There are those who say that size doesn't matter, but when it comes to life in camper every centimeter makes a difference. He knows it well Eric Bellot, the inventor of this Limouzine Van who decided to challenge the limits of space with an idea as simple as it is ingenious: a telescopic roof that opens like a bellows, giving 1,15 meters of extra height.
A real stroke of genius that promises to transform classic weekend vans into real mobile homes, comfortable and spacious. Let's put it in first gear and see what it's about.
A van that grows… upwards
Can you imagine the scene? You are traveling with your van, ready for a new adventure. You arrive in a dream place, park and… eh? You realize that the ceiling is so low that you have to walk hunchbacked like Quasimodo. Frustrating, right? Mr. Bellot must have experienced this situation a few too many times to decide to invent a van that grows. No, not like those little cartoon monsters who become giants when they get angry. More like an old camera from the early 900s. Or an accordion.
The result? A roof that lifts up, transforming your mini-apartment on wheels into a penthouse with a view of... well, whatever view you decide to park. Basically, it's like having an extra floor in your mobile condominium. And without having to condone it.
Patent-proof idea (or rather three)
But how exactly does the “magic” van roof work? Well, the mechanism is so ingenious that it has earned three patents. 12 months of research and development to arrive at the final model. The time needed to convince physics that yes, it is possible to grow a van without breaking the laws of nature.
The secret lies in a system that allows the roof to fold, taking up very little space when closed, but to open like a fan when you need more air above your head. All while maintaining a height of less than 2 meters when the van is moving, so you can pass under car parks without decapitating the roof (and your traveling ambitions).
A roof that also acts as a power plant
The Limouzine Van mounts two solar panels on its expandable roof for a total of 340W of power. Basically, it's like having a mini power plant above your head. You will be able to recharge your devices, power the fridge and maybe even run that coffee machine that you don't want to leave at home even under torture. All this while enjoying the view from your elevated "terrace". Who said you can't be eco-friendly and comfortable at the same time?
When it's time to go to bed, the raised roof of the van houses a comfortable double bed, while the lower part transforms into another bed for two. In total, four beds without having to play Tetris to fit into the spaces. Goodbye nights spent writhing like Cirque du Soleil contortionists.
Then I see the price and close the roof.
If you're wondering how much this wonder costs, it's time to shout the wrong note. My answer, in short, is: too much. It costs too much, for the moment. Assuming that you already have a van, adding this "telescopic" roof costs around 30.000 euros. Not exactly bruscoli. And I'm not sure they make up for the money saved by the chiropractor fixing my back after nights spent in a traditional van.
The company expects the price to drop by 30% in the next few years if the product is successful. For my taste it would still be a lot, but if you are patient Van Life dreamers, you could wait a bit and put your savings aside. In the meantime, train yourself to move your arms up and down, mimicking the movement of the roof. It will be a great exercise to prepare you for your future life as a pop-up roof owner.
