Camping Trade World_Issue 15

C O N N E C T I N G T H E G L O B A L C A M P I N G I N D U S T R Y 

C O N N E C T I N G T H E G L O B A L C A M P I N G I N D U S T R Y 

ISSUE 15 | CAMPINGTRADEWORLD.COM 

ISSUE 15 | CAMPINGTRADEWORLD.COM 

BETTER TOGETHER. 

® 

AND 

® 

See more on page 22

Contents 

WELCOME TO ISSUE 15 

22 

SuperSprings Doubles Up 

04 

Dispatches 

26 

Caframo Ready For Europe 

14 

Doing Business With Switzerland 

30 

Spotlight On Electric RVs 

18 

Caravan Salon Preview 

34 

Making Contact 

Click here to subscribe today and never miss an issue 

Photo: VW Commercial Vehicles 

02 www.campingtradeworld.com

Dispatches 

PULL-THROUGH EV CHARGERS 

NEEDED, SAYS REPORT 

■report produced by the RV Industry 

A 

Association (RVIA) and engineering 

firm Black and Veatch insists that 

federal funding should be used to 

install pull-through electric chargers 

in the United States for RV users. The ‘Reimagining 

the EV Charging Landscape to Support Future 

Innovation’ report lays out the current electric vehicle 

landscape, the consumer’s need for pull-through 

charging, and the importance of designing for pullthrough 

charging. The document concludes that the 

momentum in electric vehicle sales and adoption 

across the United States can only be sustained if 

the entire electric vehicle consumer population can 

access convenient, safe charging infrastructure along 

interstates, highway corridors, and near popular 

destinations, including in rural communities that 

RVers frequent. 

The RVIA’s vice president of government affairs, 

Jason Rano, said: “Our team has been working 

to ensure that RVs are not left behind during the 

transition to electric vehicles. This report outlines 

the importance of establishing more RV-accessible 

pull-through charging stations for consumers. This 

is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deploy EV 

charging nationwide and the need already exists with 

RVers already pulling their RVs with electric vehicles. 

In addition, the report points out that RVers who 

drive an electric vehicle and pull a towable RV will 

need to charge more frequently given the impact 

that towing has on an electric vehicle’s range. These 

RVers will be seeking out charging more frequently, 

ultimately spending more time and money at 

charging sites. 


Dispatches 

LEADERSHIP SHUFFLE 

AT THOR BRANDS 

Photo: THOR Industries 

■V industry giant THOR Industries has announced 

R 

a change in key leadership positions at three of 

its prestigious brands: KZ RV, Heartland RV, and 

Dutchmen RV. The company has detailed that 

Ryan Juday will assume the role of president of 

KZ Recreational Vehicles and Kyle Kwasny will assume the role of 

president of Heartland RV. Kyle was previously president of another 

THOR company, Dutchmen RV, which will now be headed up by 

Keystone RV president Jeff Runnels. 

“The depth and experience of the leadership teams across the THOR 

family of companies sets us apart from the rest of the RV industry and 

positions us to make essential moves when it’s in the best interest of 

the operating companies and their dealers to do so,” stated Bob Martin, 

THOR president and CEO. 

www.campingtradeworld.com 

07

Dispatches 

GERMAN CARAVAN MARKET STAYS 

STRONG IN FACE OF ADVERSITY 

■he outlook for the caravan and 

T 

motorhome market in Germany 

remains positive despite the building 

challenges of supply chain disruption, 

lack of skilled workers, and logistical 

bottlenecks according to the latest data from the 

German Caravanning Industry Association (CIVD). 

The association claims that more people are spending 

their free time in leisure vehicles, but the industry 

in Europe is undoubtedly under pressure from these 

ongoing stresses. 

The mixed outlook is perhaps best seen when 

examining the figures for the first six months of 

2023. There were a total of 54,299 new leisure 

vehicles registered in Germany in that time, which 

is down about 1.6 per cent compared to last year. 

Within that, 12,799 were from the caravan sector, 

which is 10 per cent below the previous year’s figure. 

For motorhomes, the 41,500 new units registered 

represents a small growth of 1.3 per cent. So, 

while the figures are down slightly, it must be 

remembered that 2022 was an exceptional recordbreaking 

year and that there are many stresses on 

the industry at this moment in time – with those 

factors considered, there are many reasons to be 

optimistic about the remainder of 2023. 


Dispatches 

54,299 

new leisure vehicles registered in first 

six months of 2023 in Germany. 

12,799 

were from the caravan sector. 10 per 

cent down on the previous year. 

41,500 

new motorhomes. A small growth of 

1.3 per cent on the previous year. 

SUPPLY CHAIN PAIN 

Stagnating supply chains and staff shortages continue 

to affect the production of manufacturers and 

suppliers, which is why new vehicles can only be built 

under more difficult conditions. In the motorhome 

sector, the limited availability of vehicle chassis 

remains a key handicap in production. In principle, 

the availability of base vehicles has improved over 

the last few months - partly because motor caravan 

manufacturers are relying on a broader range of brands 

for vehicle chassis - but remains strained overall. In 

addition to the well-known challenges in production, 

there are also bottlenecks in logistics: due to a lack of 

capacity at transport service providers, in some cases 

important vehicle components are delivered late. In 

addition, many completed vehicles cannot be delivered 

to dealers and customers as planned. 

‘CONSIDER OURSELVES LUCKY’ 

Daniel Onggowinarso, managing director of 

CIVD, said: “The last few years have presented the 

caravanning industry with extraordinary challenges. 

Factors such as inflation and high energy prices have 

further complicated the business environment. It 

will take some time before our industry can produce 

under relatively normal conditions again. Against this 

background, over 54,000 new registrations in the first 

half of the year are a more than remarkable result. 

