Westfalia Sven Hedin 50 Years Edition: Retro Style Meets Modern Tech

At the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, Ebicos presented the Happy Dreamer, a collapsible camper pod that turns a van into a camper without modifications. Made from polypropylene honeycomb panels and aluminum honeycomb flooring, it weighs about 60 kg and measures 47 x 51 x 11 inches when collapsed. The pod installs in the cargo area using rails and latches, slides out on drop-down legs, and provides king-size bed space. Pricing starts at €6,250; add-ons including a slide-out kitchen are planned.

At a trade fair in Winsen from 25 to 27 September, experts will advise on heating systems for caravans. Gas heaters such as Truma warm the interior quickly and do not rely on mains power; diesel heaters are efficient in sub-zero temperatures; electric and infrared heaters suit campsites with hook-ups; and combination systems allow switching between energy sources. The choice depends on travel habits and usage conditions.

German manufacturer Hobby unveiled the semi-integrated Prestige T 2026 motorhome at the Caravan Salon show in Düsseldorf. The model will go on sale this year with a starting price of 87,650 euros. Built on a Fiat chassis, it measures 7.1 metres long and 2.40 metres wide. A 180 hp diesel engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. One layout is available — the PRESTIGE T 710 GE, designed for a couple or family.

The German Institute for Service Quality (DISQ) has awarded the new Erwin Hymer Group brand CORIGON the "Product of the Year 2026" award, presented for the first time in the vehicles category. The jury evaluated brands on uniqueness, utility and market relevance. CORIGON offers reduced model ranges, proven floor plans and pre-configured equipment packages. For model year 2027, the Teilintegriert Pure range gains a revised T-hood, additional assistance systems and a standard multimedia package with reversing camera, plus an optional diesel heater. The 2.14 m wide Slim models receive a lifting bed and a larger refrigerator. The brand provides a seven-year leak-tightness warranty.

German converter Rhön Camp presented The Core camper van at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, built on a 5.93 m Mercedes Sprinter and designed to carry up to five people. The model features a raised polyester roof with a two-person sleeping area above a convertible dinette, while the rear bench provides three road-homologated seats. A full-width rear washroom includes a retractable toilet and fold-away sink, preceded by an L-shaped kitchen with induction hobs. All-wheel drive is available as an option.

Two people were injured on Wednesday when two trucks and a camper were involved in a rear-end collision on the A3 near Oberhausen, Germany, around 12:26. The camper driver was trapped and had to be freed by firefighters using technical equipment. Both occupants of the camper were taken to nearby hospitals; a trauma helicopter was called but not deployed. A dog was also injured and taken to a veterinary clinic. The A3 was temporarily fully closed, and about 30 emergency personnel responded. Police are investigating the cause.