During the last edition of the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon it was clear that the camper segment is consolidating itself as one of the sector's favorites. Their prices, versatility and size make them the ideal option for beginners, but also for experienced campers who prioritize agility in their search for unknown corners. Destinations that are often related to nature and outdoor activities, so they also require autonomy and independence. Attributes that Ford and Westfalia have improved in a new generation of the Nugget Camper Van.
This latest batch benefits from the evolution that the Transit and Turneo Custom models have experienced, recently updated with a qualitative leap in their production and the quality of the materials used. For this reason, we can talk about a more equipped Nugget Camper Van, but also more luxurious and connected than ever with premium details such as the sunroof. An improvement that also involves its propulsion system, since it will include, for the first time, the plug-in hybrid alternative derived from the Ford Kuga.
It is a Plug-In Hybrid set, with a 2.5 Atkinson cycle gasoline block that works together with a small electric motor that gives it 232 HP of combined power. They have not yet talked about the electric autonomy of this van with a 11.8 kWh battery, but with the weight of the furniture it will be somewhat burdened compared to the Kuga, which approves 57 to 67 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. Thus, we estimate that in the case of the Nugget Camper Van it will be around 50 km.
It will also be available in the Nugget Titanium finish, with a 170 HP EcoBlue diesel block and eight-speed automatic transmission. This first batch of oval campers is now available to reserve at the brand's dealerships, so the first deliveries are expected in the spring of 2024. Throughout that year, the PHEV models will arrive and the bodies with all-wheel drive are also expected. the four wheels, key for the most daring and adventurous campers.
As in the standard Transit and Tourneo Custom models, leaders in the commercial market, their camper variants introduce significant new features in the driving area. For example, the flat floor of the front area allows for more comfortable access to the rear, something that is also helped by the sliding door and the huge tailgates.
In addition, digitalization has taken over the dashboard, which debuts a 13-inch touch screen with Ford's latest SYNC 4 system, compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard and wireless, and an improvement in voice control. Last but not least, the Nugget Camper Van includes a 5G modem as standard, so entertainment and connectivity are assured while on the road.
A step further that they also complete in the safety and driving section, with driving assistants such as Adaptive Cruise Control with lane centering, a system that significantly reduces exhaustion during long journeys on the highway or expressways. It will also have the Reverse Braking Assistant and the 360-degree camera to maneuver with everything under control.
Once again, the renowned company Westfalia will be in charge of providing the cabin of the Transit and Tourneo Custom with the furniture that will turn them into a home. This collaboration results in one of the most curious interiors in the segment, given that it does not follow the usual configuration that we see in a Volkswagen California or Mercedes-Benz Marco Polo. In this case, the kitchen is placed in an L shape and facing the rear area, a strategy that gives 20% more space for the work area on the countertop. The refrigerator is located on the side and has a ceramic hob and sink with hot water.
We now have a section of the lower mattress that folds down, so it increases the height of the space we have while cooking. The upper bed, on the other hand, remains the same as in the previous model, but with a new generation self-folding fabric. In addition, they have added an individual rear seat, which can be adjusted practically and quickly with one hand thanks to the rails, as well as additional space to store the chairs and the outdoor table.
As standard it includes a hot and cold water shower in this rear area, but the list of options is not bad at all, with special mention of the tent adaptable to the tailgate of the van during camping. We can also add a rear roof, responsible for feeding the battery, which is responsible for the leisure elements and interior equipment of the camper, which we can manage through a 7-inch touch screen: heating, water levels, inclinometer, status of the battery and lighting.
