Are you new to the RV lifestyle? Not sure what the difference is between a fifth wheel and a conventional trailer? Start here! In this article, we explain the different types of RVs available.
Before starting your RV search, it’s time to brush up on your RV vocabulary! Learn the meanings of common RV terms frequently used on forums and blogs.
A Class B RV is a perfect option for enjoying more of the outdoors.
Buying any RV is a big decision, and if you’re considering a motorhome like a Class B van there are plenty of options. Our Class B RV buying guide covers more than 15 of the most important questions and answers you should know before buying a new or used camper van. You’ll also find our top 10 picks for the best Class B RVs. Definitely check these out if you’re shopping!
If you’ve already made up your mind and are searching for the right Class B motorhome for you, take a peek at our current deals on Class B RVs at General RV.
Let’s start with the basics. A Class B motorhome, also called a camper van or B van, is the smallest of the three main types of motorhomes. These compact RVs provide a comfortable travel experience without the intimidating size of a larger motor coach. Many camper vans are small enough to fit in a garage, standard parking space and even the tightest of camping sites.
As the name suggests, a camper van is built on an automotive van chassis. This platform provides easy driving and parking, mile after mile. You’ll also find the cockpit of a camper van feels much like handling a passenger vehicle. Additionally, camper vans get much better gas mileage than larger RVs, making it a great option for both recreational travel and daily driving.
One of the most underrated features of the camper van is the raised roof, which provides enough space for standing – making this mini motorhome feel like a tiny house on wheels. But don’t be fooled by their size, camper vans pack tons of amenities in a compact footprint. Since it is a small RV, lots of camper vans have multi-use spaces for comfortable camping. Couches can turn into beds. Removable swivel tables provide space to work or dine. Hidden storage spaces and other amenities make camping or travel a breeze.
What’s the difference between a Class B, Class B+ and Class C RV?
If you’ve been Googling Class B motorhomes or checking out motorhome dealers, you might have come across the term Class B+ RV. Class B+ RVs are built on the same chassis but with a larger body than standard Class B motorhomes. As a result, they have more square footage inside for living space and storage. Typical B+ RVs measure up to 28 feet in length, which is similar in length to a Class C motorhome.
The main difference between a Class B and Class C RV is the cab-over design. Class C RVs are built by taking a van or truck chassis and cutting away the cab to add the RV body. This design gives them their distinct profile with the additional compartment over the driver and co-pilot seats. This area usually serves as a bunk bed or overhead storage. Camper vans do not have the extra cab-over area.
How big are Class B RVs?
Most Class B RVs are right around 20 feet long and approximately 7 feet wide. You’ll find a few that are shorter (for example, the Winnebago Solis Pocket measures 18 feet) and a few that are longer (like the 22-foot long Coachmen Beyond). For comparison purposes, the dimensions of a standard parking space in the United States are 8.5 to 9 feet wide and 18 feet long.
Lithium power systems with solar panels have been a popular power choice for camper vans for years. With campgrounds filling up more and more every year, solar and lithium-powered RVs give you the ability to disconnect and enjoy the freedom to roam. These robust systems give you the ability to boondock, stealth camp and make the most of campsites with limited amenities. Additionally, if you’re going to visit family or travel to your second home, having solar and lithium is great for overnight pit stops on the way.
Every year technology in the RV world advances. Solar panels and lithium batteries continue to improve allowing you to stay off the grid longer without the need for traditional power systems or noisy generators. No more worrying about battery life every day or using a loud generator that keeps you up all night. Let solar panels trickle charge to keep your lithium batteries topped off so you can camp off the grid longer. Solar and lithium battery systems also save space and weight in your RV, which is great for these compact homes on wheels.
More RV owners want alternative power options and manufacturers are paying attention. You’ll find many Class B motorhomes with remote power systems installed by the manufacturer at General RV dealerships. Check out the top 10 solar and lithium-powered camper vans you can buy right now!
Built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 4×4 chassis, the Thor Sanctuary 19L and 19P are perfect for off-grid adventures. The Re(Li)able Power Pack electrical system includes a 400Ah lithium battery and a 200-watt solar panel. There is also a 3,000-watt pure sine inverter to power your AC appliances including your TV, air conditioning unit and more.
The Sanctuary 19L and 19P come packed with amenities that are great for boondocking including a mounted LED light bar with a cover to help you travel to your next destination at night. The Sanctuary models also have the Winegard ConnecT 2.0 4G/Wi-Fi/ Digital TV antenna to make sure you have a reliable connection wherever you go.
