CaravanTimes takes a trip down memory lane to mark 7th anniversary

Posted July 28, 2016 by

Join us as we take a look at some of our most popular stories over the years in order to commemorate CaravanTimes’ seventh anniversary

Seven wonders of the world, seven deadly sins, seven days of the week. we could go on. It is unequivocal that the number seven is of great significance for a number of reasons, and CaravanTimes has just added yet another one to the list with today marking our seventh official anniversary.

To say the past seven years have been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride is pretty much an understatement. From starting out as a simple blog in order to share our passion of the great outdoors with other likeminded caravanners and motorhomers, to becoming the world’s most popular outdoors leisure website in the short space of seven years, it is true to say that we’ve travelled a long way in more ways than one – and we couldn’t have done it without you, our dedicated readers.

In order to mark CaravanTimes’ seventh anniversary, we’ve pieced together seven of our top stories which have either proven immensely popular over the last seven years or struck a chord with you, our readers. Read on and enjoy.

First time tips

With staycations on the rise year-on-year and many people choosing to take the plunge and invest in their very own caravan, it made sense for CaravanTimes to provide a users guide to caravanning for the first time and, last summer, we did exactly that. From caravan jargon, to pitching up for the first time, our guide for first timers certainly proved popular for some. So to check it out again if you’re new to caravanning, or even if you jut want a little refresher before your summer holiday, click here

Widow banned from caravan park

Perhaps the most controversial and certainly the most read story CaravanTimes ever ran surrounded the banning of a recently widowed lady from Searles Leisure Resort in Hunstanton because she was deemed ‘single’, despite frequenting the site on numerous occasions with her husband when he was alive. The story led to Annette Gration calling for a change in Searles’ rules on single-person-occupancy, and also gained an unprecedented amount of media attention, bringing Searles reputation into question for all the wrong reasons. To read more about what happened in case you missed it the first time around, click here

Near miss

When it comes to sharing the road with other users, it goes without saying that a vast majority of us are thoughtful enough to respect the rules of the road, irrespective of all the stick us caravanners get on the odd occasion. In a rather strange turn of events, however, one cyclist got a lot more than he bargained for after cycling along the A59 at Samlesbury, Lancashire back in 2014 when a lorry driver transporting caravans to a local dealership decided to over overtake him in such close proximity that it raised many questions and subsequently cost the lorry driver his job. To check out the video, click here.

Measuring your nose weight

When it comes to caravanning, it pays to be cautious and it pays to pay close attention to safety measures required to ensure a happy journey wherever you’re heading. That’s why CaravanTimes pieced together a top five check list when it comes to loading up your caravan and measuring your nose weight. So if you’re a new caravanner, or simply need a refresher in why it’s important to load your caravan to within the correct limits, click here. You never nose (sorry) when you might need to refer to it.

World’s most expensive motorhome

We’d be liars if we said we didn’t have our very own dreams and aspirations, and the Elemment Palazzo is certainly one of those. The motormansion on wheels, brought to us by Austrian company Marchi Mobile, certainly struck a chord with our readers for many reasons as our comments section at the end of the story would attest. And measuring in at 215 sq ft, with a slide-out section doubling this to 430 sq ft, as well as an internal headroom of 8’2″ we can see why. Although we’ve placed this on our Christmas wish list since we ran the story in 2011, we’re yet to have received one of these 20 tonne behemoths, which is probably a good thing though as we wouldn’t know where to pitch up with it. To check it out, click here

Caravan levelling

When it comes to caravanning, everyone likes to start off on even ground and, ultimately, pitch up on it. It’s not always that simple though, as we’ve found out on numerous occasions where we’ve suffered sleepless nights, restless woes and everything else in-between owing to this caravan conundrum. Fear not, however, as back in 2013, CaravanTimes headed along to Golden Castle Caravans in order to find out how to pros do it. To find out for yourself, click here.

Ray Mears

Scandal – you’ve gotta love it. And there was certainly plenty of that following Ray Mears’ appearance on popular BBC One show, Room 101, where the outdoor survivalist labelled caravans as “hideous,” choosing for them to be banished to Room 101 for ever more. ‘Everyone’s entitled to their opinion’ we hear you say; and we’d usually be inclined to agree – but not when Mears was just weeks away from attending the NCC’s Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show at Birmingham’s NEC. Mears was left rather red-faced following on from his appearance and duly relinquished of his services at the show. To read the original story, as broken by CaravanTimes and subsequently picked up by national newspapers, radio and television, click here.

