An Entegra Coach motorhome that uses electric power for propulsion but is augmented with a gas-powered range extender. (Photo courtesy of Entegra Coach)The RV industry is taking a serious step toward electrification, but Entegra Coach isn't betting everything on a giant battery.Its new Embark Class A motorhome uses electric power for propulsion, but adds a gasoline-powered range extender when the battery needs help. That could make it one of the more practical approaches yet to electrifying a vehicle designed to travel long distances and spend time far from charging stations.I spoke with Mitch Johnson, Head of Fleet and Electric for the Jayco Family of Companies, which includes Entegra Coach, about the technology behind the Embark.Built on an electric medium-duty chassis developed by Harbinger Motors, the Embark uses a 140-kWh battery mounted low and in the center of the chassis. That helps lower the center of gravity, while the electric drivetrain provides instant torque, smoother acceleration, reduced sway and a quieter ride.The motorhome can travel about 105 miles on battery power alone. When additional range is needed, the integrated gasoline range extender generates electricity to keep the battery system supplied, giving the Embark up to 450 miles of total driving range. Entegra's current specifications list the range at approximately 450 to 500 miles, depending on configuration and conditions.That range-extender approach makes a lot of sense for an RV.A battery-only motorhome has to overcome some significant challenges. These vehicles are large, heavy and often used for long-distance travel. RV owners also don't necessarily travel between major cities where fast-charging infrastructure is plentiful. They go camping, explore remote areas and stay off-grid.The Embark gives drivers electric propulsion without requiring them to depend entirely on public charging.Its 800-volt electrical architecture supports DC fast charging, while the system can also charge from a home 240-volt connection or campground power.There is another interesting advantage: the Embark can function as a mobile power source. Its electrical system can provide backup power for a home or other essential equipment during an outage.For RV owners, that turns the motorhome into more than transportation. It becomes part of the energy system.The Embark also brings modern safety technology, including a backup camera with dynamic trajectory, front and rear ultrasonic collision warnings and real-time tire-pressure monitoring.Perhaps most important, Entegra Coach is using real-world customers to help develop the product. THOR Industries announced plans for consumers to experience the Embark through its THL rental fleet, with feedback used to make product improvements.The Embark is an interesting answer to a problem that doesn't have a simple solution. Going fully electric may work for many passenger vehicles, but a nearly 31-foot motorhome has very different demands.Entegra Coach's answer is to let electricity handle the driving while gasoline provides the backup when the road stretches farther than the battery can comfortably take you.That's not abandoning electrification. It's adapting it to the realities of RV travel. And for an industry built around the freedom to go wherever the road leads, that may be the smarter way forward._______________Lauren Fix is an automotive expert and journalist covering industry trends, policy changes, and their impact on drivers nationwide. Follow her on X @LaurenFix for the latest car news and insights.© 2026 Newsmax Finance. All rights reserved.