Truma History
The 2020s
Challenging start into a new decade
The decade so far is overshadowed by the global Corona pandemic. Many sectors of the economy are hit hard by extensive restrictions. The tourism industry has come to a complete standstill at times. Travel restrictions have led to leisure and holiday time being spent domestically. The caravanning industry is experiencing an unprecedented boost as a result. The IT industry is also considered one of the “winners” of the crisis, as software solutions for telephone and video conferencing are more in demand than ever. In many sectors, new business models and creative ideas are emerging to adapt to the current situation.
2024
75 years of Truma
Pioneering spirit. Passion. Innovation. Tradition. A family business since 1949. Truma is celebrating its 75th anniversary and will continue to set new standards as a system supplier in the caravanning sector in 2024. We look back on a 75-year success story that stretches from gas lamps to today’s networked world of motorhomes.
2023
CIVD awards Truma with the Silver Medal of Honour
This great honour was bestowed on the entrepreneurial family by the German Caravanning Industry Association (CIVD) for its ‘excellent products, innovative strength and responsible treatment of employees’. Renate Schimmer-Wottrich (Chairwoman of the Truma Group Advisory Board) and Alexander Wottrich (Co-CEO of the Truma Group) both received the Silver Medal of Honour. The CIVD medal recognises special entrepreneurial achievements and outstanding commitment to the caravanning industry. A special honour for all ‘Trumaners’!
2022
The next-generation Combi diesel heater
The next-generation Combi D is not only lighter, but also more economical and durable due to its efficient combustion control. It is also more independent than previous models thanks to its automatic control of the combustion air speed depending on altitude. It can be operated via the Truma iNet X system, the CP plus, as well as by app. Just like the gas version of the Combi, the electric version of the Combi D can run either purely electrically or as a hybrid. The next-generation Combi D represents greater ease of use and increased energy efficiency.
2021
The iNet X system: Intuitive control. Maximum comfort.
The iNet X system is a centralised operating system that gives you full control of any Truma appliances in your vehicle. Real-time status checks, intuitive operation and advanced control via app – all of this is possible with the iNet X system. It is future-oriented, customisable and helps people solve issues themselves by providing detailed error descriptions along with recommended actions. The Truma iNet X system makes camping safer, more comfortable, and more connected.
2020
Staying flexible and cool – even in unprecedented times
Truma is facing new challenges due to the global corona pandemic. Thanks to working from home, an in-house corona test station and numerous other measures, employees are protected and supply demands can be met. This year the family-run company has been selected as one of the most attractive employers among German SMEs and has been awarded the TOP Job seal. Truma extends its product range with portable fridge/freezers. Truma Coolers cool products down to temperatures of -22°C and can therefore also be used for freezing.
The 2010s
Digital revolution and artificial intelligence
The digital revolution continued apace in the 2010s: companies discovered social networks, and the Internet of Things became a catchword for global networking. Specialist artificial intelligence firms were more in demand than ever before. German football fans had reason to celebrate in 2014, when Joachim Löw led the national team to World Cup victory.
2019
Our roots are in caravanning – for the past 70 years and in the future
Truma has been the leading specialist for caravan accessories for 70 years. We set standards from the very beginnings of our company history and we will continue to do so. For example, in 1961 we pioneered caravan heating without which winter camping would not be possible. Today, we are market leaders in this area – and, for some time, it has also been possible to control Truma heaters with an app. Truma has improved its gas pressure regulators. The new generation is now lighter, more compact and more user-friendly. The products combine tried and tested technology and decades of expertise with new features.
2018
Alexander Wottrich appointed Technical Managing Director
Alexander Wottrich took over the position of Technical CEO on 1 January 2018. This means he is heading Research & Development and Supply Chain Management. In addition, he will continue as Managing Director of the Truma Group.
