Lincolnshire-based motorhome manufacturer Auto-Trail has launched an all-new type of Fiat Ducato van conversion this week (29-30 July).
Named the V-Line, this range features a raised GRP roof, which has been built in-house at the company’s Grimsby coachbuilding facility.
This allows for increased interior headroom, a roll-out awning, and a more streamlined exterior, featuring a striking panoramic sunroof.
Auto-Trail is best known for its three luxury coachbuilt ranges, the Tracker, Apache and Frontier, and this DNA has been transferred into a compact leisure vehicle that is less than six metres long.
This means that V-Line owners can benefit from lower ferry fares, as well as better fuel consumption from the Euro-5 compliant 2.3-litre Multijet engine.
Layouts and spec
Available in one layout to start with, but with two more to follow in the coming months, this range is expected to grow as demand builds.
The model CaravanTimes saw at the 2014 launch was the V-Line 600, a front lounge two-berth with a side washroom, concealed kitchen and rear access doors with plenty of clever storage pouches.
Styled in white as standard, this model is also available in a classy Carbon black metallic exterior as part of Auto-Trail’s popular Sportline pack, which adds front, rear and side steel bumpers, as well as Ash upholstery and LED daytime running lights.
Key on-board spec includes 4KW dual fuel blown air heating, 65-litre fridge, 100w solar panel, and 70-litre fresh and waste water tanks.
In the front, drivers will get cab air conditioning, cruise control and a six-speed gearbox. 180bhp and 150bhp engine upgrades are also available if you’re looking for extra power.
On the road, the V-Line pulls away smoothly and corners with minimal bodyroll, while the all-important ‘rattle factor’ is nicely kept in check.
The user payload is an ample 410kgs, while the added insulation means that this van conversion has been awarded the Grade III insulation standard.
Optional extras include 17-inch alloy wheels and the Media Pack, which comprises a 15-inch drop-down TV, sat nav and reversing camera.
Prices start at £47,999, so while the V-Line is certainly not the cheapest van conversion on the market, the Auto-Trail team has worked hard to ensure that it is one of the most highly specified.
