Tag Archives: camper van

Toyota’s new Micro-camper doubles into a cargo-van, pop-up shop, or even a wheelchair-accessible van

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As the name suggests, most camper vans are made for camping. However, Toyoya’s Kayoibako interprets things differently. Inspired instead by shipping containers, the adorable micro-camper is compact enough for tight city streets yet versatile enough to transform from a cozy camper into a mobile pop-up shop or even a mini delivery van. Built as a multifunctional, adaptable space, the Kayoibako explores the future of compact vehicles designed for urban explorers, small business owners, and anyone craving flexibility in a city-ready package.

Designer: Toyota

With a length of 3.99 meters (around 13 feet), the Kayoibako maximizes every inch of space. The tiny EV uses a nearly nonexistent hood and a minimalist driver-only seat setup, which frees up over 2.1 meters of usable floor length behind the driver and 3.1 meters in the seatless passenger area. Collaborating with lifestyle brand D&Department, Toyota created a cozy camper layout with a foldable double bed, ambient lighting, and simple furnishings, proving that functional design can be stylish too. The roof—standing at 186 cm (73 inches)—is accessible via a ladder and can double as a gear rack, providing easy storage solutions for adventurers looking to take advantage of every inch of this micro-camper.

What really makes the Kayoibako concept exciting is how easily it shapeshifts to meet diverse needs. Toyota envisioned it for multiple configurations, including an adaptive wheelchair-accessible design, a fully mobile retail shop with racks, and a straightforward cargo hauler. This flexibility comes from the vehicle’s customizable software. For instance, if you’re using it as a mobile shop, the Kayoibako could integrate inventory tracking, or, if it’s out on the trails, off-road navigation could be added to the suite. With all these options, Toyota has crafted a concept that feels a step ahead, blending physical versatility with digital intelligence.

Inside, the Kayoibako is as simple as it is modern. The minimalist dashboard is defined by an ultra-slim, curved infotainment screen that stretches across the windshield area, designed to give the driver a seamless interface with all key information in one place. The Kayoibako’s cockpit keeps things light, thanks to a skeletal steering wheel and minimal controls, perfect for a vehicle that aims to be as flexible as its users’ needs. This simplicity lets Toyota make the most of the interior, creating a spacious, uncluttered atmosphere that’s highly adaptable for different uses, from outdoor exploration to city delivery.

So, will the Kayoibako make it to production? Toyota’s been quiet about that, though its experimentation with flexible mini-vehicles, like the Hilux Champ mini-pickup, hints at a future where modular electric vehicles might become mainstream. If the Kayoibako—or something like it—hits the market, we’d be looking at a new category of hyper-adaptable, eco-friendly EVs. Whether for work, play, or a mix of both, it’s a concept that could be just what the tiny van scene has been waiting for.

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Maxvan Access camper van is designed to maximize floor space for style, comfort, and function

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Maxvan has become a name synonymous with recreational vehicles, whether it is designing the Pathway, a Class B wheelchair-accessible RV, or now the Access, which is more than a traditional leisure vehicle with the space it has on the inside. This spacious floor plan is made possible by pushing the rear of the van back by a few inches, the liveable space thus created accommodates a queen Murphy bed, a hidden toilet, shower, and free-standing headroom.

Maxvan says, ‘Access can go where other Class B RVs cannot with its low-profile clearance and thoughtful exterior design,’ which is pretty boxy on the driver’s side, but has a slightly rounded appearance on the passenger side. On the inside is where the magic begins. The driver seat is fixed for obvious safety though the passenger seat can swivel around to face the living area.

Designer: Maxvan

The obvious space inside a van home is pretty compact, but this one has an excitingly open floor plan to make up fo the tiny room, especially through its interesting rear bed composition. This is a combination of the Murphy bed at the extreme end on the driver side, and the sofa placed on the passenger side. The two combine to form a queen bed that’s laden with a cushiony mattress.

When not being used as a bed, the sofa can be used usually or for dining with a stowable swivel table aligning well. The sofa has a direct viewing angle at the wall-mounted 24-inch TV with HDMI port and DVD player. A walk toward the cabin will take you into the kitchen with a stainless steel countertop, a portable single burner stove, a sink, a microwave in the overhead storage, and a 76L fridge. The counter space folds out ahead of the sink, which hides below a cassette toilet seat covered using a shower curtain when occupied.

