CI (Caravans International) is an established Italian motorhome manufacturer within the Trigano Group, building a comprehensive range of motorhomes and van conversions from its base in San Gimignano, Tuscany. With over 50 years in the industry, CI combines Italian design flair with Trigano Group resources and distribution.
The current range spans multiple formats:
The Horon — CI's A-class (integrated) range, offering the highest level of specification and space.
The Magis — semi-integrated (low-profile) models combining style with practicality.
The Riviera and Riviera Elite — coachbuilt models offering generous accommodation at competitive prices.
The Kyros, Kyros Evo and Kyros Elite — CI's van conversion range for the growing campervan market, offering varying levels of specification.
CI builds primarily on Fiat Ducato and Citroën Jumper platforms, benefiting from Trigano's purchasing power to offer competitive pricing across the range.
Caravans International (CI) has unusual origins as a British caravan builder that became an Italian motorhome manufacturer. The original CI Ltd was a successful British company that opened a factory at Varedo (Monza) in the early 1970s to build caravans, and two years later inaugurated a service centre in Tuscany.
The Italian operation was established in 1973. The British parent company went through turbulent times — buying and selling the Eccles and Bluebird caravan brands before going into liquidation in 1982.
The CI plant in Tuscany survived and pivoted to building campervans, becoming one of the first companies to do so in Italy. The brand grew into a significant Italian motorhome manufacturer based in San Gimignano, Tuscany.
CI was acquired by the Trigano Group, bringing significant investment that revitalised the brand. Today, CI operates within Trigano's Italian manufacturing division alongside sister brands Roller Team, McLouis, Elnagh, Mobilvetta and Arca, with 1,600 employees across five Italian factories.
Italian pioneer in campervan building — CI was one of the first companies to build campervans in Italy, establishing a manufacturing tradition that continues today.
Comprehensive model range — from compact van conversions to large A-class motorhomes, CI covers virtually every segment of the market from a single brand.
Trigano Group scale benefits — as part of Europe's largest recreational vehicle group, CI benefits from enormous purchasing power, parts availability and Europe-wide dealer support.
Tuscan manufacturing heritage — built in the heart of Tuscany, CI brings genuine Italian design sensibility and craftsmanship to the motorhome market.
Value positioning — CI has historically been positioned to offer competitive pricing within the Italian motorhome market, providing Italian quality at accessible price points.
If you want Italian design at competitive prices — CI offers genuine Italian styling and manufacturing at prices that often undercut German and British alternatives.
If you want Trigano Group support — the backing of Europe's largest RV group ensures parts availability, dealer support and manufacturer stability.
If you want a comprehensive range from one brand — from van conversions to A-class motorhomes, CI covers every requirement without needing to look elsewhere.
If you want a Citroën-based motorhome — CI offers models on Citroën Jumper as well as Fiat Ducato, providing an alternative base vehicle choice.
Limited UK dealer presence — CI has fewer UK dealers than domestic or major German brands, making servicing less convenient for some buyers.
Lower brand awareness in the UK — CI is less well-known among British buyers than brands like Swift, Bailey or Hymer, potentially affecting resale values.
Complex corporate history — the brand has been through multiple ownership changes. Quality and specification may vary between different production eras.
Parts sourcing for older models — pre-Trigano vehicles may have components that are harder to source.
Import considerations — many used CI models in the UK are continental imports. Verify RHD specification and UK compliance.
Verify UK specification — confirm RHD, UK gas system and electrical standards. Many used CI models are continental imports.
Check the base vehicle — on Fiat Ducato: cam belt, clutch, gearbox. On Citroën: service history, turbo condition.
Identify production era — understand whether the vehicle was built pre or post Trigano ownership, as this affects parts availability and quality expectations.
Conduct thorough damp check — check all walls, windows, doors and rooflights carefully.
Test all systems — heating, water, fridge, electrical circuits through a complete cycle.
CI provides manufacturer warranty through the Trigano Group and its dealer network. When buying used, verify warranty status and habitation service history.
An independent warranty backed by the RAC is recommended for used CI purchases, particularly for imported models or vehicles outside manufacturer warranty.
OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, providing essential coverage on an Italian-built motorhome.
When buying a used CI, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.