Nissan Teams Up With The Ride Companion To Launch Innovative Mobile Podcast Studio

Published: Monday, August 19, 2024, 17:06 [IST]

Nissan and The Ride Companion have teamed up with UK specialist converter MTB Vans to create a high-spec Primastar mobile podcast studio. This unique setup allows for off-grid podcast and video recording with professional mountain bike riders and industry insiders, meeting the content production needs of The Ride Companion.

The interior modifications include a full fit-out of the load area with bike and equipment storage, recharging facilities, Starlink mobile Wi-Fi connectivity, LED lighting, a content editing workstation, a water tank, and a pressure washer. Off-road tyres and a powerful LED light bar enable the team to access and record from remote trails.

The founders of The Ride Companion, Davi Birks and Olly Wilkins, will use this custom Nissan Primastar to produce shows while travelling across the UK. They aim to meet guests at various trails and bike parks and attend national and international mountain bike races. This van allows them to take their studio on the road.

MTB Vans founder Joel Aindow expressed his satisfaction with the project: "It was a real pleasure to work with Nissan to customise the Primastar for Davi and Olly. A shout out from them on the podcast in 2020 helped me get the business off the ground, so it was awesome to do a special build for them."

The conversion process used a high-spec Nissan Primastar Tekna+ L1H1 as a base. It took less than two weeks from start to finish, culminating with a custom vinyl wrap by MotoShack. The van includes bespoke storage tailored for mountain biking and content production needs.

David Jackson, Communications Director at Nissan, commented: "This is a great example of collaboration between Nissan, The Ride Companion and MTB Vans that has produced an extremely well thought out and effective product." He added that this project demonstrates how Nissan vans can be tailored for an adventurous lifestyle.

Advanced Connectivity and Power Solutions

The van features high-speed mobile internet connectivity using Starlink's satellite-based system. An integrated Wi-Fi router ensures that the team can research topics and upload fresh content wherever they are. Additionally, it includes a compact desk attached to the bulkhead for convenience.

A 240V power supply with multiple plug and USB sockets powers production equipment and electric mountain bikes. This system is based around a CTEK split-charge/monitoring system and a 160Ah LiFePO4 battery continuously trickle charged by a roof-mounted solar panel.

Enhanced Accessibility for Remote Locations

The van is equipped with General Grabber AT3 multi-terrain tyres mounted on standard-issue 10-spoke alloy wheels. These features make it easier to access off-the-beaten-track locations. A versatile full-length roof rack provides secure mounting for various equipment including a Fiamma sun awning.

Davi Birks shared his excitement: "We’re absolutely stoked to be working with Nissan on this project. It’s sometimes tricky to get guests to the studio because world-class riders are so busy, but now we can take the show to them and record wherever we like."

Nissan Primastar: A Reliable Workhorse

The Nissan Primastar is known for its capability, roominess, and reliability. Available in two lengths and two roof heights as a Panel Van, it offers between 5.8m3 and 8.9m3 of load space. A six-seat Crew Van variant is also available in two lengths with 3.2 or 4.0 m3 of load space.

The latest 2024 variant comes in two grades: Acenta or Tekna. Standard features include full LED front lights, automatic air conditioning, an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, along with new ADAS improving usability and safety.

Sustainability at Nissan's Core

Nissan aims to become truly sustainable through its long-term vision Ambition 2030. This strategy focuses on delivering electrified models and technological innovation globally while supporting carbon neutrality across its products' life cycle by 2050.

The collaboration between Nissan, The Ride Companion, and MTB Vans showcases how versatile vehicles can support adventurous lifestyles while promoting sustainability goals.