Swift Group reveals largest ever single holiday home order

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by Tom Walsh

The UK’s leading caravan manufacturer, ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/swift/">Swift Group has announced its largest ever sales order at over £5.5 million in total.

This single order is for four ranges of holiday homes to be sited across UK parks in time for the 2014 holiday season and were purchased by a national park operator.

The Cottingham-based manufacturer won the order after an intense selection process, with the park operator choosing Swift because of its stylish design, sustainability reputation and construction quality.

The ranges which have been purchased include the up to the mid-range Bordeaux and the popular entry level home, the Soleil, which was only launched last season.

Commenting on the record-breaking deal, commercial director Nick Page explained that this was great news for the Swift Group, which is “delighted with this order and the recognition from our customer of the quality build and design of our holiday homes”.

Mr Page went on to say: “This is a big boost for us as we continue to work hard to drive growth and deliver another record breaking year.”

Eura Mobil introduces Alpine chalet-mobile concept campervan

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by Damien Sharkov
As always the Dusseldorf Caravan Salon delivered on its promise of showcasing some of the most ambitious designs we are likely to see in the touring industry.
CaravanTimes had the pleasure to report on the release of the futuristic Knaus Tabbert Caravisio among others.
Following on in the same vein of lofty designs, German manufacturer Eura Mobil presented its concept motorhome, styled in the fashion of an Alpine mountain lodge.
The straightforwardly named Rolling Mountain Hut boasts several luxury features, never before seen in a mobile leisure home, such as dangling lampshades, fixed to the ceiling.
Technologically the motorhome is based on the company’s latest SB 670 line of vehicles as Eura Mobil attempts to ensure the Rolling Mountain Hut is suitable for everyday use, yet also durable in a wide range of holiday environments.
But make no mistake, this design is definitely geared at those looking to enjoy the more natural, rustic elements of the vehicle, with wild-oak decor from top to bottom, as Eura Mobil channels the cosy comforts of the interior of your standard mountain lodge.
Everything from the to the kitchen countertops is made from a mix of renewable materials, natural wood and slate, while the seating acts as an equally extravagant, albeit softer, counterpoint, being fashioned out of felt.
Of course the bathroom, though retaining the general natural feel of the rest of the motorhome, boasts a ceramic basin and polished chrome faucet.
There are no details on how much the Rolling Mountain Hut would weigh, or cost. It will however make its way across the channel, as it has been confirmed it will make an appearance at the Birmingham NEC from 15 – 20 October as part of the NCC Motorhome and Caravan Show.
We’d advise you to get there early, as this is one motorhome that is likely to draw big crowds of curious punters.

Summer months drive demand for used caravans and motorhomes

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by Myron Jobson

The UK has enjoyed a warm summer. It is has been best summer, climate wise, since 2006. Who can forget the extended period of blissful sunshine in the months of July and August?

It has also been a great summer for the caravanning industry. The warm weather was a driving factor behind the sharp increase in the demand for used motorhomes and caravans.

Caravanning and campsite directory websites have reported more visits than ever before, with some reporting a traffic 10% and 20% increase in traffic in May and June respectively.

Lee Valley Caravan Park, Hertfordshire, is one such park that has enjoyed an influx of visitors. Communications Officer, Nick Boothroyd, believes caravanning and campsites are a good alternative to hotels.

He said: “They are a great alternative allowing visitors to enjoy peaceful surroundings in the countryside whilst still be close to numerous attractions. Caravan parks also offer excellent value for money.”

As more and more people look to buy used motorhomes and caravans, family-run business Caravan and Motorhome Sales hopes to provide guidance and advice, to those who are looking to purchase a caravan or motorhome, consolidating their 40 years of knowledge of the industry into priceless words of wisdom.

“As the market for used caravan sales and used motorhomes picks up momentum, dealing with Caravan and Motorhome Sales Ltd means that you will be drawing on years worth of industry experience from an honest, hard working company,” the business spokesman said.