“The caravanning industry can consider itself 

lucky, because despite all the crises, interest in 

motor caravans and caravans remains high and the 

potential of our industry is far from exhausted. This 

is confirmed not only by market data and the wellattended 

caravanning trade fairs, but also by studies 

from market research.” 


07

Dispatches 

AIC SHOW ‘BREATHES NEW LIFE’ 

INTO CHINESE RV INDUSTRY 

■hina’s All In Caravaning Show 

C 

was successfully held in Beijing 

from 16-18 July and was praised 

for ‘breathing new life’ into the 

country’s RV and camping industry, 

fuelling its recovery and development. The show, 

which was taking place for the first time without 

cancellation or restriction due to coronavirus, 

attracted more than 8,300 professional visitors, 

with around 200 overseas buyers from 20 different 

countries also in attendance. 

Marius Berlemann, general manager of organisers 

Messe Düsseldorft (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, said: “At 

long last, colleagues from the RV industry got 

together once again in Beijing. We felt strong 

public enthusiasm for RV travel along with a great 

innovative spirit within the industry. Trade shows 

continue to serve as an irreplaceable platform 

for face-to-face communication and immersive 

product experiences, benefiting both exhibitors 

and visitors. However, the RV industry in China is 

currently facing challenges. In addition, the overall 

domestic economic downturn has led to longer 

buying cycles for RV users, and market demand still 

needs a longer recovery period. We saw a decline 

in professional visitor numbers compared with the 

previous show. But the vibrant atmosphere of the 

Photo © Dometic 

event reaffirmed the enduring aspirations and strong 

interest people hold for a RV vacation lifestyle.” 

As an international caravanning trade show, 

AIC 2023 received the official patronage from the 

German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport. 

The official German Pavilion, organized by German 

Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate 

Action, and supported by the German Caravanning 

Industry Association (CIVD), welcomed 9 producers 

from Germany, displaying their RV products in 

the 400sqm pavilion. Stefan Koschke, director 

of Caravan Salon, the world’s largest show for 

motorhomes and caravans, said: “The German 

pavilion with participants such as Truma, Vöhringer 

or ALKO as well as the participation of other 

important European and international exhibitors 

at the AIC show the interest in the Chinese future 

market and are a unique selling point of the AIC. 

In addition, the mixture of business visitors and 

consumers, are the great strength of this event.” 

Building on this year’s result, AIC, as an industry 

platform to promote the products and branding, 

continues enhancing the popularity of RV camping 

culture in China. AIC will uphold its commitment 

to diversifying its scope and continue to integrate 

various related industries for mutual growth. With 

strong support from Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, AIC 

is dedicated to bringing the pinnacle of the global 

RV exhibition to China. 


Dispatches 

All photos: AIC Show 

To learn more about AIC, visit www.aicshow.com 


09

Dispatches 

ORIGAMI-INSPIRED SOLAR PANELS 

TAKE TO KICKSTARTER 

■ 

Milan-based start-up is set to 

A 

launch a Kickstarter campaign to 

raise funds to help it release the 

world’s first origami-inspired solar 

panels for off-grid power. Levante 

was founded in 2021 and aims to revolutionise the 

fixed design of solar panels to make them lighter 

and easier to transport – helping campers and 

sailors in the process. 

“Although the use of renewable energy in mobility 

is already widespread, the current solar panel 

solutions still have too many limitations,” said 

Levante co-founder Sara Plaga. “Rigid solar panels, 

whilst powerful, are bulky, heavy and constrained 

to a permanent installation. This greatly reduces 

the number of applications where a rigid panel is a 

suitable solution, especially in a mobile context.” 

“Portable solar panels, on the other hand, are too 

flimsy, still bulky and just not powerful enough to 

make a meaningful contribution to covering the 

energy requirements needed when travelling.” 

“To overcome these problems, many are forced 

to use alternative solutions to meet their energy 

needs: connecting to the grid, starting the engine or 

using a generator – all of which are limiting, create 

both noise and air pollution, and require additional 

fuel costs.” 

Inspired by those used in satellites as well as 

the modular design of Lego bricks, the patented, 

revolutionary solar panels from Levante are 

compact and collapsible (more than eight times 

smaller when closed) – and 100% made in Italy. 

Each panel can be opened up into a rigid structure 

offering up to 500 watts of power – currently the 

highest on the market – and be folded away when 

the batteries are fully charged or when on the move. 


Dispatches 

Learn more online at www.campspot.com/about/weather-guarantee 

GET YOUR MONEY BACK IF IT RAINS? 

■eems to good to be true, right? 

S 

Unexpected rain putting a dampener 

on things is just part of camping, 

isn’t it? Well, perhaps not for much 

longer. Climate risk technology 

company, Sensible Weather, has partnered with 

leading online campground marketplace Campspot 

in a move that will see the latter add a weather 

guarantee to bookings on more than 200,000 

campsites. But how? Sensible Weather quantifies 

and manages weather risk for campers, using 

cutting-edge satellite imagery and climate analytics 

developed from over a decade’s worth of research in 

industry and academia. Sensible Weather’s payouts 

are managed based on pre-set parameters, which 

means no haggling or claims processes. Sensible 

Weather pays travelers up to 100% of their nightly 

rate in real-time, based on the day-of forecast, via 

a text notification typically before the predicted 

weather event occurs. 

Nick Cavanaugh, Sensible Weather CEO and 

founder, explained: “We want to empower everyone 

to enjoy stress-free adventures, and partnering 

with Campspot to offer our Weather Guarantees at 

campsites across the U.S. is our way of helping to 

make the unpredictable more predictable and give 

campers peace of mind.” 

Campspot CEO Michael Scheinman added: “Being 

outdoors and appreciating nature is a fundamental 

part of any camping trip, so we’re thrilled to be able 

to offer our campers a way to ensure they can enjoy 

their experience with Campspot - or to be reimbursed 

quickly and easily by Sensible’s Weather Guarantees 

even if they can’t.” 


