6.8 C
London
Friday, May 15, 2026
Home Blog Page 63

TNB: ST’s AFA rate for Dec 2025 set at -6.42 sen/kWh

0
TNB: ST’s AFA rate for Dec 2025 set at -6.42 sen/kWh


TNB: ST’s AFA rate for Dec 2025 set at -6.42 sen/kWh

TNB Automatic Fuel Adjustment rate for December 2025; click to enlarge

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has stated that the Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA) rate for the month of December 2025 is -6.42 sen/kWh from -8.91 sen/kWh in November 2025. The AFA, which is set by the Energy Commission (ST), replaces the previous Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) and is automatically calculated as either a surcharge or discount of up to 3 sen/kWh depending on fuel prices – this is revised monthly, with any larger changes (beyond 3 sen) requiring cabinet approval.

Introduced as part of TNB’s Electricity Tariff Restructuring that took effect from July 1, 2025, the AFA is one of five components or “charges” used to calculate your electricity bill. Here’s the overview:

  • Generation charge: 27.03 sen/kWh for total consumption of 1,500 kWh and below per month or 37.03 sen/kWh for total consumption more than 1,500 kWh per month. This covers the actual cost of generating electricity from power plants.
  • Capacity charge: 4.55 sen/kWh. This covers the cost of maintaining sufficient electricity supply capacity.
  • Network charge: 12.85 sen/kWh. This covers the cost of operating and maintaining the grid and the local network to deliver electricity.
  • Retail charge: RM10/month; waived for total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month. This is a fixed cost for metering, billing and customer service.
  • AFA rate: -6.42 sen for the month of December 2025; waived for total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month.

You can use our TNB Bill Calculator tool to get a rough estimate on how much your electricity bill will be for the month. Essentially, if you use over 1,500 kWh a month, you add the generation, capacity and network charges (totalling 54.43 sen/kWh) to retail charge (RM10) and the AFA rate (-6.42 sen/kWh discount for December 2025).

Alternatively, if your usage is below 1,500 kWh a month, it’s 44.43 sen/kWh plus the retail charge and AFA rate. For total consumption of 600 kWh and below a month, it would only be 44.43 sen/kWh – retail and AFA charges are waived.

TNB Time of Use scheme tariff rate and off-peak discount; click to enlarge

Here’s a list of the monthly AFA rates so far in 2025:

  • July 2025: 0.00 sen/kWh
  • August 2025: -1.45 sen/kWh
  • September 2025: -1.10 sen/kWh
  • October 2025: -6.50 sen/kWh
  • November 2025: -8.91 sen/kWh
  • December 2025: -6.42 sen/kWh

Domestic consumers who use less than 1,000 kWh a month can enjoy a discount called ‘Insentif Cekap Tenaga’ or ‘Energy Efficiency Incentive’. The discount provided is relative to consumption (the more the usage, the lesser the incentive), with the maximum discount being 25 sen/kWh.

Domestic users that have smart meters also have option to enter the Time of Use (ToU) scheme, allowing them to change their electricity usage pattern and take advantage of lower tariff rate during off-peak hours to enjoy savings on their monthly bill.

The scheme has two time zones, with off-peak timings being from 10pm to 2pm from Monday to Friday and throughout the day (24 hours) for weekends. Peak hours are from 2pm to 10pm on weekdays. Here are the energy charges under this scheme:

For usage of 1,500 kWh and below per month

  • Peak tariff: 28.52 sen per kWh
  • Off-peak tariff: 24.43 sen per kWh

For usage above 1,500 kWh per month

  • Peak tariff: 38.52 sen per kWh
  • Off-peak tariff: 34.43 sen per kWh

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.





Source link

Donkervoort P24 RS teased ahead of January 24 reveal

0
Donkervoort P24 RS teased ahead of January 24 reveal


Donkervoort is gearing up to debut its most powerful and technically advanced supercar, the P24 RS. The Dutch sports carmaker has just announced that the car will be revealed on January 24, 2026. It will be presented online from Donkervoort’s headquarters in Lelystad, The Netherlands.

