Swift Select evolution continues focus on younger demographic

With camping seemingly at a level of popularity like never before, many brands within in the industry are seeking to attract, interest and engage with a new demographic of consumer. This is not a new phenomenon caused by the Covid-19 pandemic (although that has certainly helped accelerate it) – a new generation of younger, more style-conscious campers are investing in the hobby at a rapid rate. And companies are responding.

An excellent example is British caravan and motorhome expert Swift. The company already has a great track record of success with a younger and more adventurous dynamic than the typical with the well-recorded success of its Basecamp mini action caravan back in 2016. Now that mindset is evolving within the company’s wider product range: case in point, the 2020 Swift Select panel vans.

Built on the excellent and reliable Fiat Ducato, the most notable initial impression of the van is the fact it’s available in two eye-catching colour options: a slate grey and a new deep red. Those rather unusual, but not unpleasant colourways are complemented by an overcab panoramic glass sunroof, the option to have 16” alloy wheels, LED day running lights, electric side entrance step, and an optional Thule pull-out awning.

The layout options also echo the move towards targeting campers who use the hobby as a means to enjoy another outdoor activity or adventure. There is a two-berth (122) with a mid-wash room and plentiful storage in the rear accessed by the back doors. The 144, 164 and 174 are three-berth versions with different bed layouts varying from two bench beds to a fixed double. Lastly the 184 is a four-berth version that seems to be the perfect design for young families.

As for the internal design of the vans, there’s plenty of features packed in, as well as a continuation of the modern aesthetics. You can choose from two fabric options that have the option of including SwiftShield – a fabric with a soft suede-like feel that has been treated to avoid getting stained. There’s plenty of tech onboard too – the vans benefit from Swift’s Command control system that is operated via a large 7” LCD touchscreen panel, they also feature Bluetooth connectivity, a minimum of four USB ports, TV ports, a low-energy lighting system, a long-life leisure battery, and branded speakers in the roof at the rear. This van is built for with the modern comforts that a younger generation have come to take expect. The kitchen and washroom are well equipped and carry a light and spacious feeling that echoes throughout the rest of the van. There are also plenty of smart storage options like the under bench ones seen in the 122 model. You can also add a driver’s Lux pack to combine with the standard Driver’s Pack giving you a whole host of toys including cruise control, body coloured bumpers, Silver Techno dash kit, pleated cab blinds, 40W solar panel and regulator, TV aerial and bracket and reversing sensors.

And with all of this, Swift is keen to remind its customers that its manufacturing process is of the highest quality and passion – right from the first concept drawings, through the moment a sale is made. What is evident, with the design and features of the Select and the marketing surrounding it, is that Swift sees an opportunity to build brand loyalty with a growing, younger customer base that want different things from camping, but still want the quality and reliability it is already known for. It could be an interesting 12 months or so…

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