Airstream and Porsche are two of the most iconic brands on the road, but given their differences, you'd never believe the companies to team up.
Well, believe it.
Early this year, Airstream and the design firm Studio F. A. Porsche, a subsidiary of Porsche AG, revealed a “what if” collaboration, the Airstream Studio F. A. Porsche Concept Travel Trailer.
Think of it this way: it’s essentially what would happen if Porsche used its sports-car sensibilities to design and build an Airstream.
The trailer can fit into a garage
Studio F. A. Porsche wanted the trailer to fit in a garage — something most Airstreams can't do.
The trailer incorporates a pop-top roof, so it doesn’t have to be as tall when not in use. Studio F. A. Porsche also added adjustable suspension that lowers the body very close to the ground.
The trailer is super aerodynamic
Porsche altered the traditional Airstream shape at the rear for better airflow. The trailer has a flush underside for reduced drag. Essential systems are packaged within the chassis and interior to further aid aerodynamics.
The trailer also dispenses with the traditional Airstream rivets for a smooth outer shell. Better aerodynamics means easier, more efficient towing, which is helpful for EVs and combustion tow vehicles.
It's about the size of an Airstream Bambi
Studio F. A. Porsche settled on a 16-foot length for the trailer concept, about the size of Airstream’s smallest travel trailer, the Bambi. The initial plans considered 12-foot and 14-foot trailers to get the smallest, lightest trailer possible. But those smaller layouts created packaging issues that would have prevented the trailer from offering full amenities, including a bathroom.
The trailer does include a full wet bath, and Studio F. A. Porsche maximizes the interior space with a versatile dining area that can convert to lounge space and full-size sleeping quarters. The rear hatch opens to support open-air living or, when being towed, gear storage. There’s also a fold-down L-shaped counter for additional prep space while cooking.
This trailer is very much a concept
Airstream and Porsche Design launched the trailer as a concept. And it’s so conceptual that there isn’t a full-sized, physical prototype of the trailer ... yet.
However, Porsche did display a one-third scale model and photorealistic renderings of the trailer at SXSW 2023.
Airstream has not ruled out building an eventual production trailer based on this design from Studio F. A. Porsche. But no such plans appear to be on tap for the immediate future.
Let's hope that changes.
