As the world of custom Sprinter-based vans continues to crowd with dozens of builders embracing the platform in strikingly similar ways, the RC-1 asks: “What if?” Built by Rogue Van Company, located in San Diego, CA, the RC-1 rejects the familiar and embraces the conceptual. It’s the brainchild of RVC founder and CEO Santiago Fileta, and it was designed to showcase the company’s customization prowess on display at SEMA. It’s a van that pushes what this well-known chassis is capable of. From its off-roading capabilities to its expansive amenities and e-bike crane, the RC-1 pushes the idea of a rugged van to its limits.
What started as a 170-inch high-roof chassis van has morphed into a genuine off-roader with a two-inch lift, adjustable shocks, electronic lockers, upgraded axles, and beefy Toyo 37-inch tires on all four corners. However, despite these massive changes beneath the skin, RVC has retained all of its factory tech suite, ranging from cruise control to safety systems like lane-keep assist. Its adjustable shocks can soften considerably while off-roading and firming up on the road to keep body motions in check. Depending on the situation, an added central touchscreen offers a handful of throttle maps to smooth its power delivery.
On the outside, it sports no less than three ladders, which lead up to a roof equipped with Starlink for off-the-grid connectivity and a space where an additional roof tent can be added. Along its sides, you’ll find a complete Snap-On tool set, finished in a matching shade of yellow, while the rear houses a spare wheel and tire, an external storage area, and an e-bike by Onyx on top.
The latter weighs around 150 pounds, requiring a custom crane system for easy storage. Inside, its customization touches are equally extensive. The RC-1 relies heavily on wood for its interior paneling, parallel to configurable strips of LEDs on the roof. Its table tops combine Walnut with epoxy to create a flowing river effect. Its kitchenette incorporates a fridge, wine cooler, freezer, and an expresso machine that stows beneath its sink. Open its drawers, and you’ll find bespoke kitchenware, including a range of knives explicitly built for the RC-1.
Beyond the traditional shower and toilet setup, the RC-1 incorporates a steam element, which, coupled with doors that create a perfect seal, offers sauna capabilities. A custom premium audio system introduces a variety of hidden speakers throughout the cabin, which pair with a TV positioned above the bed or a display hidden behind a mirror in the kitchenette.
A sizable 28-kilowatt-hour battery pack powers the RC-1’s amenities, while a 900-watt walkable panel system on the roof recharges it alongside the Spriner’s engine. The RC-1 is the ultimate Sprinter-based off-roading van, and it’s currently offered for sale. Like all of RVC’s builds, it comes with a 3-year / 36,000-mile conversion warranty alongside the 5-year / 100,000-mile coverage from Mercedes-Benz. However, unlike the builder’s other projects, there will only ever be one RC-1.