Donkervoort has also dropped a teaser of the upcoming P24 RS. The image shows a silhouette of the car featuring a low-slung hexagonal grille that reminds us of the Ford Focus RS. According to the lead designer, the nose, underfloor and diffuser have been reworked for cleaner flow, sharper balance and more controlled downforce.

Donkervoort-1

While Donkervoort has been tight-lipped about the car’s specifications, we’ve been told that the company is targeting a power-to-weight ratio of 1:1. The engine is believed to be a compact V6 with dry sump lubrication, producing 700 hp. The kerb weight of the RS is said to be approximately 700 kg.

Denis Donkervoort, Managing Director, said, “There are records waiting to be broken, and the P24 RS has everything it needs to do it, but it will also redefine what customer service and customisation mean.”



Source link

Gran Canaria: Curated Holidays That Work for Your Routine, Not By Map

0
Gran Canaria: Curated Holidays That Work for Your Routine, Not By Map


Sun you can count on, beaches you can stroll to, and logistics that don’t fray tempers—that’s the holy trinity for parents. When mapping Gran Canaria holidays, the south coast lets you build days that simply flow: splash time before lunch, a nap in cool shade, sunset walks by the lighthouse, and dinner without a taxi meter ticking.

It is no secret that when kids are involved, parents need routines, and so do children, and ideally, implementing as similar a routine as possible while on vacation will certainly make the whole trip go much smoother and be more enjoyable. More often than not when going on holiday many parents let the routine go out of sorts, deal with situations as and when they arise, and then begin the battle of putting things in place again once they return home. But what a lot of work. A holiday that works for you and your family routine, not necessarily based on location, could sound too good to be true, until now.

Depending on the ages of your little (or not so little) ones, family hotels Gran Canaria have stepped up their game. Whether you prefer an all-inclusive Gran Canaria home away from home with a kids’ club to entertain the children, or a calmer, more relaxed vibe with sheltered bays Gran Canaria that they do so well, there is something for everyone.

Now, your summer holiday season doesn’t have to be a mountain of anxiety and endless panic-filled planning, but rather a frictionless adventure of fun and memory making, and we show you the curated elements and attention to details that make Gran Canaria holidays so popular and highly sought after. 

Finding the right zone for your family

Your Gran Canaria Intinerary should be something to look forward to when planning your vacation, and when it comes to pleasing everyone in the travelling party this can often be quite the feat. Thankfully, hotels in Gran Canaria understand this and have made visiting the Spanish island nestled comfortably in the Atlantic Ocean, and which is part of the Canary Islands archipelago, a dream location for families. And here’s the why and how.

Families with teenagers

If you have ever traveled with young teens or ‘tweens’ then you are well aware that they like their space, desire some extent of freedom to explore, and want food that seemingly suits their moods. If this is your set up then Playa del Ingles hotels could be a good fit. The region is home to a significantly large and lively beach resort, paired with golden sands and plenty of water sports to keep the kids entertained and burn up some energy.

When the activities have taken a break, everyone can take rest at the many restaurants with buffet style or ala cart, or grab a bite to eat at the lively Holiday World entertainment center in Maspalomas.

On days when it is too hot for the beach, the hotels have various pool areas offering a space to splash and swim or simply take a dip at your leisure with designated sections for quiet time or ‘everyone together.’

Families with toddlers or little ones

Let’s not sugar coat it, traveling with ‘little people’ is a lot of work, more so because they like routine and structure, and when things are different it can throw them off. However, soaking up the sun in idyllic spots such as the San Agustin hotels with beachfronts that offer calm coves of soft sand, your vacation just got a whole lot calmer and favorable.

