Airtop 360°
New product
Item available in 3 weeks from receipt of the order
**
EURO 2.759,00
Tax excluded
FOR ORDERS BY PHONE AND OTHER INFORMATION
CALL CENTER AUTOHOME ITALY
Accessories
Independent verandah
EURO 799,00 Tax excludedFeet
EURO 139,00 Tax excludedWinter hood
EURO 209,00 Tax excludedAwning
EURO 199,00 Tax excludedChanging room
EURO 479,00 Tax excluded
TRASMISSIONE DEL VAPORE D’ACQUA
Tessuto Airtex: g/m²/24hrs: 440
Another very important factor is the transmission rate of the water vapour through the fabric, which should not be lower than 350 g/m²/24hrs. Only the high breathability and/or the excellent water vapour transmission rate can effectively limit moisture forming inside the tent, thus keeping your environment fresh and healthy. Therefore, choose carefully!
CAMERE DA TETTO FATTE PER DURARE
All particulars, from the design concept, materials and components, to the safety features and insulation, have been methodically chosen and thoroughly tested in order to obtain an all-weather proof product reliable at all times. Just like the structure of a boat, we have used fiberglass to prevent it from aging, discoloring or losing its shape.
TETTO COIBENTATO
BASE COIBENTATO
SHELLS 100% IN FIBERGLASS
NO, THE SHELLS ARE NOT PLASTIC, NOT ACRYLIC AND NOT ABS. THEY’RE 100% FIBERGLASS!
- The shells are hand-made with brushes and rollers, the best technique for multi-layers.
- Fiberglass shells provide excellent insulation from the heat and cold, dampen the noise of rainfall and are strong and durable. In addition, if damaged, they can be repaired with no trouble. They do not go out of shape during opening and closing of the tent or under load, with people inside.
FIBERGLASS ADVANTAGES
MATERIAL COMPARISON TABLE
AIRTEX® TEXTILE
THE AIRTEX® USED AS A STANDARD FITTING FOR THE COLUMBUS RANGE IS A HIGHLY WATER-PROOF FABRIC WITH HIGH COEFFICIENT OF WATER VAPOUR TRANSMISSION TO PREVENT THE FORMATION OF CONDENSATION.
Here are some details of the extraordinary features of the fabric:
- Despite its lightweight design – 200 g/m2, Aitex® is an extremely strong fabric, very hard to tear. It is light, compact, not plasticized and provides water vapour transmission of 440 g/m2/24 h.
- Heat, interior moisture and condensation are carried naturally outside the tent 24 7. A precious fabric for Autohome®, which has used it since 1980 despite its extra cost.
EXCELLENT BREATHABILITY, IMPROVED WELLBEING
AUTOHOME TENTS NATURALLY PREVENT CONDENSATION, REMOVING EXCESS HEAT AND WATER VAPOUR FROM THE TENT, 24 7
A LITTLE MORE INFORMATION…
The “breathability” effect is the result of high-quality fabrics
There are many different tent materials and systems available on the market, which give rise to problems or provide benefits according to their quality and workmanship. For example, many additional or double canvases are not much use. They simply hide condensation from view, without preventing it; and solar or battery-powered fans are also rather inefficient.
The essential feature for any tent used for camping is the fabric used, which of course has a cost but provides long-term advantages to the user.
The following factors may cause the build-up of condensation in a tent:
1. unsuitable fabric (plasticized or with too much resin)
2. the size of the environment
3. moisture from human breath
4. warmth built up during the day
5. the weather (rain and humidity)
6. the warmth produced by the human body. Overnight, on average, we lose about a third of a litre of water, in normal conditions, and this water vapour may become condensation.
Hence the importance of the fabric. Quality materials are essential for wellbeing, comfort and a satisfying outdoor life. Without noisy fans, air conditioners, suction devices and the like.
The certified values according to UNI and ISO tests show that AUTOHOME® fabrics remove humidity and condensation from the tent efficiently and naturally 24 7.
Results that give concrete proof of how Autohome tents, with their superior quality, have built up a reputation in the market for absolute excellence in the sector.
THE TENT STITCHING: WHAT LITTLE THERE IS, IS PERFECTLY SMOOTH
In a high-quality tent, the stitching is very important: there must be as little as possible and it must guarantee high-performance and reliability
- Check out the stitching:
- Count the number of stitches: the fewer the better.
- Check the needle and thread used. Plasticized surfaces should not be stitched because the stitching makes holes which tend to get bigger and bigger.
- Take a look at the fabric at the base of the tent, which should not be stitched, because this is where water could seep through.
- Take the same precautions for the roofs and under-roofs of vans and campers.
The AUTOHOME choices that make the difference
- There is an absolute minimum of stitching and no plasticized materials are used.
