Swivelling cab seats: How to expand your living space in no time at all

Last updated: May 24, 2026

Quick Answer: Swivel cab seats are special swivel adapters or complete seats that allow the driver and passenger seats of a motorhome to be rotated 180 degrees — so that they face the living area and significantly enlarge the living space. Installation costs between 200 and 1,500 euros per seat, depending on the vehicle model and supplier, and usually takes half a day to a full day in a specialist workshop. For camping enthusiasts who want to get more seating and atmosphere out of their vehicle, this is one of the most effective conversions of all.

Key Takeaways

• 🔄 Swivel seats transform the driver's area into a fully-fledged living area with additional seating.
• 💶 Costs: approx. 200–600 euros for swivel adapters, 800–1,500 euros for complete seats (plus installation).
• 🚐 Best suited for: Vehicles based on Fiat Ducato, Mercedes Sprinter, Volkswagen Crafter and Ford Transit.
• 🔧 Self-installation is technically possible, but a specialist workshop is recommended for safety and TÜV reasons.
• 📐 At least 60–70 cm of free space behind the seat is needed for sensible use.
• ⚖️ Weight changes due to the conversion must be entered in the vehicle registration document.
• ❌ Not suitable for all vehicle types: Compact panel vans under 5.5 m in length often have too little space.
• ✅ Alternatives: Additional bench seat, folding tables, or lounge furniture directly behind the driver's area.

What are swivel cab seats and how do they work?

Swiveling cab seats are seats or seating systems that are mounted on a base plate using a swivel adapter (also called a swivel base) and can be rotated up to 180 degrees towards the living area. The principle is simple: A swivel plate is installed between the original seat base and the seat itself, allowing for stepless or latching rotation.

How does it work technically?

• The Swivel console replaces the fixed seat base and is usually made of galvanized steel or aluminum.
• Eine Locking (Locking mechanism) securely fixes the seat in the driving position and in the rotated living position.
• Some systems additionally allow a Push forward of the seat to create more legroom.
• Electric seat adjustments and seat heaters usually remain functional if the cables are extended accordingly.

Important: The seat must be absolutely securely locked in the driving position. No room for compromise – here, safety takes precedence over comfort.

There are two main variants: Rotary adapter (Retrofit solution for the original seat) and Complete seats with integrated swivel function (often more comfortable, but more expensive). Providers such as Scopema, Kiravans or Tauro Sport are well-known in this segment.

What are the advantages of swivel cab seats in a motorhome?

Swiveling driver's cab seats instantly create more usable living space without requiring structural changes to the vehicle. This is a real advantage, especially in more compact motorhomes.

The most important advantages at a glance:

Anyone who has ever sat in a camper van with four people and had everyone crammed onto the kitchen bench knows that two additional, comfortable seats in the driver's cabin are worth their weight in gold. This makes a noticeable difference, especially on rainy days or at campsites where you spend more time in the vehicle.

Anyone looking for the perfect travel destination to try out their new home comforts will find a great selection on the Campcruisers Blog. the best campsites in Europe.

How much does a rotating cab conversion cost?

The costs depend heavily on whether you buy a swivel adapter for the existing seat or a completely new seat with integrated swivel function. As a rough guide:

Cost overview (as of 2026, estimated values):

This may incur additional costs for the Registration in the vehicle registration certificate. (approx. 50–150 €) and a TÜV approval come if changes have been made to the vehicle.

Rule of thumb: Those who have a basic model like the Fiat Ducato and want to retrofit a simple swivel adapter can often get away with 700–900 euros (including installation) for both seats. Those who want premium comfort should expect to pay more like 2,500–3,000 euros.

Which vehicle models are best suited for swivel seats?

Not every RV is equally well-suited for swivel seats. Retrofitting is easiest with vehicles based on familiar transporter base vehicles, for which standardized adapters are available.

Well-suited base vehicles:

• Fiat Ducato (incl. Citroën Jumper, Peugeot Boxer): Market leader, largest selection of adapters
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Very good availability of retrofit kits
• Volkswagen Crafter / MAN TGEAlso well supported
• Ford TransitGood availability, especially for British brands

Less suitable:

• Vehicles with very low-profile cabs (e.g. some alcove models)
• Panel van under approx. 5.5 m total length (too little space behind the seat)
• Vehicles with a permanently installed dashboard that protrudes into the rotational movement

Decision rule: If a certified adapter is not available for your base vehicle, you should not attempt to build your own. Safety clearly comes first here.

