Honestly, I wouldn’t worry about getting rid of the Troopy. This thing will look tough as heck with some off-road accessories, a paint job/ wrap and some different wheels/ tyres. Tired of seeing 70 series content all over TH-cam (you were one of the originals and did it justice so you are forgiven) but I feel like this build, if done tastefully, will bring a far bigger and more enthusiastic audience than what you already have from Landcruiser content. A 4x4 bus is so refreshing to see and will undoubtedly be the envy on many 4x4 and travel enthusiasts. This WILL be the car you turn around and admire at your camp sites. Imaging the Ronny Dahl episode in the future on it too!
Real overlanders on a tight budget, often use old 4WD vans. This brand new troopy build thing is mostly done by wealthy secret society youtubers with lots of corporate connections.
Wow, this ongoing project will be undoubtedly the best offroading/overlanding content on TH-cam this year! Very very excited to follow along your journey!
Once you throw some gear in it and give it some weight in the rear it will be substantially better and have less rear wheel spin on the simple stuff. Articulation will also feel better.
So … to sum things up… Andrew : „I’m not doing a direct comparison, driving first the van and then the troopy“ Heiner : „Andrew is driving the same piece of road to do a direct comparison, between the van and the troopy“ Thx guys for clearing that up 😂😂😂 The van looks amazing, can’t wait to see the progress sir 👍
Our OKA motorhome is running a 48v system, combined with a Victron RS 6000 Multi with 12Kw of stored energy & all electrical appliances are 240v. Cost savings in cable size & weight plus the cost savings of appliances over 12v. Very excited to see this project proceeding, great work guys.
What are you talking about? I am talking about the bad efficiency of transforming AC into DC. Looks like you do nothing about that, go ahead and learn. Has nothing to do with the size of the battery as 15% is 15%, weather on 12KW or 3KW, or or or or
You won't be able to keep it in SA, will be stolen as soon as it's in your driveway and the insurance on it will be grossly over priced because of its steal-ability and use of parts in the taxi industry.
In East Africa, hiaces do bus taxi services ferrying 12 passengers ... this is a load of at least 600kg - 800kg constant doing 300km daily. Its normal to see them hit 800,000 km on the odo. This is a great choice and is basically bullet proof stock ... and with those powertrain updates should last decades.
В России , в Якутии очень популярны Hiace , предыдущего поколения(200) .И там они перевозят много груза и пассажиров , даже без 4 ВД....круглый год и в морозы -60C
Full salivation mode ON!!! As more of a van guy myself (vanlifer for over 15 years), this is gonna rock! This will totally do it out in the bush, no doubt about it. A pity we can't get anything similar in my side of the woods. Can't wait to see this epic build! Send it guys!!!
It reminds me of my Sprinter 4x4. Momentum is important, each obstacle and dynamic demands a specific amount with specific timing as you cross the obstacle. It’s actually a fun drive, especially for a seasoned offroad driver. You will go to many wonderful remote places in that van.
So refreshing to see a driver that lifts there foot when it spins instead of flooring it digging great big holes and wrecking the track for everyone else. I have the extra long high roof version of the hiace. Been living in it for 3 years. I believe it's a better option than towing a caravan. 48 volts sounds interesting and to see how it's done.
16:40 this is why I'm considering these. 4 person travel, potential 4 person internal sleeping if required per location, still off-road going, not locked in to pulling a trailer. That's what I'm after. You have a new subscriber based on this.
As I posted before, you taught me to drive in sand over the years. I know I mentioned I bought a fully configured PowerWagon and replaced the suspension with all King racing suspension, a goFastCamper and a TON more. I just bought another project, a '24 Subaru Outback Wilderness where I'll be lifting it 3 inches, installing coilovers with reservoirs, rear locker, 33's, full underbody protection and more! I will say the outback is really capable in sand from factory. Looking forward to the fun of a Subaru with lockers!