- At the base the tent and the fabric are perfectly integrated, without any stitching along the perimeter. The fabric is simply folded and turned up so the rain can run off smoothly outside the tent. There is no stitching in contact with water.
- The exclusive anchoring at the base uses elastic steel springs (without stitching) so the profile and base are flush. Only Autohome incorporates this high-quality feature.
- No stitching for the anchoring, the most delicate part of the tent.
- High up, the fabric is fixed to the tent by a dedicated aluminium rail.
- And, to cap it all off, enormous versatility:
- With the anchoring and fixing systems used by Autohome the fabric can be changed simply and easily.
4 EXTRA WINDOWS
FOR A 360° VIEW
The 4 extra windows (2 each side) provide a 360° view and have twin zips able to customize the opening. Because of their exposure, the zips are protected by waterproof rubber.
DARKENED EXTRA FINE MOSQUITO NETTING
YOU CAN’T SEE IN BUT YOU CAN SEE OUT
The darkened mosquito netting of the latest generation is extra fine and guarantees total protection against insects, night and day, and even when the ground is very moist.
So, untroubled sleep in Australia or Sweden, in a tropical forest, on marshland and on the banks of a river, frequently the habitat of the tiniest mosquitoes.
The mosquito netting is fitted to the fabric throughout, without stitching exposed to water.
DUAL MOSQUITO NETTING
The darkened mosquito netting of the latest generation is extra fine and guarantees total protection against insects, night and day, and even when the ground is very moist.
So, untroubled sleep in Australia or Sweden, in a tropical forest, on marshland and on the banks of a river, frequently the habitat of the tiniest mosquitoes.
The mosquito netting is fitted to the fabric throughout, without stitching exposed to water.
Dual netting on the doors to provide protection whatever opening you choose.
RAIN COVER
The rain covers allow for partial opening and the circulation of air at each side of the tent, naturally preventing the formation of condensation and keep the inside of the tent dry, fresh and healthy.
RAIN COVER OVER THE WINDOWS
- The 2 windows are fitted with a Rain Cover allowing partial opening even in the rain, essential for a natural change of air round the clock.
NEW! 360° MOSQUITO NET
INNOVATIVE, TECHNICAL TEXTILES
The innovative HI -TECH mosquito net in 360° models offers the following advantages:
- The extraordinary feature of darkening.
OUTSIDE YOU CANNOT SEE IN
INSIDE YOU CAN SEE OUT
All doors and windows are protected by an exclusive mosquito net providing greater intimacy inside the tent. Outside you cannot see in. Inside you can see out.
- A dense mosquito net.
Utterly unlike standard fittings, the netting is so fine no insects can enter. Untroubled sleep in areas of marshland, running water or on the banks of rivers where mosquitoes may be numerous.
Autohome has always used very fine mosquito nets.
- Very strong.
Highly resistant to lengthwise or oblique ripping.
- Strong in all environmental conditions.
Unaffected by UV rays, salty air or large temperature differences.
THE FEWER THE STITCHES THE FEWER THE PROBLEMS
- The mosquito netting has no stitching exposed to water, preventing infiltration and tearing.
- The mosquito netting is secured to the base of the tent by exclusive elastic springs inside the tent, strengthening the netting.
- Without stitching along the edges, the netting has no weak points. The fabric and netting are always taut, without rippling, for a superior technical and aesthetic performance.
TECHNICAL FEATURES OF A MOSQUITO NET FITTED TO 360° MODELS
The data below are the result of laboratory testing to ISO standards by highly reliable suppliers.
The exceptional result of tests carried out to ISO 14001 2004 - ISO 9001 2008 standards has enabled our suppliers to obtain quality certification from the Rheinland TUV.
ALL-PURPOSE CLAMPS
AN AUTOHOME IDEA FIRST PRESENTED AT THE EUROPEAN CARAVAN FAIR IN TURIN, 1982
- The built-in all-purpose clamp system developed by Autohome – running in the C-shaped guides in the base of the tent – provide quick anchorage to the roof rack.
- The installation can be customized and adapted to roof racks of different sizes and distances between the bars, without the need for cumbersome changes or holes in the tent shell.
- The tent can be fixed to two or more bars as well as to smooth roofs.
- Called the UNIVERSAL SYSTEM, this Autohome idea was first presented to the general public at the European Caravan Fair in Turin.
- Many have copied it and even today the Autohome® system complies with auto regulations and is TÜV quality-certified: proof of safety and a trouble-free product for customers and retailers of Autohome® roof tents.