Can I install a swivel seat myself, or do I need a professional?

Technically, self-installation is possible, but a specialist workshop is recommended for several reasons. The installation itself is feasible with good instructions and craftsmanship — the legal consequences of errors are not.

Self-installation: When it works

• You are buying a certified adapter with a TÜV certificate (e.g. according to ECE R17 or §22 StVZO)
• You have experience with vehicle modifications and the necessary tools
• The vehicle does not require any changes to the vehicle registration certificate (not necessary with some adapters).

When you absolutely should see a professional

• If the modification requires registration in the vehicle registration document
• When electrical lines (seat heating, airbag sensor) need to be relocated
• If you're unsure whether the seat is securely locked in the driving position

⚠️ Important note: An improperly locked driver's seat can be life-threatening in an accident. Airbag systems respond to seat position sensors - an incorrectly installed seat can impair the airbag function.

What should I keep in mind when installing swivel seats?

When installing swivel seats in the driver's cab, there are technical, legal, and practical points that you should not overlook. The most important are approval, weight, and space requirements.

Checklist before installation:

• Is a certified adapter available for your vehicle model?
• Is the vehicle still within the permissible total weight after the conversion? (More on this in the article about Motorhomes up to 3.5 tons and overloading)
• Is there enough space behind the seat for the rotation and practical use?
• Does the modification need to be registered in the vehicle registration document?
• Are all electrical systems (airbag, seat heating) functional after the conversion?
• Does the adapter have a TÜV certificate or an ABE (General Operating Permit)?

Frequently forgotten: The steering wheel. In some vehicles, the steering wheel protrudes into the turning range of the driver's seat — turning is then only possible if the steering wheel is folded up or adjusted beforehand.

What mistakes are commonly made when converting the driver's seat?

The most common mistakes when converting to swivel seats are: using the wrong adapter for the vehicle model, failing to register the modification in the vehicle registration document, and underestimating the space required behind the seat.

Top 5 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:

1. Bought the wrong adapter. Not every adapter fits every vehicle. Always check the model and year of manufacture.
2. No entry: Without entry in the vehicle registration document, insurance coverage may be voided in the event of a claim.
3. Not enough space planned. At least 60 cm behind the seat are needed for the swivel movement and subsequent use to make sense.
4. Airbag sensor ignored: Some seats have weight sensors for the airbag — these must function correctly after the conversion.
5. Seat not properly locked tested: Before the first ride, always check that the seat is securely locked in the driving position.

Are swivel cab seats suitable for all types of motorhomes?

No — swivel cab seats don't suit every type of RV equally well. Semi-integrated and fully integrated RVs, as well as larger panel vans, benefit the most, while very compact vehicles often offer too little space.

Overview by vehicle type:

How much space do I need for a rotating cab conversion?

As a rule of thumb, at least 60 cm of free space between the back of the rotated seat and the nearest wall or piece of furniture is necessary for comfortable use. For a full-fledged seating arrangement with a table, 80–100 cm is ideal.

Space requirements in detail:

• Rotary motion itself: The seat needs a radius of approximately 35–45 cm (depending on seat width) for rotation.
• Legroom compared to: Anyone sitting opposite the swivel seat needs at least 40-50 cm of legroom.
• Table place: A fold-out table between the swivel seats and the bench seat requires a depth of approximately 50–60 cm.

Practical tip: Before buying an adapter, simply occupy the seat (without modification) with a person and use a measuring tape to measure how much space would actually be available.

What alternatives are there to swivel cab seats?

For those who don't want to or can't install a swivel seat, there are definitely sensible alternatives. The best alternative depends on why the swivel seat is out of the question.

Alternatives at a glance:

• Foldable bench seat behind the cab: Also creates additional seating without changing the seat itself.
• Foldable table on the dashboard Affordable, simple, suitable for short breaks.
• Lounge furniture directly behind the driver's area: Often the more elegant solution for open floor plans.
• Rent a vehicle with a larger footprint: Someone who only occasionally needs more space is often better off with a larger rental vehicle.

Anyone who wants to try out a motorhome with an existing swivel seat or a spacious layout without buying one right away can visit Campcruisers.com rent a suitable vehicle — the platform connects vehicles from professional rental companies worldwide. Simple Rent a campervan and get started right away!