Young children need sleep more than most and while on holiday it can be tricky trying to navigate this element. San Agustin in the south of Gran Canaria, with its relaxed atmosphere is great for this. Whether your kids are done splashing in the dip pools and simply need an hour of quite time in the shade with a juice box, or an afternoon nap to rejuvenate energy levels you can enjoy room set-ups that cater to families.

Enjoy blackout curtains, split sleeping arrangements so everyone has their own area, and even balcony spaces to sit and relax in with a fruity cocktail while the baby is napping. A win for the whole family. And if the older siblings are still enjoying the pools, they have the freedom to keep swimming while in the safety of being on the property.

Families with older teenagers, young adults

Not forgetting the older kids who still look forward to vacationing with the family, the walkable Playa del Ingles is a top choice. This area has a lively nightlife for evening dinners and drinks after, and a busy beach scene to socialize and join in team activities. You can also take on the adventure of a more physical excursion with a day trip to the dunes of Maspalomas, or even a daytime stroll, with no plans on the cards, along the promenade with buzzing restaurants along the stretch, shopping for local trinkets and souvenirs, or even bar hopping to try different cocktails and cuisines.

All in all

At the end of the day a holiday should be a time of rest. You have packed your sand-proof shoes and lightweight linens, a festive sun shirt for fancier evening meals, and possibly a collapsible cooler to take with on beach days, but more importantly you want a vacation that works for you and Gran Canaria will leave you wanting more and booking your next summer holiday trip the moment you get home.

Be sure to transition slowly from check out to your home destination, either with a light, final activity, or even a last meal in the hotel restaurant, where chatting and savoring the last memories during conversation at the table is the perfect way to wrap up a great trip.

For more on the latest in lifestyle, culture and travel reads, click here.



Source link

Over 20,000 Ford And Lincoln PHEVs Could Catch Fire, And There’s No Fix

0
Over 20,000 Ford And Lincoln PHEVs Could Catch Fire, And There’s No Fix


  • Ford and Lincoln are recalling over 20,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs.
  • The cars’ high-voltage batteries could catch fire due to an internal short.
  • Despite the same cars being recalled for the same reason last year, there’s still no fix.

Ford has a recall problem. The American auto giant has issued over 100 of them this year, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

The latest one, regarding the plug-in hybrid Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair crossovers, is a little more special, though. That’s because over 20,000 of them are being recalled in the United States for the second time because the first temporary fix didn’t turn out great, so the cars’ high-voltage batteries could still catch fire.

Worst of all, this second recall still doesn’t provide a fix, so owners are left with a huge conundrum.

“The remedy is currently under development,” Ford officials said in the recall notice. “Owners are advised to only use ‘Auto EV’ mode and will be instructed by mail to limit the maximum charge of the battery until the remedy has been completed.”



2023 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

2023 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid

Photo by: Ford

In total, 20,558 PHEVs are affected. Out of these, 4,015 are Lincoln Corsair crossovers built between October 24, 2019, and April 16, 2024. The other 16,543 are Ford Escape PHEVs built between July 10, 2019, and April 17, 2024, according to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The cars included in this recall have high-voltage batteries that may develop an internal short circuit, which could lead to a fire. What’s more, if the battery shuts down, the car’s propulsion system will also down, although the steering, braking and lighting systems are not affected.

Late last year, the same models were recalled, and dealers updated the vehicles’ Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) software, which should have added the ability to detect cell anomalies and notify the driver to pull over safely. The software was also designed to end battery charging, reducing the risk of shorting.

Now, though, Ford discovered that while the monitoring software works, it can’t catch all the defective batteries in time. In Europe, where the similar Ford Kuga PHEV is affected by the same issue, the company is aware of seven battery fires on vehicles that have had the previous recall work done. 

Despite the automaker recovering and analyzing modules from other damaged batteries, it hasn’t determined the root cause of the problem yet. Until that happens, Ford’s best guess is that there may be damage to the cell’s separator layer between the cathode and anode, as a result of variability on the cell manufacturing line. Per the NHTA recall document, all the faulty cells were manufactured by Samsung SDI in Hungary.

