Mercedes-Benz is targeting the U.S. pop-up campervan market, launching a brand new van known as the Weekender. Americans will have the chance to buy it from April onward.
“Pop-up campers are iconic and highly functional vehicles” says Robert Veit, VP and Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz, USA Vans. “We have known for a long time that this market need was unmet as evidenced by the high demand for aging existing camper vans still on the road. With the help of our partners, Peace Vans and Driverge, we have utilized the Metris to create a product suited to those who seek adventure, but also need a versatile and comfortable vehicle for their day-to-day lives.”
Built by Diverge Vehicle Innovations, in partnership with Peace Vans, one of the largest classic camper van repair and restoration shops in the United States; the Weekender is based on a conventional Metris van. The resultant transformation has created an extremely adaptable and versatile van. Mercedes-Benz say it is perfect for extended road trips, taking the family on summer vacations, quick weekend explorations or simply providing a comfortable place to work or relax after a surf or climbing session. Not only that – it is equally idea for daily use in and around towns and cities as it can fit into parking spots, garages and driveways with ease. The Weekender will seat five people, and provide sleeping accommodation for four.
The new Weekender is being produced at the Driverage site in North Charleston, South Carolina – adjacent to the Mercedes-Benz factory.
So what makes this van so impressive? According to Mercedes-Benz, the fact that it is based on the Metris commercial van immediately offers distinct advantages. The Metris has a tow rating of 5,000 pounds, and is extremely economical when it comes to fuel. There is a 15,000 mile service interval, and numerous safety features such as the use of a Crosswind Assist system. Crosswind Assist helps stabilize the van even when experiencing strong, gusting crosswinds. The dynamic handling system load adaptive ESP adds another safety feature in that it helps keep the van firmly under control by automatically braking individual wheels and reducing power whenever wheel spin, understeer or oversteer is detected.
Ashley Gillam of Mercedes Benz USA says “the idea behind the Weekender is that it's a dual use vehicle, it can be used for driving to work Monday to Friday, and then taken off for weekend adventures.”
As a result, the standard vehicle focuses on the provision of flexible cargo, storage and working space that can convert into sleeping accommodation at the weekends. The standard version does not include any toilet, washing or catering facilities. It offers seating for 5 people, plus an ability to convert into two sleeping areas catering for four people.
Front seats of The Weekender that are capable of a 180 degree swivel. [Photo/Mercedes-Benz]
The features provided as standard on the Weekender Pop Up are:
An elevating roof providing a sleeping area for two which is accessed via a tab that the customer pulls down in order to drop the elevating bed unit. This facility includes an integrated spring system, 2” memory foam mattress, 3 large windows, and additional USB ports for lights and charging beside the bed. It creates very spacious sleeping area.
A multipurpose rear bench seat opens up to create a bed for two people. When folded into a seat, the bench moves along a rail position into four different locations thus providing additional room for varying cargo requirements.
The front seats swivel 180 degrees. This makes it easier to turn the van into relaxation mode with a multi-purpose lounge at your fingertips. Simply by swiveling round, there is space to relax with a book, share a meal or do some work.
Powering lights, computers, electronic gadgets becomes even more reliable since a second battery facility is provided with every van.
In addition to these features, there are a variety of optional features that can be added at an extra cost, all of which are designed to make the camping experience easier and more convenient.
Optional features available on the Weekender pop-up camper are:
Off grid Power and integrated solar panels with a built in solar charging facility making the van ideal for long extended trips especially in remote locations,
Upgraded audio and navigation features – exact details of which have not yet been released.
Personalization options using 3M auto body wrap materials allowing customers to choose from up to 200 available colors.
Camping upgrades:
· 8’ awning for shade and rain protection
· Mosquito/bug screens for the rear hatch and sliding doors
· A tent that quickly attaches to the rear lift gate to provide extra space and privacy.
· Roof Racks for hauling surfboards, extra storage or skis for the slopes. The roof rack can support a 55 KG load.
· A pull out rear kitchen. This unit is a self-contained kitchen unit that slides out of the rear area and contains an integrated propane fired burner, sink with integrated water bladder and work/preparation areas that slide out to the sides when the unit is pulled out to the back. The propane burner is connected via standard US BBQ style hook ups. The kitchen fits into the back trunk area and can be removed if needed.
The exact nature and technical implementation of the off the grid power and integrated solar connection options is still being finalized. According to Ashley Gillam, “We anticipate both roof top and foldable, portable solar panel options with ranges from 25W to 200W for charging the solar battery. As we get closer to general availability, we will have final details to announce.”
Mercedes Benz will not be offering TV’s or hotspots with the Weekender at present.
Peace Vans are convinced that the Weekender has much to offer American drivers. “From adventure seeking millennials to hip retirees, everyone is craving authentic and connected experiences to nature. Small camper vans, like this exciting new Metris Weekender from Mercedes, hits a very large sweet spot in the market. The demand we see for these products is exceptional and the feedback from renters and early adopters is fantastic. Being experts in pop up campers, we are confident Mercedes has a fantastic product that is going to delight an entire new generation of road trippers.”
Prospective van owners have greeted news of the launch of the Weekender van concept very positively. As exact pricing is unknown at this point but Ashley Gillam reports, “We can confirm it will be in the low $70k range”.
The first 100 customers have an extra incentive when deciding to buy, as Mercedes Benz will be providing those first 100 customers a free all-access National Parks Pass to help kick start their travelling adventures.
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