2011 Sterling Eccles and Elite caravans: pictures, layouts and specs

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by Holly Tribe

Swift Caravans have launched their new Sterling Eccles and Elite models which have undergone a total redesign for the 2011 season. The models will be on show at the Lawns Extravaganza near Hull on the 4th and 5th September and will be arriving at retailer sites later in the year.

The Sterling brand models have a light Oregon pine finish, which is lighter than the Mali Acacia woodgrain offered in the Swift Conqueror and Challenger equivalents. Both come with th cost option of a new ‘Impala’ stain resistant, easy clean upholstery alternative in a tactile nubuck texture.

All the new models sport a new exterior shape. A glossy GRP front panel curves up to meet the roof rails, and a flat roof ensures 1.95 meters of headroom down the length of the cabin. Thicker sidewalls and a strong bonded roof help with thermal efficiency and a panoramic sunroof make the interior bright and airy.


2011 Sterling Elite

There are five layouts to choose from in the Elite series, ranging from the entry level Elite Diamond to the twin axle four berth Elite Searcher.

These caravans retain their metallic silver side walls in 2011 and also gain a new panoramic, wrap-around sunroof which comes as standard, pictured in the Elite Emerald opposite. The sunroof is accented either side in black for continuity with the front window set.

    Elite Diamond

  • MTPLM 1,470kg
  • 2 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £17,285

    Elite Emerald

  • MTPLM 1,650kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £18,485

    Elite Amber – improved layout for 2011

  • MTPLM 1,855kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £18,675

    Elite Searcher – open plan with dresser/TV unit near door and tower fridge freezer adjoining the kitchen area

  • MTPLM 1,855kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £20,665

    Elite Explorer – front parallel lounge, tower fridge freezer, transverse ‘island’ fixed bed and rear washroom

  • MTPLM 1,825kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £20,865


2011 Sterling Eccles

Eight flexible floorplans make up the 2011 Sterling Eccles range. All models have new granite effect kitchen sinks, and the Topaz and Moonstone models also have them in the end washrooms. Both the twin axle models have on-board 30 litre water tanks. The upholstery is finished with a neutral textured plain chenille fabric with contemporary accent swatches, or the stain resistant Impala comes as a cost option, as pictured in the Eccles Topaz opposite. The panoramic sunroof may also be added as a factory fitted cost option, with prices expected to come in at under £500.

    Eccles Topaz

  • MTPLM 1,420kg
  • 2 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £15,685

    Eccles Moonstone

  • MTPLM 1,615kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,785

    Eccles Jewel

  • MTPLM 1,545kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,635

    Eccles Ruby

  • MTPLM 1,620kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

    Eccles Quartz

  • MTPLM 1,620 kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

    Eccles Amethyst

  • MTPLM 1,825kg
  • 6 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £18,675

    Eccles Coral Improved layout with larger kitchen

  • MTPLM 1,775kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Twin axle
  • Price £18,165

    Eccles Solitaire New layout with front parallel lounge, two fixed single rear beds, and rear washroom.

  • MTPLM 1,605kg
  • 4 Berths
  • Single axle
  • Price £16,975

VIDEO: 2011 Swift and Sterling Caravans Review

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by Marcus Dubois

Swift Caravans has completed a striking redesign of four of its existing ranges. The Swift Challenger and Conqueror have been updated for 2011 alongside their Sterling counterparts the Eccles and Elite.

Using the latest 3D automotive technology Swift has shaped the new caravans for greater aerodynamics, and all four models now use a similar and striking design language. On the Swift Conqueror and Sterling Elite the standout feature is a panoramic front sunroof which brings a greater amount of light into the caravan, while inside roof lockers are to be found on either side.

In this video our editor was present at the first viewing of the new models and takes you through the standout features of the 2011 ranges. In addition we hear from Richard White of the Swift Group about the development of the new caravans, and get a first opinion from esteemed caravan journalist Andrew Jenkinson who casts his eye over the tourers.

Click the image below to be taken to the video feature.

Caravan advert star searches for on-screen wife

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A 77-year-old former scooter engineer is searching for the woman who once played his wife in a 1959 caravan advert.

