Couple Transforms 16-Year-Old Van Into Solar-Powered Abode On Wheels

Many would love to travel more frequently, but the most common hurdle is the cost required to do so. It’s for this reason that more and more people are renovating old vans and buses and using the comfortable vehicles as homes while they explore the world. Freelance photographer Norbert Juhász and his fiancé Dora, a writer, are but two individuals who have done just that.

Because there is plenty to explore and enjoy on this planet, the duo renovated a 16-year-old van that runs on solar energy. Best yet, they’re driving the abode-on-wheels from Budapest to Morocco.

As TreeHugger points out, the exterior of the van isn’t anything special. The interior, however, includes all of the amenities one might need.

A multifunctional seat transforms into a bed for two and a small kitchen unit, which includes a gas cooktop, gas cylinder, sink, and a large water tank with a pressure-sensing pump, allows the couple to cook on the road. The task is made easier thanks to an L-shaped cabinet that accommodates a tiny refrigerator and storage space.

The water tank is connected to one extra hook-up that leads to the rear of the van. There, water is used for quick showers.

250-watt solar panels which were mounted on the roof of the van charge a 12-volt electric system. Any excess energy can be stored in 200-Ah batteries which are attached to an inverter.

The entire renovation process (including custom-made furniture) cost about $7,200 – a decent investment, considering how expensive airfare and hotels can be. And even though the van is 16-years-old, you can bet it will transport the couple all the way from Southern Europe to Morocco. If you’d like to follow their journey, visit the Rundabella website and Facebook page.