This was a fun one. Our client wanted a VW bus with classic looks, freed from the contraints of the archaic mechanical nature of such. Something for camping and weekend exploration with the family. While we originally intended to use an early camper version, we decided to redesign the interior space and sleeping area our own way. We kept it so that it still has the DNA and feel of a VW, but gone are the rattles, stink and leaks. This Derelict ICON VW now cruises comfortably at freeway speeds with the A/C blowing and the tunes pumping.
• Modern VW water cooled 4 cylinder
• Late model Vanagon four speed transmission
• Four wheel disc brakes
• Enhanced suspension and fully rebuilt steering system
• Modern MIL spec custom wiring
• Hidden LED interior lighting
• CAD designed teak interior complimented by vintage patio furniture textiles
• Dual A/C systems
• Bluetooth dependent audio system
• 110 Power inverter
• Custom steel and teak roof rack with self-pitching tent
ICON VW Derelict Project Overview Video
One word comes to mind: Groovy
To the beach! Everyone pile in!
Pretty much all stock from this angle, except for upgraded LED and halogen lights.
So much character and style.
On the inside, you quickly realize something is different. Top quality materials are everywhere, from the vintage NOS patio furniture textiles and Mercedes vinyl, to all of the bespoke Teak cabinetry work.
The rear facing seat can be easily removed and placed around the campfire or on the beach.
LED accents are in a few places, including flush on the bottom of the table.
The bar also has hidden LED lighting.
All of the LED mood lights can be controlled from the wireless remote. Check out the spun stainless cup holders too!
The bar is open! Room for your favorite wine, water and scotch!
Floor basin anchors for the table legs...
The Teak table can be removed and stored on the rear engine deck, in sprung steel anchors.
Here you see the rear A/C system. You might want to wear socks to avoid the frostbite....
The controller for the rear A/C is flush fit in the Teak side panel, right above the table.
110 Outlets inside and out, tied to a high output, top quality inverter.
Note two more speakers in the rear. The audio system is Bluetooth dependent, no visible head unit to ruin the vibe.
Why stop now, we decided to fabricate these Teak door pulls as well, replacing plastic with organic.
Headliner done stock. Hiding under the headliner is...
Tons and tons of Dynamat, which makes a big difference in road noise and heat.
All original paint and no rust! Loved by time and experience!
Custom vintage style steel roof rack with Teak runners.
When you have beat your friends at the poker game inside, pitch the roof top tent quickly and sleep well. Room for three. ARB product.
Nice to be off the ground when camping. Also nice to not having to cram inside the bus...
Rain shield, matress, mesh windows, and built in ladder.
Later model VW wheels, bigger diameter to fit our four wheel disc brake system. Powder coated white.
Clean and simple. Brings out smiles wherever it goes.
All ICON are badged with our classic and subtle Derelict body tag.
Stock seats with high quality foam and redesigned textiles.
This bus has dual A/C systems. One up here in the cab. Notice how we crafted vents in the dash package tray area and where the stock stereo would have gone.
All new weatherstripping everywhere.
Again, teak and vintage textile door panels. What you do not see is the Dynamat sound deadener products lining the doors. We really wanted to craft matching wood speaker covers, but the client was happy as it is...
Stock pattern and trim, all upgraded.
Dash still kinda looks stock...
If you look a bit closer, you may notice our custom temp gauge, designed to match the original fuel gauge. Stock these had no temp gauge, nuts!
Teak shifter knob detail...
Stainless steel exhaust, TIG welded.
Very well packaged, modern VW Jetta gas engine fits nicely, and quadruples the H.P.!
Wilwood disc brakes all around.
Hope you enjoy! This would also be a fun project as an electric vehicle!!!