Alphavan, a campervan specialist based in the Allgäu region of southern Germany, has introduced a premium mobile living solution that combines moderate off-road capability, digital connectivity, and a lightweight design. Crafted entirely within the country, the company describes its creation as “progressive premium” and the result of a deep engineering heritage encompassing mechanical engineering, computer science, and economic disciplines, which, apparently, draws on prior involvement in high-performance racing and lightweight design concepts. A few things stood out to me while researching this van and its builders: the reviews on Google are excellent, thoughtful, and precise; the van can include a washer/dryer called the Tiny Wash; and there is the option for a third seat and bed for a mini overlander, or even a child.
The heart of the Alphavan is the choice of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, outfitted with a 187-horsepower diesel engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission, and Mercedes’ 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The model features a high roof and a long wheelbase, delivering a gross vehicle weight of approximately 9,040 pounds and a ready-to-drive mass of around 7,385 pounds (including a full tank of diesel, 5.3 gallons of fresh water, and a 165-pound driver). For customers seeking a lighter variant, Alphavan offers a rear-wheel-drive version with a 7,720-pound gross vehicle weight and the potential to incorporate four official seats, depending on individual evaluation.
The interior is functional and features a centrally located kitchen, complete with a 90-liter Dometic refrigerator, a seamless countertop with an integrated two-burner induction cooktop, and refined sink fixtures. The seating lounge extends this sense of refinement, featuring rounded-edge cabinetry, flush-mount storage hatches, LED-lit compartments, and integrated USB and 230-volt outlets. The Mercedes-Benz MBUX display serves as the control interface for onboard systems, and entertainment is elevated through a 22-inch Alphatronics smart-TV, wall-mounted above the refrigerator on a swivel arm, allowing for adjustable viewing angles from the seating or sleeping areas. The TV can also stream content to mobile devices.
The bathroom is fully waterproof, built with a seamless one-piece design and polyurethane-sealed edges. It includes a waterproof-framed window, a Thetford toilet with SOG ventilation, ceiling vents, a pull-out sink, and a discreetly integrated shower attachment. Practical storage bins and soft-close cabinetry contribute to both usability and a consistent interior design. The bathroom and kitchen are supplied with water from a built-in 53-gallon tank.
One of Alphavan’s standout features is the FlexPort garage, which can also serve as a compact bedroom. The versatile space can be configured to accommodate the tiny overlander, recreational gear, or both, depending on how small the little overlander is. It provides around 176 cubic feet of storage, with dimensions of 7.4 feet by 5.6 feet by 4.3 feet, offering enough room to transport two enduro motorcycles along with equipment. Importantly, this generous capacity does not compromise the comfort or integrity of the living area.
The Alphavan also caters to self-sufficient adventurers. An “4×4 Off-Grid” package adds a custom roof rack, up to 1 kilowatt-peak of solar power, and robust lighting components—all within a reinforced roof system that adds about 60 kilograms of structural support.
Alphavan gives a nod to its partners for helping shape different parts of the build.
Mercedes-Benz provides the base chassis, while SuperB takes care of the battery tech. Vöhringer adds lightweight furniture, and Dometic, together with Votronic, supports system development. Truma handles the heating, Alphatronics supplies the TV systems, Solbio introduces eco-friendly sanitation products, and Jehnert completes the lineup with sound systems.
Naturally, such a premium product comes with a premium price tag, and the Alphavan will set you back close to $300,000 in Europe. Unfortunately, the van is not available in the USA.
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