Futuristic Whale Trailer Cabin is a Beautiful Glimpse of RVs to Come
This Modular Concept Trailer is a Red Dot Design Award Winner for 2021
Image Caption: Image Courtesy of Hu Yong/Red Dot Awards
The dream of a lightweight, expandable camping trailer is alive and well, as evidenced by the results of the 2021 Red Dot Design Awards. This year, Chinese designer Hu Yong took home one of the prizes with the Whale Trailer Cabin, a futuristic-looking towable that offers an intriguing glimpse of where the RV industry could be headed.
The annual Red Dot awards honor the most innovative and beautiful design concepts in various categories, including tech, transportation, architecture, and more.
Image Courtesy of Hu Yong/Red Dot Awards
At first glance, the Whale Trailer Cabin resembles other small trailers, albeit with an exaggerated aerodynamic shape. But look closer, and you can see the understated design inspirations adapted from its namesake animal. The RV features a smooth body, including a rounded nose and subtle, integrated fins. An eye-catching blue and white color scheme helps reinforce the “whale” theme.
While being towed, the camper looks similar to other towables. But, parked at the campsite, it soon takes on a personality all its own. When in camping mode, the sleek body gives way to a series of slide-outs and pop-ups that expand the size and capabilities of the Whale Trailer in interesting ways. For example, the nose of the trailer opens to reveal a slide-out sleeping area, while the roof expands to provide more headroom. Similarly, a side door opens to make way for a pull-out kitchen, complete with a refrigerator and microwave.
Image Courtesy of Hu Yong/Red Dot Awards
The Whale Trailer is only a concept vehicle, and the included graphics don’t provide a floorplan or a clear look at the interior. But the photos hint at a roomy, well-lit space.
While doubtful the Whale Trailer Cabin concept will ever become a reality, it’s intriguing nonetheless. Perhaps we’ll see some elements from the camper make their way into future designs, as there are certainly some interesting ideas to be discovered.
