Van Winkle

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Built Ford Tough

Van Winkle is our first Advanced RV Ford Transit build, created for Frank around a layout that stays flexible without feeling compromised. At the center is a drop-down bed that lowers from the ceiling. When it’s up, it opens the coach for daily life: two generous counters, two separate seating areas (one with an additional sleep option), and a spacious rear bathroom. When it’s down, it becomes a clean, comfortable sleep space—designed to look intentional in both positions.

This custom motorhome is built on a Ford Transit 350 DRW chassis, which brings a different set of advantages: a gasoline engine, a wide service network, and strong weight capacity for systems and storage. Van Winkle also introduced several “firsts” for us on the Transit platform, including custom exterior steps/nerf bars, a large freshwater system, and a high-capacity 48V lithium battery setup.

Frank’s direction inspired a darker, tailored interior—quiet, durable, and well suited to long days on the road.

FAQ’s

There are many shapes and sizes of motorhomes. How do I know a Class B is the best fit for me?
The class B motorhome is the most convenient size for traveling. From city driving to off road travel, class B motorhomes are easy to maneuver as they mirror the lengths and widths of a large SUV or pickup truck. Their smaller size opens up more options for overnight stays as they can be parked virtually anywhere and not been recognized as an RV. In our opinion, class B motorhomes are the most convenient for travel and the most comfortable eating and sleeping. When it comes to gas mileage, class B can be multiples of the larger motorhomes. Class A and Class C motorhomes are larger with more floor space, but this additional floor space makes them far more difficult to park – often requiring the need to tow a vehicle for local travel. When it comes to number of people, class B motorhomes can comfortably accommodate two for travel and sleep while class A and C motorhomes are typically designed to house more travelers.
Why ARV?
If you want a completely custom, hand crafted class B motor home, ARV will accommodate your needs. Each client creates every aspect of their design to match their travel needs. If you can find a “factory built” class B motor home that meets your design needs and quality standards, you should purchase it.
How much does it cost? How long does it take to build?
Advanced-RV motor homes will typically cost about two times the cost of a “factory built model”. If you don’t need the quality, capabilities, and customization of an ARV, we suggest on the following higher volume produced manufacturers of Class B motor homes: (Link to Roadtrek, Winnebago, Airstream, Midwest, etc.)
Where would I find a dealer that sells Advanced RV motorhomes?
We don’t use dealers. We design our motor homes with each client and we manage every detail of their ARV service. Based on our close client contact and total customization, there isn’t much value a dealer can offer our clients. We do not do paid advertising or pay to attend shows. We do a relatively small number of builds per year and we don’t want to have to add advertising costs to the cost of our clients’ motorhomes.
How will I design my ARV?
Clients visit our facility and join in a fun but significant process of sharing the details of their motorhome vision. Our designers and engineers facilitate the process supported by the many build examples on our production floor.
How customized can I make my ARV?
The only limits are ‘Does it fit?’ and ‘Can you afford it?’ Custom means custom.

There is no menu of items for you to choose from when designing your custom motorhome. Our designers have created an outline that guides the design process but every client design conversation is as unique as their resulting motorhome. The only limitations on the design are “will it fit into the chassis (weight and volume” and “is it legal by MB upfit and DOT standards”

I’ve decided I’m interested, what should my next step be?
We enjoy our email and phone conversations with potential clients. Ask as many questions as possible. We encourage you to visit us, tour our factory, and share your vision in person. If you are sure you want an advanced RV motorhome, please ask for deposit information. Your initial deposit will enable us to order your custom chassis (with your input) and firm your place in the production queue.
What kind of support and service can I expect when I drive away?
We answer our phones in person during business hours. We also have a service phone answered 24/7 by one of our technical staff. We do everything we can to answer your service questions, troubleshoot your issue, and find the nearest, best resource to do your repair, if a repair is warranted.
What should I name my van?

The names are only limited by your imaginations. Some examples of past names: NUANNAARPOQ, WAHROONGA, Glamazon, Goose, Nut Nut, Eowyn, Pebbles and Bam Bam