Westfalia, a brand with decades of tradition in the recreational vehicle segment, has just revealed a new approach to the van market. With the Columbus Liner prototype, the company seeks to adapt the level of sophistication and use of space found in large Class A motorhomes to the more compact Fiat Ducato platform, measuring 636 cm in length. The project proposes a reconfiguration of the internal environment, dividing the vehicle into three distinct functional levels to optimize comfort.
Internal organization and use of space
The first level of the Columbus Liner maintains the conventional structure of a camper van. The front area integrates the cabin's swivel seats with a double extension table and a rear bench, forming a living room that can be converted into a 180 x 90 cm bed to accommodate extra passengers. This level also houses a compact bathroom, equipped with a folding sink and a water-free toilet, as well as a kitchen with an induction hob and a 90-liter refrigerator with two-way opening.
The second level is dedicated to the master bedroom. Unlike conventional models, the rear bed has been raised, creating a semi-private sleeping space accessible by three steps. This elevation allows the lower area to function as a spacious garage, designed for transporting electric bicycles or sports equipment, with an integrated charging system.
Innovations in the ceiling and living area
One of the most notable elements of the project is the Sky Roof system. Unlike traditional retractable ceilings focused only on increasing bed capacity, this solution occupies around two-thirds of the ceiling's length and its main objective is to increase the internal height over the main bed. This ensures more comfort so that occupants can sit without restrictions, in addition to improving ventilation in the environment.
From this bedroom, it is possible to access the so-called Sky Lounge, a roof terrace that transforms the upper part of the van into an outdoor living area. This structure, accessible through a fabric door in the retractable roof, functions as a private extension of the bedroom. To complete the convenience experience, the brand developed the Sky Bar, an optional shelf in the room that allows the preparation of espresso coffee, preventing the occupant from having to travel to the main kitchen.
Autonomy and technical feasibility
While the Columbus Liner features a comfort-oriented design, Westfalia also focused on features for autonomous travel. The vehicle can be configured with a robust electrical system, including up to 540 Ah lithium batteries, a 3,000 W inverter and a 165 W solar panel. Heating is carried out by a diesel system, which also powers the underfloor heating, ensuring adequate temperature conditions regardless of external energy sources.
It is important to note that the Columbus Liner displayed by the brand is a pre-production prototype. The official debut and detailed demonstration of all its options are scheduled for the Caravan Salon, in Düsseldorf. The basic version, equipped with a 139 hp Fiat Ducato 2.2 Multijet3 engine and six-speed manual transmission, has an announced starting price of 83,900 euros.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the accommodation capacity of the Columbus Liner The vehicle is classified as a four-person van, featuring a main bed in the rear and a convertible area in the living room.
What is Sky Lounge It is a roof terrace accessible directly from the bedroom, designed to serve as a private outdoor leisure area.
The vehicle is recommended for long trips outside of campsites. Yes, the model has an autonomy package that includes lithium batteries and a solar panel, allowing essential equipment to operate without the need for constant connection to the electrical grid.
Also read: Forgotten router: why the quality of your internet depends on it more than it seems.
Source and methodology
This article was prepared based on information published by newatlas.com, on July 15, 2026. See the original post: Westfalia's half-pop camper bus absorbs a Class A luxury RV into a van. HTechBD reorganized and contextualized the data for the Brazilian public, without reproducing the source text.
Image: Connor Scott McManus no Pexels.
