"It all started when we were thinking - what are we going to do when we stop working? That's when the idea matured that we could buy a motorhome and travel the world in it," says Sonja. She and her husband Klaus spent a long time looking around at trade fairs for a suitable vehicle. They were increasingly looking for a vehicle that would allow them to drive on more than just paved roads in order to be as flexible and independent as possible.

There were many interesting concepts on display, and a Unimog with a cabin on top was particularly appealing. The finished mobiles were tempting, but also had their disadvantages. They were not only very expensive, but also highly complex. This contradicted the basic idea of the two adventurers: "We wanted to be able to take care of the repairs ourselves if something breaks down. That's not a given if you have a high-tech vehicle. If you are somewhere where there is no mechanic and no workshop, you have to be able to do it yourself," says Klaus. In addition, the finished vehicles did not always meet the requirements in terms of layout and so on. That's why they decided to carry out the conversion themselves.

iCAD Assembler of great benefit

Before deciding on MiniTec, Klaus, a CAD administrator by profession, had already created numerous designs for wooden camper furniture on the computer. He has now transferred these to the world of MiniTec aluminum profiles using the iCAD Assembler: "Because it's much easier to do this with it. You have all the components available, and the necessary connectors, cover caps etc. are also taken into account straight away. In addition, you are always informed about the prices." He then imported the designs from the iCAD assembler into his CAD system and continued working with them. Using the electronic design tools has clear advantages for the tinkerer because he can avoid errors in advance that would otherwise only be detected during installation.

On-site installation at MiniTec

After the preliminary work, it was time to get down to practical work in November. Klaus and Sonja were able to use MiniTec's assembly hall to assemble the components designed on the computer and then manufactured and installed in the vehicle. They were supported in word and deed by company employees.

Once everything is installed, the Steyr is sent to another company where the heating system is fitted. Then comes the electrics. "We have solar cells on the roof, a power connection for 220 and 110 volts as well as a connection via the truck's alternator so that the battery is charged when we are on the road. The electricity is the basis for almost all the appliances, only the heating is diesel-powered," says Sonja. Further elements will be installed and connected with external support by the end of the year: Stairs, lamps, heating, water tanks and gray water tank. After that, a lot of small jobs will be carried out in-house, including the installation of a bed. "When everything is finished, we'll have a complete condominium on 9 square meters," comments Klaus.

Live presentation at InHouse

The "home-related topics" included a kitchenette with electric stove and fridge as well as power sockets. The sanitary area with fans and cable ducts for the dry toilet was also on the agenda, as well as the exterior lighting, powerful USB sockets and three water pumps - one for fresh water, one for rinsing water and one for shower water. Much more work is still to come in the next few weeks. From installing the frames for the floors and the bench, fitting the shower tray, attaching wooden panels and installing the indirect lighting. The pair's aim is to have their long-distance truck as complete as possible by the InHouse on April 25 so that visitors can view it.