Summary
- Electric RVing offers advantages such as environmentally friendly travel, electric torque for towing, and the ability to bring creature comforts along
- Plug-in hybrids can be a good choice depending on driving habits and charging frequency, offering benefits similar to EVs within their electric range
- Thor and Harbinger Motors have collaborated on a hybrid Class A RV prototype with a 500-mile range and low-emissions gasoline range extender
- The platform is designed for durability and can be easily adapted for different RV models, as well as commercial trucks
- Driving a PHEV RV with ~100 miles of range offers the convenience of off-grid air conditioning, electric power for appliances, and various fuel efficiency options depending on driving habits
Article
Electric RVing offers many advantages, such as reducing environmental impact and the benefit of electric torque for towing. However, the challenge lies in the limited range of purely electric RVs, making plug-in hybrids a more practical option for long-distance travel. The decision on whether a plug-in hybrid is the right choice depends on how it is driven and whether it is regularly plugged in. For RVs, which often travel long distances in remote areas without access to charging stations, a plug-in hybrid may not be the most practical solution.
Recently, Thor, the parent company of Airstream, unveiled a hybrid Class A RV prototype that provides a good balance of electric power, range, and overall usefulness. Partnering with Harbinger Motors, known for medium-duty EV innovation, the RV features a 140-kWh battery pack (up to 175 kWh in production) and a low-emissions gasoline range extender. This hybrid platform offers an estimated 500-mile range, with the battery pack fitting between the frame rails and a series hybrid system that keeps the battery charged using a gas engine, providing the feel of electric miles.
The collaboration between Thor and Harbinger Motors represents a significant step towards an electric future in the RV industry. The prototype RV not only offers improved range and efficiency but also delivers impressive performance with an electric motor producing twice the torque of a typical diesel engine. The integration of technology, such as an 800V electrical architecture for quick charging, further enhances the vehicle’s capabilities for long-distance travel. Additionally, the platform’s durability, designed to reach 500,000 miles, ensures a longer lifespan compared to traditional RVs.
Driving a PHEV RV with approximately 100 miles of electric range offers numerous advantages, particularly at the destination where the need for a noisy generator, gas furnace, and propane stove is eliminated. With the ability to run everything on electric power provided by various sources, including DC fast charging, RV park power, solar panels, and the range extender, the RV offers off-grid air conditioning. Additionally, the vehicle’s torque, hill-climbing capabilities, and fuel efficiency make it a practical choice for both short and long-distance travel.
The flexibility of the PHEV RV allows drivers to choose between all-electric, gas-powered, or a combination of both depending on the driving conditions and preferences. With the option to charge the vehicle during stops, drivers can achieve significant fuel savings and increase overall mileage. The ability to switch between electric and gas power based on the driving distance and charging availability provides a versatile solution for RV travel. Overall, the development of electric RV technologies, such as the Thor hybrid Class A RV prototype, showcases a promising future for sustainable and efficient travel in the RV industry.
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