome effect taps, Thetford Aspire Mark II oven, improved LED lighting and chrome sockets and switches complete the sleek interior. To keep it in premium condition, customers will also have the option of ‘Impala’ stain resistant easy-clean seating fabric with a soft nubuck texture that is unique to the Swift Group.

The team behind the new black edition clearly had comfort high on their priority list as can be seem from the various features that it includes. Such features include ‘Duvalay Duvalite’, lightweight memory fibre mattresses and the powerful Adele central heating with improved circulation pump and five-speed settings.

This central heating system also includes a Winter Pack with fresh and waste water tank heaters, drain insulation and fridge vent covers they easily achieve Grade 3 performance for heating and thermal insulation as well as a Truma ‘Crash Sensor Mono’ regulator allowing the system to be safely operated while travelling.

The more insurance savvy of you will be please to know that all models come equipped with a “TRACKER Retrieve” Thatcham (Category 7) approved tracking system – a feature which many insurers insist on. It also comes with Swift Group’s 10-year body integrity warranty.

This new edition really sounds the business and Nick Page, Swift Group’s Commercial Director ensures “you won’t be disappointed.”

Caravanners feel effects of Big Bertha

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by Hayley McCrystal

UK holiday goers have said goodbye to the great British Summer and hello to Hurricane Bertha

This weekend saw the arrival of the after-effects of Hurricane Bertha. The storm, which started in the Caribbean, passing over the Bahamas and up the East coast of the US has now made its way to us across the Atlantic – and don’t we know it.

The storm, mainly affecting the South-West coast of the UK, has caused appalling driving conditions, particularly for caravanners making their way to the South-West coast.

Us Brits are nothing if not resilient, however, with caravanner, Jim Parks, telling The Guardian: “It’s only a bit of sogginess. What harm can it do?” “We’ve got our bucket and spade. We’re going to go and make some sandcastles whatever the weather does,” Mancunian Jim continued as he and his family visited Weston-super-Mare, an area particularly affected by the storm. Nevertheless, for those who remember the effects of the storm St Jude last October and the storms of January and February this year, the warnings from officials of flash floods and high winds, predicted to reach 70mph, are certainly not welcome. Winds have already been recorded as reaching 40mph with more fierce winds predicted.

The Environment Agency has reported that rain moving north-eastwards across England and Wales during the weekend may be heavy enough to cause some surface water flooding in places. Flooding of properties and parts of communities as well as travel disruption may occur in places, which makes us grit our teeth in the hope that our caravans and motorhomes withstand the battering they may receive from both the wind and rain.

Meanwhile, in the North-East, a caravan park in Scarborough took its toll as flood waters swept the site. Fire-fighters had the task of removing the several thousand litres of water from the park yesterday evening.

The storm’s effects, while being highly inconvenient and unwelcome in August of all months, thus far have been minimal in comparison to what we have seen in the past year. Let’s hope it doesn’t reach those standards. We’d like to know: have any of our readers experienced towing trouble because of this nasty weather?

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Pet caravans: Giving the gift of caravanning to man’s best friend

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by Hayley McCrystal

Vancouver design firm pamper their pooches with pet trailers

Another of the weird and wonderful variety for you today. Miniature caravans… for your pets.

The Canadian firm, Straight Line Designs Inc, has developed a line of dog houses on wheels inspired by vintage trailers from the 1940s and 50s and are said to be “beloved by people and puppies alike.”

These quirky caravans come complete with a personalised licence plate, stainless steel cups for food and water as well as a battery operated LED light and wireless speakers inside. Everything that Fido could ever ask for. You can even let your inner interior decorator out as you have control of what the trailer will look like on the inside. A choice of colours is available, as well as the choice of carpet, tile or hardwood flooring. Or, if you’re feeling really creative, primed, unpainted models are also available for the customer who wants to decorate them personally – pretty fancy.

These trailers retail at around $800 Canadian dollars (approximately £430), varying slightly depending on size, style and the material used. The company doesn’t just love their fury companions though – they also love the earth and make a point of using environmentally friendly materials such as recyclable aluminium, plywood, and plastic laminate.

It is not recommended that these dog houses be used outside or by pets over 20lb.

Straight Line Designs Inc, founded by Judson Beaumont, is known for their crazy creations, ranging from custom built furniture, sculptures and now animal caravans. No one could call them unimaginative, that’s for sure.


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The Tourism Authority of Thailand organised a special ‘Road Trip with Amazing Thailand’ caravan to travel the country

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By Ingeborg Holba

Road trip with classic caravans take members of Bangkok-based international media to explore Thai kingdom

A dozen members of Bangkok-based international media have been sent on a road trip with a difference, throughout Thailand to explore some of the world’s most famous and well-visited tourist attractions – in classic caravans.

