Practicality is the key to success. Every RV manufacturer knows it.
Practicality is the foundation of success—something every camper maker understands. German company Karmann Mobil is no exception.
The company has just unveiled its latest project, which, despite its compact footprint, can sleep up to four people inside.
The vehicle is called the Duncan 550. It’s based on the Ford Tourneo Custom with an overall length of 17.9 feet (5.45 meters). The van stands 6.8 feet tall (2.06 meters), but that limitation is offset by the addition of a pop-top roof.
The camper’s key features are located on the main level. There’s a half-dinette with a folding table, as well as a compact kitchen equipped with a sink, a two-burner gas stove, and a 1.5-cubic-foot (42-liter) compressor refrigerator with a small freezer compartment.
Opposite the kitchen—supplied by a 13-gallon fresh water tank (50 liters)—the designers installed a bathroom complete with a cassette toilet and a shower. Wastewater is collected in a separate 9-gallon gray water tank (35 liters).
Sleeping areas are arranged both below and in the pop-top roof. The camper can comfortably accommodate four overnight—two on the lower level and two up top.
Storage space is naturally limited due to the size and layout of the living area, but it’s still available. Luggage can be stowed in small cabinets and beneath the seats.
The technical specifications of this compact camper are fairly straightforward. It does not come with an auxiliary battery as standard, and solar panels and similar options are available only at extra cost.
However, the Duncan 550 comes standard with a fairly powerful 4 kW diesel heater (about 13,600 BTU). Since propane is used only for cooking, the onboard 6-pound (2.75 kg) gas supply is more than sufficient.
Pricing for Europe has already been announced. In the Old World, the Karmann Duncan 550 starts at €57,800—approximately $63,000 at current exchange rates.