Prairie Surfer

Once we’re done writing about this van, we’re immediately turning on Point Break. Prairie Surfer is a 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 170 EXT built for a retired couple looking to enjoy their time away. When asked what inspired the name of their van, “Since moving back to the Midwest from Florida, where I got heavily into windsurfing, I have mostly been surfing the prairies of Kansas, landlocked away from the ocean and coastal waterways.  My hope for the van is to take more time to relax and continue surfing the prairie yet extend my range back to coastal waters and many other places.”

With seating for three and sleeping for two, Prairie Surfer offers plenty of room to stretch out, haul gear, and enjoy the comforts of home while far away. A 42” driver-side galley features internal storage, an upgraded deep, rectangular undermount sink with pulldown faucet, overhead microwave, Vitrifrigo DW 180 RFX stainless-steel double drawer refrigerator and freezer, induction stove, and flip-up table for extended prep space. Two opposing dinette benches offer a welcoming space to share meals or watch a movie on the 32” wall-mounted screen. Custom hinged panels flip over to complete a lower bed. In addition to the removable and stackable 3-panel bed, parallel raised bed rail extensions allow bed panels to slide forward and back as far as the interior will allow.

Prairie Surfer included 630Ah lithium-ion battery power, a 2000W magnum inverter, a high amp secondary alternator, and a rooftop solar panel for extended surfing across the Great Plains. Complete with a 47-gallon upgraded fuel tank, an Espar Hydronic Diesel water heater supplies on-demand hot water to the galley sink and exterior shower. A Webasto Air Top EVO 55 Diesel Heater warms cabin air. Exterior features included Agile’s “No Rub” Front Tire Fender, Agile Off-Road Ride Improvement Kit, Method Race 901 dually wheels, and Cooper All-Terrain Dually Oversized tires.