Innovative Tiny Home on Wheels

InfoThis is a summary of the following YouTube video:

Inside the Most FUTURISTIC Campervan / DIY Van Tour

Ladi & Margaret

Nov 19, 2023

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People & Blogs

Project Summary

  1. L and Margaret used the COVID-19 lockdown to challenge themselves to build the ultimate camper van without any limits on imagination.
  2. They designed the van to have a permanent space for laptops and hidden storage units for valuables.
  3. The van includes a panel that can charge multiple batteries and a pulley system for retracting wires.
  4. They purchased a 2015 Fiat Ducato L4 H3, originally a DPD delivery van, for $12,000.
  5. Their initial budget was $20,000 for the van and conversion, but they ended up spending over $25,000.
  6. The project led them to start an eBike business, renovate their workshop and barn, build a cabin, and convert a small container home.
  7. They documented the entire process on YouTube, which played a crucial role in enabling their various projects.

Security & Solar Panels

  1. The van is painted gray to be less noticeable and enhance security.
  2. Security features include surveillance cameras with motion detection, lock plates, remote control paddle locks, GPS tracking, an immediate alarm, and secret storage compartments.
  3. The van is equipped with a motorized solar panel lift with a self-locking mechanism, which can tilt up to 47° and is remote-controlled, providing 1 kW of power from four panels.
  4. The solar panel lift is particularly useful during early and late hours and in off-season camping, maximizing sun exposure even when parked in shaded areas.
  5. The layout of the van is designed around two powerful electric bikes, ensuring they are easily accessible for quick rides without needing assembly and disassembly.
  6. Traveling with the electric bikes offers a different lifestyle, allowing for long-distance travel in the van and local exploration on the bikes, which is cost-free and quiet.

TOUR BEGINS: Kitchen

  1. The kitchen features an open-top design to avoid ducking and dodging, allowing easy access to food at all times.
  2. Mounted baskets for bread and fruit save space in drawers and the fridge, keeping the kitchen organized even during heavy use.
  3. A sliding door at the back provides access to some fuses, and there are power spots throughout the kitchen.
  4. A full control panel above the sink displays levels for gray and fresh water and controls for the anti-freeze system and fans.
  5. Mounted soap dispensers for hand and dish soap keep the counter clean and prevent items from moving while driving.
  6. Magnetic holders for cutlery and upside-down storage for salt and pepper prevent clogging from stove steam.
  7. An extension counter is used for the coffee machine during longer stays, featuring a two-burner electric stove and a small sink with a flexible faucet.
  8. The 124L fridge, centrally located for weight distribution, includes a small freezer and is slightly elevated for easier access.
  9. Drawers are organized with a junk drawer, snack drawer, oven tins, and pots and pans, with heavier items at the bottom.
  10. 3D-printed components include cooling for the oven, appliance straps, and a lockable wine bottle storage area.

Couch Recliner, Curtains

  1. The reclining couch in the van was created by recycling an old couch. The mechanism was salvaged, and new bases and foam were added. This spot is popular for its comfort, especially during long drives and rainy days.
  2. The couch is versatile and can be easily removed or replaced. It is mounted on four bolts, allowing for quick changes if needed. An electric heater is installed underneath for use during winter when plugged into a grid, avoiding the need to burn diesel.
  3. The side window curtain is built into the wall for privacy, light control, insulation, and decor. It is height adjustable and includes 3D printed holders, springs, and framing. The curtain features a photo taken in Italy, adding a personal touch and connection to nature.

Work Spaces: 5k Monitor, Cab

  1. The workspace in the camper van is designed to be both functional and comfortable, serving as the primary office for both users.
  2. Swivel chairs are crucial for extending the space, and custom-made swivel bases ensure comfort by addressing floor height differences.
  3. A step under the feet provides comfort and includes secret storage and heating foil for heated floors.
  4. Each user has a diesel heater outtake near their toes for added warmth.
  5. One side features a Lagoon table mount that can swivel and attach to the front of the van, while the other side has a desk with USB extensions, a switch for floor heating, a 230V outlet, and a USB socket.
  6. The desk includes a sliding feature to keep the layout open and a secret laptop storage compartment that connects to a monitor and USB extensions for charging and connectivity.
  7. The setup allows for a sustainable workflow, enabling users to work early and late hours while exploring new places during the day.
  8. The van includes extensive wiring diagrams, water tank dimensions, 3D print models, and a parts list as part of the Van Build Bundle.
  9. Storage for custom curtains, a dimmable cab light, and vents in the cab enhance comfort and security.
  10. A display shows coolant and tank temperatures, and a system transfers heat to the hot water tank for convenience.
  11. A gray water camera with a light and a switch to dump the water adds to the van's practicality, especially in bad weather.