11

Dispatches 

All photos: VW Commercial Vehicles 

VOLKSWAGEN CELEBRATES 

200,000TH CALIFORNIA CAMPERVAN 

■utomotive giant Volkswagen 

A 

celebrates as the 200,000th 

California campervan comes off 

its production line in Hannover- 

Limmer. 

It’s an icon. One of those models that has almost 

become like the Biro has to pens or the Hoover has 

to vacuum cleaners. The Volkswagen California 

has been the campervan of the last 20 years. And 

that claim can be backed up by the fact that the 

200,000th model of this icon recently rolled off the 

production line at VW’s Hannover-Limmer facility. 

“The California has been a real success story 

for 35 years,” said Josef Baumert, member of the 

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand board of 

management responsible for production and logistics. 

“200,000 vehicles are also 200,000 customers who 

are discovering the world with a California ‘Made 

in Hanover’. This outstanding success is due in 

particular to the employees who build what is surely 

the most successful camper van in the world every 

day with their know-how and passion at the main 

plant in Stöcken and in camper van production.” 

The California was not always made in Hannover. 


Dispatches 

From 1988 up until 2004, the model was produced 

by conversion company Westfalia based on the T3. 

Around 22,000 of these vehicles were produced 

before Volkswagen decided to bring the production 

in house. Camper production was established on an 

area of 7,500 square metres in the Limmer district 

of Hanover. Initially, around 20 vehicles were built 

every day by 35 production employees. Productivity 

steadily increased over the years, with around 15,150 

California vehicles built in 2017. Construction of 

the 100,000th California in Limmer was celebrated 

the following year. Today, just five years later, the 

total has already reached 200,000 vehicles. Up to 

150 vehicles are built every day by 600 employees in 

three shifts. 

Hartmut Rickel, spokesman of the management 

board of Volkswagen Group Services, said: 

“Production of the California in Limmer has 

developed very impressively – as the figures show: 

at the start of production in 2004, 2,104 vehicles left 

the line. This year, the Volkswagen Group Services 

team is planning to produce 31,000 units. This 

increase and the further development of the Hanover 

site into a future-oriented production facility make 

us extremely proud. On behalf of the Management 

Board, I would like to thank our employees at the 

location for this success. Without them, this increase 

would not have been possible.” 

The successor to the California 6.1 will also come 

from Hanover from 2024 and will be manufactured 

according to the same principle as the current model: 

the base vehicle is manufactured at the main plant 

in Hanover-Stöcken, where it receives the necessary 

cut-outs for the roof, windows and connections, 

for example. It is then converted into a camper 

van according to customer wishes by experts in the 

California production department located eight 

kilometres away; this production site is operated by 

Volkswagen Group Services. 


13

Doing Business With... 

SWITZERLAND 

Photo: Nigel Tadyanehondo, Unsplash 

DOING BUSINESS WITH... 

SWITZERLAND 

■amping and caravanning is big 

C 

business in Switzerland. Despite 

the country’s relatively modest 

geographical size, it is an important 

outpost for the leisure vehicle 

industry and also for end users, who flock to 

the country’s beautiful mountains and lakes by 

their thousands each year. One unusual aspect to 

Switzerland is that it doesn’t really have any major 

caravan or motorhome manufacturers of its own to 

speak of – none of the big names of nearby Germany, 

for example. However, despite that, caravanning is 

a hugely important industry in the country. One of 

the key indicators of this is the fact that more than 

55,000 people attend the Suisse Caravan Salon in 

Bern each year, as well as hundreds of exhibitors 

covering many different aspects of the industry. But 

how did it get here? Like most European nations, 


Switzerland was enjoying a steady growth curve 

in its RV industry for the last decade before the 

COVID-19 pandemic. Each year from 2014 onwards 

a new record was set in terms of numbers of new 

caravans and motorhomes registered in the country. 

This growth then spiked in 2020 and 2021, like it 

did in most places, thanks to the travel restrictions 

imposed by coronavirus and a renewed interest in 

caravanning by European holidaymakers. This spike 

of growth has stabilised again in the last couple of 

years as Switzerland faced the problems of a lack of 

new motorhomes being able to be manufactured due 

to chassis shortages and other supply problems. It 

appears that things are returning to a healthy state in 

Switzerland and the country’s RV market maintains is 

position on the track towards growth and prosperity. 

TRADE BODIES 

CaravaningSuisse, or the Swiss Caravan Trade 

Association (SCGV) is one of Switzerland’s most 

important trade bodies. The organisation works on 

behalf of the interests of companies that work in 

any sector of the leisure vehicle industry, including 

motorhomes, caravans, campervans, and all 

associated accessories. The organisation is also 

involved in the organisation of Switzerland’s major 

RV exhibition, Suisse Caravan Salon. Learn more 

about the association online at www.caravaningsuisse.ch. 

Another interesting body of note in Switzerland 

is Wohnmobil Land Schweiz – an organisation that 

exists to try and increase and expand motorhome 

infrastructure in the country. Through a membership 

system, lobbying, and regular communications with 

the media, Wohnmobil Land Schweiz has helped to 

have nearly 300 new motorhome pitches installed in 

Switzerland since the year 2020. It has a membership 

of more than 3,200. You can find out more about 

them at www.womoland.ch 

FACT FILE 

Capital: Bern 

Population: 8,750,000 

Dial code: +41 

President: Alain Berset 

Official languages: German, French, 

Italian, Romansh 

Time zone: UTC+1 

Currency: Swiss franc 

Internet domain: .ch 

ECONOMY 

GDP: US$870 billion nominal 

GDP per capita: US$98,767 nominal 

GDP growth: 1.8% 

Main export partners: 

Germany 

USA 

China 

India 

France 

Main import partners: 

Germany 

USA 

Italy 

UK 

France 


SWITZERLAND 


15


SWITZERLAND 

SHOW BUSINESS 

The main show in Switzerland is the Suisse Caravan 

Salon, which this year will be hosted in the city of 

Bern from 26 to 30 October. The event lays claim 

to being the largest and most diverse exhibition of 

its kind in the country for the industry and hosts a 

wide range of leading brands from around Europe 

– catering for all different kinds of camping units. As 

well as new and interesting models, the show is also 

a hub of information and inspiration for campers and 

features professional advisors, a series of lectures 

and forums with interesting and engaging speakers, 

driver training and all-wheel driving courses, and 

even entertainment for children and families. 

