Pick up day

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23 August 2018

After a few days spent emptying and cleaning our existing van, which had covered 98,644 miles when we delivered it, we drove down to the Murvi factory in Ivybridge to collect our new one. It is metallic gold with green upholstery and grey carpets and cupboard doors. The layout, with its abundance of natural and artificial light and uncluttered side door, is essentially the same as we have been used to since April 2007 but there have been many technical improvements and changes which include:


• Different control systems
• Underslung gas tank to free more space for storage
• Easier method for securing the sofa and making the bed
• Improved insulation
• Double glazed windows to the rear
• Larger fridge which includes a light and auto power selection
• Different three burner cooker
• High definition T.V.
• A light and mirror in the wardrobe
• Improved external connections for water, gas and electricity


We have also specified some further improvements:


• Maxi van with upgraded weight limit to 4,250kg
• Automatic gear change
• All season tyres with traction and hill descent control
• High performance brakes and alternator
• Electric folding mirrors
• Rear mud flaps
• Security tracker
• DAB radio with USB input and hands-free phone connection
• Twin lens rear view camera and display
• Mobile wifi
• Automatic satellite dish
• Cab window blinds


Having received a detailed description of all the operating systems and changes, we completed the paperwork, paid Murvi we still owed them and gingerly drove to the Caravan and Motorhome Club site at Exeter Racecourse to spend a couple of familiarisation nights.

In the evening, Wendy enjoyed watching the new HD television while I spent the time trawling through the many operating manuals we had been given.

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