Leading automotive manufacturers, including Volkswagen, Citroën, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz, are proudly presenting their latest interpretations of contemporary mobile living.
Today’s camper vans, including the emerging electric models, have never been more in vogue. As their popularity soars, a new generation of adventurous nomads is emerging, eager for the freedom of the open road without sacrificing modern comforts. Amidst the diverse world of custom and self-built options, established companies continue to thrive, offering a wealth of choices. Here are four remarkable motorhomes, prototypes, and limited editions that exemplify the current state of the industry.
Volkswagen California Vision
Volkswagen’s California Vision closely resembles the production model of their flagship camper. Sitting below the Grand California and the upcoming official ID.Buzz Camper, it proudly carries the legacy of the iconic 1950s T2 campervan. The 2024 model, a seventh-generation California, introduces a significant upgrade: sliding doors on both sides, providing easy access and the ability to open up the interior completely, complete with built-in awnings for shade and shelter. This slightly larger model seamlessly blends passenger van practicality with full camper amenities, offering swiveling front seats, an inside-outside accessible kitchen layout, and an aluminum-framed pop-up roof structure equipped with windows, lighting, and power.
The concept also showcases a cutting-edge ‘camper van control unit,’ offering information on all vehicle systems, water levels, and more, while also operating the roof and entertainment features.
Volkswagen California Vision: Concept only, seventh-generation California available in 2024 – Volkswagen-Vans
Citroën Type Holidays
Citroën’s ‘Type Holidays’ made a striking appearance at the recent Düsseldorf Caravan Show. Although this retro-inspired model won’t go into production, it heralds a revamped campervan lineup set to launch in 2024. The ‘Type Holidays’ pays homage to Citroën’s legendary H Van commercial vehicle, of which nearly half a million were built until 1981. Collaborating with Italian coachbuilder Caselani, known for creating classic body styles on existing Citroën platforms, this modern interpretation captures the original’s corrugated metal charm. It features a bespoke interior and, crucially, a pop-up roof.
Citroën also partnered with Slovenian camper specialist Bravia Mobil to outfit the concept. Underneath its distinctive exterior lies a Citroën SpaceTourer, boasting a versatile interior layout with room for four, a kitchenette, and a dining area – all soon available for purchase.
Citroën Type Holidays: A unique model previewing Citroën’s 2024 campervan lineup – citroen.fr
Ford Transit Custom Nugget
The Nugget by Ford, based on the trusty Transit and Tourneo models, transforms these reliable commercial vehicles into compact mobile homes. For 2024, Ford has harnessed the latest Transit generation to create a plug-in hybrid camper for the first time. The Nugget, available in a tilt-roof model for up to four occupants, combines Ford’s renowned reliability with Westfalia’s camping expertise.
This well-equipped machine offers a plethora of options, from a solar roof to all-wheel drive. Inside, there’s storage in every available nook and cranny, an L-shaped kitchen with a fridge, hob, and sink, as well as a tailgate-mounted shower.
Ford Transit Custom Nugget: Coming soon – Ford.fr
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo
Mercedes-Benz introduces the new V-Class Marco Polo, an integral part of their campervan range. Complementing the many industry specialists who use Mercedes’ comercial vehicles as the foundation for bespoke RVs and mobile homes, the Marco Polo sets a new standard for luxury camping. It features the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control (MBAC) interface module, a state-of-the-art touch-screen control system, and special AIRMATIC suspension that can level the van on uneven terrain.
Stay tuned for the Marco Polo Module, which can transform Mercedes’ smaller T-Class van into a micro-camper, as previewed by the recent Concept EQT.
Mercedes-Benz V-Class Marco Polo: Coming soon – Vans.Mercedes-Benz.com