Ford has revealed details of its next-generation Nugget camper van that will come to market in the Spring of 2024.
The Nugget is based on the mid-sized Transit Custom panel van and Tourneo Custom passenger-carrying models. It will be launched in a single specification with power delivered by the Custom’s top of the range 2.0-litre 170hp diesel engine, which will be married to eight-speed automatic transmission. Ford says further variants, including plug-in hybrid and all-wheel drive models will follow as part of a phased launch pattern.
Features will include self-folding roof fabric, which Ford claims it introduced in response to customer feedback indicating the currently-used fabric is difficult to fold, a 350 watt solar roof panel to heat water for the kitchen and shower, stowage for a camping table and chairs in the tailgate, and a three-seat track mounted bench seat, which converts into a bed and is available with optional heating.
The centrepiece of the cabin is a 13in touchscreen and the fitting of an automatic, rather than a manual, parking brake makes it easy to wal kthrough between the cabin and rear of the interior, says Ford. The manufacturer has added a lower step at the rear of the vehicle to enable easier access to the kitchen and living area and the Nugget’s ADAS features include reverse brake assist and adaptive cruise control.
A 7in touchscreen in the kitchen provides controls for heating, water levels, vehicle levelling and lighting and can be linked to smartphones.
The Nugget is not part of the product-sharing arrangement between Ford and Volkswagen, under which Ford is taking the lead on the development of medium-sized vans, so it is expected the two brands will continue to build camper vans independently.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Pro in Europe, said: “The Nugget is a successful brand for Ford, it is our leisure vehicle. We don’t comment on Volkswagen [product plans], the Nugget is exclusively for Ford.”
The blue oval brand developed the Nugget in partnership with camper van conversion specialist Westfalia.
Schep said Ford had doubled its share of the European camper van market to 15% in the last five years and expected to exploit further opportunities in the leisure market in the future with conversions based on its large Transit van and Ranger pick-up truck.