2017
Truma VarioHeat replaces E heaters
VarioHeat replaces the popular Trumatic E 2400 and E 4000. It is a completely new development, is especially light and compact and allows flexible installation. The heater is suitable for vans, compact caravans and as an additional heater for larger motor homes. LevelControl is added to the iNet System. It measures exactly how much gas is left in the cylinder and calculates how long supplies will last. The information is sent conveniently via the Truma iNet Box to the Truma App.
2016
Award for the Truma iNet System
The Truma iNet System wins the European Innovation Award. The jury, which comprises trade journalists from 16 European caravanning magazines, names the Truma iNet System the most innovative accessory product for retrofitting. Renate Schimmer-Wottrich is awarded the German Camping Prize at the Travel & Camping exhibition in Essen. This award acknowledges the Truma owner’s dedication to caravanning and camping. She has campaigned on behalf of the campers to make mobile recreation more comfortable and safe for decades.
2015
Alexander Wottrich joins the company
2015 Alexander Wottrich joined Truma to continue its successful history as a family company in the third generation. As managing director, he is responsible for all corporate activities of the Truma Group. This not only includes Truma Gerätetechnik, but also the two companies Alde, which is based in Sweden, and Powrwheel based in Great Britain. Renate Schimmer-Wottrich supports her son in her capacity as deputy managing director and also remains as chair of the advisory board. A new era begins: Truma launches the iNet System. It digitally networks Truma devices, such as the Combi heater and air conditioning systems, allowing these to be controlled per smartphone when on the go.
2014
Truma App: digital convenience
The Truma App offers app-solute new, digital convenience – with the latest news, fast access to user instructions and useful camping tools. The Truma App is available for smartphones and tablets and is available free of charge. Truma launches a product specially developed for the North American market, the Truma AquaGo. The continuous heater produces an infinite supply of warm water at a constant temperature at the push of a button.
2013
Ultra-precision manoeuvring: Truma Mover XT
Truma's Mover XT sets new standards for manoeuvring systems. Thanks to its brushless motors, the XT guarantees unprecedented manoeuvring precision and also saves up to 20 kg in weight. The new Mover PowerSets with the new lighter Truma BC 10 charger are perfectly matched to the Mover XT. Truma continues its internationalisation strategy and founds subsidiaries in the USA and China. The opening of the company’s Italian subsidiary Truma Italia S.r.l. brings Truma even closer to its customers in the rest of mainland Europe.
2012
Anniversary: 50 years of caravan heating systems
In 2012 Truma celebrated a special anniversary: 50 years of caravan heaters. Truma offers two new versions of the legendary S-heater: The S 3004 and S 5004. They not only retain the proven quality features of the predecessor models, but also set new standards in terms of operating convenience, warm air distribution and design. The Truma gas filter protects regulators and valves effectively against soiling and oil. A further innovative addition to the gas supply range is the Truma LevelCheck. This device shows the filling level of gas cylinders and uses an ultrasound process to detect whether there is liquid gas in the cylinder at the measuring point.
2011
First roof-mounted Truma air conditioning system: the Aventa
Truma is now advancing into the roof and air conditioning market as it launches the new Aventa Comfort for caravans and motor homes. The Aventa air conditioning system supports not only cooling but also heating, with its energy-saving heat pump. Thanks to its cooling power of 2400 Watts and the extremely flat air distributor in the interior, the Aventa sets new standards among roof air conditioning systems. The Mover TE R4 is being introduced. This means that two-axle caravans and trailers up to a total weight of 3000 kg can now also be manoeuvred.
2010
Safety on the road: the crash sensor
The new gas pressure regulation systems MonoControl CS and DuoControl CS with crash sensor take safety for heating whilst on the move to the next level.
The 2000s
A new millennium and the introduction of the euro
The new millennium was celebrated in style all over the world and good wishes for the New Year were sent in around ten billion text messages. Mobile phones became more important in business communications as well. Technical progress in many areas was rapid. It took just ten years, for instance, for analogue cameras to be squeezed out by digital cameras. In Europe, the era of the D-mark, lira and franc came to an end with the introduction of the euro. In a much more negative turn of events, the terror attacks on the World Trade Center produced searing images that will remain branded on our memories.