So there you have it. Our most popular stories all under one roof for you to enjoy one more time, and we sincerely hope you did. Finally, we’d like to say a massive THANK YOU for making CaravanTimes what it is today. Without you, our readers, none of this would have been possible.

Caravan Club announces system upgrade

Posted July 26, 2016 by

by Jeanned’Arc Sanbar

Caravan Club system set to undergo important upgrade this weekend

The Caravan Club has announced its computer systems are set to undergo essential maintenance later this week, in a move which will see some of the Club’s site’s functionality down for almost three days.

From 5:30pm on 29 July to midnight on 31 July, the following services will be unavailable:

– Login to ‘My Profile’ and registered website use
– All bookings – UK and overseas sites, ferries, events, training courses
– Online join and membership renewal
– Access to CLs (Certificated Locations)
– Club Together (our online community)
– Insurance quote and/or purchase
– Purchasing Club Shop products
– Outfit matching services

The Club’s booking app and magazine app will also be down for the duration of the scheduled maintenance.

The downtime comes as The Caravan Club looks to update its membership systems. As a result of the scheduled maintenance, those using the Club’s facilities are advised to bring along a Sites Directory and Handbook for directions and site contact information.

A statement released by the Club said: “We appreciate that this will have a significant impact on our members using the website and app, as well as our site staff. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience during this time and will endeavour to resume services on Sunday as smoothly as possible.”

Bailey announce price freeze plans for Unicorn and Pegasus and new Pursuit upgrade

Posted July 25, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Exciting times as Bailey announce 2017 plans

Bailey of Bristol has announced a sustained period of sales growth over the past twelve months, seeing the company increase its share of both the touring caravan and motorhome markets while necessitating a 20 per cent increase in overall production volumes.

As far as touring caravans are concerned, the success seen over the past year has largely been driven by the continued popularity of the company’s current Pegasus and Unicorn ranges, both of which have accounted for a total of 80 per cent of Bailey caravan retail sales.

As a result of the popularity of both ranges, accessed here has decided to carry on with the production of both Pegasus and Unicorn in their current guise for the start of the 2017 model year from September 2016 onwards.

Bailey has subsequently decided to upgrade their low-cost light-weight Pursuit range following on from both customer and retailer feedback, with plans for the relaunch well under way; new models from the second generation Pursuit range should be appearing early next year.

Following on from these decisions, Bailey has also announced a price freeze on all of its touring caravan ranges going into the 2017 model year, with all recommended retail prices for these vehicles set to remain unchanged from current levels. It has been stressed by Bailey, however, that In the current post-Brexit economic climate these retail prices cannot be guaranteed indefinitely and the offer will be for a limited period only.

Commenting on the plans for the Bailey caravan portfolio, managing director Nick Howard said “The continued popularity of our existing Pegasus and Unicorn ranges is testimony to the longevity of our products in today’s marketplace. This in turn is a reflection of the amount of effort we put into the development process to ensure our caravans and motorhomes continue to successfully meet the needs of our customers year after year”.

We don’t know about you, but we certainly see a price freeze as great news for the caravan industry. Not only should this encourage more people to step into an ever-growing popular pastime of hitting the great outdoors, but should also provide for great competition coming by way of other manufacturers. What do you think? Let us know below.

Caravanners and motorhomers urged to study driving regulations before setting off abroad this summer

Posted July 22, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Make sure you check your speed limits and other driving requirements prior to setting off on your European holiday this summer

With summer holidays about to hit their peak and many couples and families looking to set off on holidays abroad across Europe, it certainly pays to plan ahead, and checking speed limits and drink-drive limits is paramount to ensuring you get the best from your holiday – especially if you want to remain safe and avoid the long arm of the law.

Now, road safety and breakdown organisation, GEM Motoring Assist, is appealing to those looking to venture across the Channel to ensure they are fully aware of each European country’s laws pertaining to speed limits and drink driving.

Drink-drive limits, with the exception of Malta, are all lower than the UK. Many have a standard limit of 0.05 per cent (the UK’s limit is 0.08 per cent), though in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia, the limit is zero. Furthermore, speed limits (quite obviously) differ dependent on where you’re heading and what you’re towing.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth said: “It pays to do some research before you go, whether you’re driving your own car on holiday or organising to rent a vehicle once you get there. Familiarise yourself with motorway speed limits, and remember that foreign drivers are subject to the same traffic rules as residents, often enforceable by hefty on-the-spot fines.

“It’s worth appreciating that although you can legally drive in the UK at the alcohol limit of 0.08 per cent, doing the same thing in Hungary or Norway could put you in prison,” continued Worth. “There is no reliable way to calculate how much alcohol you can drink and stay below the limit. But you have nothing to fear if you steer clear of alcohol before driving.