FLYWHEEL OPENING
AS ALWAYS THE DISTINGUISHING FEATURE OF THE AUTOHOME RANGE
A device that is both practical and reliable, showing how Autohome applies quality to every detail of its products
The reasons behind the distinctive choice:
- Flywheel opening is acknowledged as safe, reliable and durable. It is used for camper awnings and large canvas protections, in sports and in prestige residences. Not surprisingly it one of the features that has contributed over the yeas to the success of Maggiolina Autohome®, a product may have tried to imitate.
- The flywheel is a practical way of opening the tent, but useful for closing too: you don’t have to climb up over the vehicle to close the tent!
- The mechanical flywheel is safe and doesn’t require maintenance. It is greatly appreciated by users of 4WD vehicles and tall vans.
- The flywheel can be used to adjust the tension of the tent, making it perfectly taut: even after years of service the fabric does not loosen. In addition, it is “creaseless” and allows the rain to drain off quickly whilst standing up to the wind.
And lastly the flywheel is like a house key…
- Close the tent, remove the flywheel and it is just like locking your front door. Without the flywheel the shells cannot be opened or closed. Keeping your bags, beauty cases, rucksacks and their contents, along with other valuables, safe and out of harm’s way.
HIGH-TECH PERFORMANCE
INSULATED ROOF TESTED - UNI EN ISO
The dual Autohome roof comprises an original fiberglass shell and a special honeycomb panel pre-perforated by laser technology. This exclusive “structural” system creates an “air cushion” preventing 24 7 the formation of moisture and condensation inside the tent.
INSULATED ROOF
THE ORIGINAL AUTOHOME “INSULATED ROOF”: HOW IT WORKS
- The insulated roof uses the same principle as applied by the building industry to the rooftops over lofts: an air cushion is created forming an interspace connecting the inside and outside, providing extra insulation against the cold and noise, but also keeping off the heat and humidity. The result is a quiet, healthy environment when it rains.
- Also important is the thick “anti-condensation foam” system adopted by Autohome for the lining under the roof. Experience has taught us that for the outdoors this is an essential feature for wellbeing inside the tent.
NO OTHER DEVICES ARE NEEDED
- With the advanced design of the Autohome® roof, no other devices – noisy and inefficient dehumidifiers and fans or solar chimneys and the like – are needed.
COMFORT IS A STANDARD FEATURE
- Autohome® mattresses ae of the highest quality and density of 25-30 kg/m³. The sponge rubber, with removable polyester/cotton lining, is comfortable and does not go out of shape.
- Depending on the type of tent, two, three or four pillows are provided, which are stored inside the tent when closed.
- N.B.
Autohome® tents are supplied complete with fittings. No extra price for pillows or the standard aluminium ladder.
INCLUDING ADJUSTABLE LAMP WITH LEDs
- Touch lamp (18 x 5 cm) with 3 Led ultra-bright leds, an adjustable spotlight and batteries.
- The lamp can be removed from the roof to replace the batteries or use as emergency lighting.
LADDERS IN DETAIL
- Not impressed by the huge variety of ladders on the market, Autohome® produces its own ad hoc aluminium ladders to tight specifications: light, compact, a perfect match with the tent.
- Ladders available on the market are not used. Nor are low-cost mass-produced ladders. Each one comprises two halves, one sliding over the other, held together by Arnitel supports: an extremely strong plastic designed and manufactured by Autohome® to ensure sand, dirt or mud is not trapped in the sliding mechanism and the ladder works perfectly in all conditions.
- The ladder can be placed at the entrance as you want, and locked automatically in position with the built-in “Security Lock”. No ugly and impractical hooks.
- A bag is supplied for the ladder.
SECURITY LOCK
- The automatic spring in the “Security Lock” locks the two parts of the ladder in position for perfect stability and, above all, safety.
- The “Security Lock” and attachment at the top of the ladder ensure that, climbing up or down, there is no weight on the tent. This is safe and prolongs the life of the tent.
- With the “Security Lock” the ladder cannot slip and slide or bump against the bodywork.
- Ladders are designed ergonomically with rounded aluminium profiles for easy use.
- The steps are oval with anti-slip surface and can be climbed with bare feet.
- The two parts of the ladder are held together by Arnitel plastic supports designed to be “open” to remove dirt ensuring a smooth sliding mechanism even on a sandy or muddy terrain.
- The built-in strut has the dual function of preventing oscillation and protecting the vehicle roof or drip surface (where the ladder is used, for example, with a Lan Rover Defender).
- Simple, practical, without ugly and clumsy hooks.
- The ladder has no fixed position at the base of the tent and so can be placed to the left or right or at the centre of the entrance, as you wish, depending on the opening of the vehicle door.
- A bag is supplied for the ladder.
- For some vehicles the tent can be attached directly to the vehicle roof runners. Rubber is fitted specifically for this purpose to prevent damage to the bodywork.
