At Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, the Italian division of the Trigano group made a splash by unveiling the Mobilvetta Fluideen concept vehicle. This vehicle showcased advanced technical solutions while also prioritising environmental sustainability. We interviewed Massimo Lori, Project Manager, Gianluca Mugnaini, Product Manager, Letizia Bruni, Designer, and Andrea Mugnaini, Technical Manager, to discuss the innovation behind the concept

Words Renato Antonini

The name Fluideen is born from a fusion of the words fluid and green. Fluid refers to the continuity between the interior spaces and the surrounding environment, as well as the smooth, nature-inspired lines of the design. The word green symbolises the use of natural and recycled materials, along with a natural, relaxing, and harmonious colour palette.
This vehicle is based on the well-known K-Yacht Tekno Line motorhome by Mobilvetta but has undergone a radical transformation in its final version. What inspired this project, and how was it developed? What are its objectives? We sought answers from those within Trigano who played a crucial role in creating the Fluideen.

Aboutcamp BtoB − At Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, Mobilvetta unexpectedly unveiled a concept vehicle. What prompted this decision?
Massimo Lori − The decision stems from the DNA of the Mobilvetta brand, which has always been closely linked to innovation in both technology and design. Mobilvetta vehicles are characterised and heavily influenced by yacht design. We felt it was time to take a leap into the future, proposing new lines and shapes while exploring advanced technologies and new components. We believe the sector needs an innovative push and is ready to embrace new style ideas more aligned with trends in the furniture market, as well as cutting-edge technical solutions.

Aboutcamp BtoB − And what is the idea behind this concept?
Letizia Bruni − The concept is built on the idea of merging design with innovative technologies, cutting-edge components, and carefully selected materials. This isn’t just a design exercise, which would have led us to make very different choices. Instead, it’s about harmonising design with technical elements. For instance, the vehicle features panoramic ribbon windows with automatic privacy control, an internal lighting system based on chromotherapy with four independently managed zones, and an automatic, simultaneous closure of all compartments. Externally, we’ve introduced a new metallic colour with scratch-resistant paint, electronic side mirrors, hidden hinges, and flush handles. Although the vehicle is not intended for production, many of the design and technical elements will be implemented in future Mobilvetta ranges.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Trigano is a true industrial powerhouse in the sector with brands like Mobilvetta, CI, McLouis, Roller Team, and Arca. But it has never focused on concept vehicles. Why the shift?
Gianluca Mugnaini − While the company has never previously developed a concept vehicle, it has created prototypes in the past that incorporated cutting-edge technical solutions. For example, the Triaca was developed a few years ago in collaboration with the Design Department of the University of Florence and was presented at the Parma Fair. The Fluideen, however, was entirely conceived at our design centre and developed within our product development area.

Aboutcamp BtoB − In the automotive sector, concept vehicles are a common practice. However, the RV industry doesn’t have the same traditions: how far is it possible and worthwhile to push the boundaries?
Andrea Mugnaini − The fact that concept vehicles are not customary in our sector stems from several factors. First, in our industry, model range updates happen frequently, while designing and developing a concept vehicle takes two to three years. Secondly, for our vehicle category (3.5 tons), we need to respect specific weight limits and keep costs aligned with our market positioning. Many components and materials we experimented with are not currently implementable in mass-produced vehicles due to their high weight and cost. Despite these challenges, creating the Fluideen was a valuable experience, providing us with excellent information for the future. Our goal is to gradually introduce new technological and design innovations into our production vehicles. In the future, we also plan to develop another concept vehicle. For us, Mobilvetta represents design and innovation, and we aim to continue achieving this in the coming years.

Aboutcamp BtoB − What are the most innovative stylistic elements?
Letizia Bruni − It’s challenging to separate stylistic elements from technical content. The stylistic features blend indistinguishably with the technical solutions. For example, the acrylic stone accessories, such as the shower tray, integrated sink countertop, and under-counter kitchen sink, are all designed by us; they are unique in shape and function and utilise advanced technology suitable for our sector.
At the core is the study of a lightweight, sustainable conglomerate that customers can easily maintain with readily available products. The shower tray’s walking surface features a texture that simulates natural stone, providing both aesthetic appeal and slip resistance. Similarly, the floral wallpaper not only serves a decorative purpose but also has sound-absorbing and sound-insulating properties, retaining and gradually releasing fragrance to stimulate the sense of smell.
I would also add the use of chromotherapy, recycled and recyclable materials for upholstery, and the absence of locks, allowing customers to use the furniture fluidly and dynamically as they would at home, securing all cabinets when they begin their journey through automatic simultaneous closures. Finally, the overall fluid, harmonious line concept eliminates or conceals sharp edges to create a welcoming, comfortable, and spacious environment.

