An amphibious caravan which can transform into a boat is set to go on sale in
2012. Launched at Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf in September 2011, the
German designers say their Sealander device is a normal caravan which weighs
only 380kg, until it's lowered into the water.
At this point a 5HP electric motor kicks in which can be used to control the
£13,000 caravan which has instantly become a £13,000 boat.
It's not going to be luxurious at just 160cm wide and 185cm high, but
the floating caravan boasts a sink, coolbox, camping toilet and 2 berths
for sleeping. It has a removable roof so you can sleep under the stars, and the
interior will be customizable through a number of modules to choose from.
Its creator says:
'You can settle for the night at the campsite and during the day
sunbathe, cruise on the lake or even go fishing for dinner.
'You can even up sticks and settle on the next island if the camp site is
crowded. I think the advantages offered by the Sealander are varied and different for everyone.'
The design has a clever double hull which means that should the outer
shell spring a leak, only the sub-floor will fill with water, ensuring that
it remains afloat.
So far the Sealander can only be used in shallow waters but Daniel is
already looking at building vans which can take to deeper waters and even
the sea.
A prototype has been built and successfully tested on the road and on the
water, and the Sealander is expected to go on sale for camping/boating
enthusiasts at the start of 2012 with a price tag of £13,000.
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