Forget about chunky checkerplate body armour as a way of protecting your precious caravan from wear and tear while out on the road!
German RV powerhouse Knaus has come up with a space-age new caravan construction method that features a 'self healing' smooth exterior surface that reacts to sunlight to magically repair minor scratches.
According to Knaus, the potentially ground-breaking FibreFrame construction uses a "rim process" technology and robot-assisted bonding so that Knaus factory workers "do not have to bolt through from the outside anymore".
Knaus says the robotic manufacturing method is a "completely new production process in the field of synthetics and bonding technology...
"Scratch and dent the material and over time it will heal again... superficial damage disappears simply by exposing it to sunlight," the German RV manufacturer claims.
The new FibreFrame manufacturing method, along with new FoldXPand technology for the front and rear moulds, will be rolled out on a new range of Knaus Azur touring caravans.
Knaus says the innovative new construction process also allows for more flexibility in furniture designs, with the latest Azur boasting "slanted furniture geometry for a great feeling of space and optimised visual axes".
The Azur interior also benefits from a "fabric-covered Smart Wall with storage compartments and shelves behind it", along with a "holistic unique lighting concept with dynamic light signature in the interior and exterior".
Dubbed the "caravan of the future", the Azur range includes four models ranging from 6.98 to 7.58m long (overall), and with layouts catering for up to six people.
The FibreFrame technology also reduces the overall weight of the Azur vans, with a fully loaded (ATM) weight of between 1500kg and 1800kg -- that's less than the Tare (unloaded) weight of most Aussie-built vans!
Knaus has only released a few details about the new 'FibreFrame' vans, along with a couple of videos outlining their 'boundless' potential.
"The new Knaus Azur luxury caravan combines functionality, comfort, innovative technology and modern design," the big-selling European manufacturer says
It's possible the new Azur caravan could make its way down under, with Melbourne manufacturer Avan importing some Knaus models in recent years.
Keep an eye on the Knaus website as more details are revealed.