Genuinely Impressed with the ground clearance seen on the Hiace. I have a 4motion VW Transporter SWB camper conversion for x4 (Pop top), and even with the 35mm lift, I still find cautious driving is the way to go. Looking foward to the future vlogs!
Why did you not have BUS4x4 install their underbody protection kit? It provides great shielding both under the engine and under the running gear. I have taken my Hiace 4x4 to the top of Cape York as well as Fraser Island and many other offroad adventures. The van performs better off road once it is loaded with a camper fitout. As usual, running the tallest tyres possible and adjusting tyre pressures assist greatly when offroad. Sadly the wheel travel is about the same as a commodore.
As someone who lived in a Hiace Commuter (100 series) full time, now full time in a Pajero with a James Baroud RTT. The comfort and convenience levels are not the same, especially in the rain. This project I'll be following with great interest
I like your new van! Love the 2.8L Turbo Diesel. Just bought a 2.8L Turbo Diesel for a project Nissan 4 door Frontier 4x4, with 5spd manual gearbox and 2 spd transfer case. Will put 35 inch tires on it and a 4 inch lift. I'm very excited.
Hi Andrew... I couldn't help think that when you were chatting with Heiner there was a very strong resemblance to Ernie Wise 😂... No disrespect intended.
As a new dad those 4X4 adventures and long term travel options do really change! You can't really do it in a wagon anymore for longer trips. Looking forward to this series. I am hoping this type of vehicle goes relatively remote...super interesting!
Super excited for this build - please keep the updates coming Andrew, no matter how small. Especially keen for Heiner's 48V plans, so awesome seeing new ideas come to life
Have known about the 4x4 bus conversion for some time. There are a few driving around Karratha where I live and I have always wondered what the possibility’s would be making one into a touring vehicle, I have many of the same questions. Can’t wait to follow this build. This project will be incredibly interesting. Hopefully in the future Toyota could do this from factory 🤷♂️ without sacrificing the troopy of course.
Epic already,you two are so much fun to watch,I’m so looking forward to this build with you both, so much knowledge and the willingness to experiment and seeing no limits,fantastic ‼️
I will comment on every hiace build video! And say the same thing Andrew is the leading the overlanding and 4x4 TH-cam scene other channels need to realise getting a bunch of sponsors to give you free gear to bolt is not a build series! Andrew is the expert/goat when it comes actual purpose built 4 wheel driving! 🔥🙌🏽
He got these chassis and drivetrain upgrades given to ‘bolt on’. The videos are interesting but he’s not making anything beyond adding existing market products.
@@Cous1nJack you are wrong about Andrew’s builds not adding to the existing market. Even with the Troopy conversions Andrew has been at the forefront of so many modifications that now seem commonplace when so many have copied his ideas. With his venture into the HiAce he will once again have to initiate so many modifications and inspire the market to provide them to us all…obviously you haven’t followed his builds over the years as so many of us have. Strongly recommend you stay the course for some surprises this time.
Awesome stuff...I saw the 4x4 bus van and thought that it would make an excellent van for doing a 4x4 road trip with a family of 6....they even had a Granvia
Definitely. I would like to see not only dirt bikes, but also normal bikes, e-bikes and other large things that are too impractical for pickup trucks and SUVs. The need to carry an e-bike (and charge it while on the move) made me to even consider vans for overlanding in the first place.
It's joyful to watch, not just the Troopy compared to the Hiace, but also the two of you. You guys could be father and son. 😁. Of course it's no honest compare but who cares. You guys will have a blast with the Hiace. 😎👏🏻👌🤸
Looking forward to the build, interesting choice. When you presented the Iveco 4x4 i thought maybe that would be a future choice, but i understand your quarrels with getting in and out , this is going to be fun watching.
This has always been my dream. I came across the ibus conversions and thought yes this could be supercool for a proper off road camper. It will be cool to see how their version of the dream compares to mine.
