Caravan project becomes reality
Alan Heath
The "Caravisio" caravan was introduced at Caravan Salon Düsseldorf in August 2013. Knaus Tabbert is now ready to put the Eurostar into mass production - a caravan that has adopted much of the overall concept, although it is not quite the same thing! The Eurostar will be available at dealers starting from spring 2015 and will be priced at EUR49,990.
As a response to decreasing registration figures of caravans in Europe, and particularly with the intention of raising interest in camping as a form of holidaymaking among new target groups and target groups outside the industry, Knaus Tabbert GmbH in summer 2013 for the first time presented the "Caravisio" prototype to the public. With this study the manufacturer wanted to initiate a broad discussion about the future of caravans – and he was successful. "The public interest that we achieved with this project exceeded even our highest expectations", says Swen Dluzak, head of product and brand management "The numerous positive responses for us were a confirmation that with this study we had hit the nail on the head."
KNAUS Eurostar Meets "Caravisio"
The Eurostar has an innovative layout concept. The central element in the kitchen is the induction hob, which is accompanied by a deep stainless steel sink and a stylish mixer tap. The seating group with a flick of the wrist can be changed from a lounge into a home office with computer connections. The wet room is found between the living room and sleeping room and has a modern bench toilet, a sturdy plastic washbasin and large shower with GRP (glass-fibre reinforced plastic) shower cubicle without any joints.
Motorhome in a Caravan
As a "Motorhome in a Caravan" the Eurostar combines automotive design with trend-setting technology. The caravan flagship is specifically designed for the requirements and needs of technology-oriented customers who intensively use their caravan and attach great importance to individual equipment. The sporty character of the exterior above all is defined by the specifically developed LED rear lights with glowing elements. The side walls of the Eurostar 650 ES as standard and are constructed in TVT (Top Value Technology), the new, innovative and especially weather-resistant lightweight construction body technology of Knaus. The caravan furthermore features impact-resistant, three-dimensionally shaped plastic components of LFI (Long-Fiber-Injection), and a luggage compartment that integrates all the important connections (fresh water, 230V). Matching the automotive appearance the corner steady mounts both at the front and rear feature high-quality chrome trims.
Exterior Graphics: Freedom of Design
For the manufacturer innovation also is a main focus when it comes to exterior design. "Freedom of Design” is the name that Knaus Tabbert GmbH gives to a completely new digital imaging technology that basically can be used for printing every side wall of motorhomes or caravans. The exterior graphics of the Eurostar are based on this unique digital printing process that allows a brilliant three-dimensional side wall design with a strong depth effect - without having to use any foils and decals as before.