Thor Announces Hybrid Class A RV with 500 Mile Range

Today marks the start of Open House Week in Elkhart, IN, an annual event during which RV manufacturers reveal new models and floorplans for the coming year. But the biggest announcement may have already come, as this morning, THOR Industries announced a new Class A model built on a revolutionary new hybrid chassis that promises 500 miles of range.

Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger

Dubbed the THOR Test Vehicle, the prototype RV utilizes a new platform designed by electric vehicle manufacturer Harbinger.  The two companies have been collaborating on the project for several years, with THOR investing in Harbinger to help make the hybrid chassis a reality. The goal of this partnership is to create a hybrid chassis specifically made for the RV industry that delivers outstanding range and is easy on the environment.

“Electrification will play a central role in the future of mobility, including RVing,” THOR Industries President and CEO Bob Martin said via a press release. “This first-of-its-kind hybrid platform and our ongoing collaboration with Harbinger are reinforcing THOR’s leadership in this segment and creating major points of product differentiation for our family of companies.”

Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger

The hybrid chassis features a 140kWh battery pack and a low-emissions gas range extender to recharge onboard batteries while in transit. The platform is also equipped with an 800V electrical architecture designed for DC fast charging at EV charging stations around the country. The batteries will also charge when plugged into a power pole at a campsite and via roof-mounted solar panels.

As expected from an electric powertrain, the Test Vehicle provides plenty of acceleration and torque. THOR hasn’t revealed the exact specs on the system but says the new chassis delivers up to twice the torque of a traditional diesel engine. That, combined with a double-wishbone front suspension, a steer-by-wire system, and other advanced driver assistance systems—like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control—ensures a smooth ride on highways, narrow country roads, and even over rough terrain.

Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger

“We founded Harbinger with a mission to modernize the medium-duty vehicle industry with our world-class electric chassis,” said Harbinger CEO and Co-Founder John Harris in the same press release referenced above. “Our collaboration with THOR and their family of companies allows us to help advance the RV sector and lay the groundwork for products that will enhance the RVing experience.”

While the THOR Test Vehicle is just that—a test vehicle—for now, the RV manufacturer says the hybrid chassis will begin appearing in new Class A models in 2025. Attendees at Open House week can test drive the vehicle themselves on the THOR RV Experience Track starting today. Dealers who are on hand for the event are invited to stop by to catch a glimpse of the future of RV camping.

Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger

Over the past few years, we’ve seen a number of traditional RV manufacturers and start-ups dip their toes into the all-electric RV space with mixed results. It seems clear that electric motorhomes and travel trailers will likely have a place in the market eventually, but there are several hurdles to clear before widespread adoption. Those challenges include costly battery packs, limited range, and slow charging times. THOR and Harbinger’s approach to using a hybrid chassis seems like an excellent strategy that bridges the gap between internal combustion engines and electric motors. And with a range of up to 500 miles, it promises to make long-distance road trips and cross-country excursions much more manageable, too.

Unsurprisingly, there is no word on pricing or future availability yet, but we’ll be watching closely as this story continues to develop. Chances are, we’ll learn more at the Florida RV Supershow in Tampa in January, setting the stage for some exciting things to come in 2025.

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Source: https://www.rv.com/rv/thor-announces-hybrid-class-a-rv-with-500-mile-range/