Niesmann+Bischoff produced its first ’van 30 years ago and so the luxury German marque have decided to add an anniversary model to its 2012 A-class menu. New external graphics come in ‘half’ and ‘full’ versions, with ‘Edition 30’ badged models getting a special Anniversary Pack of extras.
These ’vans will only be available at the various motorhome shows – for us that’s October’s NEC show. Each pack will be country-specific, and should contain a set of desirable extras – sold at something like 25 per cent of the original retail cost.
The firm’s Arto and Flair models – in traditional Continental fashion – both offer fixed-bed layout options for the new season.
The Fiat Ducato-based, entry-level Arto models stay pretty much the same as 2011 in terms of design, apart from the new graphics options. There’s just one new layout on offer: the Arto 74EK; a 7.5m-long motorhome with twin single beds over a garage.
UK Importer Travelworld is expecting a 7.5m-long island-bed model to appear at the beginning of 2012, too. This is designed for those who want an island bed, but in a motorhome of shorter overall length. In addition, Travelworld has persuaded Niesmann+Bischoff to offer a nearside cab door as an option for the first time – something that makes leaving the motorhome when parked at the kerbside in the UK both easier and safer.
The Flair may be N+B’s premium range, but it’s getting a make-under for next season. Arto furniture and equipment now make up the new Flair interior, a decision made – in these straitened times – to chop a considerable lump of cash off of the price. However, the Flair range does get some improvements: its Iveco Daily dash is new and good-looking, while the wood-style living area floor now extends right into the cab. This section also has underfloor heating, driven by the engine’s cooling system.
Contact
UK dealer: Travelworld RV, Halesfield, Telford, Shropshire, TF7 4QR
Tel 0845 230 5000
Manufacturer: Niesmann + Bischoff
