Shortlist for eBay van conversion award includes mobile bakery

A million miles away from most fleet conversions, eBay has announced the shortlist for its Van Conversion of the Year Awards 2024.

The Overall Van Conversion of the Year winner is set to receive £10,000 in cash, with shortlisted winners being awarded £250 coupons valid for eBay parts and accessories

Shortlisted entries include everything from a retro mobile bakery and live-in DJ booth to a cottage-on-wheels and a compact fully electric camper

Judges include TV presenter and architect, George Clarke, the designer responsible for the exterior of the iconic McLaren F1 supercar, Peter Stevens, and eBay category lead for vehicle parts and accessories, Laura Richards.

“It’s been wonderful to review all the entries and see how each applicant has creatively used eBay’s parts and accessories to bring their dream vehicle to life,” said Richards.

“Every submission evokes the DIY spirit that eBay encourages, each with its own unique style and story.”

The eBay Van Conversion of the Year Awards celebrate some of the most beautifully executed, space efficient and intelligent light commercial vehicle (LCV) conversions in the UK across a range of categories.

This year’s shortlist includes recognition for Best Electric Vehicle, Best Bespoke Build, Most Creative, Weekend Wanderer, Best-Budget Friendly Conversion, Best Enterprise Conversion, plus a Special Recognition prize.

Clarke said: “This year’s eBay Van Conversion of the Year Awards has presented an even more diverse line-up of conversions for us to judge.

“Entries include everything from cleverly customised mobile-business vans to weekend getaway campers and full-time van lifer homes-on-wheels.

“Choosing an overall winner will be a challenge, but I’m very impressed with the creativity and DIY skills showcased by this year’s entrants.”

The Shortlist

Best Electric Vehicle Award: Joe Edwards, Wiltshire, Nissan E-NV200

The electric camper uses a 40kWh battery underneath the van to recharge the leisure battery and an eBay-purchased 3,000w inverter, powering off-grid camping.

Not only that, but if the traction battery runs out of charge, a mains plug is available to charge the van from the leisure battery, mitigating any range anxiety. 

Best Bespoke Build Award: Jack Lydon, Essex , Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter campervan has been meticulously transformed into a fully liveable space with a distinctive twist – a professional DJ booth.

Most Creative Award: Josie Rose, Kent, Mercedes-Benz Vario

The Mercedes-Benz Vario minibus has been transformed into a cottage on wheels.

Weekend Wanderer Award: Tom and Emma Coy, North Lincolnshire, 2017 LWB Volkswagen Crafter

The Volkswagen Crafter van is equipped with a hidden toilet, full shower room, fixed bed and a fully off-grid electrical system. 

Best Budget-Friendly Conversion: Tom Maisey, Sheffield , 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Created with the aim of breaking free from the nine-to-five grind, this van conversion was crafted to enhance weekend getaways.

Best Enterprise Conversion Award: Trevor and Tracy Hatton, Gloucestershire, Bedford CA

The 60-year-old Bedford CA has been transformed into a vintage mobile bakery.

The conversion includes unique touches, such as a custom-modified side panel that opens to allow them to operate the coffee machine from outside the van.

Special Recognition Award: Niall Seymour, Kent, US school bus conversion

The special recognition award goes not to a van, but to an American school bus imported from Texas.