Category Archives: Van Life

History of the Wentzville factory where they produce Chevy vans

Posted on by

The Wentzville factory is a General Motors manufacturing facility located in Wentzville, Missouri, USA. The factory produces a variety of vehicles, including full-size vans, mid-size pickup trucks, and SUVs.

Wentzville factory is a General Motors manufacturing facility located in Wentzville, Missouri

The production of Chevy vans at the Wentzville factory began in 1985, with the introduction of the first-generation Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari vans. These vans were designed to compete with other popular vans on the market, such as the Ford Econoline and Dodge Ram Van.

Over the years, the Wentzville factory has undergone several expansions and upgrades to accommodate the production of new vehicle models. In 1995, the factory began production of the second-generation Astro and Safari vans, which featured updated styling and improved safety features.

In 2003, production of the Chevy Express and GMC Savana full-size vans began at the Wentzville factory. These vans were designed for commercial use and offered a range of engine and body options to suit various needs.

In 2014, the factory underwent a major expansion to prepare for the production of the third-generation Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans. This expansion included the addition of a new body shop, paint shop, and general assembly area, as well as upgrades to existing facilities.

Today, the Wentzville factory is one of General Motors’ largest and most advanced manufacturing facilities, with over 4,000 employees and the capacity to produce over 400,000 vehicles per year. The factory continues to produce the Chevy Express and GMC Savana vans, as well as the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickup trucks and the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon full-size SUVs.

12 tips for stealth camping in a fleet van

Posted on by

Stealth camping can be a great way to save money and experience nature in a unique way.

Here are 12 tips for stealth camping in a fleet van

  1. Choose a van that is inconspicuous – A fleet van or a cargo van can blend in better than a camper or RV.
  2. Avoid parking in busy areas
    – Look for quiet streets or secluded parking lots away from prying eyes.
  3. Cover your windows
    – Use window covers or curtains to prevent light from escaping and drawing attention to your vehicle.
  4. Be mindful of your noise level
    – Keep noise to a minimum and avoid playing loud music or watching TV with the volume up.
  5. Keep your van clean
    – A clean van can help avoid suspicion and prevent any unwanted attention.
  6. Use solar power
    – Install solar panels on your roof to power your lights and charge your devices without needing to run a generator.
  7. Use a camping toilet
    – This will save you from having to find public restrooms or facilities.
  8. Bring a portable shower
    – Some campers opt for a portable shower to keep clean while on the road.
  9. Be aware of your surroundings
    – If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, move to a different location.
  10. Park away from other vehicles
    – Try to park in areas where you won’t be noticed, and park away from other vehicles to avoid suspicion.
  11. Be respectful of the environment
    – Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to avoid attracting wildlife or damaging the environment.
  12. Have a backup plan
    – Always have a backup plan in case your initial location doesn’t work out or you need to relocate quickly.