VAN BUILD  CHRISTINA

This 2022 Ford AWD Transit van was built in approximately 6 weeks. With our extensive CAD database of over 2,000 custom parts and rapid CNC machining capabilities the majority of the cabinetry, walls, ceiling and floors were fabricated in just days not weeks. This AWD vehicle was designed to accomodate the need of the owner to live full time in the van . When off grid, the van powers itself from over 500 Watts of rooftop solar panels, 400 Watts charging from van's alternator, and a 2400 Watt Ecoflow  Delta Max battery generator. We used the Ecoflow to replace of over $9,000 in custom electronic components and labor-intensive hand wiring. The power system has enough battery storage capacity to power Christina indefinitely from only solar power.

Christina was designed for ultimate flexibility. The all wheel drive permits full offroad capabilities and excellent traction during inclement conditions. The hinged fold out queen size opens to create a 14-foot long center aisle permitting the ability to transport large cargos such as multiple bikes, construction materials as large as 4' x 8' plywood sheets, or even a kayak. A back door ladder provides access to a rooftop storage rack as well as a bike rack for two bicycles. Christina can easily replace a pickup truck when you want to move large cargos,   while at the  same time providng a home on wheels. With it's built in heating and cooling, combined with solar power,  this vehicle can travel anywhere in the continental USA and provide confident off-grid living.

Design philosophy:

This van was designed for adventure and daily practical use as a home on wheels. The walls, floor, and ceiling are all fully insulated. A Webasto gasoline heater connected to the vehicle's gas tank heats the van in subzero temperatures and uses less than a liter of gas per day. With over 600 Watts of rooftop solar and 400 Watts of alternator charging, you can drain the Ecoflow battery 100% at night and while driving the next day fully recharge it in just hours at a rate of 1000 Watts per hour with simultaneous solar and alternator charging. The owner invested in a portable air conditioner that can be vented through the side window. When not in use it  stores easily into the bench seat in the van.

  • 600 Watts of solar power on roof
  • 2400 Watt hour of battery storage exandable to over 5000 Watt hours 
  • Webasto gasoline heater (connected to van's fuel tank)
  • 120V, 15 Amp AC power system with circuit breakers
  • 12V, 200 Watt hot water heater
  • Portable 400 Watt air conditioner or heater
  • 21 gallon fresh water tank
  • Fully insulated with 3/4" insulation on walls, floors, and ceiling
  • Pressurized hot and cold  water system.
  • Queen size fold up bed

Project Photos
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ProjectsDetails

Build Date:    MAY, 2024
Location: NORFOLK, MA
Build Cost: $64,000 (WITH vehiclE )
MARKET VALUE: $115,000
Vehicle: 2022 AWD FORD TRANSIT HIGH ROOF) with 148 Wheelbase
Download Van build Brochure

VIDEO OF SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION ON RACHEL

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Contact us if you have your own dream van project in mind.