The kitchen faucet is attached to a showerhead, which you can use in the recessed floor area ahead of the kitchen, which works as a shower pan with integrated drainage and also lowers the kitchen floor slightly, increasing the headspace for someone cooking in the kitchen. The Access can be prepared for off-grid living with optional solar panels and awning, but for its asking price of $99,800, it comes packed with an air conditioner, heater, 100Ah battery, and 1,000W inverter.

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The New Ford Nugget Camper-Van boasts a Wardrobe, Bathroom, L-Shaped Kitchen, and a Hybrid Powertrain

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The Ford Nugget camper van lineup just got a significant upgrade, perfect for those embracing the #VanLife trend or looking to dip their toes into the nomadic lifestyle. Building on last year’s redesign at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, Ford introduces new models to the Nugget family, including a long-wheelbase version with more kitchen and storage space and an Active trim that’s sportier and offers all-wheel drive. The long-wheelbase version stretches the camper from 505 cm to 545 cm, making room for a larger wardrobe and an L-shaped kitchen, ideal for those who love to cook more elaborate meals on the road. Additionally, the much-anticipated plug-in hybrid version arrives with 56 km of all-electric range, combining eco-friendliness with practicality for European roads. With options for both diesel and hybrid powertrains, the Nugget series caters to different travel styles while ensuring you have the space and features needed to make van life enjoyable and stress-free.

Designer: Ford

The new long-wheelbase Nugget model expands the van’s functionality by increasing its overall length from 505 to 545 cm. This added space is put to practical use, enhancing storage options with a larger wardrobe and a more expansive L-shaped kitchen. The extended countertop is ideal for those who like to prepare meals with more complexity or simply need extra room for their cooking essentials. Storage is a critical factor in the success of any camper van setup, and Ford’s design ensures that the additional space serves both convenience and comfort. The larger kitchen area is designed to house more cookware and utensils, ensuring that everything remains within easy reach while traveling.

Beyond just extra storage, the long-wheelbase version is also set to feature a bathroom in future iterations. While details on the layout remain under wraps, the bathroom will likely be a significant draw for those who prioritize a fully self-contained living space on the road. In earlier models like the Nugget Plus, Ford offered a compact bathroom solution in the tailgate area, complete with a privacy screen and foldaway sink. Whether or not this layout remains unchanged, it’s clear that the addition of a bathroom reflects Ford’s understanding of customer needs in this growing market segment.

The Active trim introduces a more rugged design to the Nugget lineup. It features SUV-inspired styling and durable materials suitable for more challenging environments. With water-resistant seat fabric and advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision assist, the Active trim blends comfort with safety. The inclusion of AWD further broadens the van’s capabilities, making it more versatile for trips that involve uneven terrain or inclement weather. The powertrain options for this model include a 168-hp EcoBlue diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering reliable performance for both highway cruising and countryside exploration.

Perhaps the most significant update is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. Ford delivers on its promise from last year, launching the PHEV just in time for the 2024 season. The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with an electric motor, providing a combined output of 230 hp. The 11.8 kWh battery enables up to 56 km of all-electric driving, a feature particularly appealing for eco-conscious travelers or those navigating emission-restricted urban areas. This hybrid setup strikes a balance between efficiency and range, allowing users to enjoy quieter, cleaner drives without sacrificing the practicality of traditional fuel options.

Ford has also integrated the Smart Camper Touchscreen system, allowing centralized control of the van’s features like lighting, heating, and even leveling with the built-in inclinometer. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring a stable and comfortable setup at campsites. The van’s three-room layout—comprising a dining area, kitchen, and pop-up bedroom—remains consistent with previous models but benefits from the increased length and added storage, making longer trips more feasible.

With a base price of €73,126 in Germany, the updated Nugget series remains a premium option within the camper van market. However, the expanded features, enhanced powertrain options, and thoughtful design refinements make it a strong contender for anyone serious about the van life experience. As Ford continues to innovate in this space, the Nugget series evolves from a compact camper into a more comprehensive travel solution, meeting the needs of today’s increasingly diverse group of road adventurers.