A permanent fix is still in the works, and until that becomes reality, owners should limit the maximum state of charge when topping up from a Level 1 or Level 2 charger. Owners should also only use the “Auto EV” driving mode.



Source link

Refinancing an Auto Loan: Tips from BMW Experts

0
Refinancing an Auto Loan: Tips from BMW Experts


Refinancing an Auto Loan: Tips from BMW Experts

If your financial situation has changed since you first got your auto loan, you might want to think about reworking your BMW finance package. Refinancing can both lower your monthly payments and get you a better interest rate. When you’re ready to explore your options, come talk to the friendly experts at Fields BMW Northfield.

What it Means to Refinance an Auto Loan

Refinancing your auto loan basically means replacing your old loan with a new one. As your lender, we’ll consider what you’ve already paid toward the original loan when we draw up your new paperwork with the goal of lowering your monthly payments.

When You Might Want to Rework Your Loan

You might want to refinance your BMW loan if:

  • The federal interest rate has decreased since your original loan
  • You want to pay off your loan more aggressively
  • You want to decrease your monthly principal payments
  • You’ve increased your credit score and are eligible for different terms

Keep in mind that because the market fluctuates, interest rates may be different from one month to another. If you’re not sure what the current rate is, feel free to call our BMW finance experts.

How to Refinance Your BMW Auto Loan

Your first step toward refinancing is to fill out our online BMW financing application. Then, our BMW finance professionals will review the terms of your original package (including your monthly payments, interest rate, and loan life) along with basic information like your income and credit score to see if you qualify for more favorable terms.

Refinance Your Auto Loan at Our BMW Finance Center Near Chicago, IL

Refinancing is a great way for many drivers to lower their interest rate and monthly costs. We’re here to help identify if reworking your BMW finance package is the right move for you. Visit our BMW dealership near Chicago, IL, for your custom refinancing offer!





Source link

Should autonomous transit take a ‘disaggregated’ approach?

0
Should autonomous transit take a ‘disaggregated’ approach?


Glydways believes it can solve the problem of congestion in Abu Dhabi, and teases plans to debut its cargo solution in Japan. By Stewart Burnett

The race to develop and realise autonomous vehicles (AVs) has largely operated under the assumption that they would, for the most part, replicate the form and function of normal road vehicles. The only meaningful difference is they don’t need to be driven manually: an autonomous SUV still resembles an SUV; an autonomous truck still looks like a truck; and so on. But what if this approach to autonomy falls short of the technology’s potential? 

Subscribe to Automotive World to continue reading

Sign up now and gain unlimited access to our news, analysis, data, and research

Subscribe

Already a member?

Should autonomous transit take a ‘disaggregated’ approach?



Source link

World premiere: Porsche Cayenne Electric

0
World premiere: Porsche Cayenne Electric


Porsche isn’t tearing up its EV plan, nor could it. The Cayenne now goes electric, following the smaller Macan — and the pricing is keener than many expect.

In a tough market Porsche is launching a model that matters more than ever: the Cayenne. The bigger brother to the Macan now arrives as a full EV, and not every customer will cheer. After recent sales hiccups and grim financials, Stuttgart has reacted and will keep the current Cayenne with combustion engines and as a plug-in hybrid in the range, since it is clear not all buyers will switch to electric.

The new Cayenne Electric makes that switch easier. At launch early next year it arrives as Cayenne Electric and Cayenne Turbo Electric. The top version delivers figures that could unsettle die-hard combustion fans: up to 850 kW (1,156 PS) on overboost, 1,500 Nm, and 260 km/h. The 0–100 km/h dash in 2.5 seconds is wild, if not especially relevant. In normal driving the Turbo provides up to 630 kW (857 PS). The entry Cayenne develops 300 kW (408 PS) and 835 Nm, does 0–100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, and reaches 230 km/h. WLTP consumption for both sits around 20 kWh/100 km.

