Outside Van Tests New AWD Sprinter Chassis

#Vanlife Beyond The Pavement: Outside Van Tackles the Desert With the New AWD Sprinter Chassis

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It’s nearly noon and so hot the desert is shimmering. Three sprinter vans straddle the shoulder of a sandy road, and the throaty hum of ARB air compressors add to the ambiance. It’s early May and the drivers are in the process of airing down before embarking on an eight-hour route through California’s Anza Borrego Desert. This experience is part of an R&D/media trip for Outside Van. Brian Jagodnik, marketing & creative director for Outside Van, and his team are joined by their travel partners, none other than Agile Off Road cofounders, John Brindell and Jesus Hernandez. The Outside Van media team has followed them out to the desert with the goal of testing Slim Chance: Outside Van’s first fully built-out demo van on the new 2023 Mercedes-Benz 144 all-wheel-drive (AWD) Sprinter chassis.

Why an AWD Chassis?

Slim Chance is chocked full of features, making it the perfect platform to see what the new drivetrain has to offer. When Mercedes-Benz announced an upcoming transition to an AWD Sprinter Chassis back in 2022, it was met with equal parts excitement and skepticism by upfitters and vanlifers. The team at Outside Van is taking particular interest in this development since their model line will be built exclusively on the new Mercedes-Benz AWD Sprinter chassis. And this brings us to the question they’re seeking to answer: How does the AWD chassis stack up against 4WD?

They finish airing down and pack up the compressor hoses and quick deflators. John takes the lead and Brian follows behind him in Slim Chance. They motor through miles of tight, shallow canyons with off-camber corners, loose rock, and washes where the sand is notably deep. A wake of dust follows them deeper into the desert.

Upfitting Slim Chance Improves the Ride

Confidence in the AWD chassis increases with every passing mile. Brian notices the electronic steering feels snappier and more enjoyable to drive than the 4WD system. “Even in deeper sand, traction hasn’t been an issue at all,” Brian shares. “Heavier jolts are still noticeable, but the overall ride of the van is smooth and stable.” This is in great part due to the Ride Improvement Package that Agile installed the day before. The kit includes an auxiliary shock, strut, coil spring, leaf springs, rear shock, along with a few other parts. “The difference it [the kit] makes is astonishing,” said Brian. “A swaying, bouncy, overall sloppy ride is transformed into something more controlled, balanced, and confidence inspiring.”

Agile Off Road Roots

Later in the afternoon, John comes over the radio, “Hope you’re having fun back there. Listen, we’re about to come up to a more technical section. Just follow my line.”

Before leaving the Agile Off Road factory that morning, someone joked, “Be careful following John – he thinks his van is a Jeep.” And they are going to know the truth of that statement shortly. Both John and Jesus come from a Baja racing background, meaning they earned their chops designing shocks and racing Volkswagen buggies in the early days of suspension technology. Later they adapted their unique skillset to become industry leaders in the 4×4 conversion van market.

Pushing the Limits

They pass a few more miles of sagebrush and canyons before arriving at the base of the ‘technical section’. It’s a short hill, but a short hill complicated by deep sand and some overwhelmingly large moguls. By far the most complicated stretch they’ve encountered today. In a truck, Brian may not have hesitated, but here he is reminded of the weight and size of this vehicle. For the first time, he feels a hint of doubt.

John navigates the section quickly and, once at the top, radios that it’s now Brian’s turn. John hops out of his van and spots Brian’s attempt. Things are going well until, in the moguls, the tires on driver-side front and passenger-side rear are simultaneously off the ground. The van loses traction, digs into the sand, and its momentum is gone. Brian feathers the gas, but the tires spin and settle in deeper and deeper. He can’t get any forward momentum. His face gets flushed red and his palms start sweating.

John cackles from the sidelines – he’s loving this. He shouts, “Hah! Yes! I was hoping that would happen. You just experienced the only issue we’ve had with the AWD. When two tires are off it seems to confuse the system. That’s why we developed a rear locker option.”

“And there’s the upsell,” Brian laughs.

“You know it!” John says smiling. “Anyway, let’s have you back up and come over a little further to the right.”

Confidence in the AWD Chassis

Finally at the top, Brian gets out of the van and looks back down the sandy hill gnarled by moguls. “Hard to believe these vans were designed as delivery trucks and now we’re taking them up sand dunes,” he says in amusement. Despite his bruised ego, he’s impressed by how far they’ve been able to push the limits of these vehicles. At this point, Outside Van is thoroughly convinced that this new AWD Sprinter chassis will stand up to the demands of their customers and are grateful it’s the platform for their new model line.

To answer the question plainly: Does the AWD perform as well as 4WD? Yes. A resounding, yes.