According to the Berwick Advertiser, Ken Strugnell is hoping to find his on-screen partner to tell her that the BBC is remaking the TV ad as part of a programme to be released later this year.

The original saw a then 26-year-old Mr Strugnell towing a fold-away caravan in his Lambretta scooter with sidecar from Emsworth to Bosham Quay.

On arrival, his character and his wife and daughter get to work setting up the 6ft 6in mobile home right on the beach.

The star admitted that the caravan was probably too small to catch on, but suggested that it might be nice for his co-star to see the remake.

He has already been in touch with the 54-year-old woman who played his daughter to let her know, but Mr Strugnell’s real wife had her own theory on why the idea did not last long.

“There’s a moment when the wind catches the caravan as he’s putting it up and it looks like it might fall off the quay into the sea. It doesn’t, but it’s very funny,” she told the newspaper.

Meanwhile, the newspaper recently revealed that a local campsite has applied for permission to add a further 51 caravan pitches to its site.

Pickering residents object to plans for new caravan site

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Homeowners in Pickering have protested at the Caravan and Camping Club’s plans to build a campsite close to their properties.

According to the Gazette & Herald, almost 50 households in the Outgang Road area signed a petition against the proposal.

The club wishes to erect five caravan and ten tent pitches on low-lying wetland, but residents fear that their privacy will be breached and that the site could cause traffic problems on the narrow Outgang Road, which joins up with the A170.

Noting that opening a certificated site in a residential area could create excessive noise, they told the newspaper that the idea was “most unacceptable”.

The Caravan and Camping Club has reportedly said that it will take the residents’ concerns on board before pursuing its plans.

According to the petition, locals had no problem with the initial plans for five caravan pitches, but were worried by the prospect of the site holding ten tents.

Meanwhile, the Clitheroe Advertiser recently reported that a residents at a local caravan site had raised £350 for charity.

Preview video: new 2011 Swift Caravans models – Challenger, Conqueror, Sterling Eccles and Elite

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by Marcus Dubois

The full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans is now available – click here to view.

Swift Caravans has launched its 2011 model line-up with a radical redesign of four of its popular ranges. Using 3D automotive technology Swift has created a new look for the Challenger and Conqueror which continues through the Sterling Eccles and Elite.

In our video feature we’ll take a closer look at the new design features of these four models, including a panoramic front sunroof on the exterior and new “wipe-clean” fabrics and wood finishes on the interior. In addition we’ll catch up with industry figures to hear more about the new 2011 Swift ranges.

2011 Swift Caravans review: new models and layouts

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by Holly Tribe and Marcus Dubois

Click here to watch the full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans

Swift Caravans has announced details of their highly anticipated 2011 range of updated tourers. Dealers and journalists got a closer look at four redesigned models from Swift’s most popular ranges at an event in Cottingham, Hull held yesterday. Caravan Times was there to witness the grand unveiling and can report that the new season caravans are the Swift Challenger and Conqueror, alongside the Sterling Eccles and Elite ranges. All models now sport dramatically altered silhouettes and striking interior designs.

Click here for our photo gallery from the launch of the new Swift Caravans

The new Swift and Sterling caravans share a similar design language with a new and unique profile for the vehicle. The redesigned front panel sports corner buttresses which sweep up to link with the roof rails, which in turn continue the line across the sides until it meets the full height rear panel. This creates a look very much akin to the strong lines of the motorhomes offered by the Swift Group.

The high gloss GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) front panel adjoins roof buttresses which run along the length of the caravan and are designed to stop water dripping down the walls. New skirts made from tough self coloured UPVC meet the rear end which is also made from tough reinforced GRP, and there’s an awning channel subtly integrated into the side panel.


Front sunroof

The key talking point among visitors yesterday was the addition of an impressive panoramic sunroof at the front. It starts at the window level and curves into the roofline to create a seamless black appearance which contrasts with the white of the front panel. Standard on the Conqueror and Elite models, it can be factory fitted as a cost option on Challenger and Eccles models. Prices are expected to come in under £500 for this optional extra, which was so well received by visitors to the launch in Hull that is likely to be fitted by dealers for their Challenger and Elite ranges.