- Ladders are available with the following lengths:
STANDARDArt. 113 / M-ALL
Closed
120 x 8 x 34 cm
Open
209 x 8 x 34 cm
Max. vehicle height
190 cm
4WD LADDER Art. 114 / M-ALL
Closed
130 x 8 x 34 cm
Open
232 x 8 x 34 cm
Max. vehicle height
215 cm
EXTRA LONG LADDER Art. 115 / M-ALL
Closed
147 x 8 x 34 cm
Open
257 x 8 x 34 cm
Max. vehicle height
240 cm
N.B.: when travelling all ladders can be placed inside the closed tent except the EXTRA LONG ladder, which is too large for the shell.
INTERNAL ELASTIC
HELPS TO FOLD AWAY THE TENT WITHOUT WRINKLING THE FABRIC
- Hooking up the elastic the fabric is drawn towards the centre of the tent, making it easier to close. This is especially advantageous when the tent is installed high up on a camper, 4WD or van roof.
- The elastic works independently, is not sewn directly to the fabric and does not cause wrinkling or other defects. The result is an attractive fabric that is waterproof, stable and durable.
- Unhooked, the fabric is taut and unwrinkled, as experts have repeatedly testified.
AUTOMATIC SAFETY LOCK
THE DEVICE BLOCKS THE ANGLE OF THE LADDER PREVENTING SLIPPAGE OUTWARD
- The special ALSS knuckle at the base of the tent is a safety lock for the ladder, making sure it doesn’t slip outward. Indispensable on the tarmac and smooth or slippery surfaces.
- Ladder dimensions: h closed: cm 110 – h open: cm 230
ACCESSORIES THAT CAN BE FITTED EASILY
ON REQUEST:
WINGS – WINTER HOOD - AWNINGS.
- Along both sides, loops are fitted for accessories such as Wings or awnings, so no holes need to be drilled in the shell.
- The perimeter of the tent is fitted with stitched Velcro so the winter hood accessory can be fitted simply.
AIR CAP
- Columbus incorporates the exclusive AirCap ventilation system designed for the ergonomics of this tent. The AirCap intake is at the top of the canvas, sheltered from the weather and protected by a mosquito net, improving ventilation and preventing the formation of condensation.
AIRTOP OPENING AND CLOSING
AUTOHOME ELIMINATES UNATTRACTIVE FEATURE
- The extraordinary hoisting system with four gas springs opens the shell tent instantaneously and without difficulty.
- The tent opens in two steps and is immediately ready for safe use: there is no need to manually place the support arms.
- The hoisting arms are designed cleverly and left deliberately visible to the naked eye. They are fitted with rubber to ensure the fabric does not tear, eliminating the unattractive guards used in the past.
- The gas spring rod is housed in plastic for lubrication and cleanliness both of the rod and the sheets and mattress.
- The four gas springs lifting the roof have just the right size and are set to stretch the fabric smoothly and evenly. The unwrinkled fabric repels the rain and is strong in the wind.
NEW
The Windstop now fitted to all springs is an additional safety feature. Innovative, yet easy to use, it locks the spring and makes the arms rigid: perfect for strong winds and for better overall stability.
AUTOMATIC SAFETY LOCK
THE DEVICE BLOCKS THE ANGLE OF THE LADDER PREVENTING SLIPPAGE OUTWARD
- The special ALSS knuckle at the base of the tent is a safety lock for the ladder, making sure it doesn’t slip outward. Indispensable on the tarmac and smooth or slippery surfaces.
FIXING THE ELASTIC HOOD COVERING THE TENT
THE MOST RELIABLE SYSTEM
- A strong tear-proof hood protects the tent when it is closed and while travelling. The hood covers the tent and is fixed by elastic around the perimeter, fitting onto hooks under the tent.
- Elastic was chosen way back in 1959 and still today is the most practical and reliable system.
- Other closing systems failed to pass Autohome tests for functioning and reliability. Not even a zip around the perimeter will do, because desert sand or Australian dust as rarified as talcum powder can clog the mechanism.
- The hood is made of strong electro-welded PVC with additional internal reinforcements.
OVERCAMP
DOUBLE UP
- Side positioning: the tent will occupy only half of the car roof space.
- You can fit: Small + Small, Medium + Small or Medium + Medium on large vehicl
OVERCAMP
STANDARD POSITIONING
- Open, the tent covers the whole vehicle roof without jutting over the hedge.
- In this way, it can be used in rest areas and car-parks, not only in campsites.
THE RIGHT TENT FOR SPORT
- Surfboards, a canoe, bicycles or tools for your favourite sport can be placed on the roof rack, thanks to the compact design of Overcamp, which takes up only half of the roof.
SUN SHADES
- The two large doors can easily be turned into sun shades, using the standard aluminium poles.
- The two poles on either side of the entrance with the ladder are fixed to the base of the tent, whilst the two on the opposite side can be removed.