On the 2021 edition, exhibition managing director 

Mario Kovacevic said: “After we were already able to 

report a very pleasing number of visitors in 2021, this 

year we were able to welcome over 55,000 visitors to 

the BERNEXPO site. We are very pleased with the 

great popularity and it shows us once again that our 

exhibition that our exhibition is rightly described as 

the most important hub for camping and caravanning 

fans in Switzerland. 

▲ The Suisse Caravan Salon is a strong show. 

“The Suisse Caravan Salon was enormously broad 

and interesting in terms of content. 

from high-class luxury liners to caravans built from 

100 per cent sustainable materials. From high-class 

luxury liners to caravans built 100 per cent from 

sustainable materials, this year there was almost 

everything a camper’s heart could desire. The lecture 

stage was once again full to bursting. The four-wheel 

drive and off-road area enjoyed great interest. The 

motorhome and caravan halls attracted a large and 

interested audience. The atmosphere over the five 

days was simply fantastic.” 

Exhibitors too were impressed with the 2022 

edition of the show, with Désirée Stoop of Mercedes- 

Benz Van Schweiz saying: “The visitors were very 

interested and eager to learn. We also had all walks of 

life at our stand and after three days we had no more 

brochures,” while Kirsty Hoffmaier, area manager for 

Austria and Switzerland for Knaus Tabbert, added: 

“We were very overrun because we were presenting 

new products that were being shown in Switzerland 

for the first time. shown in Switzerland. We are very 

satisfied with the last five days and will certainly be 

there again in 2023. 

You can learn more about the show and see the 

exhibitor list when it is updated at 

www.suissecaravansalon.ch 



SWITZERLAND 

COMPANIES OF INTEREST 

Bantam Camping 

One of the leading retailers/dealers of caravans and 

motorhomes in Switzerland with multiple branches 

around the country. 

D 

www.bantam.ch 

Cabotz 

A specialist in electronics and gas systems for 

motorhomes, Cabotz works with end users and also 

B2B customers alike. 

D 

www.cabotz.ch 

Top Camp AG 

Another major retailer that buys and sells leisure 

vehicles of many different kinds around Switzerland 

with multiple branches. 

D 

www.topcamp.ch 

Vanatics 

A supplier of parts and accessories for campervans 

and other leisure vehicles – specialising in energy 

systems and more. 

D 

www.vanatics.ch 

Solar Autarker 

A producer and installer of solar systems and 

accessories, specifically designed for campervans and 

other types of RVs. 

D 

www.solar-autarker.ch 

B&T Services 

A technical workshop for caravans, motorhomes 

and other RVs that can help do modifications or 

maintenance. 

D 

www.bts-gmbh.ch 

Victorinox 

Perhaps one of Switzerland’s most iconic brands, 

Victorinox’s luggage and knives are well-loved by 

campers around Europe. 

D 

www.victorinox.com 


17

Show Preview 

CARAVAN SALON 

THE CENTRE OF THE 

CARAVANNING WORLD 

All photos: Messe Düsseldorf/ctillmann 

■ometimes called the fashion capital 

S 

of Germany, the industrial city of 

Düsseldorf lies on the banks of one 

of Europe’s most famous rivers, 

the Rhine, and to the naked eye 

seems like a normal, modern city. But for 10 days 

each year, this normal place becomes the epicentre, 

the beating heartbeat of the entire camping and 

caravanning industry around the world. Caravan 

Salon rolls into town and sets up shop at the Messe 

Düsseldorf between 25 August and 3 September 

and turns this unremarkable place into the hottest 

campsite on the planet. 

This year will be the 62nd edition of this impressive 

show, and once again it will attract visitors and 

exhibitors from more than 70 different countries in 

their thousands to see the latest products, make new 

connections, and celebrate the joy of RVs, caravans 

and more. 

Show director Stefan Koschke said: “Caravan Salon 

with its unique combination of business platform 

and industry event occupies an outstanding position 

in the annual calendar addressing all caravanning 

enthusiasts and those aspiring to be. There is 

enormous interest among the exhibiting companies 

and bookings for the hall space at our disposal are 

high. In Düsseldorf the caravanning experience can 

be lived out to the full. Caravan Salon offers by far the 


Show Preview 

CARAVAN SALON 

WHEN? 

25 Aug – 3 Sept 2023 

WHERE? 

Messe Düsseldorf, Germany 

WHO? 

720 exhibitors in 16 halls 

WHY? 

Make meaningful connections 

for your business. 

Find out more 

CARAVAN-SALON.COM 

widest range in mobile leisure – visitors do not get to 

see such a wide variety of brands, models, and layouts 

at any other leisure trade fair.” 

So, why does Germany feel like the natural home 

of such a globally important event for camping and 

caravanning. It probably helps that there are almost 

4,700 motorhome parks with over 71,000 pitches in 

the country, which still isn’t quite enough to keep up 

with demand. The bid is made stronger when you 

consider just how many big name manufacturers 

call Germany home. The Knaus Tabbert Group, the 

Erwin Hymer Group, Volkswagen, Mercedes, and 

that’s just some of the big boys. When you start to 

think about accessory and parts manufacturers, the 

list grows and grows. 