2009
Even lighter, even more reliable: the R-class Mover
The new Mover R manoeuvring systems are introduced, offering yet more power and reliability. A new diesel motor home heater has been part of the Combi product range since 2008: Truma Combi D. It is the lightest, most efficient diesel combi heater on the market. Truma continues to grow and also opens a new office in China in 2008 in order to be there for the Chinese caravanning market from the very beginning.
2008
Renate Schimmer-Wottrich steps down from the management board
Renate Schimmer-Wottrich is resigning from the management board to take over as chair of the advisory board.
2007
Introduction of the Truma Combi
Truma launches the Truma Combi, its new heating system for motor homes. Replacing the Trumatic C, of which more than 500,000 units were built, the Combi is more compact and even more lightweight. It also features Frost Control, the first entirely current-free drain valve. The opening of the company’s Italian subsidiary Truma Italia S.r.l. brings Truma even closer to its customers in the rest of mainland Europe.
2006
Saphir air conditioning system: the lightest in its class
The new Saphir vario air conditioning system with power inverter is by far the quietest in its class, providing cooling functions on three levels and suitable for use whilst on the move or stationary at 12 V or 230 V.
2005
Technology and innovation centre
In building the technology and innovation centre, Truma offers its employees a creative basis for new innovations. New and extraordinary ideas are born in the many new laboratories, two new cold and climate chambers for vehicles, and a state-of-the-art test facility for developing air conditioning systems.
2003
Cross of Merit for Renate Schimmer-Wottrich
Renate Schimmer-Wottrich was awarded the Cross of Merit in 2003 for her entrepreneurial and social achievements. In his speech, Hans Spitzner, who was State Secretary in the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transport and Technology at the time, praised the excellent corporate culture at Truma, but also highlighted Renate Schimmer-Wottrich’s achievements in the charitable and non-profit domain.
The 1990s
Reunification and climate change
German reunification in 1990 and the end of the Cold War marked the start of a new age for Germany, which was also reflected in realignments across the world. The dangers of climate change were recognised and a climate conference was held in Kyōto in Japan. The market for consumer electronics boomed, producing lots of popular products: the first Gameboy came out, the Discman replaced the Walkman and IBM made a name for itself when a computer called Deep Blue beat world chess champion Garry Kasparov in a tournament.
1999
The first Truma manoeuvring system: the Mover
Truma adds manoeuvring systems for caravans to its product portfolio. The original Mover makes manoeuvring caravans child’s play. During the course of the same year, an air conditioning system is developed and launched so that comfortable climates can be enjoyed during the summer months also.
1997
Truma UK established
The Truma UK subsidiary is founded for sales and service of Truma products throughout the UK. In 1997, Alde becomes part of the Truma Group. The Swedish company manufactures hot water heaters.
1994
Trumatic C goes into production
The new Trumatic C supplies heat and hot water from a single device, thereby offering freedom and luxury for independent recreational travel. Many manufacturers of motor homes add the Trumatic C as a product feature immediately.
1992
Extension building and high-bay warehouse
A programme of building modernisation and expansion begins: the kitchens, canteen and training centre become a communications centre and a bridge links the production building to the new distribution warehouse. State-of-the-art training rooms are installed, so that even more customers now have access to the training Truma has been providing for many years.
The 1980s
Neon colours and technology revolution
Anyone thinking of the 1980s immediately pictures garish neon colours, slim-fit tapered jeans and big hair. But it is a decade that also boasts a range of highlights in other areas. In 1982, the whole of Germany celebrated when Nicole won the Eurovision Song Contest for Germany for the first time with “Ein bisschen Frieden”. The previous year, Philips and Sony had presented a brand new storage medium: the compact disc. The 1980s heralded the start of the information age generally. IBM brought out the first personal computer, which came with either 16 KB or 64 KB of storage.
