Does anyone know if windows can be retrofitted to Hiace panel vans? I'm looking at one and would like at least to have a window in the slider. I think I remember some commercial vehicles could reasonably easily swap a window in.

A wide angle mirror about 60 mm in diameter can be stuck on the standard left hand mirror to greatly improve visibility to that side. A rear view camera mounted in the bumper bar is also handy for vans. About $160 from Repco. They can see in the dark with only the illumination from the reversing lights way better than the naked eye. Side window vans with floral curtains to keep the heat out aren't a good look.

Try hamilton glass. They make the windows for Apollo and many other camper vans. Not sure about the sliding door window but I know the others are anyway. I can check tomorrow though.

re : cameras, I got one similar to the one in the link, on ebay for 100$,(so do a little research as mine was a 10") gps with 3d maps (no maps in New Cal so useless) but works as a speedo. Reads movies, music, phone bluetooth, got games in it...

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/7-GPS-CAR-NAVIGATION-SYSTEM-with-WIRELESS-REVERSE-CAMERA-Latest-Model-/300833432138?pt=GPS_Devices&hash=item460b11e24a

I actually never use any of this stuff (though the kids do !) but the reverse camera is awesome !
As Ian said they see in the dark !
Choose the wireless model, you just connect the camera to your reversing light and voila !!! Wifi connection straight to the dash unit.

Makes driving a van with no side or rear view soooo much easier !!

Ps : the gps speed reading is quite handy, it shows nearly 10 km/h less than the car's speedo. Checked it with another gps unit, correct....