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THOR and Harbinger Make History with the World’s First Hybrid Class A Motorhome

September 23, 2024

THOR and Harbinger introduces the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome, designed for the RV industry’s unique needs.
The motorhome offers up to 500 miles of range with a 140-kWh battery, gasoline range extender, and solar rooftop.
The vehicle will be available for dealer test drives at the Elkhart Dealer Open House on September 23, 2024.

When you think of RVing, what comes to mind? Freedom, exploration, and a true connection with nature, right? Now, imagine being able to experience all of that while also embracing the future of mobility with a hybrid Class A motorhome.

The collaboration between THOR Industries and Harbinger brings this vision to life with the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome, blending advanced technology with the classic charm of RV living. With up to 500 miles of range, thanks to a gasoline range extender and a 140-kWh battery pack, this RV makes it easier than ever to “Go Everywhere, Stay Anywhere” without sacrificing comfort or sustainability.

THOR’s Test Vehicle, built on a purpose-built Harbinger platform, addresses one of the most significant concerns for RV enthusiasts—range anxiety. This is the first electrified chassis explicitly designed to power Class A motorhomes, combining the best of both worlds: electric power for sustainability and a gasoline range extender for those longer journeys.

Whether you’re cruising along scenic coastal highways or navigating challenging mountain roads, the Test Vehicle’s electric powertrain delivers excellent acceleration and up to twice the torque of a traditional diesel engine, giving you a confident driving experience that truly shows what’s possible in the RV world.

THOR and Harbinger Debut Electric Class A Motorhome: Luxury, Sustainability, and 500-Mile Range

For those new to the RV world, the class A motorhome is truly the king of the road. These large, luxurious motorhomes are perfect for long-term travelers who want all the comforts of home as you explore new places. And thanks to the partnership between THOR and Harbinger, RVers can now enjoy the benefits of an electric RV platform, with powerful torque for confident highway driving and sustainability features like solar charging—perfect for anyone looking to minimize waste and maximize the joys of life on the road.

“Electrification will play a central role in the future of mobility, including RVing,” Bob Martin, President and CEO of THOR Industries, captured this sentiment perfectly. “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.”

For seasoned RVers, the hybrid platform offers a refreshing take on the traditional RV experience. Whether you’re exploring the coast or camping off-grid, the hybrid system’s solar roof can keep your vehicle charged, while the range extender ensures you can travel up to 500 miles on a single charge. RV parks and campsites equipped with charging stations are becoming increasingly common, and the ability to charge at both DC Fast Charger locations and campsites only adds to the convenience.

RV Range, Safety, and Travel Freedom

The Test Vehicle’s electrified chassis was engineered exclusively for THOR to meet the unique range requirements of the RV industry. Harbinger’s innovative design, which includes all major vehicle systems such as the drivetrain, high voltage battery system, and steering, was designed specifically to alleviate range anxiety and deliver the ultimate in travel freedom and sustainability.

This hybrid chassis powertrain offers a complete platform that combines advanced systems like a steer-by-wire setup, double-wishbone front suspension, and a class-leading Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) to ensure a smooth and safe ride, even in challenging conditions.

Harbinger CEO and Co-Founder John Harris said it best: “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.” With Harbinger’s advanced chassis, even large motorhomes like the THOR Test Vehicle handle smoothly and safely, making exploring more enjoyable than ever.

Choosing the Right RV

For those considering RV life for the first time, it’s important to know what type of motorhome suits your needs. Class A motorhomes, like the hybrid model from THOR, offer a spacious, luxurious option with all the amenities you could dream of. But if you’re looking for something more compact, a type B camper van might be more your style, offering flexibility and mobility. Or, if you want something in between, the class C motorhome provides a balance of space and practicality, perfect for families on a budget.

As you explore alternative RV campsites, whether it’s at a remote beach or a secluded forest, the freedom of hybrid and electric motorhomes will allow you to embrace nature without worrying about running out of power.

From traditional campsites with RV hookups to off-grid spots, you’re finding new ways to connect with the environment while keeping the comforts of home. As demonstrated with the THOR Test Vehicle, you can take your adventures even further with its hybrid platform, which not only uses solar energy but also serves as a backup power source for your home. It has the potential to let you sell stored power back to the grid in the future.

RVers have always been drawn to the idea of freedom on the open road. The introduction of hybrid and electric motorhomes opens up a world of possibilities—whether it’s minimizing your environmental impact, reducing fuel costs, or simply slowing down to savor every moment on your road trip.

Get Behind the Wheel of a Class A Motorhome

For those eager to experience this motorhome firsthand, the THOR Test Vehicle will be 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, September 23, 2024, in Elkhart, Indiana. RV dealers from across the continent will have the opportunity to dive into the future of RVing and play a key role in bringing this exclusive product to market.

For more information, visit www.thorindustries.com and www.harbingermotors.com.