Three RV fires in Germany: different causes, no injuries

Phoenix Manufaktur from Aschbach presented the new Star 7200 RSL at the Caravan Salon 2026 in Düsseldorf. The motorhome is based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 519 CDI with a 140 kW (190 hp) engine, 9-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. It measures 7.70 m in length, has a gross vehicle weight of 5,500 kg and a payload of 740 kg. The interior features a rear lounge seating area (2.20×1.76 m), a kitchen with a 100-litre refrigerator, a separate bathroom with shower, two longitudinal single beds in the alcove (2.00×0.82 m each) and a 2.20 m deep garage. The starting price is €225,900.

On Saturday evening on the A9 motorway in the German state of Thuringia, a camper driver failed to notice a traffic jam and collided with several vehicles. The chain-reaction crash injured 34 people, including 11 children with special needs and their caregivers. All sustained minor to moderate injuries; none are life-threatening. Nine vehicles were damaged, and material losses are estimated at €350,000. The Berlin-bound lane was closed for 5.5 hours.

On July 24, 2026, a motorhome in Bad Salzungen leaked a large amount of fluid while driving. The driver did not notice the leak despite attempts by a photographer to alert him. The trail extended from a railway crossing through several streets to an industrial area.

German manufacturer Vario Mobil has unveiled the Perfect 1200 QS Platinum, a luxury motorhome priced from €2.2 million, capable of carrying a classic car.

As part of the CARAVANING long-term test, a Hobby De Luxe 460 UFe caravan was equipped with E-Trailer sensors for gas level, nose weight, and tyre pressure. The system also alerts via app if a roof window is left open. The Basic starter kit costs €250, gas sensor €130 (adapter €50), E-Load system €290, E-Pressure tyre sensors €130 per pair, and E-Switch window sensors €90 per pair. Accuracy of the nose weight measurement was questioned during testing.

Westfalia unveiled the Columbus Liner at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, based on a 6.36 m Fiat Ducato. Instead of extra sleeping berths, the focus is on the roof: a pop-up tent with mosquito net creates a 'Sky Lounge' accessible via the rear king-size bed. An optional SkyBar coffee machine is available. The model offers 4 seats and 2–4 berths, a kitchen with induction hob and 90-litre compressor fridge, plus a heated double floor. Prices start at €83,900 and go up to around €115,000.