For ten days Caravan Salon will be the most 

relevant international sales platform for mobile 

leisure and the annual highlight for all caravanning 

enthusiasts. In addition to its diverse range of 

products and wide choice of caravanning services, 

the leading trade fair will once again offer a varied 

line-up of side events revolving around mobile 

leisure. Specials and many action-packed, funfilled 

attractions invite young and old to visit 

Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre. Furthermore, 

Caravan Salon has also developed into a key 

dialogue platform for experts and industry 

associations from around the world. 


19

Show Preview 

CARAVAN SALON 

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS: 

CIVD NEW TRAINING CURRICULUM 

The first apprenticeship curriculum specifically geared to this sector is an important milestone for the 

caravanning industry. In the newly established “Caravan and Motorhome Engineer” area, specially 

skilled technicians will be trained in the manufacturing, maintenance and repair of caravans and 

motorhomes in future. With this move the caravanning sector is actively responding to the enormous 

demand for skilled labour. This year, the German Caravanning Industry Association (CIVD) will also 

dedicate a separate stand to this new apprenticeship on the outdoor premises of Caravan Salon. 

SELF-CONVERSION ADVENTURE 

At the “Self-Conversion Adventure” by “Explorer / Vanderlust” in cooperation with Martin 

Kreplin on the outdoor space in front of Halls 13 and 14 hobby converters will find practical 

tips for converting and expanding their vehicles into mobile homes. Varying daily lectures 

for beginners, advanced and professional fitters will cover themes such as power and energy 

supply, workshop and materials science, heating and cooking, living and joinery, windows 

and hatches as well as insulation or layout planning. 

EQUIPMENT & OUTDOOR AND TRAVEL & NATURE 

Hall 3 is the place to be for those loving outdoor activities – from the next hiking tour up in the hills, a paddling 

excursion on an idyllic mountain lake, high-octane rafting through rapids to relaxed SUP on calm rivers. Under 

the motto “Travel & Nature” and “Equipment & Outdoor” it is wonderful to dream of your next caravanning 

holiday in the mountains or by the sea. Here traditional and alternative campsites and RV parks, the most 

attractive regions and the most varied leisure activities are featured; furthermore, numerous destinations 

throughout the world provide information on great locations for the most beautiful time of the year. 


Show Preview 

CARAVAN SALON 

STARTER WORLD 

“More and more people from all echelons of society and all 

age groups are interested in this form of holiday – at our 

trade fair last year we again registered a very high percentage 

of first-time visitors at 37 per cent. For these newcomers we 

have a service-oriented and customer-friendly advice centre 

on offer in the form of the StarterWelt/StarterWorld (Hall 7 

/ right at the Nord/North Entrance),” adds Stefan Koschke. 

In various themed worlds both beginners and seasoned 

caravanners can delve into the delights of mobile leisure. At 

the StarterWelt information centre experts provide hands-on 

tips and recommendations for vehicle types, itineraries or the 

right choice of campsite, and will also be on hand to answer 

specific questions and offer one-on-one help and assistance. 

Also on offer is an interesting stage line-up touching on a 

variety of caravanning themes. 

STATS FROM 2022 

61st 

Edition of 

Caravan Salon 

235k 

Attendees 

72 

Countries 

represented 

by attendees 

736 

Exhibitors 

34 

Countries 

represented 

by exhibitors 

16 

Exhibition 

Halls 

10 

Days 


21

Ad Feature 

SUPERSPRINGS INTERNATIONAL 

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS 

■y now, most Camping Trade 

B 

World readers will be familiar with 

SuperSprings and SumoSprings. 

These two innovative suspension 

solutions from American brand 

SuperSprings International (SSI) have been helping 

RV users around the world ‘journey better’ for several 

years now. But do you know the real difference 

between SuperSprings and SumoSprings? 

So, here’s the recap. SuperSprings are a bolt-on steel 

helper spring that is designed to add spring rate to 

the existing leaf pack on a vehicle – it’s an add a leaf 

alternative. The main purpose of SuperSprings is to 

eliminate rear end sag and reduce body roll on a vehicle 

thanks to a unique self-adjusting roller bolt at each end 

that allows the spring to adjust as the load varies. As the 

vehicle gets heavier, the SuperSprings work harder. As 

for SumoSprings, these are handmade micro cellular 

polyurethane springs that mount where the factory bump 

stop goes. SumoSprings are progressive springs that 

provide shock absorption, vibration reduction, soften 

harsh rebounds and also assist in providing load support. 


Ad Feature 



23

Ad Feature 


“Most vehicles usually need either the SuperSpring or the 

SumoSpring based on the particular setup and what you 

plan to use the vehicle for. But there are times when it’s a 

good idea to consider using both.” 

So, after that refresher course, you might be 

wondering… can you use both SumoSprings and 

SuperSprings together on one vehicle? The answer 

is not only an unequivocal yes, but also that it is 

a combination most often used on large RVs and 

campervans. 

SSI chairman and CEO Gerry Lamberti explains: 

“Most vehicles usually need either the SuperSpring 

or the SumoSpring based on the particular setup and 

what you plan to use the vehicle for. But there are times 

when it’s a good idea to consider using both. The most 

common combination is SuperSprings in the rear, with 

SumoSprings in the front. However, there are scenarios 

where you might use a SuperSpring and a SumoSpring 

in the rear, as well as a SumoSpring in the front. One 

example of this would be RVs, where the van or coach 

is built out really heavy and needs the support of the 

SuperSpring but there’s still a need for the ride comfort 

and vibration reduction of the SumoSprings.” 

This is something the SSI team have seen a lot with 

heavy class C motorhomes. But it has found that the 

combination of two of its most successful products can 

help vans with heavy build outs such as the Mercedes 

Benz Sprinter, the Ram Promaster, and the Ford Transit. 