The event which took place on 1-2 August was organised by The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The main focus of the two day trip was the province of Kanchanaburi, an attractive region just a few hours outside of Bangkok. The region has a range of historical and natural attractions, including the Tiger Temple where monks and tigers roam peacefully together.

Surgee Sithivanich, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communication of TAT, said of the idea behind the trip: “We wanted to show the world that Thailand is safe and more than ready to welcome visitors from all over the world. Also, we would like to exemplify that a different way of travelling can convert the once-travelled route into the amazingly impressive one. And a roadtrip around some of the kingdom’s attractions seemed a wonderful way to do this.”

Other activities included visits to historical sites from World War II, including the world-famous Death Railway and the Krasae Cave where the allied prisoners-of-war (POWs) working on the railway were allowed to rest. The Hell Fire Pass Memorial Museum that tells stories of the most infamous section of the Death Railway built by the POWs, was also on the menu for the intrepid travellers.

The Thong PhaPhum district was also paid a visit, as it is famous in the country for its adventure activities including rafting, trekking and ATV riding.

“We believe that the ‘Road Trip with Amazing Thailand’ is an effective way of promoting Thailand through the media, word-of-mouth and social media channels. We’re sure that our efforts showed all the members of the media who joined, that it’s business as usual in Thailand and we expect that the message will soon spread far and wide.” Mr. Surgee continued.

TAT uses the caravan as an advertising and promotional medium, which operates through both online and offline channels keeping travelers up to date with all the developments that occur in the country. Moreover, they make sure that tourists feel safe and confident when visiting this exciting and vibrant kingdom.

Honda Yuasa Racing partners up with Bailey Caravans at the British Touring Car Championship

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By Ingeborg Holba

Honda Yuasa racers team up with Bailey of Bristol, taking a Bailey Pursuit 550-4 on a mid-season trip with a difference

There’s nothing like taking a break in a caravan or motorhome – we know that only too well. However, it looks like many more are recognising that too, as our glorious summer continues, including Honda Yuasa racers, Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal. During a break in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship, the two team mates decided to make the most of their travels by teaming up with Bailey of Bristol and taking along a Bailey Pursuit 550-4, towed by their Civic Tourer replica race car, for good measure.

The caravan, fully decked out to the nines in Honda Yuasa colours, looked quite the picture and, ironically enough, both Shedden and Neal looked quite at home in the vehicle, despite usually travelling at a much faster velocity.

Speedsters, Gordon and Matt, stopped for picnics and barbecues, and traded in their four-wheelers for much smaller mountain bikes every once in a while, which made for a much more relaxed journey and one completely different to their usual need for speed.

The boys may be great teammates on the racing track, but put them in a caravan and it’s every man for himself. And, despite working in unison on the race track, we get the impression that, when it comes to caravans expeditions, it was every man for himself, with Sheddon declaring, “Matt’s map-reading is atrocious! For somebody who’s been racing at Snetterton since 1800-and-something, you’d think he’d know his way here by now!”

On a more serious note, however, Neal began: “Beyond all the squabbles, it’s been a great trip. Bailey has done a superb job with this because it’s a mega-comfortable caravan, and our friendship is still just about intact.

“We’re both feeling relaxed, refreshed and ready to race again. Bring it on!”

Knaus Tabbert ‘Caravisio’ will make its debut at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2014

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By Ingeborg Holba

“Caravan of the future” will make its first appearance at the UK’s national Motorhome and Caravan Show 2014

This year’s Motorhome & Caravan Show will take us on a journey to find out what the future of touring caravans will look like.

The Knaus Tabbert Caravisio, touted as “the caravan of the future”, will be showcased at the event, and will definitely be worth checking out. The show is the only UK event where visitors will get the chance to see the futuristic spectacle in all its glory. So make sure to keep the third week of October free (14-19).

So what does the future look like? Well, the caravan features some truly magnificent elements including a fingerprint entry system, a fully controllable air suspension and a frosted smart glass dual-paned sliding door, and has ultimately been designed to demonstrate how modern technology and cutting-edge concepts of design can be incorporated into touring caravans.

All of the technology featured can be controlled by your smartphone using an app, as well as your laptop or tablet. Pretty impressive, eh?

Other features include:

  • Charging system for electric bikes, plus bike storage facility
  • Movable rear sun roof
  • Integrated rear spoiler
  • Side skirts
  • Self levelling system
  • A full HD projection system
  • Air-conditioning equipment

The European manufacturer got its design inspiration from a yacht and it’s easy to spot the nautical theme. The front has a bullet shape, which enables a positive effect on the air-flow around the caravan resulting in less air resistance during your travels.

