Talk about forbidden fruit. German manufacturer Knaus Tabbert offers an impressive range of what they refer to as “compact caravaning utility vehicles” based on the Fiat Ducato. Their 2021 range will add a game-changing feature: the option for a panoramic pop-top roof. This new roof improves ventilation, provides a master suite with scenic views and allows the van to sleep up to seven passengers.
The pop-top compartment offers a three-sided panoramic window that can be covered with mosquito netting, left open entirely or obscured by a blackout shade. Climate control shouldn’t be an issue: the van has a ventilation system for the mattress, as well as and heat vents that direct heat into the compartment; the brand’s Boxstar 600 and 630 vehicles can also add a roof-top air conditioning unit.
Other features for the new roof compartment including reading lights, ambient lighting built into the ceiling edge and bedside trays for belongings on either side of the hatch.
KnausKnaus Tabbert will make the pop-top roof available on its Boxstar, Boxlife and Weinsberg caravaning utility vehicles as about a $4,600 option. Starting prices range from the equivalent of roughly $50,000 to $75,000, depending on the model.
While the Fiat Ducato is sold in the U.S. as the Ram ProMaster. However, these builds will not be available Stateside. If you’re in the market for a similar campaign vehicle, you can find a wide range of custom camper van manufacturers in the U.S. Some can provide an analogous Ram ProMaster build…or something smaller and more manageable.