Vanlife: How a Family Lived Their Dream of Freedom

An ACSI survey of 6,800 caravan owners in Germany and the Netherlands revealed that 76% in Germany use diesel vehicles for towing. The main reasons for the low share of electric vehicles (1.5%) are limited range with a trailer, high costs, and unprepared charging infrastructure.

A motorhome was completely destroyed by fire in the industrial area of Varel. The blaze started around 4:15 a.m. while the vehicle was in a repair shop; extinguishing it took an hour, and there were no injuries.

New paid motorhome parking sites have opened across Europe in Germany, France, Austria, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands. They are located near cities, natural attractions, or with a view of Mount Etna, with capacity for 8 to 170 vehicles, and overnight costs range from €7.50 to €25. Some sites require a Camping-Car Park network membership card for access.

The ARI 458 Pro, Germany's smallest motorhome, has been introduced, based on an electric micro-truck. It is 3.82 meters long, has a 20 hp electric motor, a top speed of 70 km/h, and offers two battery versions for 120-180 km and 180-230 km of range. The model is available for order from May 2026 starting at 25,530 euros excluding VAT and is aimed at minimalists and self-builders.

German company Ari Motors has introduced the Ari 458 Pro electric micro camper, which is 3.82 meters long. The model is based on an L7e category light electric vehicle, offers a range of up to 230 km, and has an interior height of 1.85 m. The motorhome is delivered without furniture, with a base price starting from €30,381 in Germany.

Purchasing a motorhome requires careful financial planning due to the high cost and additional expenses. Prices start from several tens of thousands of euros, with annual costs including taxes, insurance, and maintenance. Starting in 2026, new Euro 7 emission standards and increased CO₂ pricing may raise operating costs. Financing options include bank loans, dealer offers, leasing, or mixed models.