Range is roughly 640 km, and rapid charging peaks at 400 kW. The 113 kWh battery charges from 10 to 80 percent in 16 minutes. Optional inductive home charging is offered, though the €5,000 surcharge is steep. “The Cayenne Electric shows performance in a completely new dimension and sets benchmarks for SUV dynamics and charging,” says outgoing CEO Oliver Blume. Engineers are as proud of the braking as the acceleration: peak recuperation is 600 kW, allowing most stops to be handled by energy recovery despite a kerb weight near 2.5 tonnes.

Porsche Cayenne Electric 2027 11

All versions are all-wheel drive with adaptive air suspension. The Turbo adds a rear axle cross-lock for traction and active roll stabilisation for body control. Rear-axle steering is optional. A slippery body helps achieve a Cd of 0.25, underpinning range. Dimensions are near-identical overall, with length at 4.99 m, but the wheelbase grows by 13 cm to 3.02 m, which benefits rear-seat space. The rear bench is electrically adjustable as standard, from lounge-like recline to cargo-friendly upright settings.

Inside, larger displays include a curved central OLED, plus heated armrests and trim panels that echo luxury saloons. Boot space is 781–1,588 litres, supplemented by a 90-litre frunk. Towing capacity is up to 3.5 tonnes. Prices start at €105,200 for the Cayenne Electric and €165,500 for the Cayenne Electric Turbo. That puts the base EV only slightly above the equivalent petrol model, and the electric Turbo around €20,000 below the current Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid with roughly 740 PS.

Porsche Cayenne Electric 2027 1



Source link

Gordon Murray S1 LM sells for a record $20.6 million at Las Vegas auction

0
Gordon Murray S1 LM sells for a record .6 million at Las Vegas auction


The McLaren F1 LM-inspired Gordon Murray Automotive S1 LM has been sold for a record price. The ultra-rare hypercar and the first-ever S1 LM (chassis no. 1) was offered for sale by RM Sotheby’s on the sidelines of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. The final price reached a whopping $20.63 million, making it the most expensive new car ever sold at auction, excluding charitable sales.

Gordon Murray SV S1 LM Las Vegas Auction-2

Created by the legendary British racing car designer Gordon Murray, the S1 LM is said to be the spiritual successor of the McLaren F1 LM. Only five examples were built. The car was flown above the city of Las Vegas beneath a helicopter during the live auction.

Gordon Murray SV S1 LM Las Vegas Auction-1

The S1 LM features a lowered roofline, a bespoke front splitter, a rear diffuser, and a dual-element rear wing. It has ultra-lightweight carbon fibre body panels and Le Mans-inspired lights. The car has a race-inspired cockpit with a central driving position.

GMSV S1 LM-5

Powering the S1 LM is a larger 4.3-liter naturally aspirated V12 engine that revs to 12,100 rpm and makes over 700 hp. It is paired with a manual gearbox and features bespoke suspension.

Source: RM Sotheby’s



Source link

Hybrid Campers Breaking the Mold in 2025

0
Hybrid Campers Breaking the Mold in 2025


Over the decades, RV design has honed in on what works for most campers, to the point where walking a dealership lot or an RV show, many floor plans and features start to feel familiar. Manufacturers often iterate, refine, and perfect the design formulas people already love. Hybrid campers are the exception.

These RVs blur categories, mix design concepts, and introduce features that don’t neatly fit into any one type. They’re part travel trailer, part toy hauler, part destination trailer — or something entirely new.

In this post, we’re exploring the best hybrid campers of 2025, which are gaining momentum, and how these innovative designs are reshaping the way people hit the road.

What Is a Hybrid RV?