Thicker 32mm walls and a fully bonded roof sit atop the thermally insulated wheel boxes. This gives the new season models far greater thermal efficiency and they now easily match up to…

First pictures of the new 2011 Swift Caravans

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by Marcus Dubois

Click here to watch the full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans

Caravan Times brings you the first pictures from the launch of the new-look Swift Caravans. The popular Swift Challenger and Conqueror ranges have received a full redesign alongside the Sterling Eccles and Elite. Using the latest in automotive 3D design software Swift has created a totally new exterior shape with striking interior styling.

What we found to be the standout feature of the Swift Conqueror and Sterling Elite models is the new front sunroof which curves upward into the roof to provide a great deal of interior light. Accented either side in black, the dark sweep at the front is a new visual statement from Swift. Inside this is complimented by roof lockers either side, and both the sunroof and lockers are optional extras on the Challenger and Eccles ranges.

We’ll be bringing you a video review of the new Swift range alongside full details and pictures of all the new models. In the meantime you can click below to browse a gallery of the first pictures from the Swift launch.

Click here for our photo gallery from the launch of the new Swift Caravans


Find more photos like this on CaravanTimes

Shrouded in secrecy: Swift Caravans 2011 model launch

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by Holly Tribe

Click here to watch the full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans

The wait is nearly over. Today, Swift Caravans officially unveil their brand new 2011 season updates to the press.

Not a peep has been heard from the Hull based manufacturer in the lead up to the launch which has resulted in much speculation within the industry. CaravanTimes editor, Marcus Dubois, is in Hull with our camera crew getting the real lowdown on all the new models. The new models were still literally ‘under wraps’ this morning as the press launch got under-way.

However, rumour has it that the new models are a total departure from any of Swift’s previous offerings and are built to groundbreaking new specifications. A new construction method is expected to combat the threat of water ingress head on. With a completely new profile, the Swift 2011 season updates promise to present some exceptional alternatives to the caravan market.

Photos captured by hawk-eyed Caravan Times Community member Ian Gilmore have already provided a sneak preview of the dramatically altered nose on the Sterling Eccles, and we look forward to bringing you news on all the 2011 Challenger, Conqueror, Eccles and Elite models in the coming days.

Click here for a gallery of spy shots of the new Swift Caravans

Stay tuned for forthcoming interviews and video reviews, coming soon!

Caravan Times member captures photos of 2011 Swift Caravans models

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by Marcus Dubois

Click here to watch the full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans

It has been this year’s most closely guarded secret in the caravan industry. With no information available to the press before the official media day on Thursday 19th August, Swift Caravans has kept the details of their newest tourers under its hat. The firm promised “a shape that will change the look of the modern tourer”, and eager Swift fans can now learn more of what to expect thanks to photos from a Caravan Times member.

Click here for a gallery of spy shots of the new Swift Caravans

Keen-eyed caravanner Ian Gilmore works near the studio where they were being photographed in Manchester, and he noticed a convoy of Swifts entering the building three weeks ago. He tells us “there were lots of different models, all looking really good” and from his vantage point managed to take a few quick photos of the new caravans as they were being transported. Clearly visible in the photos is the new look for the Sterling Eccles, while the aerodynamic lines of the future Swift models are also hinted at.

Caravan Times will be in Hull this week to take a closer look at the new Swift Caravans at the official launch. Look out for forthcoming interviews and video reviews.

2011 Swift Caravans: we ask your questions

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by Holly Tribe and Marcus Dubois

Click here to watch the full-length video review of the 2011 Swift Caravans

This year has seen one of the busiest summers in recent memory as a raft of new touring models were announced. The caravan press has been filled with announcements of the Bailey Unicorn, the first luxury model from the Bristol manufacturer. Elddis Caravans has revamped its line-up for 2011 with lashings of wood and carbon-fibre graphics heralding a modern look for the firm. Meanwhile Lunar Caravans has taken another step forward this year with the island bed featured in the Clubman SB, and Stealth Caravans are no longer newcomers with their second generation of tourers.

Yet despite the buzz of activity in the caravanning marketplace over the last few weeks Swift Caravans have remained resolutely silent about their forthcoming product releases.

