Compact Dimensions, High Autonomy and an Interior that Combines Technology and Living Comfort
With this project, we had the pleasure of realizing a 5.5-meter living cabin that appears compact at first glance, but reveals an extraordinarily comprehensive travel concept in detail. The result is an expedition mobile conversion that combines robust construction, high autonomy, and a very high-quality interior.
The idea behind this vehicle was clear: a reliable companion for long journeys that enables comfortable living even far from conventional infrastructure. Therefore, the cabin was not only built with high technical performance but also consistently designed with durability, high-quality materials, and a pleasant living atmosphere in mind.
Robust Cabin as a Foundation for Extended Travel
The foundation is a 5.5-meter-long FAS living cabin featuring a sturdy steel frame with bolted anchor points in the upper and lower cabin corners. The external dimensions of approximately 5.50 x 2.45 x 2.35 meters provide a compact, travel-friendly base, while the interior with approximately 5.36 meters length, 2.29 meters width, and 2.07 meters height creates a well-usable living space.
The cabin structure uses GRP sandwich panels. The sidewalls are 70 millimeters thick, the roof 60 millimeters, and the particularly robust, metal-reinforced floor plate 140 millimeters. The floor plate is self-supporting with plywood inlay. The roof plate is also walkable and reinforced.
An important structural detail is the recessed roof plate. It sits approximately eight centimeters below the frame and thus protects solar modules, roof windows, and ventilators. At the same time, a rainwater drainage system was integrated. On the passenger side, an Airrail rail complements the functional exterior structure.
The cabin received a paint finish in MB 7172 Anthracite Gray Metallic. This creates a high-quality, technical appearance that matches the vehicle's character perfectly.
Lighting, Access and External Storage
The exterior areas were also designed for practical everyday use during travel. Illuminated boundary elements at the upper cabin corners provide visibility. Additionally, dimmable Lumicoin ambient lights with 5000 Kelvin color temperature were installed. They reliably illuminate the cabin's side areas—when maneuvering, working on the vehicle, or at a parking spot.
Access to the living cabin is via a Sideway door with 3-point locking mechanism. The door features an aluminum frame, stainless steel design handle, magnetic door catch, and 180-degree opening angle. An integrated mosquito net makes the entrance comfortably usable even in warm climates.
Multiple KCT side windows of different sizes and a large KCT roof hatch provide daylight and ventilation. All windows feature thermal protection glazing, blackout blinds, and mosquito protection. Two large Sideway storage flaps open access to the side storage compartments and are equipped with stainless steel handles and robust piano hinge hinges.
Between the cab and living cabin, a lockable aluminum-framed passageway was integrated on the cabin side. This keeps the connection between cab and living space functional and secure.
Autonomy as a Central Element
A major focus of this build lies in power supply. The living cabin was equipped with a 24-volt lithium system and expanded to 800 Ah battery capacity. Combined with up to 1.44 kW solar output, this creates a strong electrical foundation for autonomous traveling.
A 5 kW inverter with integrated multi-charger provides 230-volt AC power. Additionally, 24-volt, 12-volt, and USB power are available throughout the vehicle. Key components such as the multi-charger, MPPT controller, converter, and voltage monitor are integrated into a VE network and can be monitored via display and app.
International travel was also considered. In addition to the standard shore power connection, an additional charging connection for 90 to 265 volts AC and a 110-volt shore power inlet with matching charging cable were integrated. This keeps the vehicle flexible to use outside Europe as well.
Generous Water Systems for Extended Stays
Matching the electrical autonomy, the water system was also generously dimensioned. The cabin has approximately 550 liters of fresh water and approximately 200 liters of gray water capacity. A fresh water pump with pressure sensor, tank level sensors, electric drain valves, and water sensors on the floor provide control and safety during operation.
For water quality, a Purion system with UV, sediment, and carbon filters was integrated in both the fill and discharge lines. A 30-liter electric water heater provides hot water. Additionally, there is an external outlet for hot and cold water including a shower head—perfect for equipment rinsing, outdoor kitchen use, or showering after a day in the field.
Frost protection heating, emergency drain in the floor plate, and documented water installation round out the system.
Comfort in Heat, Cold, and High Altitudes
To keep the cabin comfortable in different climate zones, a comprehensive climate and heating system was installed. A diesel-electric heater with integrated boiler is connected to the water circuit and supplied from the vehicle fuel tank. The system is designed for high altitudes, making it well-prepared for mountain region travel.
Additionally, electric floor heating provides pleasant warmth in the interior. For warm regions, a 230-volt underfloor air conditioning unit was integrated that cools with 2.4 kW and can also heat at low outside temperatures.
