5 New Camper Van Upgrades in Jan 2026
- arthur5737
- 1 hour ago
- 6 min read
At Brooklyn Camper Vans, we're constantly testing new tech and pushing what's possible in van conversions. Every build teaches us something new. That's how we stay ahead.
Our latest Mercedes Sprinter showcases five innovations that each bring daily conveniences to #VanLife . Below we talk about what makes this build special,
and feel free to reach out about a custom build.
Email: sales@brooklyncampervans.com
1. XPEL Stealth PPF: Self-Healing Paint Protection
We wrapped this entire Sprinter in XPEL Stealth Paint Protection Film. It transforms the factory glossy blue into a sophisticated satin finish while protecting every inch of paint.
Why XPEL Stealth Stands Out
The film actually heals itself. Scratches from branches or trail debris disappear with heat from the sun. No polishing needed.
Key Benefits:
Self-healing elastomeric polymer technology
Edge Seal Technology prevents lifting and peeling
Hydrophobic surface repels water and dirt
Won't yellow from UV exposure
10-year nationwide warranty
The hydrophobic properties mean water beads up and rolls off. Cleaning takes half the time. And unlike cheaper films, XPEL Stealth won't turn yellow after years in the sun.
This isn't just cosmetic. It's protecting your investment from rock chips, bug acids, road debris, and environmental damage. The 10-year warranty shows XPEL stands behind their product.
2. Scheel-mann Vario F Klima Seats: German Engineering Done Right
We upgraded to the brand new Scheel-mann Vario F Klima seats. They're the first van seats with both heating AND cooling.
Dual Climate Control
Four integrated fans (two in the seat, two in the backrest) keep air circulating. No more sticking to your seat in summer heat. The heating function keeps you warm on cold mornings.
This isn't a luxury feature. It's practical comfort that makes 8-hour drives feel manageable.
14-Way Adjustability
Every body is different. These seats adjust to fit yours:
Infinitely adjustable thigh support for any leg length
Dynamic bolster adjustment (perfect for ski jackets or summer clothes)
4-way lumbar support (height and intensity)
Height and angle adjustments
Forward and backward base movement
XXL Option for Tall Drivers
This build has the XXL version with a 3-inch taller backrest. If you're over 6 feet tall, you know how rare it is to find seats that actually support your upper back. These do.
Safety First
All three seats include built-in three-point seat belts. They're mounted on fully crash-tested JMG swivel bases. Comfort and safety both meet the highest standards.
3. Front-to-Back Bed Layout with RoamRest Custom Mattress
This is our first front-to-back sleeping configuration. It changes everything about how couples use the space.
Why Longitudinal Sleeping Works
Side-to-side beds force you to climb over your partner at night. With front-to-back, you just step off the bed. Simple solution, huge quality of life improvement.
RoamRest: Engineered for Van Life
RoamRest has been making custom van mattresses in the Pacific Northwest since 2010. They understand mobile living.
What Makes RoamRest Special:
5 inches thick but feels like 10 inches (multi-layer foam technology)
Custom density options to match your preference
Four-layer construction with gel memory foam
Water-resistant fabric with removable zippered covers
Designed to withstand constant movement and temperature changes
The trifold design lets you convert the bed quickly and store it compactly during the day. And at 5 inches thick, it doesn't eat up precious interior height.
4. Velit 3000R 48-Volt AC: Power Without Compromise
The Velit 3000R changed our approach to van climate control. It's that good.
Real-World Performance
Velit rates this at 12,000 BTU. But we don't trust paper specs. We baked vans in August NYC sun and measured actual cooling performance every 30 minutes.
The Velit 3000R outperformed higher BTU units from other brands. Engineering matters more than raw numbers.
DC Power Efficiency
This runs directly on 48V. No inverter needed. That means:
30%+ longer runtime than 110V units
Direct connection to EcoFlow power systems
Less energy waste from conversion
More time off-grid
It pulls just 6A at 48V, making it incredibly efficient for the cooling power it delivers.
Built for Extreme Conditions
The Velit 3000R delivers cold air even in 126°F heat. Twin-cylinder rotor compressor technology handles whatever the desert throws at it.
Additional Features:
Slim 7-inch profile fits standard 14x14 rooftop cutouts
Fan-only mode for energy-efficient air circulation
TÃœV certified for safety and reliability
Eco-friendly R32 refrigerant
Smartphone app control (turn on AC before you return to the van)
Smart Control
Control everything from your phone. Temperature, on/off, fan mode. Pre-cool the van before you get back from hiking. It's the kind of feature that seems minor until you use it daily.
