Build Details
– Built on a 2021 model 3500 Sprinter
– 170” wheelbase, extended-length, 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter chassis
– 24’1” total length
Chassis Upgrades
– VB air suspension upgrade
– E&P automatic hydraulic leveler system
– Mega Train Horn with onboard PA system
– Motion-sensing exterior lights
– Chip guard protective coating on trim and body kit
– Aluminum Alcoa wheels
Battery System
– 13 KWh lithium battery
– Charged by heavy duty second alternator
– Battery heat
– State-of-charge and temperatures of each cell are monitored and displayed on coach management interface
Heating System + AC
– Diesel furnace system heats water on demand and provides convective heat
– Electric floor heat
– Dual heater cores in living space
– 13.5k BTU ARV quiet AC
– Maxx Fan
Bathroom + Plumbing
– Dry bathroom enclosure with separate stainless steel shower stall
– Macerating toilet
– 40 gallon freshwater, 27.5 gray water, 18.5 gallon black
– Indoor, four season plumbing with tank heaters
– Outdoor shower hose
Beds
– Articulating twin bed
– Manual sofa bed with solid walnut table mounts
– Jumpseat bed behind front cab
Other Specs/Features
– Mounted electric winch for internal bike storage
– Velcro lining in cargo space
– Screen door
– 24” HD TV
– Subwoofer and JBL speaker sound upgrade
– Microwave
– XL 220 liter fridge/freezer
– Lighted interior cabinets
– Solid walnut table and countertop
– Multiplex switched LED lighting
– XL Pantry
– Exterior mounted table at slider door
NELSON | My 4×4 Cedar Cabin Motorhome By Advanced RV
Tired of campers and motorhomes with interiors awash in various shades of white or gray? We’ve certainly seen a few customized builds featuring wood interiors, but this could be the only one we can smell through the digital world of the internet.
Of course, we can’t actually smell the interior of this extraordinary RV. But few smells are as memorable (and welcome) as cedar, and this camper from Ohio-based Advanced-RV is literally full of it. Called Nelson for reasons that aren’t made clear, the bespoke build was designed specifically for a customer planning considerable off-grid travel over the next five years, and it sure looks like a serene place to get away from it all.
Off-grid pretty much requires four-wheel drive, so the starting point is an extended-length Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4. From there, Advanced-RV got to work using Eastern Red Cedar wood sourced from Amish communities in the area to build just about everything inside. The design is interesting, as the full bathroom is located at the back and spans the width of the van. A stainless-steel shower is separate from the toilet, and the entire area can be closed off from the rest of the living space.
Speaking of which, the central area contains a bed and sofa, the latter of which also converts to a bed. The kitchen is located at the front, featuring a large stainless refrigerator, sink, and a microwave beneath a walnut countertop. There’s a nifty jump seat between the kitchen area and cockpit that opens up to a third bed, albeit a small one.
At the very back of the Sprinter is a small garage accessible from the outside. Lined in fabric, it allows for prolific use of Velcro to secure items, though an electric winch is used to raise and store an electric bike. Per the customer’s request, there’s virtually no plastic that could lead to off-gassing. The layout closely resembles the van owner’s home, and since it will be used all-season, it’s equipped with heated tanks as well as heating and air conditioning inside for comfort.
Advanced-RV specializes in custom camper builds, and this wood wonderland with its detailed design certainly qualifies. It looks comfortably cozy, and with all the cedar inside, it must smell absolutely incredible.