The combo really comes into its own on these vans when 

owners want to take things off-road and off-grid. 


Ad Feature 


When combined, thee SuperSpring brings the van 

back to level so there’s no sagging or dropping into 

the rear wheels, as well as taking away unwanted body 

roll. The SumoSprings then work to give you a much 

quieter ride, and vibration reduction, damping, and 

it softens any harsh rebounds, especially when you’re 

overlanding. 

SSI has an ever-expanding range of pairings and 

combination kits that include both of these products 

together that are easy to find through the company’s 

website. If there isn’t one for the vehicle you have in 

mind, you can easily contact the team and they will 

help you select the best fit with their expert knowledge 

and experience. 

Learn more at www.superspringsinternational.com 


25

Ad Feature 

SEEKR BY CAFRAMO 

VISIT US AT 

HALL 13, BOOTH B60 

KEEP YOUR COOL WITH 


■ore people are spending more time 

M 

in their RVs. It’s a simple fact, and 

it’s happening all around the world. 

Whether that’s people deciding to 

vacation more often in their caravan, 

nomadic workers seeking a more flexible life by 

working from their campervans, or new motorhome 

owners who can’t get enough of life on the road – the 

use of RVs has skyrocketed. And that’s all well and 

good, but if you’re going to spend longer periods of 

time in a home away from home, shouldn’t it feel more 

like… well, a home? Enter Canadian manufacturing 

company, Caframo. This trusted and longstanding 

manufacturer is an expert in premium fans, heaters, 

and 12V and 24V accessories for boats and RVs. 

Thanks to their products’ quality, excellent customer 

service, and constant innovation, Caframo has become 

a name that campers rely on. In short, Caframo can 

make your RV a much more comfortable and relaxed 

place, no matter what shape or size. With Caframo 

products, things can always be just right. 

A BETTER ALTERNATIVE 

Caframo takes its name from Canadian Fractional 

Motors (Ca-Fra-Mo). The company was founded in 

1954 shortly after the Second World War by German 


entrepreneur Hans Heidolph. He purchased a factory 

in Wiarton, Ontario, where his company began 

production of motor winding and small engines with 

a power capacity of less than one horsepower. These 

motors play a vital role in household appliances, 

specialty fans, and heaters. 

Recognising the demand for premium fans and 

heaters designed for extreme conditions, Caframo 

launched the SEEKR by Caframo brand, one of the 

fastest-growing parts of the business today. SEEKR 

by Caframo offers a range of high-quality products 

engineered to withstand the challenges of open-sea 

navigation and motorhome or campervan exploration 

– ideal for van life or just those who spend plenty of 

Ad Feature 


time in their RV, whether for work or pleasure. 

One of the critical benefits of SEEKR by Caframo 

products, besides delivering maximum climatic 

comfort and impressive reliability, is their exceptional 

energy efficiency. When compared to traditional air 

conditioning systems, SEEKR by Caframo fans have a 

host of benefits that knock them out of the park. They 

have extremely low power draw, are much quieter, 

and are far more lightweight. They are compact and 

less obtrusive than air conditioning units and can be 

installed in almost limitless places and configurations. 

All this combined means that SEEKR by Caframo fans 

consume less power yet keeps campers comfortable, 

even when off-grid. 

▲ SEEKR by Caframo products discreetly provide low power draw cooling in any leisure vehicle. 


27

Ad Feature 


▲ The flexibility of SEEKR by Caframo fans mean they can be installed just about anywhere. 

“We are actively searching for new dealers, retailers, 

wholesalers, OEMs, and distributors in new markets 

around the world, and Caravan Salon seems like one of 

the best places to make those kinds of connections...” 

ONE-STOP SOLUTION 

Caframo has an excellent reputation, but that’s not 

just related to its products’ quality, performance, 

or innovative nature; it’s to do with how they do 

business, too. The Canadian company prides itself 

on comprehensive service to its business-to-business 

customers – a level of service that covers not only the 

things you’d expect but also market research, product 

design, and manufacturing. 

“We strive to meet the unique needs and 

preferences of our B2B clients, maintaining a solid 

commitment to quality and customer satisfaction,” 

explains Deanna Burke-Courage, Director of 

Marketing – Consumer Products. 

“To ensure the reliability and safety of our products, 

Caframo subjects each of them to rigorous testing. 

Additionally, we hold several certifications, including 

CE, UL, UKCA, RoHS, and WEEE. These certifications 

reflect our commitment to meeting stringent industry 

standards and delivering products of the highest 

quality and safety.” 


Ad Feature 


SHOW TIME 

For only the second time, Caframo and its SEEKR 

brand will be showcasing what they’re all about at the 

world’s biggest leisure vehicle show, Caravan Salon, 

from August 25th to September 3rd. The company 

enjoyed an exciting debut at the show in Dusseldorf, 

Germany, last year and will be returning to Hall 13, 

Stand B60, this year with the hope that the interest 

that was piqued in 2022 will continue to grow and 

more trade partners will realise how versatile and 

saleable their products are. 

“We are actively searching for new dealers, retailers, 

wholesalers, OEMs, and distributors in new markets 

around the world, and Caravan Salon seems like one 

of the best places to make those kinds of connections,” 

said Deanna Burke-Courage. “We already have 

partners who are enjoying great success with SEEKR 

by Caframo products in places like Australia, and we 

believe there is huge potential in Europe, too, as more 

people spend more time in their RVs and as weather 

patterns seem to be bringing greater extremes of hot 

and cold. Our products are also particularly suitable 

for people who live in their vans or spend long 

periods in them off-grid, as they have impressively 

low power draw.” 

