World’s first convertible motorhome?

We’ve seen convertible caravans, and of course camper trailers that offer plenty of night-time viewing opportunities.

But now there’s a German inventor attempting to sell another type of top-less RV, with the creation of the world’s first cabriolet, or convertible motorhome.

Unveiled at a German show last month and scheduled to go into production later this year, the Fiat Ducato-based Skydancer measures 7.0m long and 3.05m high, weighs 2830kg unladen and can sleep up to four people.

However, its real party trick is the elevated, second-level driving cabin, which includes four leather-clad seats in total. Two large side windows extend all the way back from the driver’s and front passenger seats to the second row, as does an electrically-controlled roof that slides back at the push of a button.

The four person ‘terrace’ also includes a couple of small tables, and converts to a 2.0m x 1.25m double bed, with another fixed 2.0m x 1.4m double bed located towards the rear of the motorhome.

As well as lying back and soaking up the rays during the day, or enjoying the panoramic night sky view at bedtime, the roof can also remain open when driving for a similar wind-in-the-air experience you get from a convertible car.

A staircase provides access to the upper and lower levels, with a kitchen including 145 litre fridge, ensuite with shower and toilet. and a large rear garage big enough for four bikes, also part of the package.

Other innovative features on the Skydancer motorhome include a fold-out wall between the kitchen and lower bed, which can be used as a privacy screen, bedside table or workbench depending on whether it's folded in or out. The sink in the bathroom also slots away inside the wall when not in use.

The latest version of the Skydancer is powered by a 2.3-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine but the Skydancer’s creator, Cologne resident Piotr Kubinski, also plans to produce a battery-powered electric version.

Kubinski said the Skydancer’s top-deck design was inspired by luxury motor yachts, and he hopes to sell the unique motorhome on US and European markets, with pricing in Europe expected start at 128,000 Euros (around $203,000). There’s no word yet on a production version being available for the Australian market.