RiverVan Trimaran EP1

An amphibious van on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4×4 chassis with a 140 kW engine and an automatic gearbox. A new platform, proven marine hardware and current safety equipment — lane keeping and emergency braking included.

Structure

The chassis is widened by 200 mm on each side. The rear axle runs spacers we had to develop and test ourselves to get them through approval. Steering, brakes and exhaust were all re-approved so the vehicle meets current regulations.

Overall length including the pontoons is 8.1 m (26 ft 7 in); width on the road is 2.38 m (7 ft 10 in).

In service

The vehicle carries twelve passengers and the driver, on three-point belts. The driver has a microphone for commentary on sightseeing runs.

Boarding is through the front right door and every door can be used afloat; on the water you can step out onto the side walkway and moor. Leaving the water means engaging the front drive — one button under the steering wheel.

Testing and handover

Final testing took place in June 2023 at the Žilina water works in Slovakia. The vehicle drove there under its own power and spent two days proving its seaworthiness — the event was open to the public.

The RiverVan now serves its owner in France.