There are plenty of beds too. Single beds in the front are arranged in a V-shape, and can be turned into a large double bed thanks to a mattress extension – also part of the bullet shaped front mentioned. On top of this, the bed positions also allow for improved aerodynamics. It seems like they’ve thought of everything!

Featuring an intelligent water system controlled with a touch-screen display, the bathroom – located next to the front cockpit – seems pretty cool as well.

If you’re looking to relax, the living area will not disappoint, or be lacking in space. It extends to an open rear door with an adjoining veranda, inspired by the rear end of a yacht. The seating plan can also be converted from a comfortable lounge space to a convenient working area.

The Caravisio took an impressive two years to develop, and the result is outstanding. With innovative new technology and a décor that would make anyone’s jaw drop, you certainly don’t want to miss the opportunity to go see it for yourself – and remember, it won’t be appearing anywhere else this year.

Lowdhams is the main organiser for Knaus Tabbert in the UK, and will also be displaying a range of 2015 motorhomes.

Ticket sales for the event itself, supported by The Caravan Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club, are on sale now with prices starting from as low as £7.

To book tickets and prepare to be amazed click here, or call 0844 338 7799.

Tractor Bumble Update

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by Hayley McCrystal

It’s almost time for the Peter Matheson with caravan in tow, to set off for Norway

Remember our recent story about the ex-copper planning to tow his caravan behind a tractor all the way to Norway? Well we caught up with the ambitious Peter Matheson, to see how progress on planning his tractor travels was going.

For those of you who don’t remember, 50-year-old Peter Matheson is setting out on a caravan trip of epic proportions. Not only is he towing his 28ft, Elddis Crusader Sirocco, nicknamed Michelle, to Norway, he’s towing it with a tractor called ‘Annie’ that he purchased from eBay. Slightly bonkers right? But it’s all to benefit Unicef and the Tom Bowdidge Foundation.

Heading up to John O’Groats on Thursday to get ready fof his departure this Saturday, the excentric farmer must be feeling the pressure of the upcming journey. Paired with his faithful Lab, Amber, Peter is sure to go the distance. literally.

He has plastered his two vehicles in messages relating to his adventure – look out for our CaravanTImes logo on Michelle – and is sure to turn a few heads on the way.

Peter is also looking for places to park up for the night along the way. If you know of anywhere he could do this at any of the places listed below, please contact him – We’re sure he’ll appreciate it. Contact details can be found on his website, here.

For anyone looking to join Peter on his journey, here is his estimated interary:

August:
9 Leave John O’Groats – Brora (Highlands)
10 Rothes (Speyside)
11 Aviemore
12 Dunkeld
13 Dunfermline
14 Jedburgh
15 Bishop Auckland
16 Beverley
17 Sleaford
18 Thetford
19 Ipswich
20 Colchester and West Bergholt,
21 Brentwood
22 London
23 London
24 Staines
25 Andover
26 Honiton
27 Launceston
28 Penzance
29 Lands End

SEPTEMBER
1 depart Lands End – Overnight at St Austell
2 Ivybridge
3 Sidmouth
4 Poole
5 Chichester
6 Lewes
7 Dover

To find out how to donate click here.

Be sure to check back for updates on how Peter’s caravan and tractor trek is going.


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Towing gone wrong: Take II

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by Hayley McCrystal

Who said women were the only ones not good at three-point turns?

On many a road-trip, the dreaded words “I will turn this car around!” are bellowed throughout the moving vehicle – usually to silence little Jimmy on the back seat. For this family, the threat is empty as this gentleman clearly cannot do such a thing.

If you have ever become stuck trying to make a three-point turn and it turns into a 23 point turn then you’ll feel this man’s pain. The only difference is he’s towing a caravan behind him that definitely doesn’t want to play ball. CaravanTimes knows only too well the possible difficulties when towing, but this has outshone even our towing tragedies.

No matter what angle or direction this poor guy tries, it’s just not going to happen. Take a look…

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United British Caravans appointed as Elddis and Buccaneer retailer

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By Ingeborg Holba

United British Caravans and Elddis join forces in an exciting new expansion

United British Caravans (UBC), one of the North East’s most successful dealerships, has been appointed and approved as an Elddis and Buccaneer retailer.

UBC has consistently grown in both size and reputation with its loyal customer base in the North East, proving to be the perfect new partner for Elddis and Buccaneer.

The launch at UBC, previously a Solus-brand retailer, comes after much scrutiny of the UK market and brands available.

