Frankia introduces new campervan

Frankia, a German manufacturer better known for its large luxury A-class motorhomes, is launching a campervan range for the 2020 season.

Dubbed as its microliner, the Yucon was presented with a unique rear lounge model, to be joined by two models with twin single beds, which are likely to be launched at Germany’s Caravan Salon show in September. 

The models, which are currently only available in left-hand drive, will be based on Mercedes’ rear wheel drive Sprinter with a standard weight of 3,500kg, although weight upgrades for greater payload will be available, along with an all-wheel drive option. Note the model previewed was shown with a full body wrap; production models should come in metallic grey as standard.

It’s not just the body type that is new, the interior with very modern tones of grey and white is a definite departure from the wooden furniture of the bigger coachbuilts.

The first model, the 7.0 Lounge, has a rear lounge, which is unusual in itself for a European manufacturer. But it’s also not a standard rear lounge in this model. At the back a long sofa faces a storage and multimedia unit. It makes a double bed by sliding out into the aisle and the backrest dropping flat. There is also a mattress-topped storage unit that slides out to fill in the gap and make a 2m long by 1.35m wide bed.

The kitchen is then further forward of this with the washroom opposite the sliding door. The model on display had a large open space by the sliding door with floor rails, which we’ve been told are designed for extra passenger seats to be bolted in place as and when is needed (only the two in the cab as standard)

The washroom, although a single cubicle, shows off a new feature which can also be seen in the new M-Line Neo, (a lighter 3,500kg front wheel drive) low-profile model being launched this year. Simply put, the toilet and washbasin slide (separately) out of the way when the shower is needed creating a large space.

There will be a choice of interiors in various neutral shades as well as leather furnishings on the options list.

The 7.0 is based on the long wheelbase Mercedes (6.99m) while there will also be a 6.0 model on the medium wheelbase Sprinter.

Commenting on this new model, Fabrice Seignol, Export Manager for Frankia stated, “The van conversion market is important and growing. No manufacturer can ignore that.”

Prices are yet to be announced, but we can be certain that this is definitely not an entry-level model…