Field Van, a renowned 4×4 van conversion company, has taken a significant step by partnering with Warner Vans, a Mercedes-Benz Van Center located in West Valley City, Utah. This partnership marks Field Van’s first expansion beyond its operations in California and Nevada, allowing the company to tap into the growing demand for customized van camping and outdoor adventure vehicles in the Mountain West region.
Founded over 35 years ago in Fresno, California, Field Van specializes in creating tailored vehicles for outdoor enthusiasts. The company, which employs more than 75 skilled workers, has been under the Field Van brand name since July 2021, following a transition from its previous operation under Sportsmobile West. Owner Jonathan Feld, who took over the business after his father, Alan Feld, established it in 1989, faced a one-year non-compete clause that halted sales during the brand transition. Despite this setback, the demand for their customized vans remained robust, leading to a waitlist of 165 customers and order fulfillment times extending up to 18 months as of 2021.
Introducing the SHYFT Model
With the launch in Utah, Field Van is introducing its SHYFT model, a camper van built on the Mercedes Sprinter 2500 chassis, featuring a 144-inch wheelbase. This vehicle has been rigorously tested to meet federal safety standards, equipped with integrated shoulder harnesses and child seat latches, making it suitable for family use. The SHYFT can seat up to seven passengers and sleep five, offering a versatile sliding bench seat system that allows for interior reconfiguration.
“This partnership represents our first external dealer launch and an important step in bringing our craftsmanship and innovation to a broader audience,” stated Jonathan Feld, president of Field Van. The SHYFT model includes several modern amenities such as swivel front seats, a galley kitchen with a refrigerator and induction cooktop, a diesel heating and water system, and an optional pop-top roof. Moreover, customers can choose between low-roof and high-roof all-wheel-drive configurations, along with various Mercedes electronic and safety packages.
A Legacy of Customization and Adventure
Field Van’s custom vehicles have garnered attention from a diverse clientele, including outdoor photographers, emergency responders, and avid campers. Notably, a fleet of 18 vans was previously outfitted as search-and-rescue vehicles for Qatar and played a critical role in disaster response efforts in Lebanon after the 2020 Beirut explosion.
Warner Vans, the newest dealer partner, is a fourth-generation family-owned dealership that has been serving the Utah community since 2001. Located at 5396 West 2400 South in West Valley City, Warner Vans is well-positioned to showcase Field Van’s innovative offerings to outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
As Field Van continues to enhance its presence outside California and Nevada, the partnership with Warner Vans represents a strategic move to meet the growing demands of customers seeking quality and customized van solutions for their adventures.
