News

A new in-depth study from the world’s biggest RV manufacturer, Thor Industries, has revealed some key insights into the expectations of end users when it comes to electric RVs and their abilities. The North American Motorized Electric RV Study confirmed the need for long-range solutions, uncovering that 45 per cent of consumers expect to be able to drive for five to six hours on a single charge. This data aligns with results from Thor's 2021 North American Path to Purchase Study in which 70 per cent of new RV purchasers reported traveling an average of 5 or more hours from their home for RV trips. Thor's newest survey reflects that only 3 per cent of consumers expect to charge after 2 hours or less of driving, which is the range currently offered by low-voltage motorized electric RVs.

Thor Industries president and CEO, Bob Martin, said: “As the global leader in the RV industry, it's important that we share some of the critical data and insights used to inform innovation efforts across the THOR family of companies, which allow us to anticipate and exceed consumer expectations.

“Our motorized electric RV study confirms that the high-voltage motorized platform we've developed meets the expectations of consumers, however charging infrastructure development is necessary to increase adoption.  When it comes to electrification, Thor is positioned to redefine the RV experience.”

Other key findings of the study included:

• 47 per cent expect to use a motorised electric RV at least “once a week or more often” or “once evert two to three weeks”
• 97 per cent expect to drive for three hours or longer before charging
• 70 per cent report that the inclusion of an onboard fuel cell for recharging the vehicle's battery positively impacts their purchase interest level, regardless of a small carbon footprint
• 44 per cent expect a fast-charging (one-hour) station at each individual campground spot
• 34 per cent report charging time is expected to be 45-59 minutes
• 34 per cent report charging cost from empty to full is expected to be US$41 to US$60