Introducing Helga, the ultimate retro adventure: A Luxury 1980s German Fire Engine Motorhome!
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our one-of-a-kind, fully converted 1980s German Fire Engine Motorhome. This eye-catching, unique gem has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious, modern motorhome – while maintaining its retro charm and distinctive character. Prepare to turn heads and spark conversation wherever you go!
Helga is Pet-Friendly, Festival-Friendly, and perfect for winter sports such as Skiing , Boarding and Trail Hiking.
CAN YOU DRIVE HELGA ?
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Yes you can drive her if you meet the following criteria.
• Must hold UK licence for 3 years minium and aged over 30.
• The vehicle requires class C1 license as it is over 3.5 tons. This can be either through passing your test before January 1997 ( Grandfather Rights ) or through later separate C1 test if passed after that date.
• The insurance covers some minor convictions for speeding, but not more serious convictions such as drink or dangerous drving. Each hirer must submit licence number so DVLA check can be performed.
• Cover is not available if you have CCJ or criminal record, or had any fault accidents or theft claims in last 5 years.
• Standard cover only applies to UK. If you wish to take Helga overseas then please contact us for an insurance quote.
If you cannot drive but would still like to stay in Helga then we can deliver.
THE OUTSIDE
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• Bright red authentic 1980s German Fire Engine exterior, carefully restored and preserved.
• Rooftop garden terrace with Astro-turf, perfect for enjoying panoramic views.
• Outdoor Gas BBQ connection, supplied gas BBQ and small charcoal BBQ/firepit.
• Ample storage compartments, including a garage area for outdoor gear, 3 lockable external storage boxes , towbar and bike rack for upto 4 bikes.
• Dual lift up sides presenting an outside bar area and fold down table and open access to kitchen and rear seating.
• Extra large 4mx2.5m side awning.
• 200litre fresh water tank & 100litre grey water tank.
• 700w of roof top solar panels meaning fully off grid power.
• Keypad entry to living area, meaning keys can be locked inside the safe.
• 30m mains electric hook-up lead.
THE INSIDE
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• Seating with belts for up to 5 passengers (including ISOFIX for 2 rear seats).
• Swivel double passenger seat that also forms part of dining area.
• Digital safe that is hidden and secured to chassis. Fits Ipads and small laptops.
• Fully connected Victron electrical and monitoring system with touch screen. ( See power in/out & water levels )
• High-speed Wi-Fi, 5x USB charging ports, reversing camera, dashcam and integrated Apple Carplay with upgraded 4 channel speaker system which can run off either main or leisure batteries.
• 1400w mains inverter with 4x 240v household sockets.
• 240ah of leisure batteries to run electrics when off grid.
KITCHEN AREA
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• Large solid oak worktop and draining board and under cabinet lights.
• Opening side so you can cook inside whilst talking to those outside.
• Large 'Belfast' style sink with instant hot water.
• Large 130l l fridge/freezer
• Microwave oven & grill
• 2 Burner gas stove.
• Fully equipped cutlery and utensils for 6 people.
• Multiple shelves and 3x large food storage drawers as well as under sink cupboards.
• Slow cooker, ice maker and Airfyer all available on request
THE BEDS
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• Sleeps upto 6 people in 2 double bunk beds & hammock
• Electric full size double bed the retracts into the ceiling above living room. Drop low if additional bed isn't needed, or leave in the middle as double bunk beds.
• Rear L seating converts to double bed
• Front cab area converts to large flat hammock bed suitable for 1 teenager or 2x under 12s.
• At least 2 USB ports next to each bed.
• 2x dimmable bedside lights, storage pockets next to rear beds.
• USB fans for both sleeping areas.
BATHROOM
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• Rain and hand showers. 200L of water is enough for 6-8 good showers. more if careful and instant gas water heating means everyone can have showers back to back. No waiting for re-heat and yes it is hot enough.
• Integrated 17L toilet with plumbed in flush and level indicatory. Fully sealed so no smells.
• Integrated sink and storage areas for toiletries.
• Underfloor and hot air heating.
SAFTEY
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• Water and CO2 Fire extinguishers
• Fire blanket
• Gas Inspection certificate.
• Gas Regulator Crash Sensor
• Smoke & Co2 detector alarm.
• Internal deadlocks on cab doors.
• Automatic dashcam.
HEATING AND COMFORT
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• Ceiling mounted remote control Maxxfan that can blow air in or out and set at 10 different levels or thermostatically controlled.
• App controlled and scheduled timers for underfloor heating, fridge and water pump to conserve power and enjoy peaceful quiet nights. ( eg Switches fridge and water pump off between midnight and 6am.).
• Fully Winterised for winter touring including :
• Hot air diesel heating system for instant heat, fully controllable by termostat or fan settings and plumbed into main diesel tanks so no need to refill smaller tanks.
• 24v underfloor heating throughout, uses approx 500w and when connected to shore power can be left on constantly maintain a pleasant temperature or used with the scheduled timers to take the chill of the floor in the mornings.
• Reflective silver insulated covers for all windows
• Multiple layers of insulation throughout the vehicle to ensure temperature is maintained even in the coldest of environments. Has been tested to maintain 20c inside with -10c outside, but should be able to go even colder.
• Both water tanks are fully insulated and also include app controlled/timed heat pads to prevent freezing.
DRIVING
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Helga is a 35 years old Left Hand Drive German fire engine, however she is still enjoyable to drive.
• Fitted with electric power steering
• Automatic reversing camera/dashcam
• Large mirrors to help with visibility.
• 4 litre Turbo Diesel and 5 speed gearbox
• Will cruise all day at 55-62mph
• Return about 22mpg.
• 'Dually' rear wheels with heavy duty truck chassis.
• With the weight being down low and central she feels very stable on the road, much more so than a similar sized modern motorhome on a lighter chassis.
• 3PMSF '3 Peak Mountain Snow Flake' marked winter tyres
The main differences from a modern motorhome is that the engine is noisier, but the owners have put alot of effort into reducing this with multiple layers of sound deadening meaning you can still listen to music and talk whilst driving.
Having come from service in a small German village as the local fire truck until May-2020 she has only done about 30,000 miles in those 35 years. As part of the restoration she has also undergone a full mechanical inspection and refresh and is ready for the next chapter in her life as a motorhome.
Fully suitable for long journeys and has already travelled throughout the UK and France.
ULEZ
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This vehicle was built in 1988 so is over 35 years old. This means she does not yet qualify for the UK ULEZ 40 year historical exemption.
Driving in some cities would incure a ULEZ fee for which you are responsible.
You can check this via the relevant city's own ULEZ website using vehicle registration E453MAS.
how much. For example.
London ULEZ - £300 per day
Birmingham ULEZ - £50 per day
Portsmouth ULEZ - £100 per day