Description
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has long been the starting point of choice for some of the world's most capable adventure vehicles, combining exceptional build quality, enormous practicality and the ability to cover serious distances in comfort. The example offered today takes that formula considerably further.
Having covered fewer than 10, 000 miles from new, this exceptional 315 CDI SWB has been professionally prepared at considerable expense to create a hugely capable and completely reconfigurable adventure vehicle.
The rear has been comprehensively insulated, lined and fitted out by Van Concept, transforming what began life as a conventional panel van into an exceptionally well-finished and versatile space. Importantly, however, it remains something of a blank canvas. The modular floor rail system allows the layout to be altered with ease, with provision for additional seating, whilst a fold-down bed, extensive storage and beautifully finished interior make it immediately usable as it stands.
For cyclists and motorcyclists it is particularly compelling. The rear doors carry two mountain bike mounts alongside an externally mounted spare wheel, leaving the interior free for further bikes, motorcycles, equipment or camping gear. Van der Moon rear door storage inserts make clever use of otherwise wasted space, whilst YETI storage boxes provide further useful and suitably robust storage.
Its specification is extensive. Two diesel heaters allow year-round use, whilst an onboard electric generator provides independent power when away from civilisation. Externally, a suspension lift combines with Evo Corse wheels and Falken all-terrain tyres to give the Sprinter its purposeful stance, whilst importantly the engine and drivetrain remain completely standard.
A plethora of auxiliary lighting has been discreetly integrated throughout the vehicle, including roof-mounted, grille and additional forward-facing spotlights, controlled wirelessly through a Garmin system. A substantial roof platform, rear-mounted equipment carriers and numerous beautifully engineered details complete a conversion which has clearly been executed with little regard for cost.
Despite its expedition appearance, it remains remarkably easy to live with. Apple CarPlay provides modern connectivity, whilst the 360-degree camera system is particularly welcome in a vehicle of this size.
Perhaps most importantly, this is not an ageing commercial vehicle that has subsequently received an expensive conversion. With fewer than 10, 000 miles from new, it remains covered by its Mercedes-Benz warranty and Mercedes-Benz service plan, offering considerable reassurance to its next custodian.
The considerable expense has already been taken care of, without committing its next custodian to somebody else's idea of the perfect adventure vehicle. Building something comparable from scratch would require not only substantial expenditure, but months of planning, sourcing components and waiting for specialist work to be completed.
Whether envisaged as a discreet camper, mountain-bike or motorcycle transporter, shooting companion, adventure vehicle or simply one of the most useful weekend vehicles imaginable, this exceptional Sprinter offers the opportunity to skip the build process entirely and start enjoying it immediately.