The Thor Sequence line is built on the RAM Promaster 3500 XT window van chassis and powered by a fuel-efficient V-6 engine. The gas powered camper van is an easy to drive, economic option without compromising on space and power. Both the 20A and 20K come with dual 100 amp hour lithium house batteries, a solar charge converter with 190 watt solar panel and a 3,000 watt inverter. You can also expand your system with the optional 800 amp hour Re(Li)able renewable battery system.
The Sequence 20A and 20K comes equipped with a Rapid Camp+ multiplex wiring system which allows you to control each of the electrical functions in your coach. The feature makes setting up camp as easy as pushing a button, which means you, can focus on relaxing and adventuring in the great outdoors. Thanks to the Thule LED power awning you will be able to keep the party going long after sunset.
The Entegra Ethos Li 20TL, 20DL and 20AL are built on the RAM ProMaster 25000 chassis that is perfect for going off-grid. These camper vans have a 48 volt – 210-amp hour lithium battery that provides 10-kilowatt hours of power. The solar system includes roof-mounted 200-watt solar panels that will provide off-grid capabilities. There is also a 3,500-watt inverter for your AC appliances.
The Ethos Li has Winegard ConnecT 2.0 46/Wi-Fi/digital RV antenna to keep you connected in remote places with spotty service. The Aqua View Showermi$er water management system allows you to conserve water when you want a hot shower by cycling water back into the system until it is the perfect temperature. This means you are not wasting fresh water while you wait for it to heat up, an amazing benefit for boondockers.
The Entegra Coach Launch 19Y is an extremely capable diesel camper van perfect for the ultimate adventure. It is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. The 4×4 chassis comes with on-demand, four-wheel drive and all-terrain tires for adventure without compromise. The camper van’s lithium battery system boasts 210 amp hours for a 10.2 kilowatt-hour stored power and 200 watts of roof-mounted solar panels to keep your system topped off during the day. The Launch also has a 3500-watt inverter.
This camper van is capable of fitting all your gear with ease. The rear bed is on a power lift system with a gear garage below. You can store bikes, kayaks or other large gear. There is also an onboard air compressor to fill your tires if the trails take a toll on your gear.
The wet bath of the Launch has the Aqua View Showermi$er system to conserve your water. There are also removable bamboo shelves in the wet bath for extra storage when not in use. The kitchen has a portable induction cooktop so you have more countertop space. Cook your meals inside or prepare them outdoors on the flip-down table when the weather is nicer.
The Coachmen RV Galleria 24Q is built on the Mercedes-Benz 35000 chassis and offers a luxurious boondocking experience. The diesel camper van’s lithium system has 630 amp-hours and three 110-watt solar panels to keep your batteries charged longer. Models also have the option for four-wheel drive to take their camping trip off-road with confidence.
All models have a 27-gallon freshwater tank so you have plenty of water for your adventures. The wet bath also uses the Aqua View Showermi$er system to prevent unnecessary water waste in the shower. For adventures with an unreliable internet connection, the SkyPro by Wi-Fi Ranger is a great feature to keep you connected.
Winnebago’s Revel was specifically designed for outdoor adventures. Built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, this diesel motorhome has on-demand four-wheel drive. The lithium battery system includes two 125-amp-hour lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries that are charged via solar, shore power or the dedicated second alternator. Plus it comes with a 2,000-watt inverter for your AC appliances.
Adventurous boondockers can bring along their favorite toys thanks to the power lift bed with a gear garage below. You can easily store your large gear with the six removable cargo tie-down anchors. RVers can also take advantage of the roof rack for any bigger equipment.
The Travato by Winnebago comes in two models with lithium and solar power. Both the 59G and the 59GL have the Pure3 Advanced Energy system that provides over 9,000 watt-hours of power and 215-watt solar panels. There are also plugs for additional solar panels on the roof so you can stay off the grid longer. The lithium power system also has a Bluetooth control module so you can always know how much power you have in your RV.
The Travoto 59G and 59GL are engineered for extended-season camping with efficient heating and cooling systems, extensive insulation and dual-pane acrylic insulated windows. It also comes equipped with above-floor waterlines and heated tanks to prevent freezing.
