Our Process

Custom Sprinter Van Build Process

We partner with great people to deliver world-class vans. Our process is rooted in collaboration and open dialogue and we work with our clients to define and execute the perfect van for their unique tastes and lifestyles.  

The Yama Way

The Yama Vans build philosophy is rooted in the Japanese spirit of Shokunin, which is the pursuit of perfection. In keeping with this (and borrowing from adventure brand legend, Yvon Chouinard) these questions guide all of our projects:

  • Is it Durable?

  • Is it Functional?

  • Is it Versatile?

  • Is it Simple?

  • Is it Beautiful?

  • Is it Serviceable?

The Yama Way
01 / Design

Co-designed for your adventures

“From our first phone call to the delivery of our new build the experience has been first class. ...I have really appreciated their timely communication throughout the whole process.”

Suzy B, Alberta, CAN

We start with the co-design step, this collaborative approach sets us and our vans apart. We work with our clients to combine our deep understanding of adventure van manufacturing with their individual wants and needs to deliver a highly functional, perfectly tailored adventure vehicle.

  • Client Requirements Call
  • Design Consultation
  • Interior and Exterior Renders
  • Detailed Estimate
Material Boards
Wireframes
Interior Wireframes
Interior Rendering
Interior Rendering
Exterior Rendering
Exterior Rendering
02 / Production

Meticulously made

“These folks are specialized with dedicated people who focus on their respective disciplines - electrical, carpentry, off-road functionality, design etc.”

Charles A, California, USA

We follow a 6-phase production process. Each phase is designed to optimize our team’s specialties and shop space to increase the number of adventure vans we can create without compromising on quality. We pre-assemble and test as much as possible on the bench before executing the install in small sprints. At every major step, we ensure our clients continue to be part of the experience and provide regular updates and progress photos to keep everyone looking forward to delivery.

  • Pre-production
  • Infrastructure
  • Cabinetry and Paneling
  • Off-grid Systems
  • Finishing
  • Testing and Completion
03 / Delivery and Support

Keys-in-hand

“If you want the best, talk to Yama...Originally intended as a weekend adventure vehicle built around our mountain bikes, it’s quickly become our second home.”

Peter F, Ontario, CAN

Once the build is done and testing is complete, it’s delivery day—the culmination of months of planning, work, and anticipation. We highly encourage you to visit HQ to pick up your ride. We have some dynamite adventures in our own backyard that would be perfect for breaking in your new van, so you can get to know all the ins and outs while you’re still closeby. If coming to Calgary isn’t an option, no problem! We will of course arrange for delivery. 

All of our builds are backed by a 3-year warranty/60,000km (36,000mi).

  • Knowledge Base

    We equip our clients with everything they need to operate their new adventure van with confidence; Operational videos, user manual, operating guides, and technical schematics for service.

  • Client Experience Team

    Our clients are as important to us as our vans. Our dedicated Client Experience Team provides a white-glove experience throughout the design and manufacturing and acts as the first point of contact for future support.

  • Technical Support

    If our Client Experience Team can’t solve the issue, we bring in the experts. There are three pathways for technical support. If you are local, you will bring your van to Yama HQ. Our team can help diagnose and solve issue remotely. We will connect you with a qualified technician in you area and liaise with them to solve the issue.

The captains Code

A Philosophy of Ownership

The Captain’s Code emphasizes taking pride in one's adventure van, and personal responsibility for its maintenance, upkeep, and operation. Those who adhere to the philosophy recognize that owning an off-grid vehicle requires a certain level of knowledge and skill, and they take the time to learn about their vehicle’s systems and how they work (much like the captain of a boat!). They approach their adventures with a sense of respect and reverence for the land, and strive to be responsible stewards of their vehicle and the environment around them.

Common Questions

Have a specific question? Get in touch with us for specific answers. 

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From our clients

"If you want the best, talk to Yama...Originally intended as a weekend adventure vehicle built around our mountain bikes, it’s quickly become our second home.”
Peter, Ontario, CAN
"If you want the best, talk to Yama...Originally intended as a weekend adventure vehicle built around our mountain bikes, it’s quickly become our second home.”
Peter, Ontario, CAN
"I did a ton of research to find the perfect van builder which landed me with Yama... These folks are specialized with dedicated people who focus on their respective disciplines - electrical, carpentry, off-road functionality, design etc."
Charles A, California, USA
"Hands down the best van conversion company in Canada if not North America. Not only is the final product incredible, but the entire process from beginning to end is seamless. "
Scott Z, Manitoba, CAN
"From our first phone call to the delivery of our new build the experience has been first class. Not only is their product and workmanship excellent I have really appreciated their timely communication throughout the whole process."
Suzy B, Alberta, CAN
“The care and details shown did not stop when the build was complete and delivered. The after purchase, post build care and attention has been top notch. The level of customer service is nothing less than what you would expect from true customer first focused company.”
Tim, Texas, USA
“Their knowledge and craftsmanship are top-notch, and just as important, they share the passion for your van build, which is beyond awesome.”
Greg S, Alberta, CAN
“If you want the best, talk to Yama...Originally intended as a weekend adventure vehicle built around our mountain bikes, it’s quickly become our second home.”
Peter F, Ontario, CAN
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Start your build

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