The Hymer DuoCar S is ready for production

At 2017’s Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, Hymer displayed the DuoCar prototype. Now, with its design finalised, the camper van that’s aimed at solo travellers and couples will soon be available to buy.

Some obvious changes have happened in the intervening two years. While the addition of an ‘S’ suffix to the DuoCar name is certainly a minor one, a much more significant development has seen the all-new third-generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter assume the role of base vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Hymer DuoCar S (2020) Front Side

However, the unconventional interior layout remains. Along one side of the habitation area there’s an inwards-facing sofa that converts into a 2.00 metre (6’ 6”) double bed with a cold-foam mattress. Although an optional elevating roof can provide further berths, the absence of extra belted travel seats makes this seem rather pointless.

Opposite sits a generously large but basic kitchen unit which incorporates a two-burner gas hob and a compressor fridge. Despite relatively compact dimensions – the DuoCar S measures 5.93 metres (19’ 5”) long – Hymer has managed to install a separate bathroom at the rear. Accessed via a sliding door, it also doubles as a dressing room because the toilet is moveable, the basin folds up, the shower tray is recessed and a wardrobe is fixed to the wall.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Hymer DuoCar S (2020) Interior 1Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Hymer DuoCar S (2020) Interior 2

For off-grid camping, the standard equipment list also includes a 100 litre (22 gallon) internal fresh water tank, an 85 litre (18 gallon) underfloor insulated waste water tank and a diesel-fuelled heater. To augment the usual lead-acid leisure battery, the optional Hymer Smart-Battery-System adds a supplementary 135 Ah lithium battery. The claimed result is around nine days of standalone electricity (based on typical usage).

Customers ordering a Hymer DuoCar S are going to have a choice of three diesel engines:
  • 2.1 litre, four-cylinder – 141 bhp (105 kW / 143 PS)
  • 2.1 litre, four-cylinder – 160 bhp (120 kW / 163 PS)
  • 3.0 litre, six-cylinder – 187 bhp (140 kW / 190 PS)
All come with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive can be specified, too.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Hymer DuoCar S (2020) Side

Hymer is due to begin DuoCar S deliveries this winter. Prices haven’t been announced yet.

Related post:
2019 Hymercar Grand Canyon S launched

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