Mercedes is attempting to bring back the traditional camper van with the launch of the new Weekender. Based on the Metris Passenger Van, the Weekender debuted at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show and incorporates an elevating roof with space for two occupants to sleep in overnight. Germany's Holzmobil, on the other hand, is taking a different approach with its first motorhome.
Built on top of a MAN TGE 4.180 4x4 van chassis, the luxury camper is constructed entirely out of real wood inside and out, making for a truly unique design. Step inside, and you'd be forgiven for thinking you're living inside a cozy wood cabin out in the wilderness.
To prevent the cabin temperature from getting uncomfortably warm, Holzmobil has incorporated a patent-pending roof design that allows moisture to escape. Tucked in between the four captains swivel chairs is an expandable dining table, while the kitchen features a 50-liter refrigerator, a sink, and a two-prong induction cooktop. There's also a bathroom and the walls, doors, floors, and lighting fixtures are all crafted from wood. Being exposed to the elements, the all-wood exterior will require a lot of maintenance, which could be costly.
The wooden camper weighs 8,157-pounds alone. Stacking it on top of the MAN TGE 4.180 4x4 van chassis brings the total weight to 9,920 pounds.
In terms of dimensions, the complete camper measures 25.3 feet long, seven feet wide, and 10.6 feet tall. If that's too big for you, Holzmobil is also developing a smaller version. There's also a 400-Ah lithium battery and two 700-W solar panels for when you want to go off the grid and plenty of modern technology contrasting with its rustic wood trim including a central touchscreen, individual displays, and speakers for rear passengers, and a swivel-mounted television for the bedroom.
By now, you're probably wondering how much this luxury wood camper costs. Unsurprisingly, all these luxuries and crafted wood panels don't come cheap as Holzmobil is charging 182,800 euros (around $215,503) for a fully loaded model.