by Marcus Dubois
The season for caravan shows is almost upon us. This time last year there was a real buzz in the air as Caravan Times got first wind of revolutionary new models from Bailey and newcomer Stealth. In 2009 buyers were offered their first look at Bailey’s Alu-Tech platform in the Pegasus. While those seeking something different may have found it in the radical lines and brash interiors of the Stealth.
Yet compared to last year, there is something like wholesale change in the air as we preview the caravan models for 2011. Bailey has responded to those customers used to the traditional interiors of the Senator and created its first true “luxury” caravan model, the Unicorn. Meanwhile Elddis has gone for a stylish modern look in its revamped line-up for 2011, with two-toned wood and carbon fibre graphics. Lunar will somehow manage to improve on the 2009 models with the eagerly awaited Clubman SB featuring a nifty island bed. No longer newcomers, Stealth is taking its self-proclaimed “Marmite” caravan into new ground with revised interiors. And finally it is Swift who promise no less than to “change the look of the modern tourer” with their all-new offering.
Below Caravan Times gives you a brief indication of some of the changes ahead. And in the weeks before the show season begins, we’ll take an in-depth look at each and every manufacturer and their new models.
“We will be living in an Alu-Tech world” said marketing director Simon Howard in a recent interview with Caravan Times. And the best-selling range continues to expand with the arrival of a luxury caravan . The Bailey Unicorn is a three-model range which has often been described as a “replacement” for the old Senator Series 6, but actually sits above it in the quality of fixtures and fittings. Built on the strongest version of the AL-KO chassis, luxury appointments such as the Alde heating system will increase the kerbweight. Yet it is the warm wooden interiors and excellent layouts which should attract buyers. The two-berth Seville 
has an end washroom, while the Valencia offers four berths and a fixed bed. Finally the twin-axle Barcelona offers the benefits of a full-sized front lounge. The Unicorn will be available from 1 September.
If your idea of a home from home is less “country cottage” and more a well-appointed new build, then the revamped 2011 Elddis range may be for you. The new interiors are clad in light oak with the kitchens fitted in white, giving the caravan an airy and spacious feel. The 2011 Avante sees an increase in…
