Difference Between a Van Upfit and a Conversion Van?

For those in the market to do any kind of custom work on their van, it can be rather difficult to understand the differences regarding performing an upfit or doing a conversion, as these terms tend to be used interchangeably even though each refers to different types of procedures. In short, a van upfit refers to performing light customization work, in which the core design remains largely the same, even though additional custom components and other features are installed within. Conversions, on the other hand, refers to extensive work to fulfill a particular travel usage that requires the van interior to be taken apart first as it is reconfigured with a new set of dimensions that fall within OEM approved range of regulations. Deciding between whether an van upfit or van conversion is vital from a travel usage, passenger capacity and budget perspective. It is important to understand the differences and similarities between these vehicle procedures, especially when looking for a second party manufacturer. Learn more within the following post!

Conversion Vans

While the types of components installed and found within van upfits are able to be also found within van conversions, a conversion build requires the manufacturer to disassemble the interior in order to outfit it with a different set of dimensions to serve a particular travel use(s). By standard, conversion vans feature a complete new interior including side walls, doors, consoles, storages, middle trims, valances, and ceiling are redone among other interior components via vinyl or a leather material.  There are a number of unique van conversions ranging from executive, family, camper, mobile office, wheelchair accessible and commercial.

Van Upfits

A van upfit, refers to minor interior and exterior modifications performed on a van chassis that keep the OEM design and structure unchanged. Such work for exterior van upfits include installation of rear view cameras, side steps, sensors, alarms, remote starts and drop-down ladders among other options. In terms of the interior amenities and entertainment, such features include luxury coach seating, bulkhead TV cabinet, cabin WiFi router, streaming and gaming devices, luggage racks, rear cargo partition wall, and waste bins. For a consumer that wants a van for personal usage and are on a budget  this might be the right avenue to consider. In comparison, fleet operators and transportation companies perform van upfits to create people movers or multi passenger vehicles such as shuttle buses and luxurious shuttle vans. As a whole a van upfit is a less involved process and is a more affordable route than the latter, however depending on travel needs and desires it is sometimes not possible to incorporate certain configurations or components without editing the interior structure and design of the van.

Family and Executive Van Conversions

Any type of van that is dedicated to be used by a distinct group should include features and amenities to ensure that all passengers are traveling in absolute comfort and elegance. In terms of seating, these conversions feature luxurious captain chairs and foldable sofa bed / bench seats that include a number of motorization options and other unique features. Custom interior upholstery with coordinated wood laminate finishes for the valances and aviation styled retractable tables adjacent to each chair. For those that opt against an open concept layout, a front partition wall is capable of being installed for separation between the driver and passenger cabins. Furthermore, there are a number of entertainment options on boards to keep passengers well entertained ranging from video game consoles and streaming devices for TV displays, high-end audiophile surround sound systems and ceiling options such as a ‘Maybach’ RGB LED roof or multimedia video skyroof. In regards to storage, choices include a dedicated rear cargo luggage space with clothing racks and hangers, overhead and side storage cabinets.

Mobile Office Conversion Vans

Mobile office is another term that appears to be interchangeable in it usage, as there are a few kinds of conversions that feature different interior configurations as each are used by various individuals for different purposes. Some may choose to opt for an executive mobile office that puts focus more towards passenger comforts rather than accomplishing work. Even though, executive mobile office conversion vans aim to strike a balance between work and play, it is still remains a private use van even if it were for strict corporate means. Whereas others require a true office environment on wheels that is made to exhibit corporate flair with features such as workstation desks with bolted chairs, storage / office equipment and outlets for electronic devices among other available options. Such conversions are meant for commercial uses via a group of staff members that are capable and equipped to perform their work duties outside of a traditional brick and mortar location. More niche commercial applications for mobile office van conversions are mobile command centers that tend be used by law enforcement agencies and security / surveillance firms, as these are advanced builds that include specialized equipment and interior accommodations.