Grech RV’s Strada Lounge is great diesel option for travelers. The camper van is built on the Mercedez-Benz Sprinter 3500 Extended chassis The camper van’s powers system includes two 100 amp hour batteries and a Zamp 300 watt solar panel. There is also a 2,000=watt inverter to keep your essential appliances powered when you travel off the beaten path.
The Strada line is the perfect balance between functionality and luxury. The VB Air suspension system provides the smoothest and most luxurious possible ride. The interior has high-end amenities including a galley with a quartz countertop and Swiss Chrono hardwood cabinets. Enjoy an extended camping season thanks to the diesel powered Timberline system that offers a tankless hot water heater, furnace and heating.
The Terreno-ion Tour manages to fit luxury and off-grid capabilities into one camper van. The Tour comes with the Lithium-ion Power package, which includes Lithionics lithium batteries that provide 1,260 amp-hours for 16,128 watt-hours of power. Grech boasts that the AC will run for up to 10 hours on battery power alone! The Zamp Solar system comes with a dual charger and provides 300 watts of solar power and a 3,000-watt inverter.
The Terreno-ion Tour is built on the Mercedes-Benz 3500XD chassis with air suspension for a smooth and luxurious ride. You also don’t need to worry about propane usage with the Terreno-ion. This camper van features the Timberline diesel fuel-fired heating system that allows for continuous hot water and heat for those chilly camping nights.
The Turismo-ion from Grech RV is another luxurious Class B diesel. It is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 chassis and comes in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. This camper van comes standard with a Lithium-ion Power package, which includes the Lithionics battery system that has 1,260 amp-hours for over 16,128 watt-hours of power. The power system comes with the Zamp solar system that has 200-watts of solar power and dual charger. There is also a 3,000-watt inverter for your AC appliances.
Never worry about propane in the Grech Turismo-ion. The hot water and heating system runs off the diesel-powered Timberline system. The kitchen has a dual-burner induction cooktop and features a combo microwave/convection/air fryer so you can easily cook meals with one appliance.
Find Your Perfect Solar and Lithium Powered Camper Vans
If you are looking to take your adventures to the next level, then solar and lithium-powered options may be perfect for you. The B van experts at General RV can help answer all your questions. Our online showroom is always open, and our internet sales specialists can answer all your questions via text or chat. Prefer to explore in person? Visit one of our RV dealers near you today.
Still looking for your perfect camper van? Check out our other great camper vans!
Elevate your camper van living to the highest level of luxury with the Launch from Entegra Coach. The Launch comes equipped with four-wheel drive and E-Z Drive, a system consisting of more than a dozen components carefully selected and engineered to create one of the quietest-riding, best-handling camper vans on the market. The Sprinter 4X4 Premium Mercedes-Benz chassis makes the Entegra Launch one of the smoothest rides in a Class B yet. The Launch enhances modern, minimalist, and nomadic lifestyles with innovative technology and beautiful amenities.
Off-Road In Style with This Versatile Camper Van
2023 Entegra Launch cockpit
Thanks to four-wheel drive and rugged all-terrain tires, the Entegra Launch can take you just about anywhere. Whether driving through Utah’s red rock canyons, The Florida Everglades, to your favorite ski resort, or to your local grocery store, the Launch gives you the confidence to do so safely in any scenario. The sprinter van also has a 3,500-pound rear hitch receiver, which means you can bring along a small boat for a lake vacation or an ATV for those off-road adventures.
Whether you’re on the road for summer vacations or full-time van life, safety features of your camper van are key. The Launch makes defensive driving easy with technology like the lane-keeping assist, blind spot assist, and traffic sign assist. Plus, you can safely travel with up to four people thanks to the van’s two additional cab seats with seat belts, which double as extra seating for the collapsible dinette table. The center console sports a 10.25-inch MBUX infotainment center. This wide screen handles radio and Bluetooth inputs as well as a dedicated GPS navigation system. The screen also becomes a monitor for the rearview and 360-degree cameras.
Boondock Confidently with Entegra Launch
The rear overhead bunk in the 2022 Entegra Launch is rated at 750 pounds
The RV’s off-grid technology, including a 48V lithium power system and 200 watts of solar power, offer self-sufficiency while boondocking. With its durable rubber flooring, the Launch doesn’t mind if you track in some dirt or water after a long day of exploring. The steel roof rack can carry kayaks and other cargo. It’s mounted high enough to clear the solar panels, vents, and other items on the roof. A large LED bar on the front of the rack lights up the night as needed. The light bar acts like a massive spot light, allowing you to see all aspects of the road, the shoulder, and even what may be tucked away in the brush alongside of the road. The rear garage has a power drop-down overhead bunk rated at 750 pounds, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice sleeping or storage space.