Who benefits from a swivel seat and who doesn't?

A swivel seat is especially worthwhile for camping enthusiasts who use their vehicle often and for long periods, regularly travel as a group of four or as a couple with guests, and want to make maximum use of the living space. For occasional campers or solo travelers, the effort is often disproportionate.

Worth it for:

• Couples and families who spend a lot of time in the vehicle
• Permanent campers and vanlifers
• For all those who want to own and individualize their motorhome in the long term
• Vehicles where the driver area is the only possible area for staying.

Less worthwhile for:

• Solo travelers (a swivel seat is of little use if there's no one sitting opposite).
• Occasional campers who only travel 2-3 times a year
• Rental vehicles (conversion not allowed or practical)
• Very compact vehicles without sufficient space.

Anyone wanting to first get inspired about everything that's possible with a well-equipped RV should take a look at the South Holland tour with the campervan werfen — a perfect example of how much fun a well-equipped vehicle can be.

FAQ: Swiveling Cabin Seats

Do I need to have the swivel seat conversion approved by the TÜV (Technical Inspection Association)?
That depends on the adapter used. Adapters with ABE (General Operating Permit) do not require a separate TÜV inspection, but must still be installed correctly. Without ABE, an individual inspection by an expert is required.

Will I lose my insurance coverage if I convert to a swivel seat?
Not automatic — but if the modification is not properly registered and there is an accident, the insurance company can refuse to pay out. Always speak to your car insurance company before making modifications.

Can I reuse the original seat?
Yes, in most cases. Swivel adapters are mounted between the original seat and the vehicle floor, so the seat itself remains unchanged.

How long does installation take at a specialist workshop?
An experienced company needs about 2–4 hours for one seat, and half to a full workday for both seats.

Does the seat heating still work after the modification?
Generally yes, if the cables are extended or rerouted accordingly during installation. This should be discussed with the workshop beforehand.

Which brands offer good swivel adapters?
Well-known providers in the German market include Scopema, Kiravans, Tauro Sport and Alu-cab. Quality and availability vary depending on the vehicle model.

Can I have the swivel seat installed in a rented camper van?
No. Modifications to rental vehicles are not permitted without the express permission of the lessor and would violate the rental agreement.

How much weight does a swivel adapter support?
Most certified adapters are designed for the weight of the original seat plus one person (usually 120–150 kg). You can find the exact specifications in the technical data of the respective product.

Are there swivel seats available for the passenger seat as well?
Yes, absolutely. For most common vehicle models, there are adapters for both the driver's and passenger's seat — often available as a set.

What does it cost to register in the vehicle registration document?
Registration by a recognized expert (e.g. TÜV, DEKRA) costs approximately 50–150 euros, depending on the region and effort involved.

Conclusion: More living space with rotating driver's cabin seats

Rotating cab seats are one of the clever ways to expand the living space in a motorhome — without expensive conversions or changing vehicles. For camping enthusiasts who spend a lot of time in the vehicle with several people, the effort is clearly justified: more seating, more atmosphere, more quality of life on the road.

Your next steps:

1. Check vehicle model: Is there a certified adapter for your base vehicle?
2. Measure the space: Allow at least 60 cm behind the rotated seat.
3. Compare offers: Swivel adapter vs. complete seat — what fits your budget?
4. Contact a specialist workshop: Have the installation and registration done professionally.
5. Let's go! And if you'd first like to try out what a well-equipped RV feels like: Camper mieten Start your next adventure on Campcruisers.com and directly into it.

If you're looking for even more inspiration for your next trip, you'll find plenty of tips on the Campcruisers blog—for example, on the topic of Rent a motorhome without internet or to Compact energy for on the go.

Quellen

• German Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA): Technical requirements for vehicle seats and restraint systems, StVZO §22 — kba.de
• ECE Regulation R17: Provisions concerning the approval of vehicles with regard to the seats, their anchorages and head restraints — UNECE, 2019
• ADAC: Guide to Campervan Conversion and Retrofitting adac.de

Tags: Swivel cab seats, camper conversion, swivel seat camper, rotating cab seat, camper interior, camping living space, swivel adapter camper, Fiat Ducato swivel seat, camper tips, camper conversion, camper seating area, camping equipment