Romahome History
The original Barry Stimson 1976 prototype
The origin of the Romahome design began with the creative vision of British automotive designer Barry Stimson. Famed for designing may weird and wonderful vehicles, in 1976 he developed an innovative demountable camping pod specifically engineered to fit the chassis of the compact Honda TN7 micro pick-up truck. Despite its under-powered tiny twin cylinder 345cc engine, the rudimentary prototype proved the way for further development.
Crafting the main shell, seating, and storage units primarily in glass-reinforced plastics (GRP) created a lightweight yet durable structure. The interior layout provided two full-length single beds, a gas-powered hob, and a functional sink, and by cleverly incorporating a dropped floor, Stimson achieved full standing headroom in the rear kitchen area—a revolutionary breakthrough for a vehicle of such modest proportions.
In 1977, Honda replaced the TN7 with the first-generation Honda Acty pick-up truck. Boasting a more powerful 545cc water-cooled engine and longer chassis, the modified design now incorporated an enlarged overcab extension allowing for extra storage or a child’s berth.
Seeing the commercial promise of this concept, in 1978 the manufacturing rights were acquired by Evans Developments, subsequently trading as Island Plastics, a boat-building firm located on the Isle of Wight. With further refinement under the leadership of MD Brian Bailey, their extensive expertise in marine-grade GRP boat-hulls resulted in a seamless, weatherproof exterior capable of enduring all weather conditions.
Launched officially in 1982, and offering car-like driveability, easy parking and incredible fuel economy for a camper, the Romahome proved a sensation in leisure circles and commercial success. The ‘pod’ design remained in production until 1992 using Suzuki Supercarry, Bedford Rascal and Daihatsu HiJet platforms in addition to Honda. No official production figures are available, but peak output in the late 80’s reached 15/20 per week, and between 1982- 1992 production of all variants is estimated to be low thousands.
Unfortunately, unlike the kinder Japanese climate, most early models eventually succumbed to the rigors of British winters and salted roads, and the ‘rust-worm’ took revenge. According to DVLA there are 432 Honda Acty vehicles (vans, trucks and campers) registered. 265 are declared off-road (SORN) and 165 legally taxed, and only a small proportion of those will be Romahomes. Similar ratios are likely for the Bedford/Suzuki/Vauxhall/Daihatsu variants.
Romahome Honda Acty version 1985
To be continued ....