“Summer holidays are the time to relax and enjoy good weather, good company and hopefully some wonderful scenic road trips, whether in Europe or beyond. A bit of research and sensible journey planning will help ensure you don’t feel the need to speed or to drive after drinking alcohol – so you’ll be staying legal and reducing risk on holiday,” Worth continued.

So, if you’re heading off to Europe this summer, make sure you check out all the driving requirements you should be aware of by clicking here.

For a more comprehensive guide to caravanning and motorhoming abroad, also make sure you check out The Caravan Club’s handy guide which can be accessed here. You never know, it could prevent you from receiving a hefty fine and – more importantly – keep you safe this summer.

Bailey release video highlighting the second generation Autograph

Posted July 22, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Get up close and personal with the all new Autograph in Bailey’s latest video

Bailey of Bristol have released a new video highlighting the second generation Autograph motorhome range, unveiled earlier this week as previously reported on CaravanTimes.

Building upon the success of the original Autograph range, launched in 2013, Bailey anticipates the all new Autograph to be their best and most popular motorhome yet.

Priced between £50,995 and £55,490 OTR, the new Bailey Autograph is the result of one of the most comprehensive and rigorous design reviews of its kind – with 28 people working a total of 13,500 man hours and generating 126,000 3-D CAD computer files. By fine-tuning every single detail, the Bailey team have managed to create the next generation of motorhome, designed to make travel and holidaying a pleasure.

Featuring an all-new Peugeot Euro 6 Boxer Cab powered by a 160 BHP engine with six-speed manual gearbox and ESP electronic stability control designed to make the Autograph easier to drive than ever before, the ultra-low profile lightweight AL-KO AMC chassis will help improve road holding and braking efficiency by providing a balanced weight distribution.

Bailey’s designers have also done themselves proud, with an all-new graphic scheme, re-designed back panel incorporating recessed LED exterior lighting and new Aero Style wheel arches, side skirts and flush fit double glazing throughout, every model in the range looks stylish and contemporary on the road.

Inside the new Autograph, the décor has also been expertly refined for 2017, with new cabinetry features, including a ‘Mendip Ash’ finish, create a clean and contemporary look while premium quality fixtures and fittings in a brushed steel finish are standard throughout the kitchen, bathroom and living areas, complementing the design elements throughout.

To take a look at the all new, second generation Autograph, check out the video above and let us know what you think in the comments below.

Stress levels peak at 1hr 16 minutes into car journeys, research finds

Posted July 22, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

New survey reveals interesting facts surrounding the stresses of travelling

As many of us prepare to embark on our summer holidays across the UK, new research by CompareTheMarket.com has revealed that 1hr 16 minutes into the ‘staycation’ journey is the moment we all wished ‘we were there’ as car journey stress levels peak.

The report, out today as schools across the UK close for the summer holiday, sees more than half of families clock up over three hours on their journey to hot spot favourites such as Cornwall, Devon and the Lake District.

The car journey with caravan in tow is far from the beginning of a relaxing break, however, with 35 per cent of parents battling backseat ‘boredom’, 28 per cent juggling sibling arguments, and a further 25 per cent needing to stop for toilet breaks en route to their destination.

For some parents, when it comes to keeping the peace, the planning starts the night before, with over one in ten (16 per cent) admitting to ‘keeping their children up late’ in the hope that they’ll sleep in the car. A small five per cent even confess to turning to medication such as Calpol to help induce sleep and reduce travel stresses.

Technology tops the list as the go-to in-car entertainment for families, with 46 per cent of children playing games on smartphones and tables to pass the time. Traditional car games are not dead though, with 42 per cent still playing ‘I Spy’ to keep the children occupied and a further 19 per cent keeping the ‘number plate game’ alive.

Simon McCulloch, Director of Insurance at CompareTheMarket.com, commented: “Staycations are a very attractive option for families this year, particularly with EU and US exchange rates not in our favour. Today’s research, however, shows that the car journey is not always plain sailing, with stress levels typically peaking half way through a 3 hour journey, at 1hr 16minutes.

“Parents have clearly got a few tricks up their sleeves though, with some even keeping the children up late the night before in the hope of some peace during the journey. We’ve today launched a Great British Getaway hub to offer up some really practical advice and help for Mums and Dads to ensure they are as best prepared as they can be before embarking on their staycation journey.”

To help families plan a stress-free staycation, CompareTheMarket.com has launched the Great British Getaway Hub with top tips on ensuring cars, and families are road ready. To take a look, click here.

