THOR Industries – the parent company of Airstream – has been at the forefront of plug-in-hybrid motorhomes, which could soon be on the verge of a new electric journey. In collaboration with electric vehicle company Harbinger, THOR has unveiled what it touts as the world’s first hybrid class A RV electrified for the future of RVing.
Range anxiety and long charging times have been deterrents in the acceptance of electric vehicles and electric RVs as a choice of living and traveling. With the hybrid motorhome chassis, built for THOR by Harbinger, the two are addressing the range requirements that have pestered the EV industry.
Designer: THOR Industries
The THOR test vehicle, built on this special plug-in hybrid electric chassis that mimics a truck or bus chassis, is tailor-made for the unique range requirements of the RV industry. The hybrid option could give RV owners that ultimate freedom each fulltimer desires from his Class A. This platform for RVs manufactured by Harbinger trades the usual gasoline and electric powertrain hybrid option with a low-emissions gas generator and electric option.
This range extender system allows the gas generator to power onboard a 140kWh battery, which means the RV users can get additional range in their trip and camp without the need of an EV charger at the campsite. The battery is also hooked to the rooftop solar panel, which also adds to the electric prowess of the powertrain. In collaboration, the entire unit can deliver up to 500 miles of range.
According to evidence from the test vehicle built on this new chassis, the electric powertrain not only offers unbelievable mileage but also delivers acceleration and torque almost twice that of a diesel engine. This means RVs based on this new system should be able to compete with the best in the market in power and performance, and outsmart them by miles in the range department. In addition to the range extender and solar power, the 800-volt electrical system of the Harbinger platform can be charged via a DC Fast Charger at traditional charging points. This option for quick charge means you will spend less time at the charger and more time on the road and camping in peace off-the-grid.
“Electrification will play a central role in the future of mobility, including RVing,” said THOR Industries President and CEO Bob Martin. Since, THOR Industries wants to be ready for the future well in advance, it is likely to show up RVs with this hybrid platform in 2025.