This is the most exciting project after the Range Rover. Please don't hold back with the van. Here in the UK that van needs no improvement to off roading but huge innovation to sleep 4. You may have just answered the question for a family traveller. I am excited. Thank you.
Awesome project,….nice to see something diff’ than a standard 4x4 conversation. looking at a camper van build of our own, hope to get some new ideas and innovations,👍🏼
rear wheels spinning even with differential locked - could this be due to the lack of weight in the rear? I think when you guys have added your accessories to the vehicle that there will be far more grip in the rear.
Very intersting vehicle and the conversion to an overlander will be exciting to watch. I belive the suspension, if kept as is, will articulate more as the van gets heavier.
Gotta remember the van is just an empty box, the troopy is much heavier so that will actually assist in traction on these bits, I’m sure both cars have 40psi in them straight off the road too. Think of it like taking an old Sierra with nothing in it compared to a 200 series, Sierra will bounce everywhere and scrabble around, the 200s weight will assist it in maintaining traction. Interesting to see how it’ll go when it’s fitted out and 25psi in these sections. Very promising start though! Maybe a few bright leds in the cluster surround to indicate 4x4 and the locks rather than the switches?
Looking at it off road I just got a vision of you guys delivering packages to the most outrageous places! I think you should name this build 'Postman Pat' as a bit of a tongue in cheek reference to the humble origins of what I have no doubt is going to be an awesome build! I remember you briefly testing out an Iveco a few years ago, I would be interested why you haven't even mentioned Iveco in this van story so far. You probably considered and rejected the idea but I would appreciate some reasoning behind it. All the best!
I'm very interested in seeing where you go with the 48v stuff. I think you'll find it's 100% amazing. I went 48v on my nomad trailer and you couldn't convince me 12v would do anything like this. I run the trailer no different than you'd run stuff in your own home. It's that good. You get to a point where you just don't even think about overloading anything since the limit is ridiculously high. As was stated, 4x the volts, means instead of my 4Kw+ inverter running at well over 300a and needing massive cables the thickness of my wrist plus the fuses needed for such a thing, I instead have the same cabling you'd use with a 1Kw inverter in a conventional 12v setup and I can run any normal appliance you'd find in a typical home. I went pretty light too inverter wise. I sized appropriate for the need of build and it's perfect. Plus! I can run a 48v DC heat pump/AC while in camp that is very efficient. Can't easily do that on 12v!
I recon this will make a great 4x4 plenty of room in the back for a bed and comfy chair to sit back and watch TV The spare wheel underneath that’s out build a carrier on the back yes it looks fantastic
Andrew, now this projects highlights your expertise in overlanding and challenges, I would be delighted to be the first in SADC to rent out this vehicles when you finally conclude this project.woww
Ive been keeping an eye out for a 4x4 van after touring europe in a van 5 years ago (non 4x4). Got bogged the first night on a dirt road in Slovenia 😂 love vans for stealth camping too
I’m more excited about this build than anything else since I saw your first Australia troops build. If this ends up being what we expect it to be, that’s what I’m going to buy.
I always loved the idea of a van as a overland vehicle Once you add some accessories and sort a few things out it will be a great vehicle I am seriously thinking about this for myself Love it
Ps (i stopped the video to make the previous comment). We used our troopie with 2 adults and 4 kids. It was an 6 seater with a pop top. We slept up top, 2 kids down below (seat lay forward) and it had a screened enclosure which fitted over the back doors, the other 2 slept there. Lol! The hiace would be pure luxury lol!
The Hiace is pretty cool, and definitely worth doing for your purposes as a bit of an experiment. The thing that I just can't get past though is that you're looking at around $15-20k more than a troopy, for a less capable vehicle. I have to say I would choose the troopy, hands down
I can't wait to see what you're going to do with the roof of the Hiace. I have a 1993 4x4 Mitsubishi Delica van with the rare Reimo pop top - this Hiace should be a pretty solid modern 4x4 van platform! I wish we got the newer Hiace in the USA. I guess I'll have to wait another 25 years with the 25 year import rule we have in the US!
