The subject of today’s discussion is a creation by Livable Vans, a specialized conversion company located in Newfane, Vermont. This company, which started its operations in October 2022, shares a similar story to other custom van building firms. The couple who owns Livable Vans initially built their own tiny home on wheels to embark on van life. The process was so enjoyable for them that they decided to create more vans for others to experience the same joy.
The latest build by Livable Vans is based on a 2022 Ford Transit 350 AWD, Extended and High Roof model. It is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 gas engine and an automatic transmission, achieving a fuel efficiency of approximately 16 MPG (almost 15 L/100km). Currently available for sale, more details about the van’s availability will be provided later in the article. Let’s begin by discussing its exterior features.
This vehicle rides on Method rims, which are wrapped in Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires. Additionally, Livable Vans has installed an Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 air spring kit, allowing for adjustable suspension through an air compressor. This upgrade provides the ability to raise or lower the van’s height, while also reducing vibrations on rough roads and enhancing ride comfort.
On the roof, you will find an AVC Rig roof rack, which holds 600 W Renogy solar panels and a WeBoost antenna. Other notable features on the roof include a Dometic RTX A/C unit and a Maxxair fan.
When you open the sliding door, you will be greeted by a bright and modern interior. Every aspect of the van’s interior has been custom-made, including the baltic birch wood cabinetry and cherrywood tabletop. Additionally, Livable Vans has opted for an open layout, eliminating any separation between the driver’s cabin and the living space.
Starting from the front, you will notice that the passenger’s seat can be swiveled to face the interior. Beneath this seat, there is a Webasto heater connected to the vehicle’s fuel tank. Above, there is a spacious headliner shelf for additional storage.
Livable Vans has installed a swivel mount specifically for the passenger’s seat, as the space behind the driver’s seat has been utilized to create a bathroom area. This bathroom features a Nautilus self-cleaning sliding door, a shower, a clothesline, and a Nature’s Head composting toilet. It offers ample space in terms of both length and height, comfortably accommodating individuals up to 6’3″.
The kitchen area is divided into two parts, located on each side of the van. It includes a butcher block countertop, providing plenty of space for food preparation. There is also a dual-burner induction stove with a cover that can be lifted to serve as a backsplash, an Isotherm fridge/freezer, and a deep sink with filtered drinking water.
Livable Vans has incorporated numerous drawers, a cabinet under the sink, and four overhead cabinets with gas struts and guard rails for storage purposes. A notable design element is the use of leather straps on the drawers, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal but also preventing them from catching on clothing when moving around the van.
In the driver’s side kitchen wall, there are two electrical outlets, switches for the lights, and a switch for a 2.5-gallon (9.5-liter) Bosch water heater. Above, there is a small compartment with a protective railing, ideal for storing spices.
Moving on to the lounge area/bedroom, during the day it features two large connected benches arranged in a U-shape with a swivel table in the middle. Additionally, the floor has been raised to create space for a spacious drawer and a concealed safe.
The WeBoost router is located in the section that connects the two benches, hidden behind a panel. The remaining space is used for storing laundry. It’s worth noting that the benches come with custom cushions covered in Sunbrella fabric, which is resistant to stains and fading.
This part of the van can be transformed into a bedroom by lowering the swivel table, rearranging the cushions, and extending the kitchen countertops. In this configuration, the bed measures 65 inches (165 centimeters) in width and 75 inches (191 centimeters) in length. According to Livable Vans, it takes approximately five minutes to set everything up.
At the rear of the interior, there are several noteworthy features, including a sliding screen window, a hidden compartment, two reading lights, and a fold-up stand between the bed frame and the two rear doors.
Underneath the bench on the driver’s side, Livable Vans has created a large storage space. On the opposite side, you’ll find the electrical system, which includes two heated BattleBorn batteries with a total capacity of 540 Ah, a 3,000 W Victron MultiPlus inverter/charger, a solar charge controller, a DC-DC charger, and various other components such as breakers and fuses.
The control center of the vehicle is located inside one of the overhead cabinets and consists of a Victron digital multi-controller, a battery monitor, and a freshwater gauge.
Beneath the lounge/bedroom area, there is a relatively small garage space that is equipped with lights, an outdoor sprayer, and a gravity fill for a 30-gallon (114-liter) freshwater tank. Additionally, there is a 20-gallon (76-liter) greywater tank mounted underneath the van.
Livable Vans has added a motorized ball valve to the greywater tank, which can be operated from the driver’s cabin via a button. This allows for quick and responsible disposal of the water if it does not contain any harmful substances. Alternatively, you can connect a hose and dispose of it in designated areas.
Overall, this compact mobile home offers numerous features necessary for a comfortable life on the road. It is equipped for off-grid living, has a cozy and visually pleasing interior, and provides ample storage space.
As mentioned previously, this fully customized Transit van is available for purchase, but it comes with a hefty price tag of $169,300 (€157,732).
According to the Source autoevolution.com