The world of motorhomes and vans in Emilia: companies, trade fairs and road trip culture
When it comes to engines in Emilia-Romagna, supercars and motorcycles immediately spring to mind, but the region is also a benchmark for the production and conversion of motorhomes, vans and specialised travel vehicles. The area between Reggio Emilia, Parma and Modena is home to some of Italy’s most important companies in the recreational vehicle (RV) sector, which are responding to the growing demand for sustainable and independent road tourism. This sector combines mechanics, craftsmanship, technology and lifestyle, perfectly in line with the evolved identity of Motor Valley.
The leading companies in Emilia Romagna in the motorhome and van sector
Among the most notable names are:
• CI – Caravans International and Roller Team, which, despite being part of the French Trigano group, have important production and logistics facilities in the area.
• Mobilvetta, a historic luxury motorhome brand, with production facilities in the Montone area (PC).
• New artisan businesses such as Van Solutions and Emilia Van, which deal with van conversions and customised fittings for camper vans, which are in high demand, especially among young travellers and digital nomads.
These companies represent the excellence of Made in Italy production in this segment too, embracing smart technologies, sustainable materials and functional design.
The leading trade fairs: the Salone del Camper in Parma
The most important Italian event dedicated to the world of motorhomes takes place in Emilia-Romagna: the Salone del Camper in Parma. It is the second largest trade fair in Europe in terms of size and attendance, immediately after the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf.
The show hosts:
• previews of new models of motorhomes, campervans and vans;
• sections dedicated to accessories and services;
• a lifestyle area dedicated to travel, cycle tourism and the outdoors;
• meetings and workshops on van life and the sustainability of itinerant tourism.
An unmissable event for both industry professionals and travellers looking for inspiration.
The culture of road trips: freedom, sustainability and local areas
The boom in motorhomes and campervans in recent years has given rise to a real culture of road travel, which is particularly strong in Emilia-Romagna thanks to its scenic roads, historic villages, hills and nature trails. The concept of slow, free and customisable travel fits perfectly with the Emilian philosophy of living well, eating well and discovering the region at a leisurely pace. More and more tourists are choosing to explore Motor Valley in vans or motorhomes, stopping at equipped rest areas, camper-friendly farmhouses and routes off the beaten track.
The evolution of vehicles: technology, comfort and van life
The latest generation of motorhomes and vans produced in Emilia are no longer simple means of transport, but true technological living spaces. Home automation, solar panels, 5G connectivity, modular kitchens and smart showers are now standard features. At the same time, the community of “van lifers” is growing, often young freelancers and digital travellers who live and work on the road, even for long periods. Start-ups and micro-enterprises specialising in customised conversions have sprung up in Emilia-Romagna, responding to the needs of a clientele increasingly attentive to sustainability, aesthetics and independence.
Emilia-Romagna on the road: a new face of Motor Valley
The world of motorhomes and vans now represents a new spirit for Motor Valley, where mechanics, design and freedom of movement come together. Companies in the sector in Emilia Romagna are helping to redefine the concept of mobility and tourism, with products that embody sustainability, independence and connection with the local area. From the roads of the Apennines to international trade fairs, road trips find their ultimate expression here.