Not having indicators for the 4 wheel drive system is something that I hadn't thought about. That will take some getting used to. I'm just so used to seeing them on the dash and getting reasurance from that. Looks wise it is amazing! I really like it looks wise, I can't wait to see it in a different colour. And in some ways this is cooler than the Troopy, don't get me wrong the Troopy is legendary and hugely capable, but we have seen them before. A 4x4r HiAce is unusual!
Even if it won't be the main intention, I think it would be nice to see how much additional interest a 4x4 van build will get in your channel, noting how popular van-life content can be.
Honestly, I wouldn’t worry about getting rid of the Troopy. This thing will look tough as heck with some off-road accessories, a paint job/ wrap and some different wheels/ tyres. Tired of seeing 70 series content all over TH-cam (you were one of the originals and did it justice so you are forgiven) but I feel like this build, if done tastefully, will bring a far bigger and more enthusiastic audience than what you already have from Landcruiser content. A 4x4 bus is so refreshing to see and will undoubtedly be the envy on many 4x4 and travel enthusiasts. This WILL be the car you turn around and admire at your camp sites. Imaging the Ronny Dahl episode in the future on it too!
AGREE!
If done correctly it's a massive game changer
Real overlanders on a tight budget, often use old 4WD vans. This brand new troopy build thing is mostly done by wealthy secret society youtubers with lots of corporate connections.
Vans have always been noisy but kitted out should fix that
And it’s not like he won’t get bored of this in a week once it’s done and sell it to start another troopy.
Wow, this ongoing project will be undoubtedly the best offroading/overlanding content on TH-cam this year! Very very excited to follow along your journey!
Once you throw some gear in it and give it some weight in the rear it will be substantially better and have less rear wheel spin on the simple stuff. Articulation will also feel better.
My thought to considering the 2wds are way better with weight in them in every aspect I can imagine this would be the same case
@@Jacobtheunwise
In every aspect….besides acceleration, braking, cornering, fuel efficiency.
So … to sum things up…
Andrew : „I’m not doing a direct comparison, driving first the van and then the troopy“
Heiner : „Andrew is driving the same piece of road to do a direct comparison, between the van and the troopy“
Thx guys for clearing that up 😂😂😂
The van looks amazing, can’t wait to see the progress sir 👍
Screw all the negative comments, I was excited for this when you announced it, just the same now!
Our OKA motorhome is running a 48v system, combined with a Victron RS 6000 Multi with 12Kw of stored energy & all electrical appliances are 240v. Cost savings in cable size & weight plus the cost savings of appliances over 12v. Very excited to see this project proceeding, great work guys.
but you will still loose roughly 15% by DC>AC, all day long.
And again a part of that when charging AC>DC, like Phones, Cam, PC ect.
@@derJackistweg 12Kw battery bank will take you a loooong way ... ( depending on solar array )
@@kopeducati ?
@@derJackistweg yep .. ?
What are you talking about?
I am talking about the bad efficiency of transforming AC into DC.
Looks like you do nothing about that, go ahead and learn.
Has nothing to do with the size of the battery as 15% is 15%, weather on 12KW or 3KW, or or or or
Love a new unknown Andrew, so many questions and trials to do. I look forward to watching this build with much interest.👍🍻
This will change the Taxi industry in South Africa for ever !
Nah SA taxi's go anywhere already !
You won't be able to keep it in SA, will be stolen as soon as it's in your driveway and the insurance on it will be grossly over priced because of its steal-ability and use of parts in the taxi industry.
Previous generation of hiace came in 4wd, though
Lesotho have a lot of 4x4 taxi's for many years. Just getting on with the job and putting overlanders to shame.
Yoohoo
In East Africa, hiaces do bus taxi services ferrying 12 passengers ... this is a load of at least 600kg - 800kg constant doing 300km daily. Its normal to see them hit 800,000 km on the odo. This is a great choice and is basically bullet proof stock ... and with those powertrain updates should last decades.
