Convoy - Van Life Connection Platform

Overview

Convoy is an invite-only, safety-first networking platform designed specifically for van-life travelers and digital nomads. It enables travelers living and moving in vans to discover nearby nomads in real time, match based on shared travel direction, and interact through a swipe-based discovery system.

Core Features

1. The Vibe Zone (Geofenced Discovery)

• Radius: Users can see others within a 150-mile radius.
• Privacy: Exact locations are never shared. Distance is shown in vague terms (e.g., "Nearby" or "Heading North").
• Vibe Check: Users set a "Vibe" status (e.g., "Focus Mode," "Looking for Convoy," "Beer o'clock") to signal availability.

2. Convoy Vectors (Directional Matching)

• Algorithm: Matches users who are heading in the same general cardinal direction (e.g., both heading NW).
• Goal: To form "Convoys"—groups of nomads traveling together for safety and companionship.

3. Safety & Verification (The "Grandfather" System)

• Invite-Only: New users must be verified by an existing member.
• Trust Score: Users build reputation through positive interactions and "Vouches" from others.

4. Builder Protocol (Service Marketplace)

• Skill Swap: Find nomads with specific skills (e.g., Solar installation, Diesel mechanics, Starlink setup).
• Vetted Network: Service providers are community-verified.

Technical Architecture

Frontend (User App)

• Framework: React Native / Expo (for mobile app), Web (landing page).
• Styling: "Neo-Brutalism" design (High contrast, bold typography, vibrant colors).

Backend

• Platform: Google Cloud Platform (Cloud Run).
• Database: Firebase Firestore (NoSQL).
• Auth: Firebase Authentication.

Static Hosting

• Hosting: Firebase Hosting.
• Content: Landing pages (index.html), Documentation (technical.html, proposal.html).

Development Roadmap

1. MVP Phase: Core Vibe Zone, Basic Auth, and Profile Management.
2. Growth Phase: Vector Matching Algorithm, Invite System.
3. Monetization: "Convoy+" subscription (Offline maps, Unlimited invites, Builder access).

Documentation

• Technical Documentation
• Written Proposal

Built With

• api
• css
• firebase
• framer
• google
• maps
• motion
• next.js
• react
• revenuecat
• tailwind
• vercel