- N.B. Do not use the sun shades when it is windy.
WINDSTOP
AN AUTOHOME EXCLUSIVE MAKING ALL THE DIFFERENCE INDISPENSABLE IN STRONG WINDS
WINDSTOP is an easy-to-use device applied directly to the gas spring to provide Columbus and Airtop tents with additional stability.
Every tent with gas spring opening is fitted with WINDSTOP.
ADVANTAGES:
- Easy to use for extra stability in strong winds.
- No tedious manual operations to stretch out the tent or fold up support arms every time the tent is opened or closed.
- Two-step opening and closing guaranteed, for easy use.
BUILT-IN CARRIER
FOR LONG TRIPS
- The upper shell has an exclusive design and the guides fitted to the structure allow for a maximum roof load. The adjustable bars are perfect for large loads such as a spare tyre, fuel tanks, timber and tools.
- Max. load 25 Kg. (See operating instructions)
SHELLS IN FIBERGLASS
A SUPER LIGHT ROOF TENT
- The Innovative and exclusive Autohome® production of fiberglass shells makes for a decidedly lighter tent.
- Fiberglass is a compound material, obtained from sinking carbon threads into a special resin. After solidifying, fiberglass is incredibly strong and light.
- Because it is difficult to dent or deform, fiberglass is used in many motor sports.
- Fiberglass shells for Autohome® tents are made by laying out layers of carbon fiber in special moulds, and impregnating them with special resin for hardness.
- The advantages of fiberglass shells include great strength, their weight (up to 20% less than conventional shells), heat insulation and their ability to withstand huge changes in temperature.
The colour of our Shells
is an integral part of the fiberglass
The special GELCOAT is a natural colour amalgamated directly into the fiberglass. Totally unlike conventional paints, it ensures maximum strength and in unalterable.
- For our shells, Autohome chose the highest quality and most reliable procedure for the paint. Gelcoat, which amalgamates with the fiber, is as durable and tough as can be.
- That is why it is used for fiberglass vessels which need to withstand an aggressive salty environment and multiple situations of stress.
- Unlike conventional paints used for bodywork, Gelcoat is applied thickly in the mould during stratification, so it amalgamates perfectly with the fiberglass.
- The result is a tough paint, resistant to UV rays, heat, salt water and salty air, as well as aggressive solvents. It can handle just about anything.
- Whereas painting the shells would make them more likely to scratch, dent and become damaged during the journey. Painted, the fiberglass peels and is less long-lasting.
- This is why Autohome® doesn’t customize the paintwork. Because the shell ISN’T painted at all.
- But, on request, a particular shade of Gelcoat can be chosen from international colour charts (for orders of 70/100 units).
So that’s the secret of Autohome’s colour. It is part of the shells, not painted on! Painting a shell reduces its strength. Unalterable Gelcoat preserves it.
NEW
NO MORE NOISE FROM THE WIND!
AUTOHOME ELIMINATES THE PROBLEM OF DANGLING HANDLES AND NIGHT NOISE.
- Now, tie-rods and handles on the edges of the shell can be whisked away with a simple gesture, eliminating the irritating noise caused by the wind. It also improves tidiness and the look of the tent interior, with nothing dangling awkwardly.
BUT THAT IS NOT ALL! AUTOHOME HAS ALSO MADE THE ZIP CURSORS “WIND-PROOF”
- A rubber ring silences the movement of the zip cursor even in high winds and makes zipping and unzipping even easier.
ALSO BANDS AND CLIPS ON DOORS ARE WINDPROOF
- The double clip prevents the bands from hanging off, thus avoiding the annoying tinkling caused by the breeze and the wind.
PAOLO MARIN
Paolo Marin, born in the Veneto region of Italy but, by choice, a citizen of the world, is the founder of the well-known and much appreciated Photo Challenge "A trip everyone can manage". For many years he has been considered an expert in adventure travel. He has a passion for the desert and Libya is constantly in his heart. A tour leader, he teaches off-road driving and lives in Padua when he isn’t driving through the desert.
PAOLO MARIN
AN EXPERT'S ADVICE
AIRTOP®
Airtop has a distinctive brand and design, but is still a member of the Maggiolina family. All the materials and fittings are as for the Maggiolina range. The only difference is the opening mechanism, with 4 gas springs, rather like the boot of many cars. Opening is in 2 stages. One big advantage is that the opening mechanism is fitted to the side of the tent, so the tent does not need extra length. This way, the whole surface (2.1 metres) of the tent can be used, providing a comfortable bed even for the tallest and 190/ 200 cm of height. Clearly this means the tent is a little narrower because of the lifting arms at the side. Maggiolina is the other way round, wider and a little shorter because of the lifting mechanism. Hence the 2.30 X-long model in the Maggiolina range, for the very tall.