1989
Modernised production facilities
The production facilities are modernised. All production processes are optimised and reorganised.
1988
Renate Schimmer-Wottrich takes over as manager
The daughter of the company’s founder, Renate Schimmer-Wottrich, is taking over the management of the company as managing partner. Philipp Kreis is withdrawing from the day-to-day running of the business.
1984
Mini heat exchanger for Trumatic E 1800
Thanks to its safe, maintenance-free functions, the Trumatic E is increasingly popular in lorry cabins, stowage areas and on boats. Truma designs a mini heat exchanger that provides the desired heat output due to the shape of its surface. It is used in the new Trumatic-E 1800 heater, which can be installed in many different locations because of its small size; in compact motor homes, small lorry cabins, sports boats and as an additional heater in large caravans and motor homes.
1983
Administration building and cold chamber in Putzbrunn
Production, engineering and administration are combined on the same site in new modern buildings added to the existing production premises in Putzbrunn. This provides scope for expansion. This year also sees the introduction of a generously dimensioned cold chamber that is even suitable for large motor homes, providing a location in which Truma can test equipment and vehicles under the harshest of practical conditions. The cold chamber also proves popular with vehicle manufacturers and trade journalists for carrying out a variety of tests.
1981
Truma Boiler
Truma perfects hot water supplies for caravans and motor homes by developing a gas boiler which makes taking a shower in recreational vehicles possible for the very first time.
The 1970s
Flower power and World Cup champions
Vibrant colours, geometric patterns and futuristic designs are the hallmarks of the 1970s. From furniture and fashion to technology – the maxim was: make it colourful. The 1970s were memorable – in part because of the hippy party culture and legendary bands like Abba. In 1974, there was an unforgettable sporting moment when Germany won the World Cup. A number of technical inventions of the 1970s would go on to shape the future. The first email was sent as far back as 1971 and the @ symbol so familiar to us today was introduced in email addresses. It is unlikely that anyone realised at the time what impact this little gimmick would have.
1976
Truma Therme water heating
The new Truma Therme brings hot water supplies to caravans and motor homes for the first time. Water is heated by the warm air system in the gas heater.
1975
Trumatic E heater
The Trumatic E, an electronically controlled heater, is launched. It can be installed in mobile homes, boats or trucks.
1972
Truma customer service
Truma decides to set up its own mobile customer service organisation to take expert support and advice directly to customers on campsites in Germany – a unique service in the sector. The TÜV introduces a requirement that caravan gas systems are checked every two years. Truma’s customer service division is responsible for inspections and the issuing of test certificates.
1970
Cross of Merit for Philipp Kreis
Truma decides to set up its own mobile customer service organisation to take expert support and advice directly to customers on campsites in Germany – a unique service in the sector. The TÜV introduces a requirement that caravan gas systems are checked every two years. Truma’s customer service division is responsible for inspections and the issuing of test certificates.
The 1960s
The hippie movement and the moon landing
The oft-cited 1960s were a decade of upheaval, leading to left-wing civil rights movements. The Beatles made music history and the hippie movement reached its high point at the Woodstock festival. Not forgetting: the miniskirt, which took the fashion world by storm, Neil Armstrong, who became the first person to set foot on the moon, and US President John F. Kennedy, whose visit to Berlin was a cause for great celebration. The technology sector was dominated by a plethora of everyday inventions that are still with us today, including the colour television and electronic pocket calculator.
1969
Fully automatic changeover: Duomatic gas cylinder system
The Duomatic gas regular is introduced, making the process of changing over from operating cylinders to reserve cylinders fully automatic. The regulator also comes complete with a pressure indicator so that the gas system can be checked for leaks. The association of caravan and camping journalists (ACJ) presents Truma with the "Caravan mit der goldenen Nase" award, which recognises top-selling products, for inventing the Duomatic.
