Product Profile
By Joseph Garnett, Jr. - From Thor Motor Coach
September 26, 2015
The 6th Annual Dealer Open House is officially over. The weather was great, the food was even better, and the dealers and media who attended got a coveted first look at our newest RUVs (Recreational Utility Vehicles) – the Gemini and Compass. These motorhomes are unique because they offer an RUV option with even more horsepower.
RUVs, which also include the Axis and Vegas brands, are a new line of motorhome, which take the size of today’s larger SUVs and adds the benefits of an RV. Easy to drive, the Gemini and Compass models are compact, maneuverable and feature great fuel efficiency.
We were so excited to finally show the world what has been in the works for the past year at Thor Motor Coach. The opportunity to build on the Ford Transit has allowed us to increase the overall offerings in the RUV segment,” said Jon Krider, director of marketing. “We think these cool, trendy and hip new models are exactly what many younger RV buyers have been wanting and we’re sure more people will be excited to get into the RV lifestyle. At Thor Motor Coach we build motorhomes that are made to fit, and Gemini and Compass are aimed to fit a whole new set of adventurers!”
The new RUVs have a strikingly modern flair. Built on the Ford Transit cutaway chassis, Thor Motor Coach is the first American motorhome manufacturer to utilize this compact chassis found under many models built for the European market.
The Ford Power Stroke inline 5-cylinder diesel engine has 185-horsepower and 350 pounds-foot of torque, which provides plenty of power to traverse even the most daunting of inclines. The 6-speed transmission is smooth shifting and comes standard with a manual mode as well as a tow/haul mode, making it easy and fun to drive.
The large skylight above the cab is aerodynamically designed just like that of an automobile’s windshield and bonded in the front cap which eliminates the need for excessive exposed fasteners. The standard exterior is TMC’s HD-MAX®. The chassis layout and overall engineering on the new RUV models have allowed for multiple exterior basement storage areas, including a partially pass-through bay in the very rear of the coach.
The many angles, laminates and contrasting colors make the interior of the Gemini and Compass feel like a modern Manhattan studio apartment. The conceptual interior designs were
achieved with outside studio partners like Astheimer LTD from England, who developed the look and feel using their expertise in designing luxury yachts, RVs and automobiles.
Interested in Seeing an RUV?
If you would like to see the new Gemini or Compass at our Lazydays Tampa or Tucson locations, please click here to have a sales expert speak with you and to let you know when they arrive. As for the Axis and Vegas brands, they are in stock and ready for your selection.
Share Your Experiences With Us
The RV Authority welcomes your input. If you have an idea for a blog article or would like to write and submit an article about your RV adventures, please click here to email us your suggestions or questions.