AIRTOP® 360°
This is another new product for 2019 by Autohome: models with a 360° view, with spring opening and darkened mosquito nets for privacy even when the doors and windows are open. The rest is as for Airtop. Top-of-the-range for fittings, and as far as I am aware, an immediate success, with many orders. So, I would suggest pre-ordering in good time.
New 2019 – New closing for shell tents
This year, Autohome changed the closing mechanism for tents, with the addition of innovative aluminium and steel devices. The closing mechanism is attractive and practical. As always with Autohome, the aim is for total safety, with 2 closures at the front, the surface most exposed to the buffeting of the wind, and one only at the rear, as certified by the southern TUV after testing the entire tent for safety. This testing was thorough and the certification complete, unlike the partial certification of some products on the market which are not fully guaranteed as reliable. Users often find themselves with merely verbal assurances and should not trust such incomplete and non-transparent promises.
EUGENIO MARTIGNANI
Eugenio Martignani has a long track record in adventure travel on board a series of off-road vehicles. He has transformed his passion for nature and exploration of far-off lands into a profession, as a journalist specializing in 4WD autos.
For the past thirty years, he has contributed to Italian and international magazines, worked in TV as a test driver, technician, sportsman and travel reporter. He has seven Camel Trophies, years of experience in African Rally Raids, has crossed Siberia in winter and headed up the frozen Mackenzie River as far as the Beaufort Sea. And more. For work or fun, he has driven in all the Continents: from the Amazon to Mongolia, from Australia to the Polar Circle, from Indonesia to South Africa. He has written books and guidebooks for off-road vehicles and, when he has a little time, heads off to somewhere new, with a preference for deserts, which he has explored the world over. His “mission” is to leave civilization behind and explore unknown destinations, because – as he says - “the four elements of our planet are earth, water, air and fire, not asphalt or cement!”
On his off-road adventures, he has used and tested the roof tents of various manufacturers and, in particular, the wide range of Autohome products, which are able to meet even his demanding needs.
“What do I look for in a roof tent? Distance from the ground, protection against animals, rapid opening and closing and comfort inside because a good night’s sleep is all important if you want to travel well.”
EUGENIO MARTIGNANI
AN EXPERT RATES AUTOHOME PRODUCTS
TTHE BASIC FEATURES OF AUTOHOME QUALITY
In general, they are all tents of superior quality, with manufacturing and technical features that undoubtedly place them at the top of the sector. Technically (function, performance and comfort) and in aesthetic terms, they are unbeatable.
Autohome represents “history” and the continuous development of roof tents for vehicles; the company is the market leader with products that just can’t be copied. It is no accident that they were the first in the world to patent and develop this type of tent.
Since 1958 they have created a whole range of innovations and successful products. Their tents are the biggest sellers the world over, which is unusual because quality doesn’t usually coincide with quantity. But with Autohome, it does.
Another added value which today is particularly important is pride in a product that bears the “Made in Italy” label, with exclusively Italian and some European suppliers.
PROFILE OF INDIVIDUAL PRODUCTS
MAGGIOLINA® (AIRLANDER - GRAND TOUR- EXTREME - EXTREME)
These are models that open and close with a handwheel, using 4 lifting poles, two at the front and 2 at the rear.
Fabrics used: DRALON® (Made in Germany) and AIRTEX (German-made, of the highest technical quality).
AIRTOP®
Airtop opens with gas springs fitted into the 4 lifting arms, in pairs on both sides of the tent.
Fabrics used: DRALON® and AIRTEX®
COLUMBUS®
Tent models opening with gas springs fitted into 2 lifting poles on the sides.
Fabric used: AIRTEX®
AIR-CAMPING® - OVERLAND®
This tent opens “like a book” with 2 platforms hinged at the sides with 3 ribs supporting the fabric.
OVERZONE®
Conceptually similar to Overland, opening like a book and again with 2 platforms hinged at the sides with 3 ribs supporting the fabric and a further adjustable rib at the entrance to the tent.
OVERCAMP®
Opening with 3 adjustable ribs supporting the fabric.
I should point out that one of the advantages of these tents is that, when they are closed, they only take up half of the space on the vehicle roof, leaving room for sports gear (for example for surfing or canoeing) or other equipment.
MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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MY RATINGS - PERFORMANCES
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= VERY GOOD
= EXCELLENT
= SUPER
JÜRG SOLLBERGER
Jürg Sollberger is a traveller who has often done things ahead of time. A free spirit and innovator, he has worked on projects and in situations that later became a must for adventure travel. A dreamer, a rebel and certainly a man of courage: a tour leader for all kinds of destination, with every sort of itinerary.