В России , в Якутии очень популярны Hiace , предыдущего поколения(200) .И там они перевозят много груза и пассажиров , даже без 4 ВД....круглый год и в морозы -60C
4 person 4 sleeper is what i am looking forward to see 😃 love the collab!
Full salivation mode ON!!! As more of a van guy myself (vanlifer for over 15 years), this is gonna rock! This will totally do it out in the bush, no doubt about it. A pity we can't get anything similar in my side of the woods. Can't wait to see this epic build! Send it guys!!!
I'm new to van life and bruh what has the overland community been doing a van is the perfect overlander🤷🏼♂️lol Change my mind😅
It reminds me of my Sprinter 4x4. Momentum is important, each obstacle and dynamic demands a specific amount with specific timing as you cross the obstacle. It’s actually a fun drive, especially for a seasoned offroad driver. You will go to many wonderful remote places in that van.
So refreshing to see a driver that lifts there foot when it spins instead of flooring it digging great big holes and wrecking the track for everyone else. I have the extra long high roof version of the hiace. Been living in it for 3 years. I believe it's a better option than towing a caravan. 48 volts sounds interesting and to see how it's done.
The camaraderie between you two is a joy to watch it’s going to be a epic build.
16:40 this is why I'm considering these. 4 person travel, potential 4 person internal sleeping if required per location, still off-road going, not locked in to pulling a trailer. That's what I'm after.
You have a new subscriber based on this.
I can't wait. Hurry up and build it immediately please.
Power line track and Pea gravel the perfect testing combo and all in your back yard!!!
Like the variety of content on the channel.Thanks for sharing and taking us along
You've basically built a forward control troopy - love it
As I posted before, you taught me to drive in sand over the years. I know I mentioned I bought a fully configured PowerWagon and replaced the suspension with all King racing suspension, a goFastCamper and a TON more. I just bought another project, a '24 Subaru Outback Wilderness where I'll be lifting it 3 inches, installing coilovers with reservoirs, rear locker, 33's, full underbody protection and more! I will say the outback is really capable in sand from factory. Looking forward to the fun of a Subaru with lockers!
Genuinely Impressed with the ground clearance seen on the Hiace. I have a 4motion VW Transporter SWB camper conversion for x4 (Pop top), and even with the 35mm lift, I still find cautious driving is the way to go.
Looking foward to the future vlogs!
Very excited to see how the van evolves. This is the most interested I have been in a series for some time. Can’t wait!
Most exciting build in a looong time! Having Heiner involved brings a fresh dynamic to the channel too😆 Well done! Can't wait to see it on a trip💪🏻
I am looking forward to see the outcome of this project as I have been thinking of a van to tour around Oz with the Mrs in a few years time.
Can't wait to see it after repainting with adventure/safari colours and offroad bullbar.
Why did you not have BUS4x4 install their underbody protection kit? It provides great shielding both under the engine and under the running gear. I have taken my Hiace 4x4 to the top of Cape York as well as Fraser Island and many other offroad adventures. The van performs better off road once it is loaded with a camper fitout. As usual, running the tallest tyres possible and adjusting tyre pressures assist greatly when offroad. Sadly the wheel travel is about the same as a commodore.
As someone who lived in a Hiace Commuter (100 series) full time, now full time in a Pajero with a James Baroud RTT. The comfort and convenience levels are not the same, especially in the rain. This project I'll be following with great interest
This VAN 4x4 has the ability to overcome almost all aspects of an actual overlanding vehicle,,,very good experiment and keep it up 🎉🎉🎉
I like your new van! Love the 2.8L Turbo Diesel. Just bought a 2.8L Turbo Diesel for a project Nissan 4 door Frontier 4x4, with 5spd manual gearbox and 2 spd transfer case. Will put 35 inch tires on it and a 4 inch lift. I'm very excited.
