Rocky · ProMaster 159

The Story

Rocky was built around one goal: stay out as long as possible without plugging in. The Volta power system carries 13.5kWh of lithium storage, which works out to roughly the same capacity as fourteen 100Ah lithium batteries, and it charges three different ways. There is 380W of solar on the roof, a shore power connection for the nights you do find a plug, and a Volta 58V auxiliary alternator that charges about four times faster than a traditional 12V alternator. With the high idle setting, the van effectively becomes its own generator any time the engine is running. The 3600W pure sine inverter has enough headroom to run two RV air conditioners at once, which tells you most of what you need to know about this system.

Extended off-grid time means winter eventually shows up, so the wet systems were built to take it. The fresh, grey, and black tanks are all heated, a Webasto gas heater keeps the cabin warm, and an Isotherm hot water heater handles showers and dishes. The bathroom is a custom enclosed aluminum shower with a Thetford flush toilet and a Nautilus self-cleaning shower door made specifically for RVs, plus an exterior shower for the days when the mud should stay outside.

The rest of the van is set up for actually living in it. The galley runs an induction cooktop with full-surround upper cabinets and a proper closet, the U-shaped lounge converts to a queen bed, and a Winegard satellite and TV setup covers the slow evenings. Outside, a custom 80/20 roof rack, Fiamma awning, and light bar sit over Black Rhino rims and a Van Compass lift kit with a levelling system. AMA automotive windows all around, custom bug nets for the sliding and rear doors, and insulated covers with pleated pull-string blinds round out a van that is comfortable parked anywhere, in any season.