You might think that such a man is solitary, a true loner, but Jürg is quite the opposite: to begin with, he is accompanied on his adventures by Doris Sollberger, who shares his achievements.
An explorer at the cutting edge, open to dialogue and capable of strong friendships: unsurprisingly, he is an excellent cultural and technical advisor. Including for Autohome. Indeed, he was one of the first travellers in the 90s to severely test Autohome products in Asia, contributing to the beginning of adventure travel in the Far East.
His famous tours include long trips in extreme conditions in China, Myanmar, Tibet and other countries in the Far East. In numerous expeditions and events, he has publicly thanked Autohome and spoken of its “Superior rooftent”. A significant homage to the products her himself uses on his adventure trips.
Since 1986, he has been an expert instructor in the trans-Africa tour, but his lasting passion has been for the silk-road, which he often uses to illustrate his “no limits” journeys.
VULA NETOU
The story of Vula Netou and how she took up adventure travel is fascinating. She is a young, passionate woman, full of life with a history in dance, first as a performer, then as a choreographer. For many years she has worked in the theatre as a dance teacher. Gradually, she fell in love with the freedom of adventure travel and shared the dream of Akis Temperidis to travel the world for nearly four years. Because of her legendary round the world tour, she can be considered an ideal tester, particularly in relation to the needs of women on arduous journeys of this kind.
The figures speak for themselves: 168,000 km covered in 1,177 days, visiting 67 countries in 5 continents. Over 70 articles have been written about the tour, and there have been over 150,000 clicks. More than 200 hours of film are available, edited into a docufilm released the world over.
BERND WOICK
For many years, Bernd Woick has managed shops specializing in outdoor clothing, tents and technical products for trekking, mountaineering and adventure travel. With his professional skills, he is well-known for his expertise in the sector and someone who personally tests his products and is familiar with the opinions of his clients. His company was founded in 1982 in Filderstadt, Germany and now has stores in other German cities. With the help of trusted colleagues, in recent years Woick has decided to dedicate more and more time to travelling, in the form of tours based on a strong spirit of discovery in out-of-the-way locations ensuring maximum contact with nature. He particularly likes to travel in a properly equipped vehicle, tested personally for his type of trip with no limits, and consulting in the auto sector obviously helps. His motto is: “Travel means living your dreams”. This combination of professional experience and passion makes him an ideal tester for Autohome products.
Autohome and Woick: growing together
From its creation, I’ve watched Autohome grow and followed its developments through the products I sell in my specialist stores. We immediately understood the philosophy of Autohome and its technical and manufacturing decisions based on excellence and distinguishing itself in a market where improvisation sadly still exists today. Whereas Autohome aimed straight for excellence and reliability, so we chose it as a flagship manufacturer for our stores. And we were right. Autohome has been increasingly successful for us even with the most demanding and expert clients.
I’ve always believed in the concept of a roof tent
The advantages of an excellent roof tent are so obvious it seems strange that it took so long for the idea to be accepted. And yet it did! I’ve always recommended roof tents, right from the start, over twenty years ago, because I knew they were practical, comfortable and safe. Roof tents are practically immediately available, they are practical and are an excellent shelter from the weather when you’re sleeping outdoors. They make cars more useful and competitive compared to the alternatives for sleeping at night. Today, the concept is largely but not completely accepted. Some people still don’t really understand the difference a roof tent can make and here, the quality of products like Autohome is very persuasive. You don’t change your mind after an Autohome tent, as many of my clients have proved. And, indeed, as I can personally testify.
From consultant to user
These days, I travel most of the year. I can consider myself justifiably a “citizen of the world”, because I’ve been to every continent. Yet there is still so much to explore and discover! Since I use Autohome roof tents so much, I think I can be considered a top tester. I have been able to personally appreciate how the technical and manufacturing decisions of Autohome truly make the difference. In the past, I have given technical and theoretical rather than practical advice, but now it’s the other way round. I know from experience that Autohome roof tents last longer and provide far more protection than any other in the sector. I could sum it up like this: an Autohome tent is the best investment a traveller can make. It provides wellbeing, safety and comfort.
BERND WOICK
AN EXPERT'S ADVICE
AIRTOP®
Design and practicality with “double-up” opening
Airtop is a tent that blends great design and excellent practicality. It has two-step, “double-up” opening. The system guarantees rapid opening and easy closing, just by reaching out. It works with 4 gas springs able to lift the upper shell. The springs are fitted to the sides and the result is a stable tent thanks to the windstops fitted to the springs. The main advantages I appreciated: 1. For people with a large build, I recommend the Medium model. For people of average build who want the best vehicle/tent ratio, I recommend the Small model, which looks great even on smaller vehicles. 2. Airtop is often chosen by people with vehicles of medium height. Experience bears this out. For example, Airtop was chosen by MINI BMW. Produced by Autohome exclusively for the MINI Countryman market. A significant indicator. 3. When the tent is closed, you can see 2 front openings, the most exposed surface where the impact with the air is greatest. But there is no problem travelling even at quite a lick. For safety reasons, the TUV South certification authority specifies 2 openings at the front and one at the rear.
