Alphard Hybrid camper.

[Arthur Smalinsky]

Dear Fellow Alphard Enthusiasts

I am considering buying a 2004 Toyota Alphard E-Four Hybrid to convert into a camper with a L layout or a Rear and side conversion ( have not decided just yet ). 

I was wondering if this is the right type of alphard for the job as it is an older model, is there anyone who has a Alphard E-Four camper? We have also come to the thought that we could convert a work van (e.g a master) instead of a alphard due to added space. The car does not have a pop top so we are quite limited on space, it will also need 5 or more belted seats. Does any one have any advise? Its really appreciated! Thank you!  

[Rojie]

1 hour ago, Arthur Smalinsky said:

Dear Fellow Alphard Enthusiasts

I am considering buying a 2004 Toyota Alphard E-Four Hybrid to convert into a camper with a L layout or a Rear and side conversion ( have not decided just yet ). 

I was wondering if this is the right type of alphard for the job as it is an older model, is there anyone who has a Alphard E-Four camper? We have also come to the thought that we could convert a work van (e.g a master) instead of a alphard due to added space. The car does not have a pop top so we are quite limited on space, it will also need 5 or more belted seats. Does any one have any advise? Its really appreciated! Thank you!  

 

Hello Arthur,

 

Welcome to the Forum.

[smurf]

I have a 2003 Alphard E-four camper. It was converted by the now defunct campers Scotland, also known as Campervanco, and they specialised in converting the hybrid Alphard so there are quite a few about if you look. It suits me fine, won't win any speed records, and although it is a hybrid it is still a bit thirsty (I generally get about 35mpg on motorway runs sitting at 60mpg)

 

The older hybrids are getting long in the tooth, and they can throw up expensive faults. Having said that, like anything these days you only hear of the people who have had a problem, not all the people who don't.  If you have set your heart on the hybrid then maybe see if you could stretch to the later gen 2 model as the hybrid system is very different. The non hybrids models aren't too far behind in fuel consumption, so don't discount them if that is your reason for looking at hybrids.

 

It terms of getting 5 belted seats, I believe North Star conversions do offer this with a side conversion but it does then limit the space for the side conversion. If you do a Google search you will probably find some photos to get an idea of what is possible.