The new-generation Mercedes-Benz Citan just premiered but this didn’t stop the Stuttgart brand from presenting a new version of their compact passenger van in the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf. For this occasion, the Citan was converted to a micro camper using VanEssa modules. The end result looks quite practical for camping, with a double bed, plenty of storage compartments, and a removable rear kitchenette, without limiting its use as a passenger vehicle.
Due to the pandemic, camper vans have become a lot more popular in recent years, offering an alternative to hotels in a time when some people prefer to avoid air travel for vacation. Mercedes states that “vehicles with external dimensions close to those of a passenger car” are becoming increasingly popular. Thus, the new Citan measuring 4,498 mm in length with a wheelbase of 2,716 mm served as the perfect base for their new project. The company is already offering the Marco Polo variants of the larger Vito and V-Class models but this is the first time they present something similar for the small category.
The micro camper was based on a Citan Tourer (passenger version) using equipment from VanEssa mobilcamping. The rear kitchenette module comprises an integrated gas cooker, a sing system with a 13-liter water tank, a 31-liter compressor refrigerator, and plenty of space for cutlery, tableware, pots, pans, and supplies in the drawers. The module weighs around 60 kg and it can be installed or removed in minutes allowing the Citan to be used both as a camper and an everyday passenger vehicle. It also comes in different color options for personalization.
Besides the kitchenette, the Citan is fitted with the VanEssa sleeping system which is essentially a foldable bed with room for two people. The high-quality mattress is divided into three parts that can fit in the boot above the kitchenette module allowing for full use of the rear seats. When assembled, they create a bed measuring 115 mm wide and 189 mm tall, leaving the front seats untouched.
The Mercedes-Benz Citan Camper will be exhibited at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf which takes place from August 28 until September 5. The model is not designed just for show, as market availability is scheduled for 2022. Judging from the prototype, we are sure that many Citan owners will opt for the upgrades and enjoy their camping vacation inside their compact van.
