Tonke Campers are hand-built RVs that are now being sold in the Netherlands. The Campers are a distinct contrast to the mass-produced plastic RVs that are so common in this country (although the market for these RVs is actually plummeting). Tonke Campers are inspired by gypsy caravans, and the classic yachts created by Dutch boatbuilders in the 1920s. They have beautiful mahogany fittings and teak floors (unfortunately this wood seldom comes from sustainable sources). The windows are made with safety glass (not molded plastic) and are clean and bright.

They also incorporate built-in showers and efficient vacuum toilets.

SQUOB reports:

Although the Tonke is hand-built, it is not astronomically expensive. Prices start at €69,800 ($95,000) for the two-berth Explorer and top out at €85,017 ($115,000) for the Fieldsleeper. If you buy direct from the company there’s a substantial discount on these figures, and you get a thorough warranty covering various parts from two to six years.

Via: SQUOB — thanks for the tip Chris.

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We first featured the Sustain miniHome last year. It’s a compact green dwelling that fits on the back of a truck. Now there’s a video of the home, demonstrating it’s space-saving features…

The miniHome was created by the Sustain Design Studio team, and they describe it as:

The world’s first, completely self-sufficient, ecological trailer design, the miniHome features many of the ‘mod-cons’ that consumers have come to expect, without the associated energy, resource or material use. Within a well-organized 38 sm (350 sf), there is everything you need for comfortable, year-round, sustainable living.

Via: Jetson Green

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Airstream partnered with Nissan Design America and tent-maker Kelty to produce a new lightweight multi-purpose hybrid called the Airstream Basecamp tent-trailer. Designed both with low cost and flexibility in mind, the Basecamp is meant for outdoor adventures rather than just another living room on wheels. Camper comes with tent extension to double the available living space and can be towed by most conventional vehicles, with a 2,000 lb gross weight. The Airstream Basecamp comes minimally outfitted and is expected to remain under $20,000. Airstream.

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Airstream trailers have become known for their sleek, classic design. Modern examples feature can feature high-end audio and video equipment. Going beyond simple remodelling, these trailers are made more efficient through additions of solar panels and more effective appliance (see the Airstream Life for more information). The authors of Airstream Living sought out restored, remodeled, and reconditioned examples of the various models of Airstream that appeared over the years and photographed them and their owners in scenic repose.

Available from Amazon.

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Topics include water treatment, solar power, efficient heating and cooling, composting toilets and efficient 12V appliances and lighting.

For solar power, he directs readers to the RV Solar Electric web site by Noel and Barbara Kirby, which he says “includes about everything you need to know [about solar power for RVs] and includes details on RV installations not found elsewhere. Ask for his added sheets on sizing a system when ordering.” The Kirbys’ also publish RVer’s Guide to Solar Battery Charging, which was last updated in 1993, but is still a great guide.

Two other useful books about RV electrical systems are: Living on Twelve Volts With Ample Power and RV Electrical Systems, both books go into details about 12V electrical systems.

When purchasing an RV, Phred recommends visiting the RV Consumer Group, which a nonprofit organization that rates RVs.

A “Eco RV” was introduced a last year, called the EarthRoamer, priced at $155,000. It runs on biodiesel and solar power.

But you might be better off buying a empty RV with a good structure and installing the components yourself, as explained here.

If you buy a diesel pickup truck and “Truck Camper”, a Travel Trailer, or a “5th Wheel Trailer”, or any diesel RV you can run it on biodiesel.

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