Visit Outside Vans to learn more about their off-road and overlanding van conversions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What options are available for customers who want to customize their Sprinter Vans?

Customization Options for Sprinter Vans

Customers looking to personalize their Sprinter Vans have a multitude of options to tailor their vehicle perfectly to their lifestyle and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key choices available:

• Water and Power Systems: Select from various types of water and power configurations to support your adventures, whether you need minimal power for short trips or robust systems for extended off-grid living.
• Flooring: Choose from an array of flooring materials, ensuring durability and ease of cleaning. Options could range from heavy-duty vinyl to luxurious wood finishes.
• Modular Additions: Add modular components like stoves, refrigerators, and additional kitchen utilities to create a fully equipped mobile kitchen.
• Storage Solutions: Opt for comprehensive storage options including gear racks, sleeves, compartments, and overhead cabinets. These solutions help keep your space organized and maximize functionality.
• Bed Systems: Install custom bed systems that can be folded away or configured in multiple ways to optimize space and comfort.
• Insulation: Implement full interior insulation to improve temperature control, ensuring that your van is comfortable in any climate.
• Heating Systems: Choose from various heating systems to stay warm during colder adventures. Options might include diesel heaters or radiant floor heating.
• Solar Panels: Equip your van with solar panels for off-the-grid capabilities. This eco-friendly option allows you to power your vehicle’s amenities sustainably.
• Color Schemes: Customize the interior and exterior aesthetics with a variety of color options. Popular choices include powder-coated finishes and anodized stainless steel for a sleek, durable look.
• Showers: Decide between installing indoor or outdoor showers to meet your hygiene needs on the road.
• Built-in Compressors: Add built-in air compressors for inflating tires, water toys, or other equipment, making your adventures hassle-free.

These customization options ensure that your Sprinter Van suits your unique lifestyle, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time nomad. Each choice contributes to creating a personalized, efficient, and comfortable mobile space.

Can built-in compressors be included in a custom Sprinter Van?

Absolutely, built-in compressors can be integrated into your custom Sprinter Van. Here’s why they might be a great addition:

Why Choose Built-In Compressors?

1. Convenience: Having a built-in air compressor means you have on-demand air at your fingertips for inflating tires, running air tools, or even inflating camping gear.
2. Space-Saving: Built-in units are designed to be compact and efficiently utilize available space. This is crucial in a van where every inch counts.
3. Reliability: Built-in systems from reputable third-party manufacturers like ARB or VIAIR are designed to withstand the rigors of off-road and urban environments alike.

How to Incorporate a Built-In Compressor

• Location Options:
  • Under the Hood: Many custom van builders opt to place compressors under the hood to save interior space.
  • Inside Storage Compartments: If under-the-hood space is limited, the compressor can be installed inside a storage compartment for easy access.
• Power Source:
  • Direct to Battery: This option ensures that your compressor has a dedicated power source, reducing the chance of draining power from other crucial systems.
  • Auxiliary Batteries: An auxiliary battery system can be added to handle the demands of electrical accessories, including a built-in compressor.

Customization Considerations

• Noise Levels: Consider adding insulation around the compressor to minimize noise.
• Airline Routing: Plan out where the airlines will run to ensure they don’t interfere with other systems or create trip hazards.
• Maintenance Access: Ensure that the compressor is installed in a way that allows for easy access for maintenance and repairs.

By thoughtfully integrating a built-in compressor, you can significantly enhance the functionality and convenience of your custom Sprinter Van.

What modular additions can be included in a custom Sprinter Van?

Customizing a Sprinter Van to suit your lifestyle and needs involves several thoughtful choices. This not only enhances your travel experience but also maximizes the utility of your vehicle. Below are some innovative modular additions you can include:

• Kitchen Appliances: Equip your van with portable stoves, compact refrigerators, and microwaves to enjoy home-cooked meals on the road.
• Storage Solutions: Opt for a variety of storage options including gear racks, storage sleeves, compartments, and overhead cabinets to keep your space organized and clutter-free.
• Sleeping Arrangements: Install a foldable or fixed bed system tailored to your comfort and space preferences.
• Climate Control: Insulate your van’s interior to maintain a comfortable temperature. Consider adding heating systems for colder climates.
• Energy Independence: Achieve off-grid capability by installing solar panels, enabling you to power your van’s appliances without relying on external sources.
• Personalization: Customize the aesthetic look of your van with a selection of powder-coated or anodized stainless steel finishes.
• Sanitation Facilities: Choose between indoor or outdoor showers to stay clean while on your journey.
• Air Systems: Built-in air compressors can be added to inflate tires, power tools, and more, ensuring you are always prepared for any situation.

With these modular additions, you can transform your Sprinter Van into the ultimate mobile living space, tailored precisely to your needs and preferences.