Camper Van Conversions

Camper vans are popular among backpackers, outdoor enthusiasts, roadtrippers and families or friends that love to travel and to be on the open road. What seperates a camper from an average conversion van is that these are outfitted with rear bathrooms / lavatories, full sized beds and kitchens or kitchenettes that are dedicated for travel journeys and trips to last multiple days or weeks on the road. Campers tend to differ from one another as not all of these are inclined to feature a bathroom, bed or kitchen. If the van is planned to be used for simultaneous day-to-day usage, then some might choose to lean towards more comforts compared to practical long-term travel amenities. if it is planned to be used for simultaneous day-to-day usage. On the other hand, some wish to be loading the van with as much passengers as possible, and are veering more weekend or dedicated seasonal use. Above all, campers should not be confused with a true RV or class B motorhome, since these are not meant to be used as a liveable space and are still vehicles even if their conveniences avoid need of constant stoppages at rest stops and are meant to be on the road for hours upon hours at a time.

Wheelchair-Accessible Conversion Vans

For those with a special needs or a disabled family member, scheduling travel arrangements can end up becoming quite a hassle. Wheelchair-accessible conversion vans aim to provide a dedicated solution for getting a wheelchair, scooter or other equipment on board. Specialized interior accommodations are outfitted to enable handicapped passengers to enter and exit the vehicle with relative ease, and provide them with travel independence within the passenger cabin. Custom captain seating is able to include elevated lift functions that assist handicap passengers in getting on and off their seats, as well as include a number of motorization options to find their optimal seating position. Again, if used for personal use these conversions will favor comforts and luxuries, in order to deliver the ultimate ride experience for the prime passenger. Although, some shuttle buses or shuttle vans are required to offer interior accommodations for handicapped passenger via a wheelchairs lifts, foldaway bench seats and L-tracks. BraunAbility are pioneers that offer a number of UVL, rear and other wheelchair lift solutions for custom conversion vans, which dominate the mobility travel market due to their reliability and affordability. While wheelchair-accessible vans to be focused on delivering their core use, each one is different since it is a travel space defined to make the life of the handicapped individual and their families easier.

Commercial Van Conversions

Small businesses and corporations have well adapted to the use of conversion vans to expand their operations to offsite locations, in order to allow their staff teams to work at an onsite location. Such vans are equipped to securely store specialized work equipment mid transit and bring multiple team members onsite. Such vans can be used as marketing showrooms to demonstrate new products, or offer services on-the-go such as dog groomers, hair salonists and food trucks. Others are used for medical purposes such as ambulances or mobile testing laboratories for law enforcement and professional clinics. In addition, photographers, florists and even TV show / movie producers have moved from their physical studio setups and have migrated or extended their studio to go mobile, in order to load and store valuable with ease and expand to new clients. Professions such as carpenters, plumbers, electricians, technicians that travel to and from multiple job sites with heavy equipment and tools need a reliable work van that has space. Commercial van conversions is an umbrella term that classifies a wide net of vehicles, which are all in all different from one another since each business differs from the other and their supposed travel needs could be rather distinct.

What HQ Can Do For Your Van Upfit or Van Conversion!

At HQ Custom Design, we pride ourselves being innovators and leading experts within the custom auto industry being known for innovative designs and superior craftsmanship. While in regards to van upfits and conversion, our expertise lies within the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Metris chassis as were one of the first to join and remain part of the Daimler Vans Master Upfitter program. We also specialize in upfits and conversions for the Ford Transit chassis, in addition to Lincoln Navigators and Cadillac Escalades. With our flexible build approach we ensure that our clients travel needs and expectations are being met, in order to deliver a functional, safe and reliable van that will remain on the road for years to come. Please feel free to browse through our various galleries to explore our different upfits and conversion packages and available options.

For more information and to speak to a salesman, please call our office at 201-592-6939, email us at sales@hqcustomdesign.com or fill out inquiry form to schedule a consultation regarding your project.