Test of under-seat lithium batteries for motorhomes: eight LFP models

Caravan manufacturer Hobby is preparing for the Caravan und Co 2026 trade fair in Rendsburg. Visitors will see two updated caravan ranges, Excellent Edition and Prestige, as well as new floor plans for the Prestige T motorhome.

Bürstner has unveiled the Habiton HM/HMX 6.0, a Mercedes Sprinter-based camper van measuring 5.90 m with a sliding bathroom on rails. Prices start at €74,999 for the HM 6.0 and €88,999 for the all-wheel-drive HMX 6.0. The HM 6.1, with a transverse bed and gas-free concept, is available from €79,999. An optional heated pop-top roof adds two sleeping places for €6,990 plus €450 for extra insulation. Toilets are offered at extra cost: Porta Potti for €250, dry separation toilet for €790, or Clesana X1 for €1,290.

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.

Volkswagen is offering the VW California Beach Camper on a private lease at 369 euros gross per month. The contract terms are fixed: 24 months, 10,000 km per year, with no down payment. A one-time delivery charge of 1,850 euros gross applies (1,100 euros for self-collection), raising the calculated monthly cost to around 446 euros (415 euros with self-collection). The vehicle is available from February 2027 and features a 2.0-litre diesel engine producing 110 kW (150 hp), front-wheel drive and a 7-speed DSG.

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.