I’m so excited for this new build. I think it’s going to be a game changer for the overland community in Australia. Great job fellas 👍
My delica 4x4 would struggle for traction when empty. But when weight is added over the rear axle it becomes 4 x more capable
Нету лучше велика (велосипед) , чем Митсубиси Делика😂
Hi Andrew... I couldn't help think that when you were chatting with Heiner there was a very strong resemblance to Ernie Wise 😂... No disrespect intended.
I am just so happy I found this channel right at this moment in time...That's a fantastic project!
As a new dad those 4X4 adventures and long term travel options do really change! You can't really do it in a wagon anymore for longer trips. Looking forward to this series. I am hoping this type of vehicle goes relatively remote...super interesting!
I am so very keen to see how you do the 48v setup
Yes. Me too. I am not electrically minded AT ALL, but I am very interested in seeing what solutions and challenges 48v brings.
Super excited for this build - please keep the updates coming Andrew, no matter how small. Especially keen for Heiner's 48V plans, so awesome seeing new ideas come to life
Have known about the 4x4 bus conversion for some time. There are a few driving around Karratha where I live and I have always wondered what the possibility’s would be making one into a touring vehicle, I have many of the same questions. Can’t wait to follow this build. This project will be incredibly interesting. Hopefully in the future Toyota could do this from factory 🤷♂️ without sacrificing the troopy of course.
Front Swaybar disconects for trails. Weight will help the flex as well. Nice project.
Totally agree! Front sway bar disconnect, estimate touring weight, tune shocks and springs to suit.
So excited to watch the rest of this series as I’m really leaning towards a HiAce conversion
Epic already,you two are so much fun to watch,I’m so looking forward to this build with you both, so much knowledge and the willingness to experiment and seeing no limits,fantastic ‼️
Loving that 48V direction Heiner...! 👌
I will comment on every hiace build video! And say the same thing Andrew is the leading the overlanding and 4x4 TH-cam scene other channels need to realise getting a bunch of sponsors to give you free gear to bolt is not a build series! Andrew is the expert/goat when it comes actual purpose built 4 wheel driving! 🔥🙌🏽
He got these chassis and drivetrain upgrades given to ‘bolt on’. The videos are interesting but he’s not making anything beyond adding existing market products.
@@Cous1nJack you are wrong about Andrew’s builds not adding to the existing market. Even with the Troopy conversions
Andrew has been at the forefront of so many modifications that now seem commonplace when so many have copied his ideas. With his venture into the HiAce he will once again have to initiate so many modifications and inspire the market to provide them to us all…obviously you haven’t followed his builds over the years as so many of us have. Strongly recommend you stay the course for some surprises this time.
Awesome stuff...I saw the 4x4 bus van and thought that it would make an excellent van for doing a 4x4 road trip with a family of 6....they even had a Granvia
I'm keen. Been talking for years about the lack of 4x4 van options in Oz... might be my next upgrade. Can't wait to see it come together... 👍👏
I'm very keen to see it with a wrap and a bull bar! That will make a break the look of this Kombi.
I'm not sure if the demand is there for it, but a gap in the interior for a dirt bike would be unreal
Definitely. I would like to see not only dirt bikes, but also normal bikes, e-bikes and other large things that are too impractical for pickup trucks and SUVs. The need to carry an e-bike (and charge it while on the move) made me to even consider vans for overlanding in the first place.
Agree. Have been looking for something that will carry me, my 2 sons and our toys for a while now!
Heaps of people use vans as touring vehicles/houses.
Dead on comment.
Rear diff lock is an absolute must , front unit a nice to have . Especially in this configuration to give you best of breed tractability
I have been considering a Hiace 4x4 for myself so it is great to see Andrew testing it out for me.
Sliding doors on a van are so practical in town.
Cant wait to see how it goes with 2 tonnes of 48volt wizardry in the back 👌 very cool project team.
I’m sure you said it didn’t have traction control yet Heiner said it did ? As he turned it off when he jumped in
It's joyful to watch, not just the Troopy compared to the Hiace, but also the two of you.