What types of customizations does Outside Van offer for Sprinter Vans?

Customizations Offered by Outside Van for Sprinter Vans

Outside Van allows customers to tailor their Sprinter Vans to perfectly match their adventurous lifestyles. Here’s a detailed look at the various customization options available:

1. Water and Power Systems: Choose the type of water system that meets your needs along with power solutions to keep your van running smoothly during your expeditions. Options include solar panels for off-grid capability.
2. Flooring Choices: Select from different types of flooring that offer durability and style. Whether you prefer easy-to-clean surfaces or something more rugged, there’s a choice for you.
3. Modular Additions: Equip your van with essential appliances like stoves and refrigerators. These can be added and removed based on your travel requirements.
4. Storage Solutions: Optimize your space with an array of gear storage options including racks, sleeves, compartments, and overhead cabinets. Keep your equipment organized and accessible.
5. Bed Systems: Choose from various bed configurations to ensure you get a good night’s sleep regardless of where you are. Options range from fold-away beds to permanent fixtures.
6. Interior Insulation: A fully insulated interior ensures comfort in all weather conditions, keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
7. Heating Systems: For those colder adventures, you can install heating systems to maintain a cozy environment inside your van.
8. Color Scheme: Personalize the look of your van with different color schemes, featuring powder-coated and anodized stainless steel finishes to give it that sleek, rugged appearance.
9. Shower Options: Choose between an indoor or outdoor shower setup, perfect for staying clean on extended trips.
10. Built-in Compressors: Built-in compressors offer an added layer of convenience for inflating tires or other inflatables during your journey.

With these diverse customization options, your Sprinter Van can become the ultimate adventure companion, perfectly suited to your unique lifestyle and travel needs.

What are some of the basic designs or features included in Outside Van’s inventory?

Basic Designs and Features in Outside Van’s Inventory

Outside Van’s inventory features a variety of thoughtfully designed components tailored to different needs. Here are some of the core designs and features you can find:

• Modular Storage Solutions: Optimized to maximize space, these include customizable cabinets, overhead bins, and under-bed compartments.
• Sleeping Arrangements: Comfortable and adaptable, you can choose from configurations like convertible sofas, pull-downs, or permanent beds.
• Kitchen Units: Equipped with essential appliances such as stoves, sinks, and refrigerator options, these units integrate effortlessly into the van’s layout.
• Power Systems: Options for solar panels, auxiliary batteries, and inverters ensure you stay powered up no matter where the road takes you.
• Insulation and Climate Control: High-quality insulation, along with heating and cooling solutions, keeps you comfortable in any environment.

These basic designs can be customized further to fit your lifestyle, making it easy to find a solution that suits your specific adventures.

What is the primary clientele for Outside Van’s conversions?

Primary Clientele for Outside Van’s Conversions

Outside Van primarily serves those seeking adventure in the great outdoors. Their custom van conversions are perfect for:

• Outdoor Sports Enthusiasts: Individuals who need a durable and versatile vehicle to support their activities, from mountain biking to snowboarding.
• Campers: Those who love to immerse themselves in nature and require a comfortable, mobile home base.
• 4WD Overlanders: Adventurers looking for specialized, off-road capable vans to reach remote, untouched campsites.

Whether you’re scaling mountain peaks or setting up camp in a secluded forest, Outside Van caters to the adventurous spirit looking to explore the wilderness.

What trend has been observed with Mercedes Sprinter Vans in recent years?

When Mercedes-Benz announced an upcoming transition to an AWD Sprinter Chassis back in 2022, it was met with equal parts excitement and skepticism by upfitters and vanlifers. Over the past few years, we have seen an increase in the number of Mercedes Sprinter Vans in our area. This surge in popularity has been driven by the van’s versatility and reliability, making it a favorite among adventurers and professionals alike.

Key Drivers of Popularity

• Versatility: The Sprinter Van’s ability to be customized for various needs, from mobile offices to fully equipped camper vans.
• Reliability: Known for its robust build and long-lasting performance, the Sprinter Van has become a trusted choice.
• Community Adoption: Vanlifers and upfitters have embraced the AWD transition, preparing for more off-road adventures.

As this trend continues, the market anticipates even more innovations and enhancements to what is already a beloved vehicle among diverse user groups. The blend of excitement and skepticism surrounding the AWD model only adds to the dynamic landscape of the Sprinter Van community.

On which chassis are the Approach and Syncline models based?

The Approach and Syncline models are built on the all-wheel-drive chassis of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Specifically, the Approach model utilizes the 170 platform, while the Syncline model is based on the 144 platform.

When does Outside Van plan to start mass production of its new models?

Outside Van aims to kick off mass production for its latest models within this year, as stated in their recent press announcement.