Class B vs B+ General Discussion

[rockymtnb]

The upcoming availability of small European semi-integrated style designs such as Advanced RV's B-Box, Winnebago's EKKO, and Hymer's ML-T strengthens the argument for some distinct classification, whether B+, C minus, whatever, for these units.

In size these are similar to Class B's, and even a bit shorter than the longer Sprinter based vans. For example the Hymer MLT 560, 570 and 580 are all less than 23 ft length, and 560 exceeds the 22ft mark by just an inch. In width they're similar to many Class B's with running boards. And lacking the overcab extensions of American Class C's their overall height stays under 10ft, again similar to many Class B units.

Technology on the semi-integrated units also tends towards Class B standards rather than C, with compressor refrigerators instead of 3-way absorption, all weather insulation, and quiet efficient heater/boiler systems from Truma, Alde, or Espar instead of traditional Suburban/Atwood RV appliances.

Europeans separate their cutaway chassis RVs into Alcove designs with overcabs similar to American Class C's and semi-integrated or low-profile designs similar in size to Class B's. It would be nice if we had a similar niche for these distinctive units.

[GeorgeRa]

Originally Posted by rockymtnb

................... It would be nice if we had a similar niche for these distinctive units.
...........................

... at their prices.

[Jon in AZ]

Originally Posted by rockymtnb

The upcoming availability of small European semi-integrated style designs such as Advanced RV's B-Box, Winnebago's EKKO, and Hymer's ML-T strengthens the argument for some distinct classification, whether B+, C minus, whatever, for these units.

The original classifications are based on chassis type, not size, and are defined in motor vehicle codes. Any sub-classification scheme based on size should be consistent with the motor vehicle classes (at least in the perfect world in my head ).

Of course “C-“ would never fly. I’d propose using compact, standard, and super to make size distinctions within each class. A Metris conversion or vintage VW Westfalia, for example, becomes a compact-B, and and a 24’ Sprinter dually a super-B. The current so-called “B+” and “B-box” models become compact-C’s. At least “compact” has a more positive connotation.

Of course, the RV moguls prefer the muddling of categories. Or to paraphrase another fat cat, “Everybody wants to be a B!”

[Captain Bo]

Can you insulate the under carriage somehow of a box truck to deaden the sound. While driving down the road my guest tries to sleep in the back says its too darn loud hearing road noise and feels heat coming from the floor.
Any suggestions.