2014 Nissan X-Trail unveiled at Frankfurt Motor Show

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by Damien Sharkov
With the Frankfurt Motorshow underway there has been plenty cause for excitement for everybody in the automotive industry.
The city boys and business types will have relished at the sight of the new Mercedes S class coupe, while lovers of higher speeds also had their moment as the Jaguar C-X17 also broke cover.
Perhaps even the Mini-esque Citroen Cactus will have found a few admirers out there. For caravan fans, however, one car new release has been particularly anticipated – the Nissan X-Trail.
In terms of design Nissan has revamped the SUV in an attempt to diversify its function, beyond its use as a towcar. Its slicker lines seem to bring it closer to a VW Passat or Ford Mondeo than its bulky competition in the form of, say, a Skoda Yeti.
The 2014 X-Trail will introduce “premium technology to a new area of the market” Nissan claims, and it was confirmed the new seven-seater X-Trail will be available in front wheel drive as well as four wheel drive.
The company also stresses that the SUV is just as capable in off-road environments as previous models.
The 2014 X-Trail will be the first Nissan to carry the Nissan Safety Shield, along with host of other safety features, including control assist, intelligent cruise control with low-speed following capability, and four wheel active steer to name just a few.

There has been no word, however, on the car’s specific weight or towing capabilities, as the 2014 X-Trail is not due before July 2014. Most of the details released so far stress the comfort of the drive, safety features and on road capabilities. The current X-Trail has a minimum kerb weight of 1,615kg and it is believed the 2014 version will have a similar weight.
No official announcement has been made on the engine the car will use, however, as Nissan boasts the new X Trail is a comprehensive step forward from its predecessor it is speculated the car is likely to be available with a diesel engine and the option of a 1.6 turbo petrol one.
Hopefully the alleged improvements on the X-Trail’s previous incarnation also extend to fuel economy and emissions, as the last edition to Nissan’s SUV line delivered a relatively disappointing 44.1 miles per gallon.
With almost a year until the Nissan X-Trail arrives in dealerships it still has to prove whether its slick exterior is matched by an equally impressive robustness outside the urban environment.


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Police investigate 2010 Swift Conqueror 360 caravan theft

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by Tom Walsh

Police officers in Northern Ireland are appealing for information following the theft of a caravan.

Officers are attempting to trace a 2010 ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/swift/swift-conqueror/">Swift Conqueror 360 caravan which was stolen sometime between 8.30am and 6.30pm on Thursday 29 August from Camlough Road, Newry.

Newry Times reports that the vehicle has a registration plate attached to the rear which reads TEZ 2151 and is grey on both sides and white on the front and rear.

Police are looking to speak to anyone who has any information in relation to the theft or the whereabouts of the caravan and could help with their investigation.

Should anyone wish to speak with the police they can call Newtonhamilton station on 0845 600 8000 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Each year thousands of caravans are stolen, and it is therefore important to be keep windows and doors locked at night and when not in use.

Many owners also choose to log their details online or to fit a device which will track the whereabouts of the vehicle should it go missing.

‘Professional criminal’ caught towing stolen caravan

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by Damien Sharkov
A man has been jailed, after Oxford court heard he had 38 convictions for 83 offences, including 15 for theft.
Patrick McFarlane was arrested while still driving a stolen Fiat Ducato, with a stolen caravan in tow.
McFarlane had avoided detection for almost a year, after replacing the number plates and tax disk on the van and caravan.
Recorder Rhona Campbell, who sentenced Patrick to two years in prison, admitted his crimes bore “professional elements”.
McFarlane had been prosecuted as of 6 August last year, for failing to return a Volkswagen Crafter van to a Didcot hire firm.
He was detained by officers while pulling up to Redbridge Hollow travellers’ site, near Hinksey Hill, at 3am on 11 January.
Victoria Kerly, who defended the 51-year-old former drug addict at his hearing admitted he had gotten clean and received training as a plumber, but had fallen into debt after being stabbed.

Hyundai announced as NCC Motorhome and Caravan show towcar partner

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by Daniel Mackrell

Hyundai has been chosen as the official tow car partner for the NCC Motorhome and Caravan show which takes place at the Birmingham NEC next month (15-20 October).

The announcement means that the car manufacturer will feature as part of the ‘Towing Experience’ sessions that will be running in conjunction with The Camping and Caravanning Club.

The three Hyundai models that will be on display are the Santa Fe, the ix35 and the i40, and each will be displaying their towing qualities.

There will also be the opportunity to speak with towing experts to get useful tips on how to stay safe on the road when towing a caravan.

This year’s show will see a number of major launches, and will feature caravans from manufacturers such as ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/bailey/">Bailey, Coachman, Elddis, and Swift.

It provides a great opportunity for those looking to buy a new caravan to look at the various layouts, makes and designs that are on offer.