Aboutcamp BtoB − And what are the most advanced technological solutions?
Andrea Mugnaini − There are several other technical solutions that, as we have stated, have a significant impact on style and define it. For example, the windows automatically darken to provide unprecedented visibility to the outside and break down the separation between the interior and exterior.
The step for accessing the bed is another good example. When the step is lowered, it is flush with the floor, allowing the customer to move freely in front of the beds, access the garage, and open the folding door of the wardrobe. There are also other elements that can be adjusted to make the vehicle more user-friendly, such as the coat rack and table. The table can slide and open automatically, and it also includes a USB charging station with a reading light.
Additionally, the refrigerator door has a dual purpose, hiding a pantry with various shelves inside. Finally, we can note the keyless technology for locking and unlocking the rear compartments, as well as the grey water recycling system.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Does the Fluideen concept have a ‘green soul’?
Letizia Bruni − With the Fluideen, we took the opportunity to explore what the market offers in terms of recycled and recyclable materials that can be used in our sector. We introduced recycled fabrics and faux leathers produced through environmentally friendly and sustainable manufacturing processes.
For all the upholstery, we used a microcellular foam made from plant-based raw materials, drawing from renewable sources found in nature. The grey water reuse systems allow for reduced water consumption. It’s also worth noting the use of natural materials that are technologically suitable for our sector, such as fabrics made from natural fibres, plywood veneer for structural panel coverings, and water-based lacquers.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Is it really possible for a company that builds campers to pay close attention to environmental sustainability, not just in production processes but also in the products brought to market?
Letizia Bruni − It’s difficult, but it is possible. Some measures have already been widely implemented in our company. For example, our furniture is made from plywood panels produced using wood sourced from plantations specifically created for this purpose; the waste from these panels is reworked and used to create new panels. Water-based adhesives are used in the composition of the plywood panels.
On some topics, we are further along, while on others, we are still working. The concept has given us the opportunity to explore eco-sustainable materials that we typically do not use, but unfortunately, we can say that it’s a challenging journey since, in reality, it’s not as simple as it is in other sectors. This is because introducing recycled and/or recyclable eco-sustainable materials into the production process has a very high technological and cost impact.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Which of the ideas in this concept can transition to series production in the short term?
Massimo Lori − The design has already been partially implemented in the Kea Kompakt range, which was showcased at the latest fairs. We are also considering introducing solutions that the public liked in the upcoming ranges for the Mobilvetta brand.

Aboutcamp BtoB − In the RV sector, at least in Europe, we are experiencing a phase of great changes. Is it possible to overcome production methods that have been in use for many years at the construction level? Can we make a shift towards using new materials, advanced systems, and construction methods that look to the future?
Andrea Mugnaini − We are confident that in the coming years there will be an evolution in the systems aspect, and with Fluideen, we have tried to offer our contribution. However, the sector is also working hard on connectivity, and this will definitely be an important direction for evolution. It is time to prepare for a shift, certainly in the systems area, but also in production methods.

Aboutcamp BtoB − As we know, campers are assembled using many components sourced from outside the company, such as refrigerators and heating systems. In defining new frontiers for the RV sector, what role will manufacturers play compared to component suppliers?
Andrea Mugnaini − In our opinion, manufacturers will continue to play a fundamental role. Only through a collaborative effort between suppliers and manufacturers can we ensure the development of useful and functional technical solutions for customers, while also considering assembly requirements, weight limits, and other specific constraints of this type of product. Therefore, we believe it is more likely that manufacturers can make a difference when supported by the right suppliers.

Aboutcamp BtoB − The Mobilvetta Fluideen is a laboratory of ideas that also serves to gauge public opinion. How can you ensure an objective and constructive response?
Gianluca Mugnaini − The goal of the concept is to stimulate customers, gather their opinions, and try to understand what future directions and developments may be. After that, we will work to make these ideas producible. We do not see risks of misinterpretation, as feedback comes from various sources: customers, press, dealers, and suppliers. This will help us better balance our decisions.

Aboutcamp BtoB − Talking about the audience capable of appreciating advanced solutions, do we think more about users with years of experience or about people approaching the sector for the first time?
Massimo Lori − We do not believe that experienced customers are hostile or resistant to change; on the contrary, thanks to their extensive experience, they can appreciate the proposed technical solutions. Our goal is to introduce something innovative but also functional in relation to the needs of the customer.
We are also confident that simple and functional technical solutions combined with a modern and pleasing design will be well-received even by those who are encountering the recreational vehicle sector for the first time.