Let us know what you do to avoid stress levels when hitting the road on your journey in the comments below.

Marquis announce new Caravelair range for 2017

Posted July 22, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

New caravan range from Trigano to roll into Marquis this September

Marquis has announced the introduction of a fresh and new range heading to its forecourts, the Caravelair.

Manufactured by French leisure industry giants Trigano, and designed exclusively for Marquis to UK specification, the new Antarès 2017 range will be launching at Marquis South Yorkshire on the weekend of 16 to 18 September with some pretty spectacular launch offers coming along for the ride.

Offering a collection of six layouts, many unique to the UK market, the range looks set to offer excellent value in its class with prices starting at £11,995 OTR. Compact, chic, and easy to tow, the lightweight Antarès range will offer a number of choices, including the 5m two berth 335, featuring all of the mod cons a couple could want for touring, and the six/seven berth 496 which caters for the adventurous family. Each model within the range comes with ambient LED lighting, three burner hob with oven/grill, fully equipped bathrooms, alloy wheels, exterior locker access and AL-KO AKS 3400 Stabilisers for safer towing. Furthermore, the Antarès 455 is the only four berth caravan on the market that offers a full squared off fixed bed, giving domestic style comfort in a leisure vehicle. A five year water ingress warranty on all models will give customers peace of mind.

The Caravelair range will be offered by all Marquis caravan branches who will have advised each model will be made available for collection at any of the eleven Marquis branches.

Alan Buckwell, sales director, commented on the new offering saying: “The exciting new range allows a fantastic opportunity for caravanners to buy a new touring vehicle for under £12,000 with a wide variety of models to suit. Marquis are confident that their appeal fills a gap in the UK market and offers great value for money.”

Adventure Leisure Vehicles cease import and sale of leisure vehicles over Brexit

Posted July 21, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Adverse effect of Brexit sees leisure vehicle dealership cease trading in new Airstreams

Purveyors of Airstream travel trailers, Adventure Leisure Vehicles, have announced it is to cease importing and selling new Airstream travel trailers following the UK’s decision to leave Europe.

The decision is said to concentrate on issues pertaining to the adverse effect of Brexit on the USD and GBP exchange rate, and sadly comes just as Adventure Leisure Vehicles look set to mark their ten-year anniversary.

Since launching Airstream’s European range in 2006, the iconic silver bullets have gone on to win a string of top industry awards, as well as star in numerous television shows, while enabling Adventure Leisure Vehicles to build a solid relationship with the Airstream Inc team based in Ohio.

It’s not all doom and gloom though, and Adventure Leisure Vehicles, who have dealerships in Cumbria and Gloucestershire, will continue to provide service and warranty support, as well as a parts and repairs service to Airstreamers across the UK. The company will also continue to trade in pre-loved Airstreams, while also go on to sell their remaining showroom models at pre-referendum exchange rates. Current new Airstreams in stock include the 534, 604 and iconic 684. The company will also continue to sell additional offerings by other manufacturers including T@B, Silverline, Ariba and Kip.

Swift launch new 2017 rally car

Posted July 21, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Swift announces new 2017 rally car ahead of BRC1 class championship

Swift Group has launched their 2017 rally car, a Ford Fiesta R5 built by world renowned M-Sport. The car will compete in the top class of the British Rally Championship and will be driven by Matt Edwards, the reigning 2016 BRC Class 2 Champion.

Swift Group has had a long and illustrious association with the world of rallying, with the Group’s chairman, Peter Smith, competing for many years in a variety of rally championships. Add to this Smith’s son and fellow Swift Group board member, Guy, inheriting his father’s passion and successfully forging a career as a professional racing driver and you can see where the connection between caravanning and rally cars at Swift fits into place.

In recent years, Swift Group has also supported a number of promising and established drivers including Matt Edwards, Ashley Slights and Julian Reynolds, the latter of whom competes in the British Trials and Rally Driver Association.

For 2017, Swift Group will continue their sponsorship of Matt Edwards and his co-driver Will Rogers as they move up into the BRC1 class. From the early stages of his career, Matt has impressed with his speed and skill winning his first championship class in 2007.

Swift Group first sponsored Matt in 2010 just after he had teamed up with co-driver Will Rogers. Swift support has continued since and for the current season Matt has been competing in a self-built Mitsubishi Evo in which he secured the BRC Class 2 championship with two events remaining.

At the Carlisle Rally this June, Matt was offered the opportunity to compete in an M-Sport Ford Fiesta R5. Despite having only driven the R5 for 20 miles before the rally, Matt set a blistering pace only to be undone by a puncture.

