Discovering the Unique Rapido V64/Dreamer D64: A Camper Van with a Queen Bed
The French manufacturing company Rapido has introduced an exciting new concept at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon set for late August: a compact camper van boasting a queen bed. This innovative design, previously found only in integrated or semi-integrated vehicles, represents a significant breakthrough in camper van layouts.
Innovative Design Features
What sets the Rapido V64 and its counterpart, the Dreamer D64 Select, apart from traditional models is their remarkable 6.36-meter structure built on a Fiat Ducato chassis. This camper van is perfect for those who desire the luxuries of a larger vehicle in a more compact package. The queen bed—measuring 1.95 x 1.40 meters—offers ample space for comfort, while its design ensures accessibility from both sides.
To achieve this innovative layout, the designers turned the typical camper van design literally upside down. The kitchen, which usually extends into the sliding door area, has been relocated to the opposite side behind the driver’s seat, reminiscent of configurations seen in smaller camping buses like the VW California.
Spacious Yet Cozy Interior
The interior design maintains an inviting atmosphere while ensuring functionality. A two-person bench seat, now positioned next to the sliding door, works in conjunction with the driver’s rotating seats to create a comfortable four-person seating arrangement. The table conveniently hides behind a furniture flap under the two-burner gas stove, allowing it to be pulled out threefold for easy meal sharing or casual gathering. However, the compact layout, while functional, does impose some limitation on movement within the living area.
Despite the constrained space, the kitchen block impresses with ample storage, featuring overhead cabinets and large drawers. The near-full-height compressor fridge is ideally situated between the sink and wardrobe, enhancing both accessibility and usability.
Versatile Bathroom Space
Unique to the layout is the variable bathroom-to-WC area accessible from the two-seater bench. Thanks to a swivel wall, this space can easily convert into a shower, providing an added level of flexibility for users. For those concerned about comfort, warm water and room temperature can be maintained through an optional diesel heating system, with gas reserved solely for cooking.
The Queen Bed: A Central Attraction
The standout feature remains the luxurious queen bed, designed for effortless accessibility. The headboards can be adjusted separately to create a cozy reading area or make room for daytime relaxation. Notably, the vertical headboard design creates additional storage space beneath the double bed, allowing the van—just 2.05 meters wide—to accommodate bicycles or other large items without compromising comfort.
Pricing Information
The base price for both models—the Rapido V64 and the Dreamer D64 Select—starts at €71,000. For those seeking more comprehensive features, the Dreamer is available in a nearly fully equipped Saphir version, which includes an automatic transmission, LED headlights, a rearview camera, and a lithium battery with solar panel and inverter—all for €79,000.
In conclusion, the Rapido V64 and Dreamer D64 Select provide an unprecedented blend of luxury and functionality, capturing the essence of modern camper van culture. Whether for a weekend getaway or extended travel, these models promise to elevate the camping experience for enthusiasts everywhere.