Caframo has already established itself as the 

leader in its field in North America and Australia 

thanks to exceeding customer expectations and 

providing effective and no-fuss solutions for keeping 

a comfortable climate in your RV. They’re now on the 

hunt for companies worldwide to join in their success. 

▲ The Sirocco II is packed with features. 

COULD SEEKR BY CAFRAMO WORK FOR YOU? 

Learn more at seekr.caframobrands.com 

Or reach out at salesteam@caframo.com 


29

Sector Spotlight: 

ELECTRIC RVs 

SPOTLIGHT ON... 

Photo: Mercedes-Benz 

ELECTRIC RVs 

■hat was once just a pipedream 

W 

reserved for the pages of science 

fiction or speculative prose is now very 

much a reality. Electric vehicles are 

on our roads, and their numbers are 

increasing with every passing day. The debate around 

whether they are the true answer to making transport 

more environmentally friendly is something that will 

be parked for this feature, we only want to focus on 

the development of the sector – specifically how it is 

infiltrating the world of RVs and leisure vehicles. It 

seems a long time ago now since the very first concept 

drawings of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz entered the 

public consciousness. Today, you can see these vehicles 

on the road, almost to the extent that they don’t even 

turn your head anymore. Electric vehicles are a normal 

and commonplace thing, and pretty soon that will be 

the case on the campsite as well. 

While models like the ID. Buzz and similar electric 

van efforts from the likes of Mercedes and Fiat are 

now out in the market, the take-up by OEM converters 

and even end-user converters has been quite slow. For 

the moment at least, the issues surrounding reduced 

range when compared to combustion engines seems to 

be a dam holding back the tide of electric campervans 

and motorhomes. But that dam is leaking, and soon 


it will be breached. Ranges are improving, power 

is improving, battery life and recharging times are 

improving. Like most things with technology, this 

sector needed the frontrunners who perhaps hadn’t got 

things quite right yet in order to make the technology 

more affordable, accessible, and to drive development. 

We now have huge names in the RV industry such as 

Winnebago Industries and THOR industries pouring 

whole teams and departments worth of effort into 

making electric RVs that don’t simply tick a box but 

deliver a great camping experience to end users. The 

developments and advancements of this sector will 

continue to populate news columns of the industry for 

a time to come, but there are a few issues that need 

to be addressed before a full-scale electric revolution 

can happen. Once the aforementioned performance 

attributes are tackled, there then remains the problem 


ELECTRIC RVs 

of infrastructure – EV charging points are popping 

up around the world, but probably not at the pace 

required, especially when you consider that regular 

electric vehicles are increasing their numbers rapidly. 

Time will be the greatest weapon that the electric RV 

sector has, but unfortunately, time seems to also be 

against humanity in the battle to clean up our act and 

try and mitigate the effects of climate change. 

Top 5 countries with highest Google search 

interest for ‘electric RV’ 

Canada 

United States 

Australia 

United Kingdom 

India 

▲ The VW I.D. Buzz shows potential for electric campervans (Photo © VW Commercial Vehicles). 


31


ELECTRIC RVs 

Photo: Mercedes-Benz 

▲ Big automotive brands such as Mercedes are making great strides producing electric vans. 

TRENDING 

Electric RVs are almost a trend on their own, but of 

course within the field, there are patterns emerging 

of styles of products and appropriate accessories. 

One of the key trends at the moment appears to 

be for smaller, lighter vehicles – not only does this 

help when it comes to range performance, but it 

also mirrors the vanlife trend seen in combustion 

engine campers. With more power needed on board, 

accessories for renewable electricity sources are also 

growing in popularity. 

There appears to be equal effort being put into the 

sector by large vehicle and RV manufacturers as there 

is by smaller converters and also start-up companies. 

Small, start-ups are one of the really interesting 

trends in this space. A different method of propulsion 

removes the barriers that may have previously stopped 

smaller companies getting involved in the campervan 

sector. Now, young and bright technology companies 

are having an input into what has usually been a 

very traditional market space, which can only lead to 

innovation and improvement overall. Some of these 

smaller tech companies are even being swallowed 

up and acquire by the big boys, such is the different 

expertise that they bring. We’ll leave you with a quote 

from Huw Bower, president of the Winnebago brand: 

“Our primary goal in building the eRV2 was to help 

people comfortably explore the world around them 

with less environmental impact. The user experience 

was at the heart of this prototype’s development, 

through the early days of market research and 

even now as it goes through field testing. The eRV2 

embodies our pioneering legacy, representing 

not only an achievement in design, innovation, 

and sustainability, but also our commitment to 

continuously evolve with the changing needs of 

consumers and the world we share.” 



ELECTRIC RVs 

COMPANIES OF INTEREST 

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles 

VW is synonymous with campervans, and that is the 

reputation it is attempting to continue with its allelectric 

ID. Buzz van – ideal for conversions. 

D 

www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk 

THOR Industries 

The world’s largest brand house of RVs and leisure 

vehicles, THOR has undertaken a huge amount of 

research and development regarding electric RVs. 

D 

www.thorindustries.com 

Mercedes-Benz 

Another famous base vehicle manufacturer that is 

making great strides in providing useful and useable 

electric vans that could be used as campers. 

D 

www.mercedes-benz.com 

Iridium 

A German specialist in electric motorhomes, Iridium 

recently released a fully-electric motorhome into the 

market in its push towards sustainable travel. 

D 

www.iridium-wohnmobile.de 

Electric Brands 

A start-up with a wide range of van and bus camper 

concepts that are all-electric featuring futuristic 

designs and compact layouts. 

D 

www.electricbrands.de 

Photo: Winnebago Industries 

Stella Vita 

An amazing solar-powered electric RV concept created 

in collaboration with students from Eindhoven 

University in the Netherlands. 

