LAST SEASONS, FRENCH  brand Pilote launched the P696D, its first ‘D’ layout, with the ‘D’ standing for dressing room, or a very large washroom spread across the back.

The 6.99m-long ‘van has proved such a success that this year, the firm launched the P626D, a two-berth with an optional double, offering the same layout in 6.26m – shorter than many van conversions.

If it is a van conversion you are after, check out the UK-exclusive V630LG special edition. It comes with four option packs fitted as standard, and a door on the UK nearside.

Pilote is also making life easy for UK buyers by offering five of its best-sellers as special-edition Evidence ‘vans. Evidence gets you a host of extras at a cut-down price – although as it is a ‘take it or leave it’ package, you can’t pick or choose which of those extras you will go for.

Pilote’s 2021 range will be on display at all of the company’s UK dealers, including newly appointed Clwyd Caravans and Leisure in Wrexham, Tenby Tourers in Narberth in Pembrokeshire, and AMC Motorcaravans in Hailsham in East Sussex.

Pilote: A quick history

Founded as a caravan manufacturer in La Limouzinière, near Nantes, by Andre Padiou in 1962, Pilote moved into motorhome production in 1978, with his brother Philippe in charge. It has since grown to become one of France’s largest motorhome manufacturers, working across more than one site. It has spread its wings by acquisition, too, taking over Germany’s Frankia in 1990 (and greatly helping to promote that company’s innovation of the double floor) and Le Voyageur and RMB 10 years later.

Its Bavaria brand was launched by Frankia but is now mirrored on Pilote’s A-class Galaxy and low-profile Pacific ranges (rather as Compass currently is with Elddis in the UK), but with different interiors.

 

You’re in Hall 2 Continental Manufacturers at Van Live! See who else is exhibiting in this hall, or take me to the Show Guide.