You guys could be father and son. 😁.
Of course it's no honest compare but who cares. You guys will have a blast with the Hiace. 😎👏🏻👌🤸
Looking forward to this build. Will definitely follow this.
Fantastic to see something new, can't wait to see the fit out
Looking forward to the build, interesting choice.
When you presented the Iveco 4x4 i thought maybe that would be a future choice, but i understand your quarrels with getting in and out , this is going to be fun watching.
Best 4WD review l have seen in years. Well done. Wish there were more reviews like this.
I would love to see this thing vs an older 4x4 Delica. They're very popular with backpackers
This has always been my dream. I came across the ibus conversions and thought yes this could be supercool for a proper off road camper. It will be cool to see how their version of the dream compares to mine.
This is the most exciting project after the Range Rover. Please don't hold back with the van. Here in the UK that van needs no improvement to off roading but huge innovation to sleep 4. You may have just answered the question for a family traveller. I am excited. Thank you.
Hi Andrew, just watching now, have you queried with Bus 4x4 about front difflock yet?.
Awesome project,….nice to see something diff’ than a standard 4x4 conversation.
looking at a camper van build of our own, hope to get some new ideas and innovations,👍🏼
Looking forward to this build. Something different for a change.
This is an exciting project!
rear wheels spinning even with differential locked - could this be due to the lack of weight in the rear? I think when you guys have added your accessories to the vehicle that there will be far more grip in the rear.
Actually. it was because the front axle cage had hit a huge rock.
@@4xoverlandwhy not mention that in the video? It made the van look incapable...
That's what I thought as well, it badly needs more weight up front and a front locker.
@@jetnavigator it was incapable. It hit the rock because of low clearance
Looking forward to this build 👍At least with a van you can add captains swivel seats in the front maximising your useable space inside 😎👌
Loving the content and the collaboration between you two. This will be epic!
I like the innovation instead of just doing the same as everyone else
Very intersting vehicle and the conversion to an overlander will be exciting to watch. I belive the suspension, if kept as is, will articulate more as the van gets heavier.
Gotta remember the van is just an empty box, the troopy is much heavier so that will actually assist in traction on these bits, I’m sure both cars have 40psi in them straight off the road too.
Think of it like taking an old Sierra with nothing in it compared to a 200 series, Sierra will bounce everywhere and scrabble around, the 200s weight will assist it in maintaining traction.
Interesting to see how it’ll go when it’s fitted out and 25psi in these sections. Very promising start though! Maybe a few bright leds in the cluster surround to indicate 4x4 and the locks rather than the switches?
Looking at it off road I just got a vision of you guys delivering packages to the most outrageous places! I think you should name this build 'Postman Pat' as a bit of a tongue in cheek reference to the humble origins of what I have no doubt is going to be an awesome build!
I remember you briefly testing out an Iveco a few years ago, I would be interested why you haven't even mentioned Iveco in this van story so far. You probably considered and rejected the idea but I would appreciate some reasoning behind it.
All the best!
This is going to be an interesting build. Can’t wait to see it.
good job from the Philippines 🇵🇭 lots of potential and fun 😉
Will be interesting to see how the van goes with some weight onboard and lower tire pressures.... loving the build
I'm very interested in seeing where you go with the 48v stuff. I think you'll find it's 100% amazing. I went 48v on my nomad trailer and you couldn't convince me 12v would do anything like this. I run the trailer no different than you'd run stuff in your own home. It's that good. You get to a point where you just don't even think about overloading anything since the limit is ridiculously high. As was stated, 4x the volts, means instead of my 4Kw+ inverter running at well over 300a and needing massive cables the thickness of my wrist plus the fuses needed for such a thing, I instead have the same cabling you'd use with a 1Kw inverter in a conventional 12v setup and I can run any normal appliance you'd find in a typical home. I went pretty light too inverter wise. I sized appropriate for the need of build and it's perfect. Plus! I can run a 48v DC heat pump/AC while in camp that is very efficient. Can't easily do that on 12v!