M-Sport’s globally successful Ford Fiesta R5 received an extensive upgrade this year that brought substantial performance enhancements to what is already a championship-winning vehicle.

Since its debut in the middle of 2013, the Fiesta R5 has become M-Sport’s most successful global rally car. With more than 170 cars competing around the globe, the Fiesta can boast hundreds of class victories alongside outright wins and championship laurels.

“It has been tremendous to see Matt develop as a rally driver and I am thrilled that Swift Group has decided to support his step up into the top class of the British Rally Championship” said Peter Smith, Swift Group Chairman.

Matt Edwards commented: “The opportunity to compete in the 2017 BRC Championship in an R5 is a dream come true and allows me to test myself against the best rally drivers in Britain. I am especially pleased to be continuing my relationship with the Swift Group who has been a fantastic sponsor over the last few years.

We here at CaravanTimes wish the team all the best in the upcoming championship – we’ll make sure we have everything crossed.

Elddis appoints new directors ahead of 2017 leisure vehicle launch

Posted July 21, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Angela Robson and Spencer Davies join Elddis’ board of directors, as company prepares to launch 2017 season portfolio

The Explorer Group Limited – home of Elddis, Compass, Xplore and Buccaneer brands – has announced the appointment of two new members of its team ahead of its 2017 leisure vehicle launch.

Spencer Davies has been promoted to the role of sales director and Angela Robson has been promoted to the role of customer services director.

Davies initially joined the company in late 2003 and, since his return three years ago, has demonstrated tremendous leadership by increasing the company’s dealership network, sales and market share.

Spencer’s priority of working with The Explorer Group’s product design and development team as well as other teams within the factory has been key to producing market-leading and saleable product.

Rob Quine, managing director at The Explorer Group Limited, said of Davies’ appointment: “Spencer’s promotion to this critical, strategic role will be key to our continued growth in sales in what remains a highly competitive market place.”

Meanwhile, Robson joined The Explorer Group Limited in late 1998 and over almost 18 years has continued to show tremendous commitment to the company, working in a variety of different departments.

Quine continued: “Angela’s breadth of experience, combined with her drive and determination is exactly what our business needs as we commit our Customer Service department and the rest of our company to focus on providing the very best all-round customer care possible.”

Alongside her work in customer services, Angela has, in recent years, successfully championed projects to improve the appeal of Explorer Group’s caravans and motorhomes, helping to create the foundation for the aesthetic design team to now become fully integrated into the design and development function under the new structure being created by the Group’s recently-appointed design and development director, Kevin Hewitt.

Both Davies and Robson will take up their new roles on 1 August 2016, shortly before the official launch of 2017 Season Elddis, Compass, Xplore and Buccaneer ranges on 15 August.

Congratulations to both newly appointed directors; we personally can’t wait to see what else in store from Elddis for 2017.

The all new second generation Bailey Autograph motorhome: prices and ranges explored

Posted July 20, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Take an in-depth look at all the layouts in Bailey’s latest motorhome offering, the all new, second generation Autograph range

It could be true to say that many thought it would be impossible to improve on the practicality and comfort of the original Autograph range, but judging by what we’ve seen today, it seems Bailey have accomplished this in an attempt to deliver their best ever motorhome yet. But what about the six layouts?

Upon launch, six models within the Autograph range will be available, namely the four berth Autograph 75-2, Autograph 75-4, Autograph 79-4, and Autograph 79-4T, as well as two six berth options by way of the Autograph 79-6 and Autograph 79-6G. Prices range, rather competitively, between £50,995 and £55,490.

The Autograph 75-2, 75-4, 79-4, 79-4T & 79-6 models will be arriving at approved Bailey retailers from early August onwards. The Autograph 79-6G will make its first appearance at the Motorhome & Caravan Show, NEC Birmingham in October.

All Autograph models have been assigned new names using a number sequence identifying the length of the vehicle and the amount of dedicated passenger seats (e.g. the 75-2 model is 7.5 metres long and capable of transporting two people). In certain case a suffix letter has been added to signify the layout type. Layout details for each model within the all new second generation Autograph range are as follows:

Autograph 75-2
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double bed (formerly the Approach Autograph 740 model)

Autograph 75-4
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double bed & designated travelling seats (formerly the Approach Autograph 745 model)

NEW Autograph 79-4
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with twin fixed single beds, designated travelling seats & rear storage locker

NEW Autograph 79-4T
Four berth low-line end-bedroom with longitudinal fixed double island bed, designated travelling seats & rear storage locker

NEW Autograph 79-6
Six berth low-line end-lounge, front transverse drop down double bed & designated travelling seats

NEW Autograph 79-6G
Six berth low-line end-bedroom with rear transverse fixed double bed, front transverse drop down double bed, designated travelling seats & rear storage garage

All models feature the Peugeot Boxer Euro 6 cab powered by 2.0 Blue Hdi 160 bhp engine complete with a 6-speed manual gearbox, AL-KO AMC chassis and the Alu-Tech bodyshell as standard specification.