5. Wrappon Sunny Toilet: Japanese Engineering Meets Van Life
The bathroom solution has always been one of the biggest challenges in van conversions. We solved it with the Wrappon Sunny, a Japanese-engineered toilet that uses heat-seal technology to completely eliminate odors.
How the Wrappon Sunny Works
The system is surprisingly simple. Before use, you pour in a special coagulant powder that solidifies liquids and neutralizes odors. After use, press the start button and the automation takes over.
Two heating elements come together and hermetically seal the waste in a biodegradable film bag. The entire process takes about 90 seconds. You end up with a completely sealed, odor-proof package you can dispose of in any trash bin.
Why We're Excited About This Toilet
Complete Odor Elimination:Â The heat-seal creates an airtight barrier. Nothing escapes. We've tested these and they're great.
Ultra-Portable Design:Â The Wrappon folds down to 14.2" x 18.5" x 16.5" and comes with a carrying case. Take it camping outside the van, bring it to outdoor events, or keep it permanently installed. Your choice.
Self-Contained System:Â No plumbing connections. No water lines. No chemical tanks. Just 12V power from your van's electrical system. Installation takes minutes instead of hours.
Proven Reliability:Â The heating elements last about 3,000 flushes with normal use. If they need replacement, the parts are simple to swap and inexpensive.
Individual Disposal:Â Each use gets sealed separately. You never accumulate weight or worry about a tank getting full at the wrong time. Use it once, dispose of the bag, done.
Real-World Performance
The Wrappon originated from Japanese government requirements after the 2011 tsunami. It was designed for emergency situations where sanitation infrastructure failed. That engineering focus shows in how well it works under less-than-ideal conditions.
We've installed these in vans that spend months off-grid. The thermo-compression bonding system works consistently whether you're in Death Valley heat or Colorado mountain cold.
Key Specs
12V powered (16-foot cable connects to van electrical)
Biodegradable film bags
3,000 flush lifespan for heating elements
90-second seal cycle
Lightweight and durable construction
Completely hands-free sealing process
Wrappon vs Laveo: Which Toilet Is Right for You?
We also install the Laveo Dry Flush in many builds. Here's how to decide between them.
Wrappon Sunny wins if you want:
Individual bag disposal after each use
No waste accumulation and less chance of smell
Smallest possible footprint (it folds)
Simplest mechanism (fewer moving parts)
The lightest weight toilet
Laveo Dry Flush wins if you want:
Full-size toilet seat and height
Fewer maintenance intervals (15-17 uses per cartridge)
Faster flush cycle
Less frequent bag changes
Both eliminate odors completely. Both work without plumbing or chemicals. The Wrappon offers portability and per-use disposal. The Laveo offers full-size comfort and convenience. We install both regularly because different van lifers have different priorities.
Why Brooklyn Camper Vans Leads the Industry
These five innovations represent our philosophy. We don't just follow trends. We test tomorrow's technology today.
Our Process
Every component goes through real-world testing before we put it in client vans. We bake vans in summer heat. We drive them through winter storms. We live in them.
We partner with companies like XPEL, Scheel-mann, RoamRest, Velit, and Wrappon because they share our commitment to quality. These aren't the cheapest options. They're the best options.
Continuous Improvement
Each van we build incorporates lessons from the previous one. Client feedback drives our decisions. Real van life experience informs every design choice.
We're not satisfied with "good enough." We want exceptional. That means constantly experimenting with new tech and better solutions.
Experience the Difference
This Mercedes Sprinter represents the cutting edge of van conversion technology:
XPEL's self-healing paint protection
Scheel-mann's climate-controlled seating
RoamRest's engineered sleep comfort
Velit's efficient cooling power
Wrappon Dry Flush and Seal Toilet
Ready to Build Your Dream Van?
Contact Brooklyn Camper Vans to discuss your custom build. Our team will help you choose the right innovations for your specific needs and travel style.
We'll talk through your plans, show you our latest builds, and explain how each technology performs in real-world use. No sales pressure. Just honest guidance from people who live this lifestyle.
Email: sales@brooklyncampervans.com
Stay Updated on Our Latest Builds
We're constantly finishing new vans with innovative features. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow our blog to see what we're testing next.
The future of van conversion is happening in Brooklyn.
Visit brooklyncampervans.com or contact us today to start your custom van journey.