ModVans CV1, a Camper Van You Can Invest In

For people who want a camper van, one challenge is how the van can function as a daily driver and a weekend getaway headquarters. It can be financially impractical to own a second or third vehicle, but a well-thought-out Class B van like the ModVans CV1 can perform double duty. 

The CV1 functions as a camper van, passenger vehicle, and work truck in one. Removable, modular components let you change the layout, and the CV1 uses the low-roof, medium-length Ford Transit chassis as its base.

When commuting, the CV1 includes a second row of seats—two captain’s chairs and a middle seat—to travel five with seat belts. In camp mode, the seats are installed against the driver’s wall to maximize space; in transport mode, they face forward.

Using automotive seats means the rear row can’t fold out into a bed. The CV1 still sleeps a family, however, thanks to a removable downstairs bed installed over the storage cabinets and an upper bed located in the pop-up top.

A compact kitchen area stores in lightweight, removable cabinets that are bolted to the chassis with removable fasteners. Components include a two-burner propane stove, a deep undermount sink, and a high-efficiency refrigerator. If you’re camping for extended periods, the kitchen cabinet can be detached and used as an outdoor kitchen.

The van is powered by a battery system that features a 2,000-watt inverter and optional solar panels. Other amenities include a touchscreen stereo, GPS, rooftop air conditioning, propane heating system, and LED lighting. Beyond the standard features, ModVans also works with clients on upgrades like four-wheel drive, a 4G LTE cell booster, an outdoor shower, and a third row of seats.

Finally, for toilet options—we know how camper enthusiasts feel about bathrooms—you’re in luck. A rear toilet closet includes a portable toilet and a privacy curtain that can be removed by sliding the toilet off its mountain plate.

The big difference between ModVans and its competitors is that to fund its expansion, ModVans is selling stock via a crowdfunding campaign. It’s like a Kickstarter campaign, but instead of buying a product, investors purchase stock—or equity—in the company during an online public offering.

The minimum investment is $101.15, and the money goes toward helping ModVans expand production. Currently, the company has accrued approximately $2.4 million in sales and is producing two to four units per month. If the crowdfunding campaign is successful, ModVans hopes that by September 2019 they will be at approximately 10 units per month.