They're called Pro-Access, a factory option on the GM vans, pretty neat that they are actuated with the key fob. There are a few folks with these vans over in the camper van forum.
My buddy right over the hill from you in Blue River keeps up with my AWD just fine in his 2wd E350 with snows with one exception - my very steep snow packed driveway. Assuming you can stick to maintained roads and have decent skills, its all about the tires in my experience. Just look at all...
Is a high top in the cards? Maybe below a rear bed is possible similar to the sprinter guys. Otherwise maybe something like this setup?:
https://denver.craigslist.org/for/6037207257.html
That's surprising, the 2 benches in my 2007 are NOT interchangeable, the spacing on the mounts is different. That said, I have switched the mounts from seat to seat for my setup but that is not something I would tackle while on the road.
Regarding folding, there was a guy who posted how he...
This guy who has one of the more impressive homebuilds I've come across on the interwebz utilized channels on his sofa/bed:
http://www.sportsmobileforum.com/forums/f24/popping-my-top-10808-10.html
First off congrats! What about adding a jump seat between the front seats like these guys did?: http://whensparksfly.org/?page_id=759
Obviously your mobility within the van is impeded but at least it'll postpone tearing out your interior until #2 comes along.
Don't see too many of these on here, looks like a decent quality homebuild for a couple:
2014 NISSAN Recreational Vehicle RV Adventure Camper High Roof NV - $36500
https://denver.craigslist.org/rvs/5546268016.html