A solar ventilator brings fresh air through the roof, while additional ventilation openings reliably remove device heat. This creates a well-thought-out climate concept that significantly enhances living comfort in the vehicle.
An Interior with Clear Material Expression
The interior construction displays a high-quality, carefully coordinated combination of materials. Corian, FENIX, solid oak wood, anthracite-matt details, and black genuine leather characterize the living space.
The kitchen features a Corian countertop with integral drip edge. A folding extension creates additional work surface when needed. Sink and fixtures are in dark, matte finish and blend harmoniously into the overall design.
For furniture surfaces, the build combines robust FENIX surfaces with solid oak wood fronts in a very light, natural oil finish. The light wood surfaces bring warmth to the interior, while dark technical elements provide a modern, refined appearance. Brushed stainless steel matte Pushlocks emphasize the high-quality approach.
The ceiling was also thoughtfully designed. An acoustic ceiling cover made of artificial leather, laid in a checkerboard pattern and continued on the cabin rear wall, not only improves the spatial effect but also contributes to a pleasant atmosphere in the interior.
Living, Seating and Sleeping
The central living area is designed as a facing seating group. The table can be electrically lowered and variably locked horizontally. This transforms the seating area not only into a dining and work space but also allows it to be converted into an additional bed with approximately 100 x 185 centimeters of sleeping surface when needed.
The seat cushions are upholstered with high-quality black genuine leather. The natural, full-grain leather has a subtle vintage appearance, is breathable, and climate-regulating. Additionally, two approved seats with 3-point seatbelts and headrests were integrated into the seating group. The tested belt console is permanently anchored to the cabin floor and TÜV-approved.
In the rear area is a permanently installed double bed with 1.60 x 2.00 meters of sleeping surface. Two comfort cold foam mattresses and a 3D mesh base provide sleeping comfort and good ventilation. The sleeping area is complemented by a custom-made wall cabinet with storage compartments and 230- and 24-volt outlets.
Under the bed is a garage storage compartment with vinyl flooring, Airrail rails, and tie-down eyelets. This allows travel equipment to be stored safely and neatly.
Kitchen, Bathroom and Daily Life On Board
The kitchen is equipped for real-world use while traveling. A 24-volt refrigerator with 130 liters of refrigeration volume plus an additional 130-liter beverage area including freezer compartment provides ample storage for groceries and drinks. Added to this are a BOSCH oven with microwave function, a BOSCH 2-burner induction cooktop, a 12-volt range hood vented outside, and a SAGE espresso machine in brushed stainless steel gray.
The sanitary area was also implemented at high quality. Shower and WC are located in a combined space with 30-millimeter GRP sandwich panels, separated by a frosted glass door. The custom-made shower tray made from Corian in Willow features a flush drain and a high-quality shower fitting in chrome. An electric ventilator exhausts moisture to the outside.
The toilet is implemented as a macerator toilet connected to the fresh water circuit. An approximately 100-liter black water tank complements the system. Towel rail, separate wash basin, bathroom cabinet, and mirror make the space fully functional. The toilet paper holder and soap dispenser are also finished in chrome and blend harmoniously into the bathroom design.
Lighting, Internet and Security
The lighting concept combines functional illumination with residential atmosphere. Dimmable Lumicoin ceiling lights in warm white provide base lighting, while black reading lights specifically illuminate areas like the seating group and bed. Indirect LED lighting in the upper and lower areas of the cabin creates a pleasant spatial feeling.
Even the externally accessible storage compartments are illuminated. A powerful MAGlite flashlight serves as emergency lighting. Smoke detectors, fire extinguisher, and fire blanket are also part of the safety equipment.
For connectivity while traveling, a Selfsat dual-SIM mobile and Wi-Fi router with external antenna was installed. The system can connect to 2.4- or 5-GHz Wi-Fi and is ready for mobile networks up to 5G. This makes the vehicle well-equipped for mobile work and extended travel requiring internet access.
An integrated safe provides space for notebooks or tablets up to 15 inches and can be opened via motor-driven PIN entry panel.
A Compact Build with Grand Ambitions
This vehicle demonstrates how much comfort, technology, and individuality can be fit into a 5.5-meter living cabin. The robust cabin construction provides the foundation, while power supply, water system, climate and heating technology ensure high autonomy.
In the interior, Corian, FENIX, solid oak wood, black genuine leather, and high-quality details create a high-quality, modern mobile living environment with clear, durable materials. At the same time, the build remains functional, durable, and consistently designed for use on the road.
The result is an expedition mobile that combines compact external dimensions with spacious living comfort and technical independence—built for journeys where reliability, quality, and individuality are paramount.
We wish all safe travels and many unforgettable adventures ahead.