VIDEO: Troubleshooting common motor mover problems

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by Daniel Mackrell

Motor movers have grown in popularity amongst caravanners recently, and have become an accessory that many rely on during their caravan trips to manoeuvre their caravan, but there can occasionally be problems and faults that need dealing with.

In this video CaravanTimes speaks to Neil Greentree, General Manager of Greentrees Adventurestore about some of the ways to tackle problems that can occur.

Some of the most common problems include issues with reset buttons, and also issues that are caused by the battery not being in top condition.

We also hear from Mitchell Froom, a senior technician at Greentree’s Adventurestore, to learn from his knowledge of motor movers.

He explains some of the other problems that can happen with the movers such as the battery failing, which is one of the most common problems they see from customers.

Mitchell also explains some of the more technical problems that can occur, and offers advice on how to avoid these issues.

Thanks to ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="http://www.greentrees-adventurestore.co.uk/" target="_blank">Greentrees Adventurestore and ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="http://www.towergateinsurance.co.uk/" target="_blank" Rel="NoFollow">Towergate Insurance for their help with this video.

VIDEO: First look at the 2014 Compass Corona, Omega and Rallye ranges

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by Chris Jefferies
While some caravan names come and go with the seasons, others have lasted through the decades.
One such name is Compass Caravans, which turns 35 this year, and Solid Construction manufacturer Elddis has taken this landmark as an opportunity to revive the brand.
All new for 2014, the ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/compass/compass-corona/">Compass Corona, Omega and Rallye will be built on an Al-Ko chassis, offering a clear alternative to Elddis‘s BPW-based collection.
In this video special, CaravanTimes meets Martin Henderson, the man behind the revival of the Compass badge.
He talks us through each of the three ranges and explains why it is so important to give caravan buyers a genuine choice.

VIDEO: 2014 Sterling range boasts the next generation of caravan design

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by Daniel Mackrell

‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/swift/">Swift Group is taking its Sterling range into a new direction for 2014, and in this video we show you what changes can be expected.

Chris Millburn, one of the chief designers at Swift, spoke to CaravanTimes about the new models, including the inspiration of the Colour Concept interior design that Swift revealed earlier this year.

To hear more from Swift designer Chris Millburn click here.

The Colour Concept design gave Swift the opportunity to survey visitors to the NCC Spring Caravan and Camping Show, and the feedback that was given was used to help develop the new Sterling range.

Chris added that the new look came from other inspirations such as modern domestic interiors and boutique hotels.

Additions to the range include the option of either carpets or rugs, a new lighting system featuring LED overhead lighting and new spotlights, and also textured walls.

The contemporary modern design has stepped away from the typical caravan interior look, and it has given the Sterling range a new look to help it stand out from the crowd.

Top five show highlights from the Dusseldorf Caravan Salon

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by Chris Jefferies

From monocoque motorhomes to futuristic caravans and from space-age statics to inflatable awnings, the 2013 Dusseldorf Caravan Salon certainly didn’t disappoint in terms of innovation.

The huge German market for touring vehicles has long been a source of inspiration for British designers, so this year CaravanTimes hopped across the channel to see what all the fuss is about.

The first thing that hits you is the sheer scale of the Messe Dusseldorf centre – it’s so big that businessmen use Segway scooters to get to their meetings on time, and the activities spill out of the nine halls and into a huge courtyard.

It comes as no surprise then to learn that this year’s show is set to smash the record attendance, with ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="http://www.caravantimes.co.uk/news/caravan-shows/dusseldorf-caravan-salon/dusseldorf-caravan-show-attracts-thousands-$21383303.htm">108,000 visitors already.

The show organisers CIVD expect the final tally to near 170,000, making it almost twice the size of the UK’s biggest offering.

But with so much to see, it can be quite a daunting task fitting it all in. Luckily our reporters have been scouring the halls to bring you the best of the best.

1. Knaus Tabbert Caravisio

The most hotly anticipated unveiling took place in Hall 16, where German manufacturing giant Knaus Tabbert showed off the Caravisio.

This futuristic concept caravan is the result of two years worth of research and development, working with partners such as Waeco and Dometic to create the most cutting-edge caravan possible.

Queues to enter the glamorous tourer stretched back across the hall and when our turn came we had to put on special rubber-soled shoe covers for fear of staining the immaculate interior.

Space age technology on board includes a finger scanner on the door to improve security and adjustable suspension controlled by an iPad app.