1968
Improved warm air distribution
Warm air distribution for increased comfort: flexible pipes and infinitely variable outlets enable heat to be distributed in accordance with requirements. Truma supplies the blower for mains or battery operation, along with a complete range of modular accessories.
1967
Trumatic S 3000
The new freedom and larger caravans demand more heating power: therefore, Truma introduces the Trumatic S 3000 with 3000 HU (= 3.5 kW) to the market. The visual appearance of the heater is improved the following year: the new smooth cover can be removed easily, while slits allow users to see the flame. With the Trumatic-SD 2000, SB 1800 and S 3000, Truma offers "the right heater for every caravan".
1963
Unchanged to this day: the Truma logo
Old flame – new logo: The Truma logo is developed from a circle and a flame and remains to the present day.
1961
The first caravan heating system
Truma-matic is "the first officially recognised caravan heating system", not reliant on mains electricity, easy to use thanks to a piezo ignition, entirely safe thanks to its enclosed system and thermo-electric safety ignition device, and economical to run thanks to a high-performance burner. February sees the sale of the 100,000th Truma light and the 500,000th Truma valve. The company expands, moving into newly built premises in the Berg-am-Laim aera of Munich in July.
The 1950s
Economic boom and a new zest for life
The 1950s are a charmed time of unexpected, rapid and sustained economic growth: the economic miracle. The Volkswagen Beetle is seen as a symbol of the period to this day. It began its own unparalleled success story at this time, with the millionth Beetle rolling off the production line in 1955. Particularly after the horror of the Second World War, the boom helped people in Germany find a new sense of self-assurance. Many of them were finally motivated to do something new and become active and creative. The economic boom that started in Germany eventually spread to the rest of Europe.
1956
Truma valve
The Truma valve with diaphragm seal, patented since 1955, is improved to the "quick-acting valve with rotary switch" and is produced in many models with different connections. The valve can be used universally for compressed air, gas and many liquids. The diamond-shaped operating handle clearly shows the position of the valve.
1955
Mass production of light fittings
The Model 55 light is mass-produced. It is the first light on the world market to be fitted with a heat-resistant diaphragm valve. A new pear-shaped opal globe with reflector increases light output by 25%. Truma now has twelve employees.
1954
Truma heat radiator
The Truma heat radiator is available. A heater that runs on town and bottled gas and delivers 440 thermal units (= 0.5 kW). It is the ideal small heater for many applications – and, thanks to the exhaust gas system, is also suitable for household purposes and vehicles. On 27 October 1949, he registered his trade under the company name Truma. The brand name Truma stands for the name of the then US president Harry S. Truman, who the company’s founder Philipp Kreis very much admired due to the instrumental role he played in restoring Germany to an industrial nation.
1950
Truma established
On returning home after WWII, Philipp Kreis opens a language school in Munich. The lack of mains power in the post-war period poses a major problem for evening courses, giving him the idea of going into gas light production. Due to the increasing demand for gas lights, Philipp finds himself producing and selling them in large quantities in a very short space of time. On 27 October 1949, he registered his trade under the company name Truma. The brand name Truma stands for the name of the then US president Harry S. Truman, who the company’s founder Philipp Kreis very much admired due to the instrumental role he played in restoring Germany to an industrial nation.
1949
First patent
The Truma gas light solves lighting problems when no electricity is available. On 10 November 1950, a patent is granted for the invention of a gas light for all flammable gases. It is the first patent for Philipp Kreis. The language teachers no longer teach, instead they work as development and assembly personnel for Truma. On 27 October 1949, he registered his trade under the company name Truma. The brand name Truma stands for the name of the then US president Harry S. Truman, who the company’s founder Philipp Kreis very much admired due to the instrumental role he played in restoring Germany to an industrial nation.
