New technology reduces towing strain Camper lovers in the U.S. may be packing for a last summer hurrah this Labor Day weekend, but over in Europe tens of thousands of people are visiting the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon. As the biggest camper trade show in the world, the annual event showcases just about every type of camper imaginable, from tiny trailers to huge, expedition-ready caravans. Love campers and trailers" Come join our new community group.
And while we always love seeing the new campers on the market?like Volkswagen?s new Grand California?one of the best parts about the Düsseldorf show is the debut of concept campers. Ambitious, innovative, and yet-to-be-produced, concept campers show where the industry is headed. And at this year?s show, it?s clear that the future of campers is looking a lot more green.
It?s ironic that so many adventurers spend time outdoors by using gas-guzzling, giant RVs that are detrimental to the environment. Even small camper trailers reduce the efficiency and range of your vehicle, meaning that you?ll use more gas just because you?re towing a camper.
Germany-based camper manufacturer Dethleffs has been working on this problem. Last year, the company debuted the e.Home Type C, a motorhome powered by head-to-toe solar panels affixed to the camper?s exterior. This year Dethleffs is shaking up the industry with the E.Home Coco, a small trailer that?s 100% electric. The camper uses a floor-mounted lithium battery, rooftop solar...