The Van will be a lot better with more weight in it. Can wait to see👍🏻
Looking forward to the next episodes
I recon this will make a great 4x4 plenty of room in the back for a bed and comfy chair to sit back and watch TV
The spare wheel underneath that’s out build a carrier on the back yes it looks fantastic
Andrew, now this projects highlights your expertise in overlanding and challenges, I would be delighted to be the first in SADC to rent out this vehicles when you finally conclude this project.woww
Really cool vehicle & concept, looking forward to seeing more 😎
Ive been keeping an eye out for a 4x4 van after touring europe in a van 5 years ago (non 4x4). Got bogged the first night on a dirt road in Slovenia 😂 love vans for stealth camping too
I’m more excited about this build than anything else since I saw your first Australia troops build. If this ends up being what we expect it to be, that’s what I’m going to buy.
I always loved the idea of a van as a overland vehicle
Once you add some accessories and sort a few things out it will be a great vehicle
I am seriously thinking about this for myself
Love it
I bloody love this idea. I look forward to the journey!!
I’ve seen models of this done for mines for years. Quite a few kicking around in qld, even the older snubbed nose ones.
So I previously asked can you fit a front locker. E locker would be terrific. Put some sound deadening in and it is a winner.
Ps (i stopped the video to make the previous comment). We used our troopie with 2 adults and 4 kids. It was an 6 seater with a pop top. We slept up top, 2 kids down below (seat lay forward) and it had a screened enclosure which fitted over the back doors, the other 2 slept there. Lol! The hiace would be pure luxury lol!
On the TH-cam channel L2SFBC you have video of Hiace modified to off road van in Australia
Would be interested to see an offroad comparison between this hiace and a new model AWD Mercedes Sprinter. At the beach too.
A Hiace is much smaller than a Sprinter.
The Hiace is pretty cool, and definitely worth doing for your purposes as a bit of an experiment. The thing that I just can't get past though is that you're looking at around $15-20k more than a troopy, for a less capable vehicle. I have to say I would choose the troopy, hands down
Less capable off road but much more comfortable on road. Plus, as he said, the Troopy is only good for 1-2 people.
How about getting the rock sliders on quick to save the panel work with that long break over angle? Just a thought..
Wooow Soooo existing to see the final product, especially with the 48v inverter system.
Great video, that vantage point as a driver has to be spectacular, more like a UTV than most road vehicles.
I can't wait to see what you're going to do with the roof of the Hiace. I have a 1993 4x4 Mitsubishi Delica van with the rare Reimo pop top - this Hiace should be a pretty solid modern 4x4 van platform! I wish we got the newer Hiace in the USA. I guess I'll have to wait another 25 years with the 25 year import rule we have in the US!
Come on Drifta get on board quick before someone else gets in. It would be a great way to showcase just how good your team is at van fit outs 👍👍🤞❤️🙏
I love 4x4 vans! I'll miss my L400 Delica until my last breath.
I'd like to see some friends crossing the canning stock route all in a van.
With 48V you are also into the OTR semi-hauler equipment for sleeper cabs.
Not having indicators for the 4 wheel drive system is something that I hadn't thought about. That will take some getting used to. I'm just so used to seeing them on the dash and getting reasurance from that. Looks wise it is amazing! I really like it looks wise, I can't wait to see it in a different colour. And in some ways this is cooler than the Troopy, don't get me wrong the Troopy is legendary and hugely capable, but we have seen them before. A 4x4r HiAce is unusual!
Im in the US, so we don't get that great van here. Im thrilled with this project.....Can't wait to see more!
Looking forward to watch this build. Something different. I drive the Peugeot version of this for work in the UK.
Even if it won't be the main intention, I think it would be nice to see how much additional interest a 4x4 van build will get in your channel, noting how popular van-life content can be.