JetSetterJoe.com

Just the other day I was editing some video from Europe (Don’t worry. I will post some of it online eventually… honest!) and thinking of the virtues of travel by campervan. Running around with everything you need within easy reach is extremely appealing but, in a van, you have the added advantage of easy movement between cab and camper.

Need to change out of your sweats for lunch in a roadside establishment that looks a bit more upscale? No problem! Just hop in the back and change. Need to spend the night in a spot that looks kind of shady? Knowing that you can get up in the middle of the night and just drive without having to walk outside should offer some comfort.

All this has me pining for a van that is compact and practical yet powerful enough for towing toys and supplies yet economical. Just recently Brenda stumbled onto a new design that has us both extremely exited even if it does not necessarily meet all of the criteria above. The Montreal based design firm Verdier has recently announced that it won a special jury prize at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf in Germany for a concept of their solar-diesel hybrid Westfalia camper concept.

I know; I know… Just last week I was complaining about hybrids and how they are mostly an “image thing”; however, this vehicle combines the best of both worlds, hybrid-electric and new diesel technology. Besides, the batteries can be recharged using the solar panels too further enhancing fuel economy. Finally, who could resist the sleek and clever design as depicted in the computer-generated video from the company?

Details on the design seem to be restricted to computer-generated images and specs from the company’s website where Verdier boldly declares, “Reserve yours Now!” as if the vehicle is ready for production today. The target price has also been quoted as $69,000.

It remains to be seen whether the proposed 200 hp engine will be powerful enough to tow much of anything (or even if a hitch attachment will be offered). At least the diesel should offer more torque for towing even with an underpowered engine. (This is the norm in Europe as even small passenger cars tow huge trailers since virtually no one owns a truck.) If the production model can indeed tow at least 5,000 lbs, I may be looking at my ideal campervan.