At my last teardrop trailer gathering, a monster vehicle pulled into the campground. I immediately dismissed it as another massive vehicle built for trips to the mall, but I was surprised to see that it was actually a tiny house…on really big wheels. The young couple who owned it lived most of the year in the vehicle in Baja, Mexico.
The Sportsmobile is actually a Ford, Chevy/GM or Mercedes-Benz van that is converted into a traveling home. The one I toured was the 4×4 version which is rugged on the outside, but very comfortable, clean and organized on the inside. It’s the perfect touring vehicle for people who want a little more adventure.
Laura and Geoff took their Sportsmobile on their honeymoon and travel around the country in it.
The Sportsmobile has several dozen floorplans to choose from. The 4×4 comes with several seating areas and a full kitchen area with a refrigerator, sink, microwave, stove and a pantry. Most of the Sportsmobiles only have a portable toilet and and outdoor shower, but can carry up to 17-20 gallons of water. A few of the floorplans contain a wet bath with toilet. Because of the pop-up roof and overhead bed, plus the couch below, there is room for about four to five people to sleep.
Other amenities include door-hung cooking areas complete with BBQ, awnings, air conditioning and heating, solar panels, bike and kayak racks, graywater tanks, and stereos and TV/DVD players. Additionally, because of their versatility, these vans can be customized to be working vehicles as well. Some Sportsmobiles have become mobile medical clinics, vet clinics, photography and artist studios, and touring/exploring vehicles.
Prices for a new Sportsmobile start at about $70,000 for a Ford E-350 V-10 gas engine van, Sportsmobile interior conversion and 4×4. Depending on additional options the price will run $80,000-plus.
Photos courtesy of Sportsmobile and octopup
By Christina Nellemann for the [Tiny House Blog]