D 

www.vita.solarteameindhoven.nl 

Winnebago Industries 

Arguably one of the USA’s best-known RV brands, 

Winnebago has a huge project underway to help make 

electric RVs part of the present rather than the future. 

D 

www.winnebagoind.com 

Stellantis 

The huge, multi-brand vehicle manufacturer owns 

base vehicle favourites including Fiat, and has been 

active in forging new electric van concepts. 

D 

www.stellantis.com 


33


LIPPERT 

Solera OG 

RV components expert Lippert has revealed 

the industry’s first solar canopy for leisure 

vehicles. The Solera OG off-grid awning 

range is constructed using the company’s 

first ever flexible solar awning fabric. In an 

exclusive partnership with Renogy, Lippert 

will provide customers with unmatched 

innovation in awning integrated photovoltaic 

technology (AIPV). Solera OG installs like a 

regular awning, but with Renogy’s proprietary 

thin-film solar technology, Lippert awnings 

provide the extra benefit of up to 300 watts 

of solar power, without the labor, expense, 

additional weight and roof intrusion of 

installing conventional rigid panels. 

D www.lci1.com 

ECOFLOW 

Delta 2 Max 

The Delta 2 Max is the latest portable power 

station from Ecoflow, designed for 10 years of 

use at home or on the go. With a base capacity of 

2,048Wh, which can be expanded up to 6,144Wh 

with two extra batteries, users can customise 

their energy solutions based on their specific 

energy needs. The DELTA 2 Max uses premium 

LFP batteries, providing the longest-lasting 

battery life currently on the market. On average, 

most comparable products in the industry lose 

around 20% of capacity after 500 charging 

cycles. However, the DELTA 2 Max will only 

drop to this level after 3,000 charging cycles – 

six times as long as its competitors. 

D www.ecoflow.com 



HIGHLANDER OUTDOORS 

Ben Nevis 65l 

The Ben Nevis 65l is new for 2023 

with updated design, style and fit. 

Made from tough and light 200D 

Nylon ripstop, our Ben Nevis is our 

highest performance rucksack range. 

The Highlander Ben Nevis rucksack 

was first developed 30 years ago 

and has been evolving ever since. 

A product that is feature packed, 

designed to survive the toughest 

challenges. Some of its key features 

include airflow height adjustable back 

system, lid zipped pocket, pole-park, 

dual webbing strap load stabilisation, 

rain cover, adjustable chest strap and 

whistle buckle, Duraflex buckles, and 

attachment points for walking poles. 

D www.highlander-outdoor.com 

EASY CAMP 

Camp Shelter 

Easy Camp has taken the open sheltered living area so loved 

in gazebos and added a waterproof rear tent for sleeping and 

storage. The hybrid character adds an extra dimension to an 

outdoor shelter, allowing privacy and storage at events, as well 

as use for garden sleep overs and as a tent on the campsite. 

It also makes the perfect addition for campervan use where 

its open nature and outside bedroom is appreciated over the 

cramped vehicle bedroom on a hot night. 

The Camp Shelter is made from PU-coated polyester that 

has a 2,000mm hydrostatic head. It is supported by fibreglass 

poles to reduce weight for easy handling and maintenance. 

The 12kg weight and 66cm x 22cm pack size eases storage and 

transportation in today’s smaller homes and vehicles. 

D 

www.easycamp.com 


35


TELAIR 

Total Black air conditioners 

Following the latest trends that show 

increasing sales of recreational vehicles 

with coloured bodywork, the Teleco Group 

company has added to its range of air 

conditioners e-Van 7400HN, Silent+ 

8100HN and DualClima 8400HN with 

dark grey livery, all equipped with heat 

pump. The Clima e-Van 7400HN roofmounted 

air conditioner has been specifically 

designed for vans between five and seven metres in 

length and features a cooling capacity of 7,200 BTU. 

The Silent+ 8100HN roof-mounted air conditioner 

is the most universally suitable product in the range. 

And the DualClima 8400HN air conditioner is 

suitable for vehicles up to eight metres long, thanks 

to a cooling power of up to 8,500 BTU. 

D 

www.telaircamping.com 

NEMO EQUIPMENT 

Mayfly Osmo 

Armed with Nemo’s top-performing 

OSMO fabric on the fly, Mayfly 

OSMO is a notably durable 

backpacking shelter for adventurers 

ready to hit the trail. A proprietary 

composite fabric, OSMO is made 

from 100 per cent recycled polyester 

and nylon yarns and repels water 4x 

longer than standard tent fabrics — 

all while stretching three times less 

when wet. OSMO fabrics meet fire 

retardancy standards without the use 

of added chemicals and are treated 

with PFAS-free waterproofing. 

D 

www.nemoequipment.com 



AUS J 

EZY RV external shower point 

From the Australian makers of the famous Duoette heater, 

the EZY RV external shower point outlet set features a large 

shower head for better feel and water coverage, push and 

turn activation, a lock-off trigger, simple and secure clamps 

to attach to the outside of an RV, a two-metre shower hose, 

adjustable handle to control temperature, and a durable 

netted bag for storage when not in use. The set can be used as 

an all-in-one kit, or just parts of it can be used and installed 

by either end users or OEMs. 

D 

www.ausj.com 

OUTWELL 

Galtymore 

Outwell continues to cement its 

position as the family camping brand 

that brings home comfort to the pitch 

with four new chairs. These have 

special appeal to those wanting to 

reduce weight and packed size while 

maintaining padded luxury. 

The low-back Galtymore is perfect 

for dining where a more upright 

posture and the 46cm seat height 

benefits comfort levels. With the 

light aluminium and steel frame 

providing extra support, the Galtymore 

weighs in at 2.5kg and packs down to 

handy 13cm x 15cm x 50cm for easy 

transportation and storage. 

D www.outwell.com 


37

www.campingtradeworld.com

Camping Trade World_Issue 15

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