Introducing Dritzz, a resident of Alaska who resided in a 1986 4WD Chevrolet Silverado ambulance. He acquired this vehicle for a mere $5,000 (€4,637) through Craigslist. Surprisingly, it had only traveled 35,000 miles (56,327 km) – an almost unbelievable fact that turned out to be true. However, one significant drawback of this ambulance is its low fuel efficiency, as it only achieves about 6 MPG (39 L/100km).
Similar to other budget-conscious adventurers who convert ambulances, Dritzz utilized several original components of the vehicle in his modifications, including the sliding cabinets. This allowed him to keep the conversion costs down to just $2,000 (€1,855).
Upon first glance, it is evident that this vehicle was once an ambulance. Not only does it retain the emergency lights (which are no longer functional due to legal restrictions), but it also maintains its white exterior with blue and orange accent stripes. Additionally, there is a recognizable “Star of Life” sticker affixed to the side of the vehicle.
Ambulances typically come equipped with various exterior compartments designed for medical equipment storage. In the case of Dritzz’s camper conversion, these compartments serve as ideal storage spaces. One of them has been repurposed to house the plumbing system, consisting of two 6-gallon (23-liter) freshwater tanks connected to a water pump and a water heater salvaged from an old boat. Another tall compartment adjacent to the plumbing compartment stores two 6 V batteries, forming a 12 V system, although their capacity remains unknown.
Moving into the driver’s cabin, Dritzz opted not to make any modifications. The cabin features a sizable control panel adorned with numerous switches and buttons, reminiscent of an airplane cockpit – albeit on a smaller scale. Admittedly, this comparison may be a slight exaggeration. Nevertheless, due to its age, there is a specific starting procedure to follow: activate the motor batteries, flip the master switch, and then start the engine. Fortunately, all buttons and switches are clearly labeled for ease of use.
Stepping inside the ambulance, one immediately notices the spacious interior. The kitchen is situated on the passenger side, occupying a significant portion of the wall. It is constructed within the ambulance’s original structure and includes a dual-burner induction stove, a compact sink crafted from a stainless steel bowl, and a variety of slide-screen cabinets that provide ample storage space for kitchen essentials and Dritzz’s personal belongings.
Another noteworthy feature is a custom-made compartment that serves as both a laundry hamper and a trash bin, a modification personally executed by Dritzz. Moving closer to the driver’s cabin, one will find the designated seating area, which consists of a seat that came with the ambulance and a small counter for holding beverages or enjoying a meal.
In this tabloid-style article, we take a look at a unique and compact living space that has been cleverly integrated into an ambulance. The photos reveal the impressive design and functionality of this tiny home.
The wall of the ambulance has been transformed into a functional hub, featuring switches for the lights, speakers, and a fan. Additionally, there are four outlets and connections for oxygen tanks and more. The wall also boasts two slide-screen cabinets, providing extra storage space.
Separating the living space from the driver’s cabin is a pass-through door. Adjacent to this door, you’ll find the original electrical paneling, which may seem daunting due to the numerous fuses and cables. However, it is surprisingly easy to understand and navigate.
On the opposite side of the seating area, near the entrance, there is a spacious closet that can also be accessed from the outside. Above the closet, a cubby houses the ambulance’s original heater, which still functions, although it may not be particularly powerful.
The final section of this unique living space serves as both a living room and a bedroom. A long bench provides ample storage space underneath, and above it, a Murphy Bed can be pulled down, allowing for a roomy interior. The mattress is a hybrid between a full-size and a twin-size, and there are conveniently placed outlets integrated into the wall.
In a tragic turn of events, it was revealed in the video description that the creator of this innovative tiny home, Dritzz, passed away in an accident in Alaska. However, his creation stands as a testament to his ingenuity and resourcefulness. Despite its simplicity, this tiny home offers practicality and coziness, all at a fraction of the cost of traditional camper van conversions. It is a shame that Dritzz is no longer able to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
According to the Source autoevolution.com