# Stripped-Down Camper Vans The Mercedes Marco Polo Activity Keeps it Simple By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2014-09-04 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercedes-marco-polo-activity References: [gizmag](http://www.gizmag.com/mercedes-marco-polo-activity-camper/33623/) & [www5.mercedes-benz](http://www5.mercedes-benz.com/en/vehicles/passenger-cars/the-new-marco-polo-stylish-independence-v-class/) The [Mercedes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/slim-chance-adventure-van) Marco Polo Activity is a new [camper](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rogue-legends-rally-van) that is essentially a lighter, more athletic version of the Marco Polo. The Activity has the same measurements as the regular Marco Polo -- 5.14 x 1.93 x 1.98 meters -- but is lighter. A big reason for this is the fact that it doesn't have a [kitchen unit](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/orion-365), instead using up that room for three rear bench seats. While the original Marco Polo is targeted towards those who literally need to live in the vehicle, the Marco Polo Activity is suitable for those who will spend more times outside and only need the vehicle for bare necessities. The Activity starts at $51,200, substantially cheaper than the regular Marco Polo. It comes in a number of powertrain options. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.4/10 - Popularity: 96% | Activity: 88% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Lightweight Camper Vans:** Opportunity for creating camper vans that prioritize lightweight design by eliminating non-essential features like kitchen units. - **Outdoor Adventure Vehicles:** Opportunity to develop camper vans geared towards individuals who spend more time outside and prioritize minimalistic features. - **Affordable Camper Vans:** Opportunity to offer camper vans at lower price points by removing luxury features and focusing on bare necessities. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Automotive:** Opportunity for automotive manufacturers to innovate and create stripped-down camper vans. - **Outdoor Recreation:** Opportunity for outdoor recreation companies to develop camper vans tailored for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize lightweight and minimalist design. - **Travel and Tourism:** Opportunity for travel and tourism companies to offer affordable and practical camper van options for travelers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [High-Tech Glamping Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercedesbenz-v-class-marco-polo.md) - [Flexible Layout Camper Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/weinsberg-caralife.md) - [Dynamic Couture Campers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grand-california-camper.md) - [Backcountry 4x4 Camping Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/storyteller-crew-mode-camper-van.md) - [Pro Kiteboarder Camper Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/slim-chance-adventure-van.md) - [Concept-Inspired Camper Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/offroad-camper-van.md) - [Elegant Backcountry Camping Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rossmnster-skye-van.md) - [Cubic Convertible Camping Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/adria-mode.md) - [Modular Tech-Packed Camper Vans](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/outside-van-overnight.md)