Porsche creates new-age Airstream caravan

Porsche Design has teamed up with legendary US caravan-maker Airstream to create a new-age version of the iconic van that features advanced tech and will look perfect behind the 2023 Porsche Cayenne and other models from the German sports car marque.

Still a concept for now, the Airstream Studio F.A Porsche is a high-tech single-axle small caravan that measures 4999mm long and can sleep up to two.

Billed as the first ‘garageable’ Airstream in the company’s 90-year history, the van features automatic height-adjustable suspension to enable it to squeeze into a typical US garage.

Porsche says advanced aerodynamics slash wind drag on the new-age Airstream, which for optimum wind-cheating and economy can be lowered further using the automatic suspension.

Lightweight composites such as carbonfibre help slash weight compared to conventional caravans, making the new trailer compatible for towing by both small cars with less powerful engines and EVs.

Inside, designers are said to have maximised space while using windows and skylights to create a feeling of spaciousness. There’s a pop-up panel for extra headroom.

An opening rear hatch and drop-down tailgate are said to help owners maximise periods of good weather, while awnings can be attached using specific mounting points that add plenty of shade when needed in hot weather.

At night, the cabin can be transferred into a sleeping area that measures 2.1m long and 1.5m wide.

A sink, cooking hob and a large infotainment screen are all included and, before you ask, there’s also an “enclosed private area” that includes a shower and toilet.

The motivation behind the new small lightweight advanced caravan’s creation is recent research by Airstream that suggested its customers were, on average, twice as likely to own an EV.

It’s also hoped that the smaller dimensions and ability to clear the average 2.1m-tall garage door will help any production model attract city dwellers for the first time, especially those living in residences that forbid trailers to be parked on driveways.

Airstream has yet to confirm the new Airstream Studio F.A Porsche for production, but it will be officially launched soon as a 1:3 scale model at the upcoming SXSW music festival in Austin, Texas.