A vehicle can be a powerful tool that takes your brand further. That said, most conversion companies make branding an afterthought, so they results can be hit or miss. At Raccoon, we work differently. Our team provides all vehicle conversions needed for a one-off built that really hits the mark, and always puts your brand at the heart of the project.
This guide pulls the curtain back on branded vehicle conversions. We also discuss how our vehicle conversion specialists work – shedding more light on the collaborative process!
What is a branded vehicle conversion?
A typical conversion is when you modify a vehicle for a specific use. This involves structural changes, like adding serving hatches and flooring, before adding the decorative touches. Whether you want an eco-friendly showcase or a mobile kitchen (like what we did for The Food Busker), a conversion can support your business goals. However...
Not all vehicle conversions are equal. Companies often have ‘stock’ vehicle options to choose from, which are only decorated at the end of the project. Unlike our vehicle conversion specialists, they don't implement your brand from the off, and they don't always offer a fully bespoke approach.
The CRAFT'D bus is a great example of a 'branded vehicle conversion'. Built as a mobile art studio, it was branded inside and out, and included wipe-clean furniture and upholstery to make life easier.
Below: The 'Coppafeel' women's health van, in development (left) and complete (right)
Is a branded vehicle conversion right for you?
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind vehicle that presents your brand at its best, then a branded vehicle conversion is the way to go.
This service is the perfect fit if:
- You want your brand front and centre, integrated from the start
- You need an eye-catching design that really stands out
- Functionality matters; whether it’s storage, a hatch or LED lighting
- You care about maximising every inch of useable space
- You’re investing in a durable asset that will stand the tests of time
A branded conversion isn’t for everyone. You may want to look elsewhere if:
- Budget is more important than quality results
- You’re happy with an ‘off the shelf’ approach, with limited branding
- You need a short-term solution, not a permanent asset
If you’re looking for a short-term option, why not see if Promohire has what you need? Specialising in vehicle hire for mobile activations, they have one of the biggest promotional fleets in the UK.
What we do & what to expect
Here at Raccoon, we do more than just convert vehicles. We build vehicles for brands, so they can reach more customers than ever before. Here’s a look at our creative process…
Step 1: Your enquiry and the discovery call
It all starts when you fill out our enquiry form! This simple form is set up so you can reach out quickly and give us the info we need to get the ball rolling. You can also provide more in-depth information and upload sketches or photos that help convey your vision.
From there, we’ll arrange a discovery call. This gives us a chance to discuss your project and get a better feel for how we can help. If you have a particular vehicle in mind, we can ‘sense check’ that it’s the best choice for you, then use our vast network to source it at a competitive price.
We can also find your perfect match based on aspects like budget, vehicle size, and sustainability.
Step 2: Visualising your project
This next step is highly collaborative! Based on the information you've provided, along with your branded assets, we’ll create 2D designs that bring your ideas to life. These can include CAD line drawings to show the potential layout. We’ll then provide a cost estimate for the vehicle conversions, which you’ll need to approve.
Once that’s agreed, we’ll craft more detailed visuals, showing floor plans and elevations, plus advanced 3D models and design renders.
Note: This involves a lot of work, so we’ll still need to charge between 5 and 10% of the total if you cancel the project.
Step 2 includes a look at your brand colours, ease of setup, storage, power and other practical elements. We’ll also ensure your vehicle comes under the legal weight limit – and that’s quite a challenge when there’s lots to install!
Step 3: You sit back, we get building
With the deadline agreed, we’ll start physically building your vehicle. It begins with the structural modifications, such as hatches, flooring and cladding, plus everything from AC units to cabinets, worktops and seating – depending on what you need!
We’ll also provide all electrics and can fit LEDs to set the right ambience, from backlights and under-counter fixtures to external lighting.
Check out Susan’s Cruisin’ Cuisine to see how we transformed an everyday van into a functional kitchen on wheels.
Below: Susan Curry's van, during and after the internal kitchen build.
The internal touches and external wrap are all finished to a superior standard, and our vehicle conversions specialists apply this ‘quality first’ approach to every aspect of the build.
We can provide regular updates throughout the process, and you’ll be invited to see your vehicle’s progress at various stages.
How long does the conversion process take?
It depends on the scope of your project, but as a guide, branded vehicle conversions take 8 to 16 weeks from approval to final delivery. On average, most projects take around 12 weeks to complete.
Our vehicle conversion specialists work as efficient as possible. Be wary if someone claims they can do the same work in a shorter space of time, as they’ll likely be cutting corners.
Get a custom, branded vehicle without the hassle
At Raccoon, we make it easy for you to get the perfect vehicle for your brand! Our experts take the stress out of sourcing, and we manage all customisations in-house. This ensures every facet of the design and build meets the same exacting standard, so you can confidently take your business on the road – and to the next level!
Think we’re right for you? Fill out the short form to discuss your project with a member of the team!
