Surveillance van conversion
No two surveillance van conversions are quite the same which is why we at MVTech pride ourselves on our reputation for the bespoke approach we take to the business of converting standard off the shelf vans into modern fully fitted high tech surveillance vehicles.
It really does not matter to us if you want a single vehicle or a fleet, you will receive the same commitment, providing you with a hassle-free passage from your initial enquiry through design, production and finally delivery. Clients are always welcome to visit us so if you wish to view progress and make a few tweaks to the specification, we will fully understand.
Base vehicles used for surveillance vans.
Most of the base vehicles we use for surveillance purposes are indeed vans, but we do occasionally build chassis cab-based models where a larger interior has been specified.
The vans used vary in size from L2 H2 dimensions to the more popular L3 and L4 H3 models, with the latter offering just over 4000 mm length by almost 1800 mm width. This higher headroom of an H3 being just over 2000 mm and therefore ideal for most operatives once inside to feel comfortable to move about.
The most popular vehicles being the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Cargo, Citroen Relay and Fiat Ducato. That said all brands offer suitable options and we will use whatever the client’s preference may be.
Incidentally, we are happy to convert client supplied vehicles too but can assist you source the model of your choice on your behalf. That being said we can normally provide particularly good terms for the ever-popular Ford Transit range, which we can highly recommend.
Some private security companies prefer to convert one of their existing vans in which case we are again quite comfortable to undertake the conversion of second-hand models as surveillance vans as most are not required to cover exceptional distances.
Please note that in addition to vans and chassis cab builds we can also convert off road, SUV and even minibuses into surveillance vehicles.
External and internal features for surveillance vans
Creating a practical and comfortable working environment is one of our top priorities.
Externally we can install a number of optional features which include: Windows (which can be tinted or treated with ContraVision), a slide out personnel step (such as one of the Thule models), rear step (the Rhino AccessStep being ever popular), reversing alarm, reversing camera (if not standard to the vehicle), light bars and external flood lighting. Not so common can be the addition of a side wind out awning, which tend to be fitted only when the surveillance van is required for multiple roles.
A feature that many operators do like is the inclusion of an opening roof light (the Dometic Heki 2 model being an example) but other makes and options are available. The installation of one of these large tilting roof windows allows fresh air and sunlight in while keeping insects out and darkening screens give added control helping create a pleasant working environment. Alternatively, one or two rotary vents can be fitted to provide air circulation if preferred.
We do of course offer a full graphics service to supply and fit vehicle livery, although many of our conversions are covert which naturally require few, if any markings.
Internally it is standard practice to insulate the body and install wall and ceiling panelling and solid timber floor. We can decorate walls and ceiling with wipe clean panelling or apply specialist vehicle carpeting which adds to insulation and sound proofing. Either of which is available in a variety of colours.
Floors are finished with heavy duty vinyl which is especially useful if the van is to be used off road, as it can be very easily cleaned. Alternatively for improved sound proofing we can install carpet tiles. Tiles being useful in that they can be easily replaced if damage or staining should occur!
We manufacture all our own furniture in house and for a surveillance van this will usually consist of work top, drawers, and wall cupboards. However, many of our clients specify more than this, requiring us to include refreshment facilities (a microwave being considered an essential for many) plus sink and running water.
Various levels and styles of internal lighting are available, which are all LED based.
The on board services in a surveillance van
We install various power systems and if in doubt our experienced technical staff can advise on a job-by-job basis. Sometimes a traditional generator approach is the chosen option whilst more are now opting for roof mounted solar panels linked to batteries. We will look at each operating requirement and recommend the most appropriate installation.
Naturally, power sockets and lighting are high on the list of essentials, with refreshment facilities not far behind!
Internally accessed toilet facilities are often requested and for this feature we normally recommend one of the award-winning Thetford cassette toilets. These being very easily maintained.
Working dogs in surveillance vans
Depending upon the nature of the surveillance operation some of our clients need to travel with specialist K9 support on board. Our Animedix Veterinary Division specialises in the transportation and welfare of animals in transit and are therefore able to provide the right cages, ventilation etc. for your canine colleagues.
Covert Surveillance van conversions
The requirement for covert surveillance van conversions has so far just been mentioned in passing but is worthy of a special mention.
One of our specialities is providing our clients with unmarked and discretely converted vehicles and, in some instances, even using second hand models or other unprepossessing alternatives. We can take almost any vehicle of your choice and convert it into a covert surveillance platform.
Surveillance equipment
A pneumatically operated mast is the most common feature that we install and if you do not have a preference our experienced team will be able to guide you to the correct mast solution to suit your application. A mast can be supplied with manual or motorized 360-degree rotation from the base. You can also have a microswitch to warn the driver that the mast is extended a worthwhile safety feature.
Where appropriate we also supply or fit vehicle stabilization systems that can be used to level the vehicle in addition to providing added safety.
In so far as the choice of camera, monitoring, recording and particularly communications equipment is concerned this is more usually in the hands of our clients who we find prefer us to work with their existing suppliers of this equipment. An example being Excelerate Technology who have been delivering Hybrid Connectivity solutions for 20 years.
We are more than happy to work in partnership with these companies and if they wish to install their own equipment within our factory we can accommodate this too. Our experienced electricians can always assist with such installations by fitting all the necessary power lines and cabling.
Flexibility and cooperation are in our DNA!
For more information on our approach and what we can offer in way of surveillance van conversions