4. As is I often say, for travelling families, 2 adults and 2 children, the choice of tent is very important. In particular, if you have a fairly large vehicle, I recommend the large Airtop or X-large model of Airtop for maximum comfort. 5. Another thing I often point out: even when Airtop is open, it doesn’t jut out from the vehicle or outside the wing-mirrors. That means you can use the tent in car-parks and other public areas: along riverbanks, in forests, on a lakeside or close to a torrent… Or motorway service station car-parks or in lay-bys. You’re within the law, so you can stop and sleep. Nobody can tell you to go to a campsite. 6. In line with the usual quality of Autohome, the shells are in fibre glass, with all the advantages of that material. The tent is ventilated, insulated, does not create condensation and is soundproofed even in the rain, thanks to the thick foam. 7. Another positive feature is the quality of the fabrics: breathable and with rapid round-the-clock water vapour transmission outside the tent.
AKIS TEMPERIDIS
NOBODY LIKE HIM
Akis Temperidis is one of the greatest of all contemporary travellers. The figures are clear: the “auto record-man”, as unsurprisingly he is called, drove 168,000 km in 1,177 days, covering 67 countries and 5 continents. On the record tour he was accompanied by his life partner Vula Netou. Akis is a journalist by profession, specializing in travel, motor sports and adventure activities. After a long career as a tester and documentary writer, he decided to turn his dreams into reality by travelling the world. This was the beginning of the The World Offroad project. Today too, Akis is working on numerous projects as a partner of auto makers, photographer and publicist, in particular as a freelance correspondent for travel magazines and the adventure car industry.
ROBERTO MANOCCHI
Roberto Manocchi: the Off-Road “guru”
This is how they would call him if he were born in India: guru. Instead, he is a Venetian from Venice, as he likes to call himself. For this, everybody actually calls him the “mechanic of dreams”: with his skilful hands even the most extraordinary world tour projects come true. After all, in his career which started far back in 1990, he has been accompanied by many titles and appellations: engineer, tour leader, maestro… But he is always the one and only Roberto “the wizard” of the mechanics shop, capable of transforming a vehicle into something that will be able to withstand challenges reaching beyond imagination. Today he is a consolidated reference especially in the world of Land Rovers, because, as everyone knows, his soul always travels and lives in a Defender.
An intelligent and sensitive auto preparer, his job always starts from the expectations of the person that will travel rather than from the technical components. And yet he really masters technology! Very few know all about 4x4s like him. He knows how to be the friend who wisely gives advice and, at the same time, the super expert without excessive triumphalism and senseless ideas. His driving force is surely passion, but he does not let it take control. This is why he is sharp, rational and very meticulous, an exceptional auto testerman, sought-after in all Europe: merciless judgements, but always well justified.
With his profile and background, Autohome wanted him to be the verifier for its innovations: products, systems, accessories. Now his presence has become a consolidated tradition: nothing passes unless approved by Manocchi. The most recent test where he was protagonist was the one performed on the new closures that Autohome intends to introduce on all hard shell tents starting from 2020. After exhausting tests on the field, the Wizard of the auto workshop declared: “A very innovative closure makes the concept of functionality in the sector take a giant leap forward. It is a reconfirmation of the commitment and top quality which makes Autohome stand out even with regards to the technological elements.”
Take the word of the guru.
UPDATE 2020
1 - WINDOWS Improvements for the windows!
- The windows have been enlarged in size compared to the previous production.
- Inside additional elements waterproof panels have been added.
2 - MOSQUITO NETS
- Mosquito nets were replaced with an innovative HI -TECH blackout mosquito nets that provide more privacy for the occupants of the tent.
- Outside you can’t see inside, inside you can see outside.
- These mosquito nets also exhibit an even denser weave for greater protection against insects, even the smallest ones.
3 - CLOSURES
- The previous cold pressed steel closures were replaced with top quality aluminium closures.
- These new closures exhibit steel cores and are perfectly adjustable. They are also fitted with a security lockdown.
4 - COVERS
- On the bottom additional wear-resistant covers have been added.
5 - Handmade fiberglass shells as per tradition
- Additional internal structural reinforcements for a longer life of the shell have been employed in the resin, useful for off-road stress and normal use of the tent;
6 - MATTRESS
7 - PVC-MESH May 2020
- As standard, the bases of the shell blinds are protected by a special PVC - MESH fabric of very limited thickness that keeps the mattress more insulated and protected.