Range images

Autograph 75-2

Autograph 75-4

NEW Autograph 79-4

NEW Autograph 79-4T

Key Features of the New Autograph Range include:

Peugeot Boxer Cab

– NEW Peugeot fully compliant Euro 6 Boxer Cab supplied with a 3 year / 100,000 mile warranty & 12 months Peugeot Assist Cover
– NEW Peugeot 2.0 Blue Hdi (High Pressure Direct Injection) 160 BHP engine with six speed manual gear box
– NEW ‘Bianco’ white cab with colour coded bumpers and door handles
– NEW Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
– Cruise control & cab air conditioning
– Driver & front passenger airbags
– NEW fully adjustable upholstered driver & passenger Captains’ seats with twin armrests & integrated headrests
– DAB Radio with Bluetooth connectivity & 2 door speakers
– NEW twin cup holders

AL-KO AMC Chassis

– Ultra-low profile wide track AL-KO AMC Chassis

Alu-Tech Bodyshell Habitation Area

– Supplied with a 6-year transferable body shell integrity guarantee & a 3-year transferable manufacturers components warranty*
– 4-year transferable extension to bodyshell integrity guarantee available as a cost option (making 10 years in total)
– 3-year transferable extension to manufacturers component warranty available as a cost option (making 6 years in total)
– EN-1646-I Grade III classification for heating & thermal insulation
– European Whole Vehicle Type Approval

Construction

– Structural interlocking aluminium extrusion external framework with no external fixing points for additional strength & rigidity
– Four or five part fully bonded exterior panel assembly system featuring:
– Upper body panels manufactured using superior bead application laminating technology for a stronger more consistent bond
– Upper body panels built using a timber free construction, incorporating a composite plastic internal skeleton, a high density polystyrene insulation & a GRP inner wall lining
– Upper body panels cloaked in a single sheet impact resistant GRP outer skin for extra durability
– Strengthened floor panel with GRP underside protection

Exterior Features

– NEW ‘Polar white’ bodyshell with co-ordinating graphics scheme
– NEW design ‘Aero Style’ rear bumper and light pillars with individual LED road lights, wheel arches & side skirts
– NEW flush fit double seal exterior locker doors featuring heavy duty handles, two compression locks & retaining clip
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ Fiamma F45S wind-out awning
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ double glazed windows throughout
– NEW large ‘Aero Style’ double glazed opening sky view over cab window with pleated night blind
– NEW exterior gas BBQ point

Interior Features

Furniture & Soft Furnishings

– NEW Bailey ‘Mendip Ash’ furniture finish
– NEW Dual finish high gloss overhead locker doors in living area
– NEW ‘Satin white’ finish cupboard doors in kitchen & vanity units in washroom
– NEW ‘Basalt stone’ finish kitchen & washroom worktop laminate
– NEW ‘Granite stone’ finish shower cubicle
– NEW premium quality fixtures & fittings in brushed steel finish
– NEW ‘Aero Style’ overhead locker system with split level storage, gas struts, domestic style metal hinges & push open locker doors
– Structural locker dividers with greater load bearing capacity
– NEW domestic standard kitchen units featuring durable worktop surfaces and heavy duty drawers with positive catches
– NEW drop-down kitchen worktop extension (model specific)
– NEW design slide out bed boxes for easy bed make up
– NEW design fixed beds with aluminium frames & gas strut assisted opening mechanism (model specific)
– NEW design ceiling mounted mechanically operated Alu-Line transverse drop down double bed with sprung base (model specific)
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ multi-layered lounge seat base cushions for enhanced comfort & easier bed make-up
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ domestic style lounge backrests for enhanced comfort
– NEW foam filled upholstery featuring premium quality fabrics and high density filling
– NEW ‘DreamSleep’ mattress with honeycore foam construction and breathable anti-bacterial ultimate freshness fabric
– NEW ergonomically shaped rear designated travel seats (model specific)
– NEW choice of either ‘Berkeley’ or ‘Grosvenor’ soft furnishings with two scatter cushions, co-ordinating decorative window panels and roman window blinds

