23 JUL 2024
SMALL MOTORHOMES: HOW ARE SMALL CAMPERVANS MADE AND WHY CHOOSE ONE?
PRODUCT
Various European manufacturers are producing more small motorhomes in response to a renewed interest in small sizes. The Ducato motorhome base supports vehicle manufacturers by providing advantageous solutions, including to outfit small motorhomes: both vans and motorhomes with a custom-made living pod. Small motorhomes can be divided into these two broad categories. Let’s now have a look at how these vehicles are made, with a less spacious interior than other motorhomes, although they still have many advantages.
Small campervans
The van version of the Ducato is the preferred base to outfit a small campervan, for its optimal ratio between external dimensions and interior space. Despite its slender silhouette, Ducato manages to offer considerable spaciousness, based on its relatively vertical walls and width of 205 cm. Among other factors, this results in the option of setting up a bed in the rear, against the direction of travel. But let’s not forget that Ducato- based vans have a decent internal height, despite the external height of just over 2.5 metres. The Ducato van is available in lengths of 541 cm, 599 cm and 636 cm. Standard vans are generally suitable for two people, but with the addition of a pop-up roof, its capacity can go up to four. For those looking for small campervans for sale, there are small campervan interior ideas on our Fiat Ducato campervan site.
Small motorhomes: compact semi-integrated and more
As well as vans being very popular, compact semi-integrated models are also experiencing greater success. Smaller than a conventional semi-integrated motorhome, their width does not exceed 220 cm, with the length usually ranging from 599 to 699 cm. Compact semi-integrated models are designed for two people, although they can also accommodate four in some cases. Conversely, overcabs and compact motorhomes almost always have four berths. Overcabs with limited dimensions, which are relatively uncommon, offer decent interior space, made possible by the cantilevered bed above the cab, and by the maintenance of a standard width of 230-235 cm despite their shorter length (often only 599 cm). Conversely, compact motorhomes are now seen more often: their width is roughly the same (220 cm or even less) as compact semi-integrated models, as well as the same length (from 599 to 699 cm), but their front is built from scratch, using the Ducato base vehicle’s “shielded” chassis, without the upper part of the cab. Greater space is therefore guaranteed, with the option to add a sliding double bed in the front.
Small motorhomes: why choose one?
Small motorhomes have one unquestionable advantage: easy handling. The limited length plays its part, but we must also bear in mind the width, narrower than the standard version. The difference of 20-30 cm can be felt in narrow streets, in city centres and on mountain roads. The shorter wheelbase – the Ducato's is only 345 cm – sometimes also contributes to improving the handling of these vehicles. Not to be underestimated is the limited weight, providing the option to increase the payload for additional luggage and accessories, remaining well within the total of 3,500 kg required by a type-B driving licence. Ultimately, anyone can easily drive a small motorhome. Also worth a mention, their practicality when manoeuvring in small spaces, e.g. when making a U-turn or finding the way through the trees on a campsite. Finally, a Fiat Ducato campervan is easier to park, for example on certain campsites with pitches of a limited size, but especially in urban areas where the restricted width is an advantage when parking alongside the pavement. Small motorhomes are in the spotlight more and more often: people go for them for their practicality, how easy they are to drive and their winning ratio between external dimensions and interior space.