Traditionally, the term “hybrid camper” refers to expandable travel trailers like the Rockwood Roo Series—one part travel trailer and one part pop up camper. However, one of our major takeaways from the 2026 Hershey RV Show was that manufacturers continue to stretch the traditional RV-type definitions. 

They’re also leaning into new trends, such as embracing influencer-inspired layouts, upgrading technology, incorporating elements typically found only in specific floor plans into other designs, and more.

We saw fifth wheels with side patios and multi-use living spaces reminiscent of toy hauler garages. There were compact travel trailers that double as toy haulers with elements of pop up campers. Plus, Class C and A motorhomes that incorporate features typically reserved for the camper van segment.

So, we’re forced to reevaluate our definition of hybrid RVs. Simply put, a hybrid RV is any that pushes the boundaries of what we’ve come to expect from that RV type. Let’s explore some!

8 Hybrid Campers Reinventing RV Types

Across RV classes, manufacturers are blending layouts, borrowing features from other categories, and experimenting with designs. The models below are some of the most interesting examples we saw—each one pushing the boundaries of its category in a different way.

This year, manufacturers have also leaned into influencer-inspired floor plans that incorporate hybrid features and amenities that are anything but ordinary, regardless of the RV type.

These are our favorites:

Forest River Sabre 37RVMILES

Images by Forest River

Specs

  • Length: 43′
  • Dry Weight: 13,613 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 2,757 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 8

We begin with an influencer-inspired floor plan that, quite honestly, has a lot going on. At its core, the Sabre 37RVMILES is a family-focused 5th wheel. Still, with a sliding glass patio door that opens onto an electric side deck and a rear bonus room, it features some impressive elements that are anything but standard in this RV segment. 

Its most impressive area is the multi-purpose rear room. We’re not entirely sure what to call it, but if you need extra sleeping space, it features a loft and a tri-fold sofa that functions easily as a bunk room. However, it also features a large wardrobe with a pull-out desk below it, offering a seamless transition to a mobile office. But it doesn’t stop there, as this space also boasts a 70” pull-down projector screen, converting it into a home theater for family movie nights. 

As a bonus, the massive L-shaped sectional sofa in the living area provides a second comfortable space for TV viewing. So if you want to set the kids up with their movie in that rear room while the parents watch something a little more their speed in the living area, this is a rare hybrid camper that makes it possible.

Keystone Coleman 13T

Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

Specs

  • Length: 15’11”
  • Dry Weight: 3,005 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 1,250 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4

As one of the newest additions to this Keystone RV lineup, the Coleman 13T is technically a travel trailer toy hauler, but with a pop-out side tent, it incorporates elements of a pop up camper to accommodate additional sleepers. 

Plus, there’s a wet bath like you’d traditionally find in camper vans. Your primary sleeping space might be the Murphy bed, but when that’s flipped up, it reveals a pop up table that offers a cozy dining space, as well as an optional desk for remote work. 

This Coleman toy hauler offers lightweight towability with solid cargo capacity. Despite its compact size, you still get upgraded amenities like 6’6” ceilings, a convection microwave with a built-in air fryer, and Keystone’s SolarFlex™ prep for an optional solar package upgrade.

Forest River Alpha Wolf 24TRUNK

Alpha Wolf travel trailer floor plan image
Image by Forest River

Specs

  • Length: 30’9″
  • Dry Weight: 6,403 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 1,542 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 8

Forest River’s Cherokee division is well-known for introducing innovative layouts and hybrid floor plans in the travel trailer segment. The Alpha Wolf 24TRUNK continues that legacy with a layout that, at first glance, looks very much like a traditional family bunkhouse camper. But we need to take a closer look. 

Sure, those double-over-double rear bunks offer the perfect place for up to four small kids to sleep, but unlike a normal bunkhouse RV, those beds are entirely removable. When paired with the side cargo loading door and a total of six tie-down points, this space easily converts into an oversized gear garage between destinations. 