Electrical System

– NEW Truma 100 watt solar panel
– Banner 110 ampere/hour premium leisure battery
– NEW electrical control panel with push button operation for all motorhome services
– NEW 12v ambient, mood and task lighting throughout
– NEW 230v power supply with up to eight new design interior sockets
– NEW up to three USB sockets

Water & Heating Systems

– Alde Hydronic Compact 3020 programmable radiator heating system with combined water heating
– Touch screen user-friendly control pane
– Dual fuel 3.4 Kw gas and 3 Kw electric power sources
– Programmable daily timer
– Panel radiator in washroom
– NEW panel radiator in living area (model specific)
– Whale Aqua smart II on-board water pump with Aquasource ‘lay flat’ filling pipe
– 100 litre external insulated fresh water tank with baffles and level sensor
– 100 litre external waste water tank with baffles & level sensor
– Inboard shower unit with ceramic ball mixer tap and Ecocamel shower head
– NEW single piece fully sealed shower cubicle with concertina partition door
– NEW pedestal washroom hand basin with ceramic ball mixer tap
– NEW retractable clothes line
– NEW shower mat & duck board

Kitchen Equipment

– Dometic 103 litre refrigerator with electronic ignition and detachable full width freezer compartment. Capacity increases to 110 litres when freezer compartment is removed
– NEW Thetford Duplex combined oven & grill with electronic ignition & flame failure device
– NEW Thetford dual-fuel hob with electric hotplate & 3 gas burners
– Stainless steel 800 watt microwave oven conveniently located at eye level
– NEW stainless steel square kitchen sink with swan-neck mixer tap, washing up bowl, drainer & chopping board

Safety & Security

– AL-KO outriggers fitted to AMC Chassis for enhanced floor strength
– 3-point seat belts on all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel frame seat base supports for all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel framed seat base tops for all designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Steel framed structural bulkhead to support all rear-facing designated travelling seats (model specific)
– Dedicated storage location for both free-standing & wall/floor mounted tables

Optional Upgrades

– NEW 15″ or 16″ graphite alloy wheels (model specific)
– NEW Factory fitted Media Pack
– Waeco reversing camera & dashboard mounted screen
– Status 550 telescopic directional digital television aerial
– 19″ Avtex digital television (12v or 240V) mounted in front lounge
– NEW Factory fitted Media Pack Plus
– Branded 6.5″ touch-screen head unit incorporating reversing camera screen
– Waeco reversing camera
– Status 550 telescopic directional digital television aerial
– 19″ Avtex digital television (12v or 240V) mounted in front lounge
– 24″ Avtex digital television with DVD player (12v or 240V) mounted in rear bedroom
– Branded 300W lounge speakers
– Branded portable Bluetooth awning speaker
– NEW Leather fabric upgrade on both ‘Berkeley’ and ‘Grosvenor’ upholstery choices
– Bespoke motorhome bedding sets to co-ordinate with soft furnishings (model specific)

Bailey of Bristol unveils brand new second generation Autograph motorhome range for 2017

Posted July 20, 2016 by

by Joe Jeffrey

Bailey of Bristol have just unveiled their latest offering for 2017 – the new second generation Autograph motorhome range, and it looks like next season just got that much better

Upon launch of the Approach Autograph in 2013, Bailey firmly established themselves as one of the leading mainstream motorhome manufacturers. It could also be said that the Autograph’s unique combination of quality, style and value certainly appealed to the general public, so much so that the motorhome range remains one of the most popular on the market – and on the road – today. Now, for 2017, Bailey seem to have done it again with the launch of the all new second generation Autograph Motorhome range.

Building upon the success of the original Autograph range and listening to customer feedback, it seems as though Bailey have gone back to basics, resulting in the delivery of a motorhome that surpasses the original to appeal to new and existing customers alike – something Bailey anticipates to be their best and most popular motorhome yet. Having seen the Autograph range in the flesh, we’d be pretty inclined to agree.

Bailey of Bristol concept designer, Claire Schofield said of the second generation Autograph’s design: “We really listened to what our dealers and consumers want from their motorhomes, including conducting a series of focus reviews.

“We’ve focused on providing some brilliant layouts for the second generation Autograph in order to meet the demand for the market and appeal to families and couples, making this a motorhome range for everyone. It’s everything you could ever want when on the road.”

