Each year visitors to the Lawns Caravan Extravaganza in Hull are treated to the newest models from manufacturers. Yet this year, one caravan firm took the opportunity to unveil a radical development in construction methods.
Elddis Caravans has announced that all 2012 touring caravans are now fitted with a unique GRP underskin, replacing the marine plywood commonly used in the industry.
The new underskin can be found on all new Elddis and Buccaneer models, which were recently displayed to customers at the company’s inaugural Open Weekend.
Benefits of GRP underskin
Elddis believes the use of a GRP underskin offers a number of significant benefits to caravan owners beyond plywood. A one piece GRP sheet is said to offer an ‘impervious’ barrier to water thrown against the underside of the caravan. Furthermore, the material is known as a tough build component with durable qualities.
For 2012 Elddis has also ensured all models now feature a new 46mm floor construction, offering industry leading levels of constructional stiffness and thermal insulation. This year the new floor was subjected to rigorous durability testing at the Iveco Test Track at Markbronn in German, where an Elddis touring caravan fitted with the new floor construction was put through a series of tests to simulate 10 years of use.
No weight penalities
Despite the structural changes to the build of these caravans, Elddis emphasised that there has been no increase in weight as a result. In fact, the Durham manufacturer revealed many models are significantly lighter for 2012.
Elddis will be displaying its new models at the Motorhome and Caravan Show 2011, which takes place from 11-16 October at the NEC, Birmingham.
