Nissan and The Ride Companion Join Forces to Launch Ultimate Mobile Podcast Studio

In an exciting collaboration, Nissan has teamed up with The Ride Companion—the world’s leading mountain biking podcast—to create a state-of-the-art mobile podcast studio. This project brings together the adventure spirit of mountain biking with cutting-edge technology, transforming a Nissan Primastar van into a versatile content creation hub.

A Game-Changer for Mountain Bike Media

The new mobile studio is designed to meet the demanding needs of The Ride Companion’s hosts, Davi Birks and Olly Wilkins. Whether they’re exploring remote trails or attending major bike events, this custom-built Nissan Primastar will allow them to record podcasts and videos anywhere in the UK and beyond.

Custom Features for Adventurers

Nissan, in collaboration with UK-based MTB Vans, turned a high-spec Primastar Tekna+ L1H1 into the ultimate ride companion. The conversion was completed in under two weeks and includes a slew of high-tech features and thoughtful modifications:

  • Comprehensive Storage Solutions: The van’s load area is fully outfitted with racks for helmets, tools, and equipment, a slide-out tray, and secure shelving for cameras and microphones.
  • Advanced Connectivity: Equipped with Starlink mobile Wi-Fi and an integrated router, the van ensures high-speed, off-grid internet for seamless content uploads and research.
  • Power and Recharging: A 240V power supply with multiple plug and USB sockets powers the production gear and two electric mountain bikes. A robust CTEK split-charge system and a 160Ah LiFePO4 battery, trickle-charged by a roof-mounted solar panel, keep everything running smoothly.
  • Cleaning Facilities: A 25-litre water tank paired with a Worx Hydroshot pressure washer ensures that bikes and gear can be cleaned after muddy rides.
  • Enhanced Off-Road Capability: The van features General Grabber AT3 multi-terrain tyres and a powerful 9500-lumen LED light bar, making it ideal for accessing remote locations.

Words from the Team

Davi Birks, co-founder of The Ride Companion, 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. Vans are a massive part of mountain bike culture and our custom Primastar is so sick: it's easy to drive, has all the features and space we need, so it's the perfect way to transport all our bikes and kit. It's The Ride Companion's ultimate ride companion!”

Joel Aindow, founder of MTB Vans, added, “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. This is the first Primastar we've worked on, but we're very happy with the result: the quality is really solid, and the space is great for a short wheelbase van, so the conversion was straightforward, which is crucial when you've got loads of projects on the go. It's definitely a good option for builds and great value compared to some brands.”

David Jackson, Communications Director at Nissan, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “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, with the Primastar van at the core. We know there's a lot of mountain bikers out there, so this has been a great opportunity to demonstrate how Nissan vans can be tailored to create the perfect space for an adventurous lifestyle.

"We're delighted to be working with The Ride Companion and are excited to see the finished product in action!”

The Nissan Primastar

The Nissan Primastar is a versatile and reliable workhorse, available in various configurations to meet different business needs. The latest 2024 model offers advanced features, including LED front lights, a modern cabin with automatic air conditioning, and an eight-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. With a powerful 2.0-litre engine and a comprehensive five-year/100,000-mile warranty, the Primastar is a smart choice for any professional on the go.

For more information about the Nissan Primastar, Click Here.

Catch The Ride Companion

You can watch the van reveal and tour video here, and tune in to The Ride Companion on your favorite podcast platforms. Follow their YouTube and Instagram channels for the latest updates and content.

For more details about MTB Vans, visit their website.