 

The post The New Ford Nugget Camper-Van boasts a Wardrobe, Bathroom, L-Shaped Kitchen, and a Hybrid Powertrain first appeared on Yanko Design.

This versatile tiny camping trailer for your EV fits in a standard garage or an underground car park

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Every new camper trailer – mini, small, or large – breaths fresh air into the camping sector and the buzz it creates is bound to reach us sooner or later. The latest buzzing entry is the Cube 1, a micro-campervan that’s turning heads with its interesting boxy design.

Conceived by the master crafters at the German outfit Sportcaravan, this is one of the tiniest trailers out there. Of course, some serious options have been scaled down to tow behind an e-bike; the Cube 1 with a 320-odd kg body may not be as small, but it is tiny enough to fit in a standard garage or an underground car park.

Designer: Sportcaravan

The Cube 1 measuring just 10.5 feet in length and 5.4 feet high breaks from the conventional micro-caravans and sets new standards with its compact dimensions and ease of use. As Sportcarvan mentions, it does not “require a trailer license and can easily be towed by a small car or an electric vehicle.”

While compactness and comfort are the key takeaways, it’s the camper trailer’s flexibility that wins it the title of “transformer among the mini campers.” Cube 1 is like a usual tiny trailer with an 81 x 51-inch double bed until you pull out the rooftop tent and access it through a campervan-like hatch. This optional roof tent creates more space in the compact body making the trailer apt for sleeping up to four with ease.

Cube 1 thrives on a fully insulated interior that renders it suitable for winter. It makes the trailer your camping companion for all year-round memorable experiences. But such an unforgettable experience is not possible without a kitchen. The Cube 1 thus has a slide-out shelf with a cutting board worktop and portable stove for outdoor cooking at the camp.

The trailer has a host of open shelves for storage, includes airline rails and a hook for holding cups and more. The capable trailer arrives in a basic shell for a starting price of €12,900 (approximately $14,000). The Cube 1 can be customized with an addon for a more capable adventure.

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Vanderer’s Citroën 2CV Electric Mini Camper Van is a retro-modern van for adventurers

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Vanderer, a niche automotive design firm, has unveiled a stunning electric mini camper van based on the iconic Citroën 2CV. The classic 2CV, renowned for its quirky design and timeless appeal, has undergone a futuristic transformation, marrying the charm of the past with the sustainability of the present.

The electric mini camper van is a testament to the evolving landscape of automotive design, where heritage meets innovation. The design firm has seamlessly integrated an electric powertrain into the beloved 2CV, offering a clean and eco-friendly driving experience without compromising on the nostalgic aesthetic that motorheads adore.

Designer: Vanderer and Caravan Grebner

Underneath its charming exterior, the mini camper van packs a punch with its electric propulsion system. The electric motor not only aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable mobility but also enhances the driving dynamics of the 2CV. The camper van promises a smooth and silent ride, a departure from the characteristic hum of traditional combustion engines.

Beyond its eco-conscious credentials, Vanderer has ingeniously converted the rear section of the 2CV into a compact camper, elevating its utility and appeal. The mini camper van is equipped with essentials for a cozy getaway, including a compact kitchenette, sleeping quarters, and storage space cleverly integrated within the limited dimensions of the vehicle. This innovative approach caters to the rising demand for versatile, small-scale camper vans that can navigate both urban jungles and scenic landscapes.

The fusion of retro design and modern functionality is evident in the camper’s interior, where Vanderer has tastefully blended vintage aesthetics with contemporary comforts. The camper van boasts a minimalist yet functional layout, creating an inviting space for travel enthusiasts to embark on spontaneous road trips with ease.

As automotive enthusiasts and eco-conscious motorheads celebrate the arrival the Vanderer Citroën 2CV Electric Mini Camper Van, and its all set to make the world premier at 2024 CMT caravan and tourism show to commence on January 13 in Stuttgart. The unique combination of electric mobility and camper functionality within the classic 2CV framework exemplifies the endless potential for innovation in the ever-evolving world of custom camper vans.

Caravan Grebner will offer the ride as a limited edition version of 200 models with price and the final specifications still kept under the carpet for now.

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