Tech Wall, 3D Printer, Control Panel

  1. The tech wall is designed to make traveling with camera gear easier by providing easy access and charging capabilities for various batteries, including drone and GoPro batteries.
  2. All orange parts on the tech wall are 3D printed and custom modeled to hold specific pieces of gear, allowing for easy swapping and reprinting of holders as needed.
  3. The 3D printer's wires are extended to be accessible from the driving chair, enabling the user to start printing and monitor stats from the chair.
  4. The tech wall includes switches for light and temperature-controlled enclosure, with a thermostat to manage temperature and air circulation.
  5. The 3D printer has been used to create various practical items, such as hose reductions, threaded plugs for leaks, and covers for corners during the van's building phase.
  6. LEDs are installed in the shelves for better visibility, especially in low light conditions, making it easier to find items.
  7. The tech wall also houses internet and camera equipment, with a 3D printed vent for the Wi-Fi router and switch, ensuring proper air circulation.
  8. Convenient features include an electric heater control, weather station, ceiling dimmers, heater fan, solar and battery voltage displays, and a motorized freshwater release valve.
  9. The fuse boxes and controllers for the solar panel tilt are accessible, and additional wires can be run if needed.
  10. Speakers tied to the car radio are used as the main media player, and the side door storage is optimized with a 3D printed handle and additional storage below.
  11. An aluminum channel is installed to direct condensation from the window out of the van, preventing moisture buildup inside.

Entry unit, “Getting Ready” Zone, Closet

  1. The entry unit is designed to be shorter and thinner than other counter spots to maintain an open feeling and provide a great view from the couch.
  2. The thinner design allows for the extension of the reclining couch and provides external storage for three pairs of shoes and a broom with a 3D printed holder.
  3. Inside the unit, there is storage for shoes, toilet paper, and bins for socks, all of which are accessible from the outside of the van through a fold-down table.
  4. A small lip on the unit provides convenient storage for items like purses, bags, and sunglasses, preventing them from moving while driving.
  5. Above the lip, there are controls for the motorized step on the exterior and light switches for the two ceiling LEDs.
  6. The van design avoids a closed-off bathroom to allow for more movement space, using the unit as a standing desk with wall storage and a mirror.
  7. The 'getting ready' zone includes toiletries on display for easy access, three plugs, a USB port, and a closet for everyday clothes and pajamas.
  8. Clothes are stored on different sides of the van to avoid space conflicts, with bulkier items stored in other spots throughout the van.

Full Convertible Bathroom

  1. The bathroom in the van is a convertible shower space, featuring an Ogo composting toilet with a urine diversion system that directs urine to the graywater tank.
  2. The indoor shower provides hot water, but users should adjust their expectations from a house bathroom as showers are short and water is limited.
  3. Public toilets are widely available, making the limited indoor shower less of an issue for hygiene purposes.
  4. The outdoor shower is preferred during the warm season for showering, rinsing feet or shoes, and enjoying the fresh air and connection with nature.
  5. The indoor shower is mostly used as a sitting shower, though standing is possible, and having both indoor and outdoor options is highly beneficial.
  6. Initially, there were plans to add a curtain extension to the shower, but it was skipped in favor of simplicity, and adding it now would feel like a downgrade.

Bed Lift

  1. The bed in the camper van is unusually high to accommodate storage space in the garage underneath.
  2. A built-in step is included to provide easy access to the bed.
  3. The bed frame is made of aluminum, making it very lightweight.
  4. The back door is completely paneled with light plywood, K Flex 6 mm insulation, and fabric to prevent cooling issues experienced previously.
  5. Extra storage is available on the door, along with a practical cup holder for water bottles.
  6. A panoramic window is also featured in the design.

Roof Windows & Water Tanks

  1. The panoramic roof windows allow a lot of natural light to enter the van, making the interior feel open and connected to the outside world.
  2. The darker interior design of the van is balanced by the natural light from the roof windows, preventing the space from feeling like a cave.
  3. The van is equipped with plastic-welded undermounted water tanks, including a 150-liter fresh water tank and a 100-liter gray water tank.
  4. Water level sensors, temperature sensors, motorized dumping valves, and anti-freeze heaters are installed in the water tanks to ensure efficient and reliable water management.
  5. The undermounted water tanks free up a significant amount of space inside the camper van, allowing for longer off-road trips with ample water supply.

Garage, Electric Bikes, Battery

  1. The camper van layout is designed around two electric motorcycles, making them easy to access and use.
  2. The bed lift creates more space by lifting the bed up, allowing for easy storage and retrieval of the bikes.
  3. The electric bikes can be charged directly from the solar panels in 3 hours or fast charged in 1 hour from the lithium power bank.
  4. Storing the electric bikes inside the van protects them from environmental elements like rain.
  5. The electrical box is centrally located in the van for optimal weight distribution and houses a large battery.
  6. The battery is built into the base of the electrical box, which is displayed behind an acrylic door for a technical aesthetic.

Water System, Outdoor Shower, Charging

  1. The water system includes a filtration system for drinking water, a pressure tank, a water pump, UV light, and an outdoor shower.
  2. Laser-cut bins are used for storing a variety of tools, and there are 3D-printed hooks for helmets.
  3. A servicing ladder is installed to access and clean the solar panels on the roof.
  4. Aluminum bins on the passenger side provide additional storage, including a large bin for dirty laundry when the bed is lifted.
  5. Essential tools are easily accessible from the living space, and a retractable extension cable is hidden for connecting to the grid.
  6. The van uses a three-phase wire system, allowing up to 9 kW of power consumption for charging lithium batteries, bikes, running heated floors, and cooking.
  7. A pulley system is used to manage the retractable wire, ensuring it retracts straight up.
  8. The back door is fully paneled and insulated to prevent heat loss overnight.
  9. Modular 3D-printed storage solutions can be replaced or reconfigured as needed.
  10. The video encourages viewers to ask questions in the comments and to subscribe for future content.