our van
Life started out originally as a Black 2015 W906 Mercedes Sprinter, medium wheel base, low roof, rear wheel drive 313CDI.
Having covered only 90,000 miles with full Mercedes Benz service history, and in good condition, it was the perfect van to embark on our van build journey. Aiming to create a unique adventure van from scratch.
Inspired by the American adventure wagons, we wanted to create a more overlander feel to this build. The aesthetic look was important, steering away from the traditional, “Campervan style” builds, and creating our own benchmark style to the UK van market.
We wanted to create something that was practical, versatile and could be used permanently off grid, requiring no electrical hook-up. Giving you the freedom to explore, ungoverned and unrestricted lands.
Utilising the internal space effectively, we didn’t want to fill our van up with heavy plywood cabinets, shower cubicles, fitted toilets, or cumbersome kitchen solutions leaving no floorspace to move around in. So, we adopted an L-Track layout installation, whereby modular storage solutions could be used.
We preferred the idea of cooking outside, rather than inside and making the most of the great outdoors. Having a comfortable full sized double bed was an absolute must. Also being able to offer an additional second double bed for guests was of great appeal.
We specifically didn’t want to buy a Sprinter any longer than a medium wheel base for agility purposes, but was it ever possible to design and customise a van that could accommodate all of our needs?
From top to bottom, this adventure van has been well and truly considered and catered for. From the start It was important that our van had good height clearance to tackle all road conditions. So, fitting a specialist lift kit, and upgrading the suspension, allowed us to fit larger overland hardened alloys and all terrain tyres.
Including full sound deadening, 4 Season insulation, birchwood ply walls and ceiling. Acoustic lined panels upholstered, using high-quality hard wearing fabrics. Using only 4 way stretch for the more difficult areas.
High-grade aluminium L-Track powder coated in black, using black marine grade stainless steel countersunk bolts. Magnetic steel ceiling plates for a lantern and overhead projector and Incorporating a 60” black metal cased, pull down projector screen.
Opting out of having any front swivel cab seats, we decided to keep the steel bulkhead in situ for better overall security. Always a consideration if you carry expensive kit, like mountain bikes etc. We did however, decide to cut out a lozenge shaped hole out of the bulkhead for light, ventilation and, to have “a view”. Covered by a discreet 4 season folding thermal blind.
We also preferred not to cut out all the side panels to install windows all round, or to cut out the rear panels for bed pods. We wanted to create a more stealthy appearance, and to also maintain its structural strength, only fitting the sliding door with a black smoked glass sliding window.
Instead of opting for standard fixed modular units, which are mainly heavy and unforgiving if you make contact with them. We preferred the idea of utilising up to eight high-quality duffel bags, connected to a well designed L-track system. This way, they can be taken down, or repositioned to suit our particular trips needs.
A fixed bespoke full sized steel bed frame was installed to ensure maximum comfort, including a premium mattress for some well deserved rest.
Full off-grid kit including a 3000W inverter, 2x 230W leisure batteries, 2x 150W solar panels, and a 2000W diesel heater. All hidden away nicely within the vans internals under the front cabin seats.
A removable overhead projector to play movies was a must for those rainy days, or to use the projector outdoors whilst sitting around our fire pit. Removable internal and external lighting. Genuine Mercedes cargo nets were also used for additional storage.
We all have our own specific requirements when it comes to kit and storage. That’s one of the reason why we wanted the space under the bed to store anything we needed to… from surfboards to cool boxes. Changing things around whenever necessary. Upholstered molle panels were fitted to the inside of the rear doors for versatility, with three reinforced storage boxes fitted alongside the spare wheel to the outside rear doors. Ideal for storing logs, wet kit, rubbish, and anything else that is best kept outside of the van.
Two diesel jerry cans to ensure no mishaps take place. 2x roof top showers, ideal for quick showers and rinsing off wetsuits for us. A huge armour-plated South African roof tent fitted to a bespoke roof rack. Providing extra accommodation, and a perfect way of enjoying those warm winter evenings gazing at the stars!
We use an American sliding tarp for our awning, which is more than capable of withstanding whatever weather elements may be coming your way. Photos to update on site soon.
Next week our spotlights, light bar and reversing lights will be fitted, providing thousands of lumens to light up the road ahead. Again photos coming shortly.
