Don't call it a van!

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[ MUST HAVES ]

DON’T CALL IT A VAN! From the jet or yacht in a personalised office on wheels, ultra-connected and comfortable, arriving at your destination rested and without compromising productivity

by Sergio Barlocchetti

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he same comfortable and connected surroundings as a business jet but in a van where everything can be personalised. The concept developed by Delta Automotive, a spin-off of Delta Interior Design, an Italian company based in Sirone (Lecco) that specialises in aircraft interiors, was to create a mobile, sanitised interior that can host eight people, enabling them to work without interruption

as if they were in an office, sitting at a fully-equipped desk and with a constant Internet connection whatever country they are in or borders they cross. It can be based on any vehicle – in this case it’s a Mercedes Sprinter van with every detail of the interiors chosen by the owner, from the leathers and fabrics to the drawer handles. The climatisation follows the rules in force on aircraft, with cool air drawn in from the ceiling and warm air from the floor, as comfort dictates that the feet must maintain a temperature 1.5° C above that of the head. Lighting is controlled from a tablet operating smart glass windows that darken on command, although it’s also possible simply to close the classic curtains. Energy is supplied by 110-volt, 220-volt or USB sockets with an inverter providing AC and a distribution unit with the same protection found on board aircraft. Passengers can move around upright with ease to shift from the workstation the relaxation area. A galley is available on request to enable high-end catering to be provided. The driving position is independent, and an interphone allows passengers to communicate with the driver. “A vehicle like this is a resource and a calling card”, says engineer Matteo Bulletti, the head of the company.

“It’s impossible to give a quote off the top of your head, it depends on what the client wants. Apart from safety considerations there are no limits”. From the point of view of performance and handling, taking weight limitations into account is normal practice for a company involved in aircraft design and construction – as a result light weight is a crucial element if the van’s performance and safety in terms of acceleration, road-holding, range and braking are not to be compromised. Aeronautical materials and components are used throughout, as they are light, tough and provide sound insulation – although in this case there is no jet engine thundering away outside the window! They also have flame-retardant properties and can easily be replaced. www.deltautomotive.com

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The concept developed by Delta Automotive, a spin-off of Delta Interior Design, was to create a mobile, sanitised interior that can host eight people, enabling them to work without interruption as if they were in an office

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