Introducing Michael and Fleur and their two children, Given and Julie, who are constantly on the move in their “Manfred” Mercedes-Benz 1722 expedition truck. This impressive vehicle boasts a 4×4 drivetrain and is powered by a V6 diesel engine that produces 220 horsepower. According to the couple, the truck achieves a fuel consumption rate of approximately 25 liters per 100 kilometers (9.4 MPG).
After acquiring the truck, Michael and Fleur dedicated one year to its conversion, with the entire building process taking around two years and reaching completion in late 2019. They enlisted the expertise of Twiga Travel Cars, a Dutch company specializing in the construction of customized expedition trucks, to create their camper pod, which serves as their living space. Together, they collaborated on the design and structure of the pod.
Measuring 17 feet (5.2 meters) in length, 7.7 feet (2.3 meters) in width, and 6.5 feet (2 meters) in height, the camper pod is a spacious accommodation. Before exploring its interior, let’s take a look at the exterior accessories of this remarkable rig.
The first feature that catches the eye is the stunning matte beige/sand grey finish of the expedition vehicle. On the roof, there are solar panels with an impressive capacity of 1,200 watts, along with a sizable skylight. Above the driver’s cabin, a custom-made roof rack is installed.
On the passenger’s side of the vehicle, you will find two large storage boxes that house outdoor kitchen equipment, a table, and chairs. Above them, an outdoor shower is seamlessly integrated into the camper pod.
One notable aspect of this rig is its abundant natural light, thanks to the multiple windows incorporated into its sides. Additionally, the windows leading into the children’s bedroom are made of real glass.
At the rear of the vehicle, you will find two spare tires securely fastened on top by straps and a metal rack. Beneath them, a set of sand ladders and a flip-up bumper are conveniently located.
Stepping inside, you will be greeted by a beautifully designed interior that exudes a modern and clean aesthetic. Despite accommodating four people, the space offers a generous 128 square feet (11.9 square meters). Michael and Fleur have cleverly devised an efficient and space-saving layout that ensures their mobile lifestyle remains enjoyable.
The kitchen is situated on the passenger side and features numerous drawers and cabinets, a sleek black sink, a spacious countertop, a large apartment-size fridge/freezer, and a three-burner stove. One particularly appealing feature is the sizable window behind the kitchen, which allows ample natural light to illuminate the space. The skylight directly above further enhances the brightness.
Opposite the kitchen, you will find the wet bathroom of the rig. It is of decent size and includes a 3-kilogram (6.6-pound) washing machine mounted above, a toilet, and a shower. Though simple, it serves its purpose well, and the presence of a washing machine is undoubtedly a lifesaver, especially when traveling with children.
The back part of the camper pod is taken up by the children’s bunk bedrooms. They are quite similar, with a window on one side and a cupboard for toys on the other. Additionally, both entrances to the bedrooms have a sliding door that can be locked.
No, the parents do not lock the children away as a form of punishment, but they used to use the doors to ensure that the kids did not fall out when they were younger. Now that they have grown up, Given and Julie enjoy using the doors themselves.
Next to the bathroom, Michael and Fleur created a storage area consisting of four large closets – each closet belongs to a different family member.
Above the refrigerator, you will find the control panel for the camper. It includes switches for the water pump, boiler, and other features. Furthermore, it incorporates a Webasto diesel heater controller and a Victron battery management system.
I really like the living room of this mobile home. It has a layout and arrangement that I have seen before, and it is a good one. The living room features a large U-shaped lounge with a spacious table in the center. This is where the family eats, works, does homework, and more – essentially, it is the heart of their home.
There are two long windows on either side of the living room, as well as another one towards the front. Additionally, there is a passageway that leads to the driver’s cabin. Another notable detail is that the space underneath the benches is utilized for storage.
With the press of a button, Michael and Fleur can lower the bed above the living room, instantly transforming it into a master bedroom. It is roomy and looks very comfortable, allowing them to enjoy the beautiful view from the comfort of their own bed.
Before I conclude, let me provide more information about the utility systems of the camper. Considering the family’s preference for off-road and off-grid adventures, they wanted to have proper systems in place. As a result, they installed four AGM batteries (the capacity is unknown) along with 1,200 W solar panels on the roof. They also have two greywater tanks and a 350-liter (92-gallon) freshwater tank.
Overall, there is so much to love about this expedition truck. It has an impressive appearance both inside and out, it is highly functional and comfortable, and it can reach places that many other campers cannot.
According to the Source autoevolution.com