Dometic presents a novel line of eco-friendly awnings at the NEC Show
Introducing the Dometic Tour Range of Caravan Awnings
At the recent NEC show, Dometic unveiled a new line of caravan awnings, showcasing a range of innovative features designed for durability, convenience, and sustainability.
The key features of the Dometic Tour range include premium Weathershield fabric, a lightweight hybrid frame, and aluminium front upright poles. The Weathershield fabric is coated for durability and weather resistance, while the hybrid frame, made of aluminium and fibreglass, is adjustable to accommodate uneven ground. The aluminium front upright poles prevent corrosion and lighten the load.
Hot air taped seams ensure enhanced waterproofing, and the awnings come with windows featuring Crystal Clear material and blinds, providing good visibility and privacy. Heavy-duty weather-protected zips and internal mud flaps with pegging eyelets add to the awnings' durability.
The awnings also feature a seal to caravan system using bumper pads and an optional Limpet™ Fix System for secure attachment. An included draught skirt blocks drafts from under the caravan, and roll-up front panels and an oversized carry bag with compression straps make packing easy.
The awnings are available in various sizes, with widths ranging from 200cm to 390cm, to suit different caravan needs. They are also designed for easy setup mainly from outside the awning, quick dismantling, and boast a lightweight design, such as the Rally 260, which weighs just 16.6 kg.
Regarding sustainability, while explicit details on the manufacturing process are limited, the use of lightweight materials like aluminium and fibreglass reduces material use and transport emissions. The durable Weathershield fabric and taped seams ensure long-lasting awnings, reducing waste and frequent replacements.
Innovations like the single-point inflation Tour fabric, although not explicitly mentioned for these awnings, suggest a focus on efficient, user-friendly designs that also minimize material use and energy during setup and transport.
Peter Baber, Reviews Editor of both Practical Motorhome and our website, has been reviewing motorhomes for the best part of a decade now. He was also thrilled to see various tourers, including the Hobby Beachy range, at the show. The Hobby Beachy range includes spec added for the UK.
The new awnings come with hooks to make them easier to remove for washing and have upgraded panoramic windows to allow in more light. They are made with Weathershield Tour material, replacing the Weathershield Pro fabric, and the ripstop weave in the fabric has been designed to be more durable by the caravan awning manufacturer.
Fans of eye-catching caravans could be interested in seeing the Laura Ashley Campod. Peter Baber, who enjoys trying to write novels when he's not working, has twice been shortlisted for a Caravan Writers Guild award.
For those interested in the latest news, reviews, and features on caravans, Dometic offers a subscription service. Peter Baber, with his extensive experience, will undoubtedly provide insightful content. When not reviewing caravans, he enjoys cooking, throwing the odd pot, and has just taken up tennis.
[1] Sustainable materials in caravan awnings: A case study on Dometic Tour range
[2] Innovations in caravan awning design: A focus on Dometic single-point inflation Tour fabric
[3] The role of durable materials in reducing caravan waste
[1] The Dometic Tour range of caravan awnings utilizes sustainable materials such as lightweight aluminium and fibreglass, reducing material use and transport emissions, making it a promising case study for sustainable materials in caravan awnings.
[2] By emphasizing efficient, user-friendly designs like the single-point inflation Tour fabric, Dometic showcases its focus on innovations in caravan awning design, which may contribute to a more comfortable and compact lifestyle on the go.
[3] The Dometic Tour range's use of durable Weathershield fabric, enhanced waterproofing, and long-lasting design elements, such as taped seams and aluminium poles, play a key role in reducing caravan waste by ensuring long-lasting awnings that do not require frequent replacements.