Convenience and Comfort in Every Detail
2023 Entegra Launch with side door and counter extension open
2023 Entegra Launch with side screen closed
With the right camper van, you can enjoy a comfortable mini-home that, unlike tent camping, allows you to recharge for endless adventures. The thoughtful design details of the Entegra Launch make camper van life more enjoyable and sustainable. That includes heated swivel passenger and driver seats, a smartphone tray with wireless charging, the user-friendly Firefly Multiplex command center, and a fold-down exterior table.
Immediately behind the cockpit chairs, a second row of seating accommodates two additional passengers. These seats recline and offer just enough legroom for inserting a removable table, which folds open to create a surface for dining, working on a laptop, etc.
Get the best of indoor/outdoor living with adjustable screen doors for both the side and rear doors of the camper van. You will feel like a gourmet chef with the Launch’s sleek stainless steel sink and portable induction cooktop. There’s also pull-out extensions for the countertop and pantry.
Ample Storage at Every Turn
Rear garage of 2023 Entegra Launch
Wet bath with removable bamboo shelves
Good storage is a must-have in any camper van, and the Entegra Coach Launch does not disappoint. In fact, Entegra Coach is leading the pack with features that are rarely seen in camper vans.
Despite its ability to hold plenty of clothes, gear, food, and cooking utensils, the Launch won’t feel cluttered thanks to a modern and streamlined interior design. Technoform European-style cabinets stow your stuff, while the “Serenity” decor style adds all of the calm its name suggests. One of the Launch’s best features is that the minimalist interior puts all of the focus on the picturesque landscapes outside your windows.
The bed features fiberglass pods carved out of the van’s walls on either side to provide more room for getting a great night’s sleep. Likewise, removable bamboo shelves turn the bathroom into a storage closet when not in use. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the retractable clothesline in the shower.
Streamlined Aesthetics and Top-Notch Safety
Carefree armless patio awning with LED light strip and wind sensor
Moveable roof ladder
Side screen door with magnetic and zipper close offs and fold-down exterior table
2023 Entegra Launch 19Y floorplan
The fresh and sleek design continues on the exterior of the camper van. Opt for the classic standard option or show some personality with partial paint in two colorways. The partial paint design is a nod to the retro early days of vanning in a decidedly modern way.
Whether you’re on the road for summer vacations or full-time van life, safety features of your camper van are key. The Launch makes defensive driving easy with technology like the lane-keeping assist, blind spot assist, and traffic sign assist. Plus, you can safely travel with up to four people thanks to the van’s two additional cab seats with seat belts, which double as extra seating for the collapsible dinette table.
Experience camper van style at its finest with the Entegra Launch. Visit your local General RV Supercenter today to see for yourself just how impressive the Entegra Launch is in person. Likewise, you can visit us at GeneralRV.com to learn more. Still looking for your perfect camper van? The RV experts at General RV Center can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. Also, subscribe to the General RV Blog for more RV reviews and recommendations.
Tiffin Motorhomes is known for its line of high-quality Class A RVs, but now is venturing into the Class B market with its first-ever 4×4 sprinter van. The Tiffin Cahaba is an especially compact Class B RV. But it packs a lot of punch – perfect for van lifers! The look of the Cahaba has a sleek design with four-wheel drive, aggressive lighting and metal running boards. This sprinter van’s versatility and attention-to-detail makes it one of the best Class B sprinter vans in General RV’s vast inventory.
Volta’s Lithium Power System Keeps the Lights On
Volta Power System
Travel more while consuming less fuel with the Tiffin Cahaba’s lowered carbon footprint. There’s no traditional fuel-powered generator on board. Instead, there’s a Volta power system. This whisper-quiet, four-module lithium-ion system delivers more than 12,000 watt-hours of power. It’s recharged via both shore power and the vehicle’s alternator. That means having all the power necessary to run your high-power amenities like air conditioning all day long.
There’s a compartment in the dashboard that houses USB charging ports and a wireless phone charging station. This sprinter van also has several 12-volt, USB, and 110-volt power outlets throughout the unit. This makes the Cahaba ideal for charging multiple things at one time when you’re out on your camping adventures. It’s also perfect for working remotely, providing reliable power when you need it.
