KABE leads the world in passive safety for motorhomes, i.e. safety systems that aim to reduce the risk of injury in the event of collisions. KABE's passive safety is available in both semi-integrated and fully integrated models. Active safety centres on crash-avoiding electronic systems built into base vehicles. Airbags, electronic stability programmes, auto-braking, headlight assist and rain sensors are just some of the safety features pioneered by Mercedes-Benz, KABE’s partner. This year, Mercedes is launching a new updated version of its Sprinter. This latter has been the base vehicle for all KABE’s fully integrated motorhomes since 2021.
Here are some of KABE's strengths in passive safety:
The table can be folded forward (removed in Van) to provide more space between the driver's seat and the passengers on the sofa, creating an even safer journey.
The dinette sofa with two belted seats is equipped with a design that prevents the cushion from sliding during a collision.
Crash-safe refrigerator mounted on a steel beam (some critical models depending on the refrigerator's location).
The living area battery is anchored in a stable steel frame that keeps it in place even in the event of a collision.
Inside the dinette sofa, there is a reinforced metal frame that prevents the sofa from collapsing in the event of a collision. The metal frame also holds the water tank in place, and the entire sofa has been integrated with the water tank's support, which is securely anchored to the floor.
The new Mercedes Sprinter has ten advanced safety systems. Several of these have not previously been available for fully integrated models, e.g. Active Lane Keeping Assist. This helps you keep your vehicle within lane markings.
“These systems are made possible by the MP camera. This is fitted on top of the dashboard and mounted against the windscreen. It collects masses of information from the surroundings, reads traffic signs and senses potential threats,” explains Mikael Blomqvist, MD of KABE.
Crosswind Assist, which helps when driving in crosswinds, and tyre pressure monitoring, which keeps a check on tyre pressures, are now also available for fully integrated motorhomes.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is now widening its lead over the competition, especially as regards fully integrated motorhomes.
“New rules for motorhomes, the so-called GSR2 standard, come into force in 2026. Mercedes is providing for this and ensuring that its models satisfy the standard already,” reveals Mikael.
The new Mercedes Sprinter has updated versions of all its safety systems. Its updated Active Brake Assist warns of oncoming or crossing traffic at up to 70 kph and can even implement avoidance manoeuvres at up to 40 kph. Mercedes’ radar-based Active Distance Assist (Distronic) now adapts speed automatically, even at, for example, roundabouts and motorway exits. The new Sprinter also has the latest version of MBUX, the voice-controlled infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen.
The new Classic series is back, better than ever for model year 2025. KABE does not compromise on safety in the Classic series, which maintains the same high level of passive safety.
Regarding active safety on the Fiat chassis, the Classic can be ordered with a Safety Package that includes adaptive cruise control, fatigue warning, daytime running light assistant, traffic sign recognition, rain and dusk sensor, lane centering, intelligent speed assist, and autonomous emergency braking.
In 2023, KABE performed a crash safety test of the passenger seat of a KABE Novum. The test was carried out with a full water tank of 90kg and two test dummies of 80kg each.
The test was recorded with five high-speed cameras which showed that the sofa structure can withstand the load and that the test dummies are held back. The metal frame bends easily and the load-bearing wooden structure resists the force so that the manikins do not dive under the belts. The filled water tank stays in place.