The real party piece came in the form of the video projector that descends from the ceiling and plays your favourite film or TV show on the translucent rear wall.

The projector could even be flipped, so you and your guests can watch your choice of movie from outside.

Despite offers of up to half a million euros, Knaus Tabbert insist that the Caravisio is not for sale, but it is a tantalising glimpse into what caravans of the future could look like.

2. Holtkamper Skywing

On a much more practical level, the Holtkamper stand in Hall 15 featured the very latest in awnings technology.

From inflatable awnings to inflatable trailer tents, there was plenty to attract passing punters, but it was the Skywing that really caught our eye (right).

This deceptively simple awning is half way between a canopy and a full awning, with a mechanism which is similar to a golf umbrella, meaning you can set it up in just 90 seconds.

Company head honcho Egbert Holtkamper explained that the peaked roof design should allow for fantastic views from mountainside pitches, and the design certainly stands out from the crowd.

Holtkamper trailer tents are imported into the UK through Black Country Caravans, but the Skywing awning is currently only available in continental Europe, with prices starting at 1,995 euros (£1,679).

3. Westfalia Columbus

In Hall 12 there were so many campervans built on the Fiat Ducato chassis that it could be hard to tell them apart.

But scratch beneath the surface of the Westfalia Columbus and it’s easy to see why this is a standout option.

Featuring an innovative Fold-Flex bed conversion system, this four-berth model allows owners to turn two belted passenger seats into a double bed with a flick of the wrist.

What’s more, this model comes with hot water central heating, which is particularly rare in the campervan sector.

Westfalia is coming to the Birmingham NEC next month for the NCC Motorhome and Caravan Show (15-20 October) and an announcement on new dealers is expected shortly.

4. Polyplastics Polyrama

Dutch company Polyplastics was the name behind the stunning vertical sunroof that Bailey has fitted to the Unicorn II, which won the CaravanTimes 2012 innovation award.

So we were keen to find out what this company has in the pipeline for 2014 and their stand in Hall 13 certainly didn’t disappoint.

The Polyrama concept showed how this curved window design could be applied to the rear of a caravan, letting even more light into the interior.

What’s more, a smart electric sliding sunroof was on display – we’re told that this will be fitted to a production caravan before long, but they couldn’t tell us any more than that.

5. BPW iTC

Elddis, Eterniti and Airstream owners will be familiar with BPW as the company that builds their chassis, trailer control systems and much, much more.

But what you might not know is that their technology has been making waves in the logistics world, with thousands of transport lorries across Europe fitted with their iTC tracking system.

And caravans and motorhomes could be getting this smart technology before long, which is much more than a stolen vehicle recovery system.

BPW’s Matthias Adamsky explained that iTC can give detailed reports of the state of your van, such as its location, temperature and even whether the doors are open.
We could see this being hugely useful for owners who store their caravans during the winter months, as you can be alerted if the pipes are likely to freeze.

Best of the rest

With nine halls full of innovations and stylish designs, there is far too much to mention it all here, but we were also particularly impressed by the Oasi Grand Cru monocoque motorhome, the Coodo static caravan, the Al-Ko EM 1500 Segway scooter and the ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="http://www.caravantimes.co.uk/news/towcars/mini-cowley-caravan-shows-that-good-things-come-in-small-packages-$21382945.htm">Mini Cowley Caravan.

Also special mention must go to Swift Group, who made their Dusseldorf debut by showing off the ‘<' . strtolower('Array') href="/sprite/">Sprite Cruzer and Alpine Sport in Hall 9.

To see more of our show highlights, click on the photo slideshow below:


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Dusseldorf caravan show attracts thousands

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by Tom Walsh

The Caravan Salon in Dusseldorf, Germany, is proving a huge success as thousands of visitors have passed through its doors.

It is currently only halfway through yet organisers stated that 108,000 people have already visited and this is expected to rise to 165,000 by the time it finishes on Sunday (8 September).

Officials explained that with the swell in footfall they hope it will provide new impetus for the caravanning sector in Germany, Pro Mobil reports.

Hans-Karl Sternberg, managing director of the Caravanning Industry Association, explained that the exhibitors have been “very satisfied” with the trade fair so far and that there has been an uptake of buyer interest.

He added that the new models are becoming a major hit for caravanners.

Dusseldorf is becoming an increasingly popular city for tourists with flights from the UK leaving on a daily basis and with the weekend approaching organiser of the Caravan Salon are expecting more visitors.