With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic around the planet, people are looking for alternate ways to travel and many are turning to overland travel as a way to remain socially distant, spend time with their families, and enjoy nature.
This trend is not only happening in North America. Europe is seeing unprecedented demand for capable adventure vehicles with 4×4 systems so users can experience nature in comfort.
German motor coach maker HYMER is now offering two of its popular leisure vehicles as “CrossOver” edition models to keep up with the growing demand. As a result, the semi-integrated HYMER ML-T 570 and the HYMER Grand Canyon S camper van – both built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis – are getting an off-road upgrade featuring a high-traction four-wheel drive system as standard. A comprehensive standard equipment package including a solar installation helps to increase self-sufficiency to up to 10 days. Several visual highlights, such as the all-terrain tires, further emphasize the striking look of the vehicle. Combined with the customary level of HYMER comfort, the “CrossOver” editions can get users out of crowded campgrounds and into the backcountry with ease.
While the HYMER ML-T 570 and Grand Canyon S aren’t available in North America, the builds are worth checking out if you’re thinking about building out your own Sprinter camper van.
GRAND CANYON S “CROSSOVER”
The Grand Canyon S “CrossOver” is built on the traditional Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, making it a capable (and comfortable) home base in the wilderness.
The rear sleeping area features a premium disc-spring bed frame and cold foam mattresses. For extra sleeping berths, the manufacturer offers a pop-top roof as an option. The Mobicool cool box refrigerator is also available as an option, which is housed in the pull-out storage space on the rear bed and can be taken out whenever it is needed.
Preparing fresh meals is a breeze thanks to the practical kitchenette and a 90-liter refrigerator with freezer compartment, as well as the extendable kitchen counter. The original Mercedes-Benz comfort seats are also available with a leather finish as an option.
The standard package includes; a six kilowatt diesel heater with an electric bar heater and altitude kit, a 90W solar installation on the roof, and the HYMER Smart Battery System, which combines the superb performance of lithium batteries with the low costs of conventional lead batteries, ensuring the best energy supply.
Hymer ML-T570 “CrossOver”
Despite its off-road capabilities, no compromises are made by the semi-integrated edition model where interior comfort is concerned. The two twin beds at the rear featuring the disc-spring sleeping system can be transformed into a large sleeping oasis by placing an additional cushion between the beds.
The bathroom and kitchen adjoin the sleeping area. Boasting a 152-liter refrigerator, the kitchen has plenty of room for all of your supplies.
The generous L-shaped seating area and the original Mercedes-Benz comfort seats are located towards the front of the vehicle. The driver’s seat can be converted into an extra sleeping berth at the front of the vehicle with the help of an additional cushion.
To make the ML-T 570 “CrossOver” even more self-sufficient, the semi-integrated motorhome comes with an autonomy package as standard. It includes a six kilowatt diesel heater with an electric bar heater, as well as an altitude kit that enables the heating to continue to be used at campsites located at an altitude of over 1,500 meters (5000 feet). A battery package is also included, which consists of the HYMER Smart Battery System with two lithium batteries and an inverter. For its self-sufficient energy supply, the ML-T 570 “CrossOver” features a solar installation with a capacity of two times 90 watts on the roof.
While the HYMER “CrossOvers” will remain in Europe, these builds are worthy of getting ideas for your own DIY build at home.