In our opinion, the rest of the layout gets it right, as well. The rear corner bathroom maximizes counterspace, storage, and functionality. The L-shaped kitchen features all your standard RV cooking appliances, along with a spacious hidden pantry located behind the entertainment center. Finally, the front bedroom offers parents privacy and the comfort of a 60” x 80” queen bed.

Keystone Cougar 29MBD

Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

Specs

  • Length: 3311″
  • Dry Weight: 9,045 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 11,000 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 7

The mid-bunk 5th wheel floor plan is one of the most attractive options for families, offering two separate bedrooms for parents and kids. However, the Cougar 29MBD delivers all those benefits in a more lightweight package that remains well under 35 feet long—and that rarity in and of itself is enough for this RV to make our list of hybrid campers. 

The Keystone team outdid themselves with this mid-bunk layout, which incorporates the kind of bunk beds you’d typically only find in a residential home. The top bunk is accessed by a built-in ladder instead of a removable one, and features the kind of safety rails you’d want for a kid sleeping more than four feet off the ground. 

Additionally, they opened up the entryway in this hybrid fifth wheel to offer an actual mudroom, complete with a bench seat, shoe cubbies, coat hooks, and a hallway linen closet. The rest of the layout is well done, too, boasting a king bed, rear kitchen, and plenty of seating thanks to a booth dinette and a three-seat sofa.

Forest River Arctic Wolf 38LEAH.G

Images by Forest River

Specs

  • Length: 43’6″
  • Dry Weight: 12,563 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 2,772 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4

If you’re standing in the rear living area of the Arctic Wolf 38LEAH.G, it’s easy to imagine you’re inside a destination trailer. Sure, this fifth wheel isn’t exactly lightweight, but it leans into another influencer-inspired design to bring amenities typically found on destination-style RVs into the mid-priced fifth wheel segment. It’s also the RV News 2026 RV of the Year for Mid-Priced Fifth Wheels. 

Speaking of that rear living room, dual opposing slides provide the foundation for the expanded space. That allowed them to add a huge L-shaped sectional sofa across from an entertainment center with a massive fireplace, and still tuck a permanent desk into the corner for remote work. 

In the kitchen, the expanded island offers amazing prep space and bar-stool seating for up to four. Moving forward, the half bath also serves as a true RV laundry room, featuring space for a stackable washer-dryer, a flip-down table for folding, and a hanging rod for drying. The bedroom features a king bed in a slide-out, and the cherry on top is a spa-like front bathroom, complete with a massive backlit mirror, a beauty station, and a walk-in closet. 

Keystone Walkabout 26MAX

Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

Specs

  • Length: 30’9″
  • Dry Weight: 7,140 pounds
  • Cargo Capacity: 2,510 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 6

Not many bunkhouse travel trailers are truly equipped to handle rugged outdoor excursions, then there’s the Walkabout 26MAX, created in collaboration with Keystone RV and MeatEater’s Steven Rinella. Its combination of family-friendly features, rugged running gear, and capability for serious outdoor enthusiasts helped it earn its place on our list of the best hybrid campers of 2026.

Starting outside, it’s hard to miss the unique automotive-grade exterior finish. But there are a ton of features to love, too, including a dedicated compartment for a forced-air heated boot dryer, a massive front pass through compartment with fishing rod hooks, and a collapsible outdoor kitchen shelf with a built-in sink that can literally be placed anywhere on the exterior with suction cups. 

There’s plenty to enjoy inside, as well, starting with a massive slide-out with atrium-style top windows for arguably the most natural light you’ll get in a bunkhouse camper. Other interior standouts include double bunks with a rear cargo door, collapsible tables, super storage space under the sofa, and a pocket door entry into the private front bedroom.

Thor Freedom Traveler A24

Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

Specs

  • Length: 25’8″
  • Chassis: Ford® E-Series
  • GVWR: 12,500 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4

The Freedom Traveler A24 breaks the mold of what we’ve come to expect from Class A RVs. For starters, it’s under 26 feet, which is impressive in itself, but it also boasts an interior layout you’d typically only find in Class B Plus RVs. 

