This Fiat Ducato Was Turned From a Humble Delivery Van Into a Tech-Ladden Home on Wheels

Living a simpler life that is fully contained in a camper van is the essence of minimalism, and Ladi and Margaret, the owners and builders of this futuristic, well-appointed rig, have managed to squeeze inside the limited square footage offered by a 2015 Fiat Ducato L4H3 as much functionality as possible. With careful planning, innovative design solutions, and state-of-the-art technology, they turned the humble cargo van into a sleek, tech-savvy tiny home on wheels that allows them to explore new places and experience new things at their own pace.

The travel-loving couple purchased the 2015 Fiat Ducato L4H3, which used to be a DPD delivery van, in 2020 for $12,000 and worked on the conversion during the pandemic. In total, they estimate they spent around $25,000 for the van conversion, a fair price considering all the innovative features and technology included in the build. While most van conversions we've seen were heavily focused on aesthetics and comfort, Ladi and Margaret prioritized practicality and functionality. They used clever space-saving and organizational hacks to make the most of the minimal space and ensure the final design is perfectly suited to their needs.

A powerful electrical system, custom security cameras, a 47-degree tilt solar system offering 1kW of solar power, a tech wall, a 3D printer, and a big screen monitor are just some of the state-of-the-art features included in this innovative custom build.

In terms of layout, there is an open floor plan with no separation between the driver's cabin and the living area. It comprises a lounge/dining/working area up front with swiveling driver's and passenger's seats and a table for each of the seats, a compact yet very well-organized and fully functional kitchen, a concealed bathroom area, and a rear sleeping area with lift-up bed frame for easy access to the garage space where the couple keeps their e-bikes. Oodles of secret storage compartments, a reclining chair, and a pair of custom panorama roof windows with built-in curtains are also part of the build.

From the outside, the van has quite a stealthy look, with a matte gray paint job and not many elements to give away its true character, apart from the solar array on the roof and the 150-liter fresh water tank mounted underneath the vehicle. Speaking of the solar system, the van is equipped with four solar panels mounted on a motorized lift that is remotely controlled and raises up to 47 degrees, a system that comes quite in handy during early and late hours as well as off-season camping.

The interior, on the other hand, is optimized for remote work and adventure, with the whole layout based on modularity and designed around the garage area that holds the owners' e-bikes, a huge electric box with a 13 kWh battery, and several other storage compartments. They wanted not to have to assemble and disassemble the two-wheelers every time they needed to use them, so they built an unusually high bed platform with an aluminum frame to keep it lightweight. The actual bed lifts up as well for easy access to the ample storage space underneath.

Comfort and convenience were also important for Ladi and Margaret, so their van has a cozy sleeping area with a comfy mattress and insulated back doors, a nicely organized kitchen, and convertible workspaces.

Everything in the kitchen area has its purpose and is a thoughtful addition to the space, from the cleverly designed overhead cabinet that holds cups, glasses, jars, and spices to the magnets for cutlery, mounted baskets for bread and fruit, and concealed wine storage compartment. There is a counter extension for some extra meal prep space, as well as modern appliances, including a sink, a fridge hidden under the bed, an induction cooktop, and an oven.

Next to the kitchen, there is a reconditioned reclining chair with a swiveling table and another inconspicuous storage compartment that holds the couple's laptops. Just above the reclining chair, you will notice a tech wall that can charge the batteries of their drone, GoPro camera, and other filming equipment.

Ladi is a designer/builder and works remotely from the van when out and exploring, so as crazy as it may sound, this custom home on wheels is also equipped with a 3D printer neatly installed above the cab. Moreover, this van conversion includes plenty of 3D-printed elements, including the holders on the tech panel, cup and glass holders in the kitchen cabinet, locks for different doors, and more.

The cab area is where they spend most of their time when they have to work, so the 3D printer is also located in this area, in a special overhead compartment.

Right next to the sliding side door, there is a narrow storage unit for shoes and socks, a "getting ready" zone with a mirror and some wall storage for toiletries, and the convertible bathroom cubicle that includes a compost toilet and a hot water shower. There is also an outdoor shower for rinsing shoes, equipment, or a quick cleanup after a day at the beach.

Plenty of power sockets, USB charging ports, LED lights, and a control panel above the kitchen sink that gives details about the gray and fresh water levels and lets campers control the fans are also part of this complex van conversion.

The attention to detail in this camper van conversion is overwhelming, making it a DIY masterpiece. If what we described here intrigued you, the good news is the couple documented the whole building process, and a very detailed van tour is available on their YouTube account.