Canada-based vehicle outfitters Wilderness Vans produce a wide range of overlanding rigs, including large campervans, compact vans, and truck-based rigs using inserts or flatbed conversions. Recently, they’ve released a more compact version of their more capable “Grid” truck-based model based around the newer 2023 Ford F550 chassis. Not surprisingly, it’s called the “Grid Mini,” but even so, it’s a fairly healthy serving of off-pavement capability.
The smaller footprint of the Grid Mini is helped by the use of a simple single cab version of the F550. Two flatbed camper sizes, including a 60-inch version, keeps things compact, but there is also an 84-inch version (measured from the cab to the rear axle) available if you want a smidge more room.
Hard parts include a Bodyguard front brush guard with a Warn winch, driving and flood lights, suspension lift with Fox dampers, Continental AT MPT 81 tires with rear-mounted spare, fold-out steps, rear lock box, rear ladder, and a cab-to-camper pass-through.
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Inside, the shorter platform means the loss of the wet bathroom in favor of a fold-out shower system and a slide-out Thetford chemical toilet. Otherwise, the comfort essentials remain, including an induction cooktop, sink, tall fridge, table, and seats that convert to a small bed, and numerous storage cubbies inside and out. The main bed sits in the cabover section of the camper.
Rather than a noisy generator, the Grid Mini includes a 12-Volt 271Amp/hour lithium battery pack and 3,000 Watt inverter. Rooftop solar panels keep things charged up, and there is a shore power connection as well. The water tank holds 68 liters, and warmth on a cold campout comes from a Webasto gas heater.
Wilderness Vans says pricing starts at about $320,000 USD for a turn-key rig. Finishes and options will affect the price, of course. To get your build underway, contact Wilderness Vans.
