Nick
2021 Mercedes Sprinter
144” Wheelbase 4×4
Nick’s 144” Mercedes Sprinter was built with a clear purpose: creating a comfortable, capable home base for climbing adventures. The layout was designed around an active lifestyle, with an emphasis on keeping the van open and versatile while providing plenty of room for climbing gear and all the comforts needed for extended trips.
The compact 144” platform makes it easy to navigate winding mountain roads, trailheads, and tight parking areas, while a Van Compass 6.3 suspension system with a 2” lift, paired with oversized wheels and all-terrain tires, adds ground clearance, improved handling, and capability when the pavement ends.
Inside, every inch was designed with function and durability in mind. Custom bamboo cabinetry brings warmth and a natural feel to the interior while providing plenty of organized storage. Integrated L-track offers flexible options for securing climbing gear, and durable Lonseal Spanish Chestnut flooring is ready to stand up to muddy shoes, ropes, packs, and the realities of an adventure-focused van. Multiple lighting zones throughout the van allow Nick to independently control different areas of the interior, whether he needs bright task lighting, gear-area illumination, or a more relaxed atmosphere at the end of the day.
The kitchen features a custom stainless steel countertop with an integrated sink and two-burner induction cooktop, creating a durable and easy-to-maintain workspace. A 24-gallon fresh water tank provides plenty of capacity for time away from campgrounds, while a Tetravan folding shower offers the convenience of an indoor shower without permanently sacrificing valuable living or gear-storage space.
Four-season comfort comes from a Rixen MCS7 hydronic system, providing heat and hot water for chilly mornings and cold nights in the mountains, while a Cruise N Comfort undermount 12V air conditioner handles warmer destinations. The electrical system is built around a 600Ah Victron lithium battery bank with Victron monitoring, recharged by an ARCO Zeus-controlled secondary alternator and roof-mounted Zamp solar panels for reliable off-grid power.
A custom RoamRest mattress provides a comfortable place to recharge after a long day of climbing, while a swivel table system creates a flexible space for meals, trip planning, working, or simply relaxing at the end of the day.
The finished build strikes a balance between rugged capability and a warm, refined interior—a compact, highly functional adventure van designed to serve as a comfortable basecamp wherever the next climb takes him.
