Thor launch hybrid motorhomes
Thor launches hybrid motorhomes
Thor, the American parent company of the European Hymer Group, has unveiled what it claims to be the world's first hybrid Class A motorhome, the Thor Test Vehicle.
The motorhome is built on an electric vehicle platform developed by Harbinger.
The two manufacturers collaborated to integrate a low-emissions petrol range extender engine that can recharge the electric battery system, delivering an estimated 500 miles of range.
Daniel Attwood Head of Content
Daniel Attwood Head of Content
Thor said the motorhomes utilising the hybrid platform will be commercially available in 2025 from its family of companies. It is unclear whether the technology will be available in the European market.
Electrification will play a central role in the future of mobility, including RVing
The Thor Test Vehicle is a demonstration hybrid RV constructed on a Harbinger platform, which was purpose-built for the unique range requirements of the RV industry, exclusively for Thor. This is the first electrified chassis explicitly designed to power this class of motorhomes and was designed to alleviate range anxiety.
The hybrid chassis is powered by a 140kW/h battery pack, a low-emissions petrol range extender that recharges the battery, and solar rooftop. The platform's 800V electrical architecture allows for rapid charging at fast charging locations. The batteries can also be charged at traditional campsites, via the range extender and solar power.
The hybrid platform can also serve as a backup home power source and could one day allow owners to sell power stored in the vehicle back to the grid.
The Test Vehicle's electric powertrain delivers excellent acceleration and torque, offering up to twice the torque of a diesel engine, for confident highway driving on mountain roads and through rough terrain.
The platform's design innovations go beyond the powertrain. Harbinger's chassis includes all major vehicle systems of an electric vehicle, including drivetrain, high voltage battery system, steering, brakes, and more.
Its double-wishbone front suspension, steer-by-wire system, and class-leading Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features provide a safe, smooth ride and excellent handling, even in a large vehicle.
The Thor Test Vehicle is available for dealer test drives on Thor's RV Experience Track at the Elkhart Dealer Open House, the largest dealer event in North America, starting Monday, 23 September, 2024 in Elkhart, Indiana. RV dealers from across the continent will have the opportunity to experience the future of RVing and help guide the path to market for this exclusive product.
We founded Harbinger with a mission to modernise the medium-duty vehicle industry with our world-class electric chassis.
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.
The Thor-Harbinger partnership and the world's first hybrid Class A platform will truly allow RVers to Go Everywhere. Stay Anywhere®.
About Thor Industries
Thor Industries is the sole owner of operating companies which, combined, represent the world's largest RV manufacturer. For more information on the company and its products, please visit Thor's website.
