Solar panel experiment on van yields 30% range boost, but with caveats

Alpencamper has introduced the Eco Slide Out, a bicycle trailer featuring a lateral slide-out module that expands interior space when parked. When folded, the trailer measures 2.14 m in length, 97 cm in width, and 1.30 m in height; after extension, it provides a bed measuring 1.40×1.96 m, suitable for two adults. Under the bed there is a 270-litre storage compartment and space for a portable dry toilet. The trailer weighs 52 kg and is built from aluminium and composite materials with thermal insulation. It is priced at 8,350 Swiss francs (approximately 8,900 euros), but the project's future is uncertain due to the company's recent financial difficulties.

A 1964 VW T1 panel van, formerly used by the fire department, is now for sale in Bielefeld, North Rhine-Westphalia. The vehicle has been professionally restored, passed a new technical inspection, and is ready for use. Price: €39,900.

Dethleffs has expanded its Trend line for 2027 with the I 7027, an integral motorhome featuring an unusual layout. Two longitudinal single beds on an electric drop-down mechanism are located at the front, while a U-shaped rear lounge seats up to six. The price starts at €97,999, positioning it below premium models but above base versions. The vehicle is built on a Fiat Ducato chassis with a gross weight of up to 3.5 t (optionally up to 4.25 t) and a 140 hp engine (optional 180 hp with automatic transmission).

A 78-year-old tourist from Lower Saxony died on the Südhörn campsite in Tinnum, Sylt, while helping a friend park a motorhome. Police say he tripped and was run over.

HRZ Reisemobile, founded in 1972, filed for insolvency at the end of 2025. The company has now resumed operations under the name HRX with new owners and a workforce of 7, down from 30. The Baden-Württemberg-based manufacturer will temporarily focus on modular models based on the Mercedes Sprinter rather than custom builds.

On Saturday evening on the A9 near southern Thuringia, a motorhome driver failed to notice the end of a traffic jam and collided with several vehicles. Nine people were injured, one seriously. Nine vehicles were damaged, including two minibuses carrying 11 children with high support needs and eight caregivers returning from Austria. The jam was caused by a horse trailer overturning on the opposite carriageway 40 minutes earlier. Damage is estimated at €350,000; the motorway was closed for 5.5 hours.