UBC’s General Manager Alex Levington said of their expansion with Elddis and Buccaneer: “The quality of Elddis caravans, backed by reassurance of SoLiD Construction, gives us absolute confidence that we will have great success with the Elddis brand and with luxury sister-brand Buccaneer.”

UBC has undergone big changes in the last few years, in turn mirroring the massive changes at Elddis. Both firms whish to increase their market share through the delivery of high-quality products. “In the same way that successful restaurants choose local produce for freshness and value for money, UBC have chosen Elddis for their excellent products,” Levington continued.

Spencer Davies, the National Account Manager at Elddis, confirmed the new alliance, saying: “Since the launch of SoLiD Construction and our continues investment in product development, we have seen strong growth in the UK and beyond.

“This new partnership strengthens our position in the North of England and – at a time that demand for Elddis is so high – gives customers in the region even greater access to the range.”

The 2015 Season Elddis and Buccaneer ranges will begin to arrive at UBC, in Gosforth, in the upcoming weeks.

Favourite cycle miles sponsored by The Camping and Caravanning Club

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By Ingeborg Holba

The Camping and Caravanning Club’s sites support Sustrans’ Sponsor a Mile initiative by choosing their favourite mile of the National Cycle Network to sponsor for a year

100 Camping and Caravanning Club sites have chosen their favourite mile of the National Cycle Network to sponsor for a year in support of Sustrans’ Sponsor a Mile initiative, strengthening the bond between the two organisations.

The club successfully raised over £1,000 for Sustrans – a charity dedicated to enabling people to choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys – during the Challenge ride at the National Camping and Caravanning Week (26 May – 1 June). The two organisations have also joined forces on creating a downloadable Cycling and Camping Activity Pack. This will come with useful hints and tips for your cycle camping or caravanning holiday and, if you’re lucky, you can win a pair of Dawes bikes and camping equipment worth up to £1,000. To enter, click here.

All 100 caravan and camping sites have chosen their favourite mile within 10 kilometers of the nearest route to the network, as many sites are located within easy reach of it.

All money raised will pay for essential maintenance on the parts of the network that Sustrans is responsible for. This will enable both Club members and thousands more users of the routes to benefit from upgrades.

The Camping and Caravanning Club’s senior communications manager, Rob Ganley, said of the sponsorship: “Cycling and walking are very popular activities for visitors to Camping and Caravanning Club Sites. We’re thrilled to support Sustrans with its ongoing efforts to provide quality walking and cycling routes for all.”

Caravan Guard gets new Director of Relations

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By Ingeborg Holba

Caravan Guard appoints Neil Menzies as Director of Relations

Family run insurance company, Caravan Guard, has announced the appointment of Neil Menzies as their new Director of Relations.

Having, undertaken the role of Head of Relations for four years, Neil brings a plethora of experience to the new role, with his key aim being to develop new and existing relationships with key industry figures.

“It’s an honour to take on the Director of Relations role. Those in the industry who know me will already recognise me as part of the Caravan Guard family, so to be given the opportunity to take the business further is a real privilege,” said Neil of his new position.

In other changes, Caravan Guard has also announced that their former Associate Director, Craig Thompson, will take on the role of Marketing Director.

Things seem to be going from strength to strength at Caravan Guard. In early May of this year the company announced the appointment of Ryan Willby as the new Managing Director. Continuing to keep it in the family, Ryan took over his father, Peter Wilby, who went on to take the role of Chairman.

New Bailey Unicorn – a close look at the modern new aesthetics

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By Joe Jeffrey

CaravanTimes speaks to Bailey of Bristol to find out more about the third generation Unicorn and how aesthetic changes have been made to enhance their flagship range

It’s imperative that when choosing a caravan to buy it looks the part. From the outside aesthetics to those on the inside, with so much choice on the market, many caravan manufacturers are choosing to stretch their design limits that extra bit more in order to aim for presenting their very own masterpiece in an industry awash with competition. And that’s exactly what Bailey of Bristol has done as far as the new Bailey Unicorn is concerned.

As Bailey acknowledge, with the Unicorn remaining at the forefront as their flagship range, it is of great importance that it looks the part both inside and out. So CaravanTimes has taken a trip to the Bailey headquarters in Bristol to find out more about what makes the new Unicorn stand out from the crowd.

Subtle, but significant changes have been made to the new Bailey Unicorn, in order to make it unqiue to its predecessors, whilst still maintaining that edge on the competition, including a softened profile on the outside and subtle changes throughout, such as a new wood finish, soft looking furnishing schemes and much more, not forgetting a new Truma 100w solar panel.

So take a look at our video to see everything that’s changed aesthetically and make sure you let us know what you think by leaving a comment below.