Based on the Toyota Proace minivan sold in Europe, the conversions are designed to double as capable campervans for short breaks and workhorses for daily use, with various floorplans to suit differing lifestyles.
The stand displaying Toyota's camper range was a first for the Japanese automaker at the Spanish International Caravanning Show, showcasing four models in all. The Proace Verso Camper is available in medium and long body lengths with either 1.5 or 2.0-litre diesel drivetrains and the option of 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions.
Four configurations are available, but the version shown in Barcelona featured the Nomad Plus Home finish, described as the most-equipped of the lot. It included swivelling seats, 40-litre fridge, removable kitchen sink and a pop-up roof, enabling it to sleep 2 up-top plus 2 in the van below.
The Proace Verso Camper was flanked by the Proace City Mini Camper, also available in two body lengths, but just the one configuration, called the Outfun. Capable of carrying five passengers and sleeping two, the OutFun packed swivelling seats, a pull-out table, modular bed, electric fridge and a 10-litre shower. There was also an awning, plus a roof-top tent option to free up cabin space if required.
Toyota also displayed the Proace Verso Electric. Introduced earlier this year in Spain, the electric minivan can be fitted with a 75-kW lithium-ion battery, giving a range of up to 330 km. It’s available in four configurations with seating from five to nine, and might be a foretaste of a HiAce conversion in other markets.
The camper collaboration with Tinkervan is part of Toyota Spain's 'Se Adapta' (It Adapts) program, which sees it transforming some mainstream models for local release. As such, the Proace Verso Camper and Proace Mini Camper Outfun will be available through Toyota's Spanish dealer network, with the former starting from €39,700 (A$62,000) and the latter from €27,500 (A$43,000). It will be interesting to see if Toyota Australia chooses to pattern with an Australian manufacturer to compete with Volkswagen in the factory-direct camper sales market.