Thuringia Seeks the Best Motorhome

Knaus has announced the new Nordwind series, positioned above the Südwind line. The range includes three floorplans: 600 UE with twin beds, 660 PXB with a full-width rear bathroom, and 660 UDF with a corner bathroom and French bed. All models come standard with an Alde heating system, underfloor heating, a 40-liter insulated waste water tank, and protected water pipes. The caravans are built on a 2.5-meter wide chassis with a maximum weight of 2,500 kg and likely a tandem axle. Production models are set to debut at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2026.

From July 7, 2026, all new motorhomes, campervans, and self-converted vans registered in the EU must be equipped with a set of mandatory safety systems. These include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, reversing assist, intelligent speed assist, driver drowsiness detection, alcohol interlock preparation, and tire pressure monitoring. Market observers estimate the added cost at €1,000–€3,000 per vehicle. The rules also apply to DIY van conversions, which may be treated as new registrations and must meet all factory standards.

Hobby has updated its range for the new model year. The Prestige T line expands from one to three models, the Ontour Van gets a modular bathroom, and technology, safety and layouts have been improved.

A Polish couple suspected of a series of motorhome thefts in the Dresden area was arrested after the man asked his wife to pick up his car. Rafal B., 45, was detained while entering Germany at the Görlitz border crossing. According to investigators, he stole three motorhomes worth €65,000. After his arrest, he called Natalija B., 39, who was also wanted for stealing three motorhomes worth €110,000. When she arrived to collect the car, she was also arrested. The court remanded Rafal in custody and released Natalija under strict conditions.

At Hahler Hafen (Minden), campers spend entire afternoons watching passing vessels. Despite interior temperatures reaching 38°C inside motorhomes, tourists do not give up short breaks at this spot. The site's popularity is due to its location on a canal with heavy traffic.

Westfalia has unveiled a 50th anniversary edition of the Sven Hedin camper van. Based on the MAN TGE chassis, it features a 2.0-liter diesel engine with 163 hp and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is 5.98 meters long. Standard equipment includes a 120 W solar panel, two 100 Ah lithium batteries, a 90-liter refrigerator, and fresh (100 L) and waste (84 L) water tanks. The anniversary edition starts at €99,990.