Comfort

Starting with the all-important comfort factor, an all-new Peugeot Euro 6 Boxer Cab powered by a 160 BHP engine with six-speed manual gearbox and featuring ESP electronic stability control makes the Autograph easier to drive than ever before, while new fully adjustable seats enhance the comfort to make every journey a pleasure for both drivers and passengers alike. From the concertina windscreen blinds to the twin cup holders, the variable power steering to the cab air conditioning, every detail seems to have been carefully thought about to create an attractive and comfortable space for driver and passengers alike.

The fully specified cab is matched with an ultra-low profile lightweight AL-KO AMC chassis. Design elements incorporated into the new Autograph also provide for a lower centre of gravity, thus improving road holding and braking efficiency by providing a balanced weight distribution. A low-level entrance step also makes it easy for anyone to get in and out of the vehicle.

It goes without saying that any Bailey offering would not be complete without the company’s patented Alu-Tech construction system, and the second generation Autograph range is no different. Complete with GRP outer skin and under floor protection, Bailey’s Alu-Tech system creating a robust and durable vehicle providing for one of the lightest motorhomes on the road today, without compromising on resistance to the elements and ensuring the Autograph is truly a top quality range for all seasons.

Style

Bailey’s designers have added a number of new exterior features to enhance the smooth and aero-dynamic looks of the Autograph range, resulting in a motorhome which will undoubtedly turn heads as soon as it hits the road. With an all-new graphic scheme, re-designed back panel incorporating recessed LED exterior lighting and new Aero Style wheel arches, side skirts and flush fit double glazing throughout, every model in the range looks stylish and contemporary on the road.

Further new features also enhance the functionality of the Autograph. These include the factory fit Fiamma awning and exterior gas BBQ point – perfect for the summer sun and alfresco dining. For those colder months, the BBQ can be safely stowed in any one of the new storage options with both under-bed and through-boot storage areas (model specific) with great ease.

Relaxation

Stepping inside the new Autograph, the décor has been expertly refined for 2017. New cabinetry features, including a ‘Mendip Ash’ finish, create a clean and contemporary look while premium quality fixtures and fittings in a brushed steel finish are standard throughout the kitchen, bathroom and living areas, complementing the design elements throughout. An overhead locker system with split level storage provides the ideal solution for keeping essential items stored away but within easy reach.

Venturing into the kitchen area, a new basalt stone finish ‘self-healing’ worktop adds a sophisticated yet practical touch, while new kitchen units with heavy duty drawers make the most of the space to make cooking and food preparation easier. A new Thetford Duplex combined oven and grill, along with a dual-fuel hob with electric hotplate and three gas burners will be sure to give users the opportunity to cook up a real feast. When it’s time to nominate who does the washing up, a new stainless steel square kitchen sink with swan-neck mixer tap is sure to make light work of what can sometimes be an arduous task.

As you’d expect in a motorhome of this quality, Bailey has fitted the Alde radiator heating system as standard and by working closely with the manufacturer we’ve enhanced its performance still further to make it the most effective to date. New look washrooms now contains a single piece fully sealed shower cubicle with a concertina partition door, along with a pedestal hand basin with ceramic ball mixer tap.

Just like the kitchen and washroom, the living area has been redesigned to introduce even more comfort. For the first time ever in a motorhome, we’ve included the Dreamsleep soft furnishing system. Featuring a domestic style cushion construction, with multi-layered base cushions and shaped back rests, it is built using breathable fabrics and a solid foam core to providing customers something much more akin to what they would find in the lounge of their own home. Add to this the fact that the cushions are lighter than those manufactured in a conventional manner and form part of an innovative bed-make up system you begin to see why ‘DreamSleep’ represents such a major step forward in soft furnishing design.

To ensure these stunning new motorhomes look every bit as good by night as by day Bailey have introduced new 12 voltage lighting, ambient lights and low-level task lighting bringing users more control than ever before, while a new Truma 100-watt solar panel provides a constant source of electricity to keep everything running smoothly.

Customers can create their own individual look for their Autograph, choosing either Berkeley or Grosvenor soft furnishings with two scatter cushions. Both styles come with matching window panels and roman blinds to create an integrated look that makes any model a real home from home.

Safety

Perhaps one of the most integral parts of any motorhome is safety for both drivers and passengers alike. Bailey haven’t scrimped here either and many safety features come as standard following rigorous testing via Bailey’s pioneering crash test research at the Millbrook Proving Ground. Bailey say these learnings not only reassure customers that all eventualities have been considered, but they have also led to the development of ergonomically shaped rear designated travel seats for increased safety and comfort.

Discerning motorhome users can choose to personalise their Autograph thanks to a range of new optional extras, including 15″ or 16″ graphite alloy wheels, leather upholstery and all-new factory fitted media packs featuring Waeco reversing cameras and screens.