As the 1968 Volkswagen microbus – Leif’s customs green project – heads towards its next phase, bamboo-like shots and struts arrived, including a beautifully crafted piece that will frame the custom motor in the rear of the bus.

The classic beauty is Leif’s ambitious undertaking and will combine the latest in modern technology – lithium ion batteries, a solar panel that extends from the bus’s roof and a centralized technological hub in the front dash – while still maintaining the on-the-go road trip style of its original intent.

As the project nears its scheduled July finish, Robert is prepping the vehicle for a paint job that will feature panoramic views of Portland and the Northwest – it’s quite a sight to see.

The paint job will take a week or two, and then comes interior upholstery, which will be similar in nature to the exquisitely detailed bamboo-like shocks and struts. Most spectacular is the piece that will hold the motor, which was hand-formed by Robert. 

Eventually, the bus will be an idyllic Northwest creation: green but comfortable; road trip amenities like a roof that rises to accommodate a solar panel and a TV that can entertain. The custom Leif’s microbus is a glimmer of what modern technology and classic quality can achieve.