Safety Features Add Style, Security to Sprinter Van
2022 Tiffin Cahaba
You’ll see every twist and turn your journey has to offer with Cahaba’s optional LED exterior light package including a front LED light bar and rear spotlights on each corner. The exterior lights enhance the Cahaba’s rugged appearance, while adding an element of safety and comfort. The powered patio awning with LED lighting and Bluetooth controls will keep you in the shade and out of the elements with ease. An optional screen door package will keep your rear and side door entryways bug-free while they are open.
Every part of the Cahaba is crafted for the rough roads ahead. That includes details like BF Goodrich all-terrain tires on Vision off-road wheels and the rear-door mounted tire carrier with full-size spare. The Cahaba is built on the tried-and-true Mercedes 2500 Sprinter 4×4 chassis with a 3-liter 6-cylinder turbo diesel engine. The Mercedes-Benz chassis brings reliability and easy operation no matter the driving conditions. Features like attention assist, traffic sign assist, hill start assist, and a parking package with 360° camera will keep your blind spots covered and keep you safe on the road.
With other safety features like Active Brake Assist (ABA), Crosswind Assist, and load-adaptive Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and more, you should have no trouble controlling this 4×4 camper van. The cockpit is complete with a 10.25” MBUX touchscreen multimedia system with intelligent navigation and gorgeous black leather adjustable seating. Both black leather cab seats are heated, powered, and adjustable on a swivel base, so you can use them as part of the main living area once you’ve parked. There’s also a desk-type surface behind the front driver’s seat. This makes for a nice place to get some remote work done when on the road in the Cahaba sprinter van.
MOLLE Gear Rack Keeps the Cahaba Organized
2022 Tiffin Cahaba w/ MOLLE gear rack and attached bike rack option.
Prepare for anything but boredom with the Cahaba’s rear door-mounted MOLLE gear rack with attached bike rack option. Wherever you go in this sprinter van, all of your favorite outdoor toys will be along for the ride. MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. It’s an organizational grid commonly used on backpacks or vests. The MOLLE panel is the tested and proved method of keeping your equipment organized in any setting. Originally designed for use in the military, MOLLE panels offer far more functionality and organization than simply throwing things into a bag or drawer. Plus, the Cahaba has a roof rack perfect for a cargo carrier and cargo tie-down anchors for securing your extra gear.
Relax in Luxury in the Tiffin Cahaba Sprinter Van
Go anywhere with the Tiffin Cahaba’s off-road capabilities
The Cahaba’s eco-friendly design extends to its heating system. Similar to having no fuel-powered generator onboard, there’s no propane, either. The hydronic heating system operates through electricity or the diesel fuel that moves the vehicle. Cooking, too, is all-electric with a single portable induction cooktop nestled into the camp-side cabinet along with a sink. Corian covers keep everything concealed until ready to use. They also provide countertop space for working or meal prep. The kitchen also includes a stainless steel microwave and 2.3 cubic-foot stainless steel refrigerator.
Within the wet bath, there is a retractable shower screen on the 24-inch by 36-inch shower surround with toilet platform. The shower also includes an AquaView Showermiser, a fresh water reclamation system for RVs that prevents wasting clean water while waiting for it to get warm. This system is perfect for boondockers or anyone who wants to extend their travels without relying on hookups.
The bed in the Cahaba has two potential setups. Two benches at the back form two individual twin beds. However, there’s a provision for a “bridge” between the beds allowing you to use the backrests from the sofas to make this one large sleeping area.
Other notable features include:
Three 100-watt flexible solar panels
Intelligent navigation
MBUX multimedia system with 10.25″ touchscreen
Smartphone Integration For Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Tray for smartphones with charging ports
Rain sensor for windshield wipers
Keyless start
Attention assist
Traffic sign assist
Hill start assist
Parking package with 360 camera
Front LED light bar illuminates the dark
The Tiffin Cahaba comes in a single floorplan
See the world the way it was meant to be seen: with the Tiffin Motorhomes Cahaba Class B diesel sprinter van! Visit your local General RV Supercenter today to see for yourself just how impressive the Tiffin Cahaba is in person, or visit us at GeneralRV.com to learn more. Still looking for your perfect sprinter van? The RV experts at General RV Center can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. Also, subscribe to the General RV Blog for more RV reviews and recommendations.
Lithium power systems with solar panels have been a popular power choice for 
