Not all RV repair shops are created equal. Some can fix damages and make repairs, while others are capable of complete transformations.
One type of RV or Coach transformation that does not get mentioned very often is what is known as a “Mobile Command Center”. These types of vehicles can be used by Police departments, Government agencies, and municipalities. They can also come in the form of mobile hospitals or mobile nursing stations.
If such a service need has brought you to this page, then today we will discuss the ins and outs of creating one of these mobile command units, as they often get very little coverage. Here is what we think you need to know when embarking on such a project for your RV.
– Interior space considerations- Most trucks tend to max out at 30 feet of load space creating our first constraint in a Mobile Command Unit design. Understanding your must haves, and your constraints allows you to get creative in developing a floor plan. A trailer or bus could allow for additional space, but you have to factor in the engine and mechanicals which will eat up some of that additional linear footage.
Of course, slideouts can be incorporated into your unit to expand the floor space by as much as 1,000 additional square feet.
The most common layout in an MCC is an operations area with workstations, a center area with galley kitchen and bathroom, while the rear of the coach is typically used for a conference room. This is the space usually used as a master bedroom in most civilian coaches.
Motor coach VS. Travel trailer for a Command Center- Unlike fire trucks, ambulances or mobile healthcare units, Mobile Command Centers are commonly used for extended periods in one location. If this best describes your usage of the MCC, many agencies purchase a pull behind style unit if they already have an adequate tow vehicle. This eliminates the space requirements for drivetrain components that get very little to no use.
Trailer based MCCs are available up to 50 feet long with additional square footage coming from slide outs. The only disadvantages of trailers are that they are not self-propelled, and rely on a tow vehicle may not always be available in an emergency.
-Restroom needs- When maximizing a floor plan, one area that can yield some extra square footage is the removal of the restroom. In fact a survey conducted by a Motor Coach association found that 9 out of 10 customers surveyed with on-board restrooms said that they would not get an on board bathroom again because no one wanted to clean it or dump the tank. What ends up happening is their restrooms turned into very inefficient closets. Instead portable toilets are viable option for many customers.
-Communications equipment or other equipment needs- With most MCC’s communications equipment will be central to the layout. However, the type of equipment and space requirements varies too greatly to cover in this post. But the takeaway here is to plan for a pre-construction meeting with your MCC upfitter, preferably at their location to meet the builder’s staff and to visit the plant. Here you can discuss in detail the equipment requirements, and any custom cabinetry considerations required during construction. Come prepared with cut sheets for all of the equipment that you plan to use. Contact your equipment dealer to get this information.
Any changes that are made to the build plan after construction has started will only delay completion and increase costs.
-On Board Power Requirements- Depending on the special needs for your new Mobile Command Center, you should consider what power sources will be available to you on-scene. One option is always the stand-alone generator which comes in 8 to 30 kw power sizes.
PTO-driven (chassis-driven) generators should be used only as a backup. They require the chassis engine and drivetrain to be in operation while being used, which adds noise.
Power consumption projections should include auxiliary power (12V DC and 120V AC), climate control and the total power consumption needed to run all the communication systems.
-Cost to outfit a motor coach for use as a Mobile Command Center- MCCs vary drastically in price. The larger and more customized a vehicle is, the more expensive it will be to construct. Vehicles produced by Fire engine and ambulance manufacturers normally cost more than vehicles built utilizing heavy duty commercial chassis and bodies, which normally cost more than vehicles built utilizing RV or motor home construction methods.
When making the purchase, you have to first consider the ruggedness of the areas the MCC will be deployed into. Apparatus manufactured vehicles tend to be more rugged than RV based MCC’s and stand up better to harsh conditions and usage. But if that would be overkill for your needs, you can certainly save with an RV based platform.