I met up with Susan and Klaus recently at Haumoana, freedom camping in the Hawkes Bay. They're a month into their first year and a half voyage around the world in their specially built Uni-Mog.
Klaus is a locksmith by trade but he's much more than that. He's built their tiny home on wheels which is a masterpiece of engineering and creative innovation.
Hydraulic rams lift the roof allowing ample access to the massive bed with its base surrounded by flush storage compartments. There's storage everywhere here and some very clever ideas have been thought of to use every available inch of space. Susan, a doctors assistant in real life and Klaus have worked very well together to come up with a very unique home on wheels.
The 1984 Mercedes once destined for active duty in Kosovo but ending up never seeing a war zone has only done about 15,000 kilometres.
It carries 300 litres of fresh water, 300 litres of diesel, its black tank holds 180 litres. Having run out of time at home in Germany, they're adding the solar components here in New Zealand which will augment the large capacity alternator and the 3 kva generator.
There's two 180 amphour AGM batteries.
A massive rear storage locker contains all their toys, outdoor furniture and portable bbq.
Keep a look out for these two intrepid travellers.
They're lovely people...
And they make the best coffee and warm breakfast rolls!
ReplyDeleteWow, what a fascinating home on wheels! Those little pockets for storing kitchen utensils are really unique. Not homey or cozy but travelling the world in places that might not be too friendly, I suppose this fort-like appearance commands more respect than something that looks like a gingerbread house. It would be rather difficult to break into which is a big plus. Happy travelling.
ReplyDeleteUhmmm, might want to check your units and edit this for factual content. Ain't buying the 2,000 ampere alternator figure. 2,000 watts maybe, but that's only marginally impressive in an age of high power car electronics and hydraulic suspension.
ReplyDeleteOh, and it needs bigger tyres...
Thankyou once again Mr Finickity for your attention to detail. Klaus and I had language problems regarding the alternator capacity. He's not sure of the rating but it's large he says.
DeleteAnd yes Susan and Klaus think they need bigger tyres too...
Too sterile & tank-like for me. As a psychologist, I will be curious to know if they survive all the vicissitudes of such cell like quarters 24/7 for another year & 5 mos as a couple. I am betting NOT!
ReplyDeleteTiny homes are for people who don't like to spend a lot of time indoors. They most likely drive to where they're going, and then enjoy the place place they're in.
DeleteWell Keith. It's great isn't it. You stay put (or nearly, traveling just a few kms every couple of days) and all these interesting people come to you. Pip
ReplyDeleteTo the anonymous "psychologist" I highly doubt you are. Unlike those who are incarcerated in cell like quarters. These people have the freedom to explore the world. They are stuck in such space 24/7. So your thoughts on them not making it as a couple is completely wrong.
ReplyDeleteWow, nice mobile house. I dream of having a mobile home that I will used as mobile pet store selling aquarium fishes
ReplyDeletehydraulic lift