Envisage were approached to design, restore, and convert a one-off Mk1 Ford Transit for eBay. The vehicle was to be kitted out for the promotion of their platform for new and used car parts and accessories.

Our Approach

A Collaborative Restoration

The idea behind the transit refurbishment was to show the endless creations that can be put together from parts acquired through their own site.  Envisage Classic Restoration team engaged automotive designer, Peter Stevens, to assist with the design of the interior, while our team focused on the engineering and build.

Lounging in Bespoke Style

A full ground-up restoration has been carried out, with a bespoke lounge-style interior turning it from a 1975 fire service vehicle into a comfortable space. The front seats swivel to assist with the social element of the van. Removable chairs were made bespoke to this project, with curved aluminium frames and bucket seats.

Creating a Transferable Space

The van has been equipped with a gas hob, sink, electrical outputs, coffee machine, fridge, and its own power source. This enables it to be used for different purposes such as a touring camper, a mobile podcast studio, and for entertaining & events.

Accessing the eBay Platform

iPad holders have been fitted within the doors, so that when they are open the public can access eBay’s online platform. This allows the vans visitors to search for and order vehicle accessories and parts from the MyGarage program.

Converting the Ford Transit to Right-Hand Drive

The Transit itself was sourced on eBay; it was a former German fire truck, meaning it had to be converted to right-hand drive (RHD). The steering rack was flipped, causing the steering to be reversed, meaning when the van was steered left it went right. This was overcome with support from Peter Lee who runs the Transit Owners Club UK. From this conversion, Envisage repaired any holes left behind and a new bulkhead panel was fitted.

Metal Forming Repairs

Along with the conversion to make the Transit a RHD vehicle, Envisage also carried out necessary repairs needed due to the vehicle’s age. It was completely stripped removing everything from the seats and under the dash to smaller parts such as the window wipers. Amongst these repairs, our skilled metal-forming team fabricated a new panel replacing the old, damaged rear valance and repaired patches of rust in the floor

Utilising the eBay Platform

Using eBay’s platform Envisage found the replacement parts that were needed, anything that couldn’t be refurbished or repaired was replaced. This includes the side steps. Due to their age, they were all rusted out, so Envisage purchased and replaced them on both sides. Smaller parts were also purchased, such as a new speedo showing mph and clocks.

Restoring the Mk1 Ford Transit Engine for Modern Fuel

The engine was rebuilt from the ground up utilizing parts purchased from eBay’s platform. The engine needed prepping for modern fuel so the fuel lines needed changing, hardened valve seals were installed and the fuel pump and tank were changed.

Creating Extra Headroom

Completing the restoration and conversion, a pop-up roof was installed to give extra headroom. The original van was not designed to accommodate the extra weight or shape, so it was decided that a VW T5 transporter kit with bespoke fixings, runners, and rail supports would be the best option. Envisage added extra strength to the roof around the pop up, and bespoke panels were made to allow the T5 roof to fit the curved shape of the MK1 Transit.

eBay will now be taking the van on the road to car meets and to Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.

For your next restoration or bespoke vehicle conversion project you can speak to one of our team in Classic Restoration, please complete our contact us box or email enquiries@envisagegroupltd.com.