Hello, my name is Gonzalo...

...but before I go on with my introduction, I’d like you to watch this video

If it doesn’t set you alight from the very depths of your being,
despite everything, don’t do it.

Passion

that’s the word that sums up how I feel when I start a project. And that’s what this website is all about: a project, a passion.

My name is Gonzalo Solaz and I’d describe myself as someone who’s passionate about anything with wheels and an engine. I’ve always believed that if you really want something, you can do it. I’m not a mechanic, an engineer, a panel beater or a painter. My job has little to do with my hobby, so whilst I don’t have much technical knowledge, I’ve got passion to spare. And passion moves mountains.

 

Stage 1: The Vespas

I started learning and having fun with one of the most iconic motorbikes of all time, the Vespa. Two Vespa Primavera models and a PK75 Junior passed through my hands and turned out brilliantly. They were my first lessons in bodywork and paintwork, researching information and, above all, mechanics.

Stage 2: Classic Mini

From there I made the leap to cars, and what better way to do so than with another motoring icon: the Mini. Who doesn’t know the Mini? Small and simple, it was the ideal car to get started in the world of four wheels. I really enjoyed restoring the Mini and it was an incredible learning experience. I’m very proud of the work I did.

Stage 3: Vans

In 2016, I made the leap to larger vehicles, such as vans. I bought the T3 Syncro, with a lot of hard work and challenges ahead. In 2024, after years and years of restoring the Syncro, I decided to buy the Exclusive with the aim of travelling from day one.

Stage 4: Maker for Vans

In 2023, I embarked on a new chapter with the purchase of a second-hand Artillery Sidewinder X2 3D printer. It was my gateway into the world of making. I wanted to understand how to turn ideas into real objects and learn to design my own parts from scratch.

Over time, that curiosity turned into a genuine passion. I began creating functional parts and bespoke accessories for vans, tailored to the specific needs of each vehicle.

Continuous learning led me to take it a step further and acquire a Qidi Plus 4, a professional printer with an enclosed chamber capable of working with technical filaments such as ASA or nylon, ideal for strong and durable parts.

Now, in 2025, I’m expanding my workshop with laser engraving and cutting technology – a new chapter in my ongoing exploration of materials, finishes and creative processes.
A natural evolution that combines design, precision and customisation at the service of the camper van community.

Stage 5: The BMW Mini

Back to the Mini, but this time in a modern version. In January 2026, I saw an advert in Germany: broken engine, full JCW package, Chili Pack, mechanical limited-slip differential. What many would have dismissed as ‘no way’ was, for me, the perfect project. I bought it sight unseen and towed it 2,300 km from Rostock to Valencia through a snowstorm. A 2005 Mini Cooper S R53 JCW — the last Mini with a mechanical supercharger, already considered a modern classic. I’ve documented the entire restoration on themakerjob.com.