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RV (Recreational Vehicle)

Vehicle Types USA Canada

Recreation vehicle, rig, camper, coach, motorcoach

RV is a broad North American term for any motorized or towable vehicle designed for recreational travel and temporary living, including motorhomes, campervans, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and pop-up campers.

In Europe, "motorhome" denotes self-propelled units and "caravan" covers towed units. In the US, RV types include: Class A (integrated coach), Class B (campervan), Class C (overcab), Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel, Pop-up Camper and Truck Camper. Major manufacturers: Thor Industries, Forest River (USA) and Hymer/EHG (Europe).

FAQ

How does an American RV differ from a European motorhome?

American RVs are on average larger and designed for RV-park infrastructure with 30/50 A electrical service and water and sewer hookups. European motorhomes are more compact (road-width restrictions), designed for CEE 16 A service points (aires, Stellplätze). Comfort levels are comparable; equipment standards differ.

What are Class A, B and C RVs?

Class A: large coach with the cab integrated into the body. Class B: campervan (VW, Sprinter). Class C: mid-size motorhome on a van cab-chassis with an overcab sleeping bunk. In European terms: Class A ≈ integrated, Class B ≈ campervan, Class C ≈ overcab or semi-integrated.

Related terms

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