Answer to micro-camper hype: Mercedes T-Class from Brabus - compact solution

Mercedes is also expanding its camper van family with a modular expansion in micro camper format, a year after VW did that with the Caddy California.

Answer to micro-camper hype: Mercedes T-Class from Brabus - compact solution

Mercedes is also expanding its camper van family with a modular expansion in micro camper format, a year after VW did that with the Caddy California. Because the motorhome industry is characterized by the run on compact companions. The new T-Class will be launched at the end of the year.

The motor home boom of the past few years was primarily driven by the run towards ever more compact vehicles. A development that can be clearly seen at the Mercedes stand at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon. Mainly because the luxury brand with the star recognized the potential in the caravanning market early on and therefore involved Hymer, as one of the big names in the industry, in the development phase of the Sprinter at an early stage.

In addition to the triumph of the Sprinter, documented in Düsseldorf by a Yukon panel van from Frankia, a Marco Polo that has become more colorful in the interior with a blue interior and the first fully electric EQV camper from Swiss partner Sortimo, this is also evident in the premiere of the new T-Class Marco Polo modules.

The Marco Polo family is growing with a new entry-level model in the smallest van format. "We are reacting to the increasing demand for micro campers, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among the young, fast-growing vanlife fan community," explains Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales and Marketing at Mercedes Benz Vans, also explaining the commitment of the Stuttgart-based company in this segment. The fact that the camping version of the high-roof station wagon is sold directly through Mercedes dealers underscores the seriousness of the mission.

The Mercedes T-Class is the passenger car variant of the Citan commercial vehicle, comes from the cooperation with Renault and is in principle the sister model of the Kangoo or the Nissan Townstar. Similar to the VW Caddy California introduced last year, which is likely to be the star van's closest rival, the T-Class can be converted into a micro camper with two modules: a standard bed unit and an optional kitchen unit for the rear.

A similar version was already on display in Düsseldorf last year, based on a Citan with modules from the Vanessa brand. However, the new modules for the T-Class, which it sells itself, are custom-made by - listen and be amazed - Brabus! The vehicle manufacturer from Bottrop, known for making even more expensive, tuned Mercedes cars out of expensive Mercedes products, works as a bed and kitchen builder for the high-roof van.

Undoubtedly well thought out and in a classy form, the surcharges to be expected will only be revealed later, when the small 4.50 meter camper will be available in the branches and dealerships from the end of the year. For your orientation: The basic T160 version with a 75 kW/102 hp petrol engine and a manual gearbox is available from around 30,000 euros.

When driving, the standard bed unit is located in the trunk with a folded, three-part mattress and is above the kitchen block if this option is installed. The rear seats can be used without restriction. To build the bed, the bed frame together with the disc spring system is pulled out to the front and the three-part mattress, which unfortunately consists of separate individual parts, is spread out over it. This results in a lying area of ​​2.00 x 1.15 meters, which must be enough for two people.

The standard scope also includes darkening elements for all window panes and a ventilation grille with insect protection, which is clamped between the panes and the frame. Also standard on board are two window pockets on both sides between the C and D pillars for smaller items.

The optional kitchen unit includes a sink with a 12-liter water tank, a 15-liter cool box and a flexibly removable gas cartridge cooker. Drawers provide space for cutlery, crockery and food supplies. In addition, the kitchen unit includes two camping chairs and a table, which can be set up outdoors or alternatively fixed inside behind the center console - a first in this segment.

Modular conversion concepts, which enable flexible use as an everyday vehicle or camper, are just as much a plus point for a micro camper as small external dimensions, easy handling, a weight of less than three tons and driving with a category B driver's license. Mercedes wants to be present among the small ones Vans will therefore also be expanded in the second half of 2023 with a “fully integrated micro camper”, which will then probably also be equipped with a pop-up roof. And the fact that an electric version based on an already announced EQT can soon be expected should be a logical consequence.