Not content with proving to the world that size isn’t everything, car manufacturer Mini has decided to prove that good things can also come in small, caravan-shaped packages. Following on from the Cowley model revealed at last year’s Geneva Motor Show, Mini has now produced two more concept compact caravans.
Designed with the objective of providing “maximum touring pleasure with minimal footprint”, the Cowley caravan weighs in at under 300kg and is packed full of all the mod-cons you would expect from a modern tourer. Featuring a mini-kitchen with a twin-burner gas stove, sink and water tank; a solar powered on-board battery which powers a TV, fridge and audio system and two sleeping berths, the Cowley could be a great alternative to towing a full-size caravan.
Sticking with trademark Mini design features, such as racing stripes and sliding windows, the engineers at Mini have also come up with the world’s smallest luxury campervan, the Mini Clubvan Camper, and the rooftop-tented Mini Countryman ALL4 Camp. Aimed at solo campers taking off for a weekend away, the Clubvan Camper is based on Mini’s current van design and boasts a TV, sleeping berth for one, extendable kitchenette and a glass roof for star-gazing (and ventilation) and even a handheld shower.
Meanwhile, the Countryman ALL4 Camp is a pop-up tent designed to perch on the roof of a Mini car. The rather eccentric-looking tent is intended for use by “the adventurous spirit” and offers what Mini refer to as “safari-style accommodation.” Folding up into a box similar to a suitcase, the ALL4 Camp is intended for those times when you decide to have an impromptu camping trip after a day at the beach, or want alternative accommodation at a festival. Accessed via a ladder, the tent uses the car roof to provide a sleeping surface for the tired driver. We suspect it’s not the most comfortable option available!
While a Mini statement referring to the three camping solutions says “The trio each reflect different aspects of the rise in popularity of camping and festivals, creating a choice of premium home-from-home options for the enthusiastic traveller.”, there are no current plans to put the concepts into production.
We think that not going into production is a real shame – do you agree? Let us know below.
However small or large your caravan is it is always a good idea to protect it with caravan insurance. We have three caravan policies that cover different needs, so that you don’t have to pay for cover you don’t need or want. Talk to our team on 01480 402470 to see how we can help you.