“We couldn't have wished for a better experience in buying our first motorhome. Ben Orr was a delight from start to finish; we found him helpful, friendly, professional and reliable. Hills Automotive is a really excellent dealership - we would recommend them to anyone - Jilly.
“Would highly recommend Hills automotive if you are looking for a new/used vehicle. The customer service was second to none, and communication was excellent” - James Giddings
“Would highly recommend Hills automotive if you are looking for a new/used vehicle. The customer service was second to none, and communication was excellent - If had a question at anytime they were happy to help and the whole buying experience went smoothly. Thank you Hills team.- James
"I've used this garage for a while now and Ben on service has always looked after me, high standard work and always professional. Would Highly recommend Hills Automotive.
"Hills Automotive made the whole experience of looking at buying a car to actually buying a car so stress free!" - Catherine.
“Hills Automotive have been exceptional in the service they have offered when purchasing a car from them." - Nicky

Over 60 years at your side…

Every minute, every hour, every day is a surprise for those who want to seize it. In 1962, a young man creates a caravan in his father’s woodworking shop. That was the beginning of the story. In the late 70s, a trip to the United States inspired the founder of Pilote to create the first motorhome, and with it a whole new way of experiencing vacations. More freedom, more independence and an unprecedented sense of adventure.

Pilote have been designing and building motorhomes for over 50 years with the same idea in mind: imagining themselves leaving with you, aboard your Pilote.

That’s why each of the 300 people working on the Pilote team cultivate the high standards, concern for quality and respect for the customer that they have inherited generation after generation. Innovation and experience, industrial processes and artisanal methods, creativity and reliability – they’re all present in every Pilote motorhome, van and camper.

Whether you’re always up for sneaking around or meeting up with friends in your favourite regions. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends or with your tribe. Whether you’re heading off to unknown lands or familiar ones.

Pilote accompanies you on your journey of discovery and your dreams of a change of scenery.

1962

The first caravan is built in La Limouzinière by André Padiou in his father’s cabinet-making workshop. He then set up his own company.

1965

The workshop becomes too small. The first factory is built nearby. The premises were extended several times until 1975.

1976 – 1978

A trip to the USA inspired the company to produce its first motorhome model: the R430 nasturtium. It was to have been called Rally, but at the last minute it was renamed Pilote. The company was a pioneer in its field. It also recorded its first foreign sales.

1981

The company invents the profile concept. As business grows, Pilote expands its production facilities.

1985

Pilote releases its first all-in-one model, the R800DA.

1992

Pilote makes motorhoming accessible to all with the launch of the First by Pilote range.

1999

Paris-Dakar: a camper van, piloted by Laurent Bourgnon, takes part in the race for the first time. This event inspired the brand’s new slogan: “Inhabit the planet”.

2004

Opening of a new 10,000 m² Pilot plant at La Membrolle-sur-Longuenée, near Angers.

2011

Pilote is entering the converted van market to offer the right vehicle for every camper.

2015

Return of the emblematic Galaxy and Pacific ranges. Pilote develops a wide range of products.

2020

Pilote relaunches motorhomes without permanent beds: incredibly compact models offering exceptional living space. Pilote becomes the French market leader.

2023

On the occasion of its 60th anniversary, and to further underline its dreams of adventure and unlimited travel, Pilote presents Atlas, its new range on a Ford chassis.

The story continues with you...