It's coming up to a year since we first introduced SHR Levelling into the UK market at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2024. As the European manufacturer is continually gaining more popularity in the motorhome world here in the UK, we thought we would do a deep dive on the system itself, it's features and it's manufacturing.
How SHR came to be
SHR Levelling was founded and is manufactured in Lüdinghausen, Germany. The SHR stands for System Hydraulik Reinhardt, named after the founder Ulrich Reinhardt. Ulrich is a master car mechanic and a DERKA - certified automotive expert! With over 40 years of CV and hydraulics experience, plus 10 years as a sales engineer for various well-known manufacturers of hydraulic components. It was only when Ulrich bought his own motorhome, the idea for SHR came alive.
After Ulrich had the idea for a patented underfloor levelling system, SHR was developed and extensively tested on vehicles, before being ready for production in 2016.
Compared to other hydraulic levelling systems, SHR is a specialist manufacturer that, while not necessarily the largest, has a niche focus in the premium segment. SHR caters to high-end motorhome and campervan owners in Continental Europe (and now the UK!).
It holds a strong reputation for engineering quality, German made appeal and a bespoke support system from SHR themselves.
VB x SHR
So, why SHR Levelling? When we were first introduced to the product we were impressed by the quality of engineering, the components and the original and innovative design approach, and immediately felt a synergy. What mattered was making sure our standards aligned and it was pretty clear SHR and VB were a good match-up!
Here at VB we're renowned for our expertly engineered air suspension systems. All our products are developed, tested and manufactured under strict guidelines and engineered with the highest level of precision. As VB-Airsuspension is approved by the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, MAN TGE etc, we prioritize OEM-level quality control!
Similarly with SHR, 100% of power packs and hydraulic jacks are tried and tested. Both VB and SHR align very closely, with top-class engineering and premium materials, alongside a focus on professional installation and performance!
Why choose SHR Levelling?
SHR Levelling stands out in the market thanks to a range of advanced features designed for performance, safety and for your convenience. Here's a quick breakdown of each key feature and the benefits it brings:
Chassis friendly design: SHR Levelling is engineered with complete respect for your vehicle’s structural integrity. Instead of modifying the frame, SHR uses vehicle-specific mounting brackets that attach to manufacturer-approved points. This preserves the original chassis strength and helps maintain warranty.
To further protect the chassis, SHR uses a reinforced subframe that spans the full width of the vehicle. This allows the jacks to lift the chassis from beneath, distributing force evenly across the structure, rather than lifting/pulling from the sides of the chassis, preventing the chassis from twisting and ensuring a stable, long-lasting installation.
Stainless steel footplates: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, especially important for motorhomes exposed to wet, muddy or salty conditions (great for those camping near the beach or in winter time). Stainless steel maintains it's structural integrity and does not suffer surface corrosion like some other materials, so you don't have to worry about them degrading or looking unsightly. Plus with 18 degree articulation the footplates adapt to uneven terrain, helping to evenly distribute weight and avoid point pressure or sinkage.
Level in under 60 seconds: SHR gets you perfectly levelled in under a minute, meaning you can spend less time setting up and more time relaxing or exploring! Traditional motorhome ramps or jacks can take a good several minutes to get set up and usually means your fiddling about under the vehicle or getting soaked in the rain. SHRs simple and automatic set up means you can start your holiday hassle free.
Optional weighing feature: Accurate within 1.5% of total vehicle weight. So, once you're all packed up with clothes, food and passengers, you can weigh your van to ensure you're not exceeding your Gross Vehicle Weight. This is especially important for not only avoiding harsh fines or license points but for the safety of you and your passengers. If your vehicle is overweight, the components, such as the brakes, can not function properly which reduces the handling and stability of the vehicle.
Safe tyre change: The SHR Levelling system allows you to safely change tyres or add snow chains to your vehicle. By utilizing a unique patented lock valve it prevents collapse or unexpected movement of jacks during tyre change. The lock valves maintain hydraulic pressure in the legs, even if control pressure is lost, ensuring the jacks stay firmly in place until retraction through the app.
App for smartphone: SHR Levelling is controlled via Bluetooth from the smartphone app. It allows for an easier and faster set up, all key levelling functions are accessible directly from your phone, it eliminates the need to reach for a hardwired control or remote every time (although SHR also comes with a traditional remote, if that's what you prefer!)
So, whether you're touring rugged coastlines or setting up for a peaceful night on a hillside, the SHR Levelling System offers a smart, safe and reliable solution that takes the hassle out of setup.
With its precision-engineered components, reinforced subframe, smart control features and truly chassis-friendly design, SHR sets a new standard in motorhome levelling.
If you’re looking to invest in comfort, convenience and confidence every time you park, get in touch with your local VB and SHR dealer here.
