It’s no secret that at Derby Motorhomes we’re great fans of Auto-Sleepers motorhomes and we’ve developed a huge amount of experience with Auto-Sleepers over many years. We’d like to share that with you in the following selection of some of the most frequently asked Auto-Sleeper questions (FAQs) we receive.
Do Auto-Sleepers build motorhomes?
Like all the best answers, we can give this one both a yes and a no!
Auto-Sleepers is based in the Cotswolds and builds coachwork and undertakes van conversions. They do not build engines, transmission systems, or any of the mechanical features of a motorhome.
An Auto-Sleepers motorhome will use state-of-the-art power plants and chassis from companies such as Mercedes-Benz, Peugeot, Fiat, or most recently Ford, but everything related to accommodation and fittings will be sourced and installed themselves.
What is a van conversion and how does it differ from a motorhome?
This one comes up regularly in Auto-Sleepers FAQs we receive.
Essentially, a motorhome has had its entire accommodation unit designed and built bottom-up for accommodation purposes. A van conversion is based upon a standard van supplied by a major manufacturer which is then specifically customised and configured into luxury accommodation.
By and large, van conversions are typically smaller and have less space internally than coachbuilt motorhomes.
Some people always differentiate in speech or writing between motorhomes and van conversions. Others describe them all as motorhomes.
Whatever you call them, you can view our entire range of motorhomes in our heated, indoor, exhibition centre here in Derby.
How do collapsible caravans fit into the picture?
These are typically trailers that have a caravan/tent folded up inside. Once you arrive at your campsite, the pieces are unfolded and connected up to provide what is typically semi-rigid tented accommodation.
They are not usually considered to be motorhomes.
Is it better to purchase a new or used Auto-Sleepers motorhome?
There are multiple arguments for both. We won’t take a position! But that won’t stop us from making a few of the more obvious observations.
Whatever vehicle is being discussed, the logic behind purchasing pre-used as opposed to new is usually either:
• price – pre-used vehicles are usually cheaper, of course (all other things considerations equal); and
• model – sometimes buyers might prefer a given model that’s since been discontinued, although this is rare.
In terms of price, Auto-Sleepers motorhomes typically hold their values well. Of course, a three-year-old vehicle is likely to cost less than a brand new one, but the difference might be less than would be the case with a typical motor car – since cars attract a notoriously high rate of depreciation.
Some people prefer to own a vehicle that’s brand new in the knowledge nobody else has used it. Other buyers don’t feel strongly at all about such things. In other words, it often boils down to a simple question of personal preference.
Can I customise my Auto-Sleepers motorhome?
You have options to select one of many varying configurations and décor schemes – and can choose from a wide range of optional packs – such as our Premium Packs, Winter Packs, Media Packs, or Roof Options.
After purchase, you can customise your motorhome as you wish – although we’d urge a degree of caution about just how far you choose to go.
If you are planning to customise your vehicle, it’s important to use a fully-qualified and thoroughly experienced company to help. Secondly, remember that perhaps contrary to some expectations, customisation of a motorhome can actually reduce rather than enhance its resale value.
That’s because the value of an Auto-Sleepers motorhome is driven in part by its exemplary quality and superb engineering. If you start to dismantle things and replace them with someone else’s, then you may reach a point where some potential buyers and dealerships would no longer regard it as an Auto-Sleepers’ product – you may have undermined at least a part of its attraction and value.
