Project Snowflake 2.0
Limited Release
Join the list now and get first access before public release.
Need more information – Click here or give us a call on 01335 216811.
No commitment. We’ll contact you to walk through the right option.
Finance available.
Buy The Best Base Van
We've Seen in 15 Years
At BaseVan, we have spent years around ex-service vehicles. We have driven, stripped, repaired, converted, and supplied parts for them. We’ve seen every type of van come and go—some look good on paper but fail in reality; others are modern but fragile and costly.
Properly decommissioned in-house. Built for reliability.
A Proven Platform:
Reliable, tested, and high-spec.
Long-Term Support:
A dedicated parts network and owner community.
A Smarter Investment:
Built for longevity and ease of conversion.
Whats is project
Snowflake 2?
This platform is built around a rare batch of 2019 to 2021 ex-NHS Fiat Ducato ambulances.
These vehicles sit in a unique “sweet spot” of modern compliance and mechanical simplicity.
The “Sweet Spot” Specifications
2.3-Litre Engine
More desirable and proven than later 2.2-litre and 2.0 versions, excellent on fuel.
Euro 6 Compliant
ULEZ and Low Emission Zone friendly.
No AdBlue
Avoids the complexity and costs of AdBlue systems.
No Wet Belt
Traditional, reliable mechanical design.
The Result: Modern emissions compliance with “old-school” simplicity. It is a well-engineered vehicle that still makes mechanical sense.
Why These Vans Standout
The modern van market is moving toward engines built for regulations rather than longevity. Many newer vehicles suffer from delicate sensors, expensive AdBlue faults, and complex emissions systems.
Project Snowflake 2 avoids these pitfalls by offering:
- A platform built before Fiat moved to the more complex 2.2 arrangement.
- The strength of the proven 2.3 drivetrain.
- A vehicle that feels like the last of a "better era."
Built for the Frontline
These vehicles were designed for the NHS. Unlike a standard delivery van, an ambulance is built to:
- Start reliably every single time.
- Support heavy electrical loads and specialist equipment.
- Operate under constant pressure in all weather conditions.
Starting your build with a vehicle designed for emergency service means starting from a much stronger foundation.
Changing the "Ex-Ambulance" Reputation
Ex-ambulances sometimes have a bad reputation for “nightmare electrics” or being “butchered.” Usually, this isn’t the vehicle’s fault—it’s the result of poor decommissioning at auctions where wires are cut and systems are damaged.
The Project Snowflake Difference
BaseVan secured these vehicles directly, allowing us to fully control the decommissioning process. We preserve what’s good, adapt what’s useful, and carefully remove what isn’t needed for a future life as a camper—ensuring you receive a properly handled, intact platform ready for conversion.
Step Inside... and you'll realise - the electrics are already done
This isn’t a basic setup. This is a professionally engineered electrical system, built for emergency service use — and ready for your conversion from day one.
Premium Eberspächer diesel heater
Fuelled from the main tank and powered by the leisure battery — efficient, reliable heat wherever you go
Central touchscreen control system
Control lighting, airflow, power usage — and even lock all doors — from one place
Advanced airflow system
Ceiling extraction and intake to keep clean, fresh air moving through the van
Multi-mode lighting throughout
Bright, dim, ambient blue, plus spotlights for night-time use
Live battery monitoring
Full visibility of your power system at all times
2000W inverter already installed
Run household appliances straight away — no upgrades needed
12V power points throughout
Ready to plug in and build around
"I've been converting vans since I was 21 — this will be my 6th van build. This is the most usable base vehicle I've ever had. There's so much we love about these Project SF platforms..
Emily (Ben & Emily)
Panel Van vs Snowflake Box
Two completely different starting points.
Standard Panel Van Build
- Curved walls = wasted space and awkward furniture fitting
- Bare metal shell = full insulation job required
- High risk of condensation and cold bridging
- Weeks of prep work before the build even starts
Factory-Built 45mm Insulated Structure — Not a Van Shell
You’re not insulating a van — you’re inheriting a professionally engineered system.
Built for emergency service use, this is a fully integrated aluminium composite body — designed to be strong, insulated, and ready to build on.
Loads of extras!
Why It Beats Panel Van (Even Insulated Ones)
- No thin steel shell underneath causing heat loss
- No gaps, ribs, or awkward insulation work
- No condensation traps behind panels
- No weeks of insulating and lining
Panel van: build everything from scratch and still compromise
Difference is where you start
Most people start with a shell and a long list of problems to solve.
You’re starting with a professional-grade foundation — already engineered, already insulated, already ready.
Panel van: build everything from scratch
Snowflake = build on top of something that’s already been done properly
Practicality, Safety & Everyday Use
These aren’t stripped-out utility vans.
They are high-spec, well-preserved vehicles designed to be easy to live with and effortless to drive.
High – Spec Cab
Built For Comfort & Confidence
- Cruise Control
Relaxed long-distance driving
- Front & rear air conditioning
Comfort in all conditions
- 360° camera system + parking sensors
Easy manoeuvring, even in tight spots
- Lane assist
Added safety on longer journeys
- Excellent visibility
The Ducato platform is known for how easy it is to drive
The result?
A van that feels far less intimidating than it looks — easy, smooth, and confidence-inspiring on the road.
And the condition speaks for itself:
These cabs have been exceptionally well preserved, with none of the wear you’d expect from a typical commercial vehicle.
Walk-Through Access
Safety & Confidence Built In
Optional internal walk-through from cab to rear living area
- Move from living space to driver’s seat instantly
- No need to step outside the vehicle
- Ideal for overnight stops and off-grid travel
The real benefit?
If something doesn’t feel right, you can simply get in and drive away immediately.
No opening doors.
No stepping outside.
No hesitation.
Drive on a Normal Licence With Room to Grow
- 3,500kg gross weight
Drive on a standard licence
- Up to 4,250kg capability
Increase payload if your build evolves
What this means
• Start simple, accessible, and easy to drive
• Add weight later (water, batteries, equipment) if needed
• You’re not locked into one setup
Why This Matters
Most large box vans are heavy, restrictive, and harder to live with.
These aren’t. You get
- A proper box body
- A high-spec driving experience
- And the flexibility to adapt over time
Easy to drive. Safe to use. Built to work around you.
Why They're So Easy to Convert
Square, usable space
Flat walls and straight lines — no awkward curves, no wasted space
45mm factory-built insulation
Already integrated into the structure — saving thousands and weeks of work
Integrated electrical system
Heating, lighting, power — already in place from day one
Proven platform
These vans have already been successfully converted — layouts, ideas, and solutions already exist to learn from
Modern, usable base vehicle
Easy to drive, practical to live with, and ready to build on
The difference
Most builds start with questions.
This starts with answers.
Long-Term Support — Built In
Project Snowflake isn’t just about buying a van.
It’s about keeping it running properly for years to come.
Parts,
Not Problems
We’ve secured a large stock of original donor vehicles – meaning
- Engines, gearboxes, and key components already in stock
- Faster repairs and less downtime
- No reliance on hard-to-find parts in the future
Built for the Long Run
- Ongoing parts supply to support these vans long-term
- Components refurbished and kept in circulation
- Designed with the intention of keeping these vehicles on the road for decades
A Growing Owner Community
- Real owners sharing layouts, ideas, and upgrades
- Practical knowledge from people actually using their vans
- Ongoing inspiration as your build evolves
Limited Release
Join the list now and get first access before public release. Need more information – Click here or give us a call on 01335 216811.
No commitment. We’ll contact you to walk through the right option.
Finance options available.
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