But the wait is nearly over.

At the end of this week industry figureheads and dealers from across the country will be travelling to Hull to get a first glimpse of the highly-anticipated Swift 2011 season caravans.

Four of the most popular Swift ranges have been completely overhauled from the ground up including new interior and exterior redevelopments. The firm promises high-spec design features that combine modern materials with traditional construction. An avid caravanner in Cottingham has already spied three of the new Challengers being transported through the town to the launch site. “Very smart and classy looking – if they hadn’t had the Swift badge on them I might well of thought they were Hobbys” he revealed.

Below are the ranges which will be included in the new 2011 Swift line-up:

  • 2011 Swift Challenger
  • 2011 Swift Conqueror
  • 2011 Swift Eccles
  • 2011 Swift Elite

Your questions answered

We are in Cottingham, Hull this week at the unveiling of the new Swift models, and will report back on the innovations and changes in a special edition of our online video feature “Talkback”. And in this episode we’re putting your questions to Swift about the future of construction at the firm, and passing on what caravan buyers are looking for when shopping for models.

“We are shaping the future” is the bold statement from the firm – yet we feel the test of this will be in the touring. And how well these new innovations fare will be very much up to you, the caravan community. If you have any last minute questions for Swift Caravans you can submit them by clicking here.

You can also click here to join our online community where you will be able to see the full video feature on Swift Caravans next week.

Bailey Caravans announce price freeze on Pegasus and Olympus for 2011

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by Marcus Dubois

Bailey Caravans have announced a price freeze on its Pegasus and Olympus models for the new season. The recommended retail prices for these Alu-Tech caravans will remain unchanged from those set in the March 2010 price list.

Bailey believes the decision is “out of step with other caravan manufacturers who have recently implemented price increases on their 2011 ranges” and as such the firm is hoping to offer greater value in the current market. With the spectre of a VAT increase from 17.5% to 20% on the horizon at the end of the calendar year, the move is clearly aimed at potential caravan buyers hoping to beat the rise in tax.

Limited availability

The offer from Bailey is said to be for a limited period only however, and the firm made a statement that “in the current economic climate these retail prices cannot be guaranteed indefinitely”. Furthermore availability for the models prior to Christmas is expected to be strictly limited, and Bailey has revealed that the overall standing stock of their Alu-Tech caravans remains low. They have advised interested customers to contact their local retailer to ensure stock levels.

The Bailey Unicorn

The Bristol manufacturer has recently been emphasising the value of its forthcoming range-topper in the Alu-Tech lineup. The Bailey Unicorn is the first true “luxury” caravan from the firm, combining the properties of the Alu-Tech bodyshell with a completely new level of interior quality and refinement. The firm has worked however to keep prices below the £20,000 mark for the new model, hoping that customers “can still find outstanding value for money for a Bailey caravan even at the top end of the market”.

Watch our video feature on the Bailey Unicorn below:

2011 Coachman Caravans: new models and layouts

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by Holly Tribe

After celebrating unprecedented success with their 2011 dealer showcase last month, Coachman Caravans revealed they have received fifty per cent more orders from dealerships than last year.

As the 2011 product launch season gets underway for all the big name caravan manufacturers, we take a closer look at what’s on offer from the Hull based firm next year.

Coachman have made significant improvements across all their ranges, but the real focus is on it lowest priced Amara series. Undergoing a total overhaul inside and out, revisions have been carried out with family in mind.

Coachman Amara

The 2011 Amara line-up will feature nine models, including the new six berth Amara 655/6 – a twin-dinette, twin axle model. Coachman have cleverly introduced the big family sized ‘van to the lower price range. With an MTPLM at a rather hefty 1860kg, it will need a substantial towcar, but ATC stability control will help keep the twin axles firmly to the road.

Additional spec includes an extra 5cm of headroom bringing the internal height up to 1.96m, and an awning light which also creates a gutter and stops rainwater dripping down from the doorway.

Coachman VIP and Pastiche

Next year will see the departure of the 535/4 model in both VIP and Pastiche ranges to make way for a new four berth VIP 560/4 layout. The most exciting element of the 560/4 is the…