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Thor's Vision Vehicle Concept Lays the Foundations for What All-Electric Campers Should Be

Vision Vehicle 6 photos
Photo: Thor Industries
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Let's face it; the electrification of everything is underway, and one industry that's moving forward like a raging bull is the RV industry. In this spirit, we explore a bit of what Thor Industries is bringing to the game, the Vision Vehicle.
Folks, the name Thor Industries has been synonymous since 1980 when they purchased Airstream. However, it wasn't until 1984 that Thor went "public," and through the years, has risen to be known as a leader in RV and mobile living. They achieved this by listening to customers and by staying up to date with industry trends, the latter leading us to where we are today.

Now, a whole lot about the Vision Vehicle doesn't exist, except a series of videos underlining all the magic this machine brings to the EV table; So far, it seems like this puppy is only a concept, and I haven't heard of any sales just yet; maybe I need new sources. Just a concept or not, this thing isn't just about the electric power it runs on, but also the interior design.

Overall, the Vision Vehicle is designed to operate on a battery pack and integrated fuel cell that provides up to a peak of 300 mi (482 km) per charge. That's absolutely massive for a machine that's bound to weigh a few tons; lithium battery packs are extremely heavy. Then there's all the hardware and software in place to keep you up to date with the ever-shifting range. Once you throw in the ability to find charging stations right from the cockpit, it should be a whole lot easier to plan a trip, even in an EV.

Some details that we don't know just yet are how much power is stored in said lithium and just how long it takes to fill up the proverbial tanks. Considering that this bugger is just a concept, we may find out more if enough interest is sparked in this machine.

Vision Vehicle
Photo: Thor Industries
Up next, let's take a closer look at the beautiful design Thor has devised for the Vision Vehicle. To best understand what's in store for our futuristic selves, let's take a trip through imagination and pretend that we're living out of one of these buggers.

Now, the exterior isn't the sort that blows me away, but the interior that's a different story. I'll admit, the layout, materials used, and the overall finish of cabinetry is, how do I say this, hot damn! It's friggin tasty! Not only does everything look nice and clean, but a touch of minimalism is definitely felt.

All this results in an interior that is open and intuitive to use. From the large opening that allows for access from the cab to the living space, to the couch off to one side and galley on the other, it's airy and allows for ease of movement throughout the cabin. If I'm not mistaken, a Murphy bed is showcased in the interior. Take a moment and picture yourself in the middle of what you see in the gallery or the video below. Even voice commands are in place and activate all sorts of systems and activities.

Speaking of activities, Thor also ensures that the Vision Vehicle is a perfect aid in your outdoor adventures. Let's start with activities like setting up an outdoor lounge in the shade of an integrated awning or setting up a grill. From here, you can start to think about things like bringing along a kayak or two, and even a pair of e-bikes, as long as you add a cargo rack.

Vision Vehicle
Photo: Thor Industries
However, my favorite space in this concept is found at the very rear of the unit and is accessible by opening the two doors. An ingenious shelving and drawer system has been designed for this unit, and with it, you can store things like e-scooters, helmets, cargo nets, backpacks, and an array of other gear. Tools? Not a problem. Even the doors you opened include some drawers in which you can store fishing poles, foldable seats, and even shoes; why not? Yes, there is also space for a portable cooler and all.

Then there's this machine's off-grid abilities. On the top of the Vision Vehicle, solar panel strips are visible and aid in processing some of the sun's endless supply of energy. It's not clear if any of that power will go to recharging your main battery pack, but at least you'll be able to operate things like the cooktop, fridge, and entertainment center, not to mention lighting and a plethora of others.

At this time, that's all we really know. There's nothing on price, an expected launch date, or anything of the sort, even though the Vision Vehicle was unveiled nearly a year ago. Then again, it is just a concept, and like most concepts, they shall remain as such. It'll probably end up in some rich sheikh's collection.

But there's no denying that Thor is definitely on the move towards an electric future and one that, in my opinion, looks pretty dang good, not to mention its ability to accommodate the modern adventurer's lifestyle habits.

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About the author: Cristian Curmei
Cristian Curmei profile photo

A bit of a nomad at heart (being born in Europe and raised in several places in the USA), Cristian is enamored with travel trailers, campers and bikes. He also tests and writes about urban means of transportation like scooters, mopeds and e-bikes (when he's not busy hosting our video stories and guides).
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