Groenberg. Enjoy the elements. Enjoy the road.

Our Hardtop Roof Tents at a Glance

Groenberg Alvar hardshell roof tent – hardtop rooftop tent on safari
Hardtop · 2 persons · from 77 kg dyn. roof load

Alvar – Hardshell Roof Tent

The Alvar is the lightest hardtop roof tent in the Groenberg range. At 77 kg, it is compatible with a particularly wide range of vehicles – from compact SUVs to off-road 4x4s. The flat aluminium hardshell closes to just 12 cm in height, keeping wind resistance to a minimum on long drives.

Weight 77 kg (excl. ladder)
Min. dyn. roof load 77 kg
Closed dimensions 215 × 138 × 12 cm
Open dimensions 215 × 138 × 143 cm
Sleep system 3D Airmesh + 5 cm memory foam, 196 × 119 cm
Tent fabric Ripstop polyester, 8,000 mm hydrostatic head
Max. interior load 300 kg
Discover the Alvar →
Groenberg Tjelvar hardshell roof tent – hardtop rooftop tent grey
Hardtop · 2 persons · from 81 kg dyn. roof load

Tjelvar – Hardshell Roof Tent

The Tjelvar is the fully-equipped hardtop roof tent for maximum sleeping comfort. The hardshell opens not only at the head end but also at the foot end – meaning the full 196 cm sleeping length is usable without your feet pressing against the shell. Add to that: heavy-duty 320gsm ripstop polyester for outstanding weather protection.

Weight 81 kg (excl. ladder)
Min. dyn. roof load 81 kg
Closed dimensions 215 × 138 × 12 cm
Open dimensions 215 × 138 × 143 cm
Sleep system 3D Airmesh + 5 cm memory foam, 196 × 119 cm, full sleeping length usable
Tent fabric 320gsm ripstop polyester, 8,000 mm hydrostatic head
Max. interior load 300 kg
Discover the Tjelvar →

Frequently Asked Questions about Hardshell Roof Tents

More answers on installation, vehicle compatibility and accessories can be found in the Groenberg FAQ.

What is a hardshell roof tent?

A hardshell roof tent – also known as a hardtop roof tent – consists of a rigid aluminium outer shell that opens via gas struts. Unlike softshell tents, there is no unfolding of fabric or poles. When closed, the tent is only 12 cm tall and sits aerodynamically on the vehicle.

What roof load do I need for a hardtop roof tent?

The key figure is your vehicle's dynamic roof load – the permitted load while driving. The Alvar requires a minimum of 77 kg, the Tjelvar a minimum of 81 kg. The static roof load (when stationary) is almost always considerably higher. You'll find the value in your vehicle registration document or owner's manual. The Vehicle Guide provides an overview of common vehicles.

Can I drive on the motorway with the roof tent mounted?

Yes. Both the Alvar and Tjelvar are approved for driving speeds up to 130 km/h. The low-profile design at just 12 cm in height noticeably reduces wind resistance. The tent does not need to be removed before driving.

What is the difference between the Alvar and the Tjelvar?

Both share the same basic construction and outer dimensions. The Alvar (77 kg) is the lighter model and fits vehicles with a slightly lower dynamic roof load. The Tjelvar (81 kg) additionally features a hardshell that opens on both ends: it lifts at both the head and foot, making the full 196 cm sleeping length usable without your feet pressing against the shell. The Tjelvar also uses heavy-duty 320gsm ripstop polyester.

How many people do the hardtop roof tents sleep?

Both models are designed for 2 persons. The mattress measures 196 × 119 × 5 cm, with a 3D Airmesh mat beneath for ventilation and condensation protection. The maximum interior load capacity is 300 kg.

What does the 3D Airmesh mat under the mattress do?

The 3D Airmesh spacer mat beneath the memory foam mattress ensures continuous air circulation between the mattress and the tent floor. This effectively prevents condensation build-up – a common problem in roof tents without this ventilation layer – and improves sleeping comfort on cold nights.

What accessories are available for Groenberg hardtop roof tents?

Available as optional extras: Katto Tarp (attaches via zip to extend your living space), adjustable roof rack (rated to 100 kg closed / 30 kg open), heating attachment / insulation layer for cold nights, and an extended telescopic ladder (2.60 m) as an alternative to the included 2.30 m ladder.

Buying a hardshell roof tent – what should I look out for?

The key points: check your vehicle's dynamic roof load, compare the outer dimensions against your roof rack width, and assess the quality of the gas struts and the tent fabric's hydrostatic head rating. Both the Alvar and Tjelvar come with a telescopic ladder, LED lighting and a 3D Airmesh mat as standard, and are available for immediate dispatch.

Groenberg Hardtop Roof Tents

In Stock. Proven Quality.

Both the Alvar and Tjelvar are available now – delivered by freight carrier in 7–14 days. Not sure which model fits your vehicle? The Vehicle Guide has the answer.