Unique Van Helping Motorhome
Two years of meticulous work. A 30-year-old Mercedes. A luxury designer apartment on wheels for a world tour.
From an ambulance to a traveler's dream
Uninspired by factory-made motorhomes? Take a look at this.
The mileage of the vehicle — a thirty-year-old Mercedes 508D — was only 20,000 kilometers when the owner bought it for six thousand euros. Previously, this Mercedes was used as a military ambulance in Germany.
The extensive transformation into a luxury exploration vehicle was carried out by Van Helping from Bordeaux, France — a company passionate about both creative design and furniture production.
Design and Transformation
Van Helping founder Florentin Millet and his colleague Guillaume handled every stage — from the bodywork to the furniture.
Chassis and Body Restoration
Framework: the Mercedes chassis was restored using welding. The bodywork was overhauled, and the exterior paint was replaced with an ultra-durable Raptor coating.
Wheels and Off-Road Capability
The vehicle has six wheels (four on the rear axle). Upgraded to larger 18.5-inch wheels with all-terrain tires — allowing the 80-horsepower vehicle to tackle difficult terrains.
Insulation and Comfort
The walls, roof, and floor are protected with cork and hemp insulation — ensuring maximum comfort during sharp temperature changes outside.
Furniture and Interior
Furniture is made of plywood covered with Fenix laminate. The walls and ceilings are finished with Iroko plywood to mimic a yacht deck. Wooden slats of varying lengths, custom cabinet cutouts, bold colors — nothing predictable.
Victron Energy Power System
The power installation is housed behind a glass panel as part of the design scheme. Control from anywhere in the world — whether in Europe or North America.
Smart 400Ah Lithium Battery
Two LiFePO4 12.8V/200Ah. Efficiency ≥ 92%, long service life, lightweight and compact.
Lynx Smart BMS 500 (M8)
Battery Management System — controlled and efficient charging of lithium batteries.
SmartSolar MPPT Controllers
MPPT 100/30 for stationary and MPPT 75/15 for transportable solar panels.
Smart BatteryProtect 100A
Protects the starter battery from accidental discharge — ensuring the engine will always start.
Cerbo GX + GX Touch 50
Communication center with a touch screen — real-time data and system programming.
GX LTE 4G
4G data transmission to the VRM platform. Monitoring from anywhere in the world and geofencing.
GX GSM
For 2G and 3G networks — essential for connectivity in regions with limited 4G coverage.
Power Application
Thermobox Evo Confort 2500W
Almost instant water heating and space heating.
Kitchen Equipment
Ceramic hob, electric oven, and extractor hood — a fully functional kitchen.
Refrigerator and Pumps
Food storage and water supply with no compromises.
4G Router and Satellite TV
Connectivity and entertainment at any point on the route.
Lighting Throughout the Van
A well-thought-out lighting scheme as part of the overall interior design.
Top Quality Wherever You Look
While it's great to know that life on board is supported by reliable devices, it's the materials and furniture that truly impress — and how they were utilized in this outstanding build.
Guillaume's furniture and fittings are designed from plywood covered with Fenix laminate. The walls and ceilings are finished with Iroko plywood styled like a yacht deck, complete with rubber strips.
Moldings, cabinet cutouts, color choices — nothing meets standard expectations, yet everything just works.
No matter where you park, your overnight stay will be first-class.
Get the Motorhome of Your Dreams
Contact the managers at LLC Total-Energo — we will consider all details and your preferences. Fill out the questionnaire and get a professional power system calculation for your motorhome.
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