The rear bedroom is dedicated to a twin-to-king bed conversion, providing flexibility to transition from two lounging spots to separate beds or a full-width sleeping area. The 66” sofa in the living area also doubles as a second bed if needed, but the inclusion of side tables also makes it your primary dining area.

Thanks to its shorter length and Ford chassis, this small Class A motorhome eases the learning curve for anyone driving a larger RV for the first time. Plus, 

Thor Freedom Elite 19HXF

Thor floorplan overview
Image by Thor Motor Coach

Specs

  • Length: 21’3″
  • Chassis: Ford® E-Series
  • GVWR: 11,500 pounds
  • Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4

One of the newest additions to this Thor Class C lineup, the Freedom Elite 19HXF continues their recent trend of hybridizing camper van layouts to work within a Class C floor plan. Coming in at barely over 21 feet long, this Class C is shorter than some van campers, while offering higher ceilings and the important benefit of a cabover bunk area.

What truly distinguishes this RV as a hybrid is its floor plan, which features opposing benches with removable tables. Thanks to four extra seat belts, you can safely transport up to six passengers—even if some have to tent camp once you arrive. 

The benches offer fold-down capability to create a single, full-width central bed, in addition to the 52” x 91” sleeping area in the cabover. While you get a mini fridge, sink, and two-burner cooktop for a functional kitchen, the other hybrid feature is in the rear, where you’ll find a wet bath across from the closet—similar to many Class B RV floor plans.

Honorable Mentions

Are Hybrid Campers Waterproof?

When referring to traditional tent-and-trailer hybrid campers, they are designed to be weather-resistant, but not entirely waterproof. Their expandable sections utilize tent-like materials, which can keep out most rain when properly maintained. However, they don’t offer the same waterproof protection as the hard-sided portions of the RV. The hard shell will remain dry, but the fabric areas require proper setup, sealing, and care to stay protected in wet conditions.

To keep your hybrid camper dry:

  • Sealing and maintenance: Ensure all RV seams and seals around the expandable sections, windows, and doors are properly maintained and sealed. Regularly check for any wear and tear and replace seals as necessary.
  • Rain fly and covering: The tent areas are designed to let air in on nice days. In the event of rain, be sure to zip up these openings to keep everything dry inside.
  • Avoid Prolonged Exposure: If possible, avoid extended exposure to extreme weather, especially heavy rain or storms, as the fabric sections are more vulnerable to moisture.

While hybrid campers are generally waterproof, proper maintenance and extra precautions can significantly reduce the risk of water entering the camper.Regarding the other hybrid campers mentioned above, most are fully hard-sided, so you won’t have to worry about tent-like areas. General RV maintenance and a periodic RV roof inspection are key in these cases. 

How Do I Keep My Hybrid Camper Cool?

Most hybrid tent campers have a built-in air-conditioner designed to function even with the expanded tent areas. That said, hybrid campers with tent areas won’t offer the same insulation as hard-shell campers. Because of that, the following steps can help you stay cool:

  • Park in the shade: This will block the sun’s rays and keep your camper cooler. 
  • Cook outside: Cooking inside your camper can increase the temperature, so use a portable grill or campfire instead. 
  • Clean AC filters: Regularly clean RV AC filters with warm water and detergent to prevent them from getting clogged. 

Hybrid campers without tent areas are easier to keep cool, but the tips above will still help on hot days.


As hybrid campers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in RV design, they’re offering campers a whole new way to experience the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a more compact, mobile option or an expanded space with luxury features, the hybrid campers of 2025 are here for the ride. 

Curious about what else is new in 2025?

Ready to hit the road in a hybrid camper? Let us know which model you’re most excited about, or share any questions you might have in the comments below! 


  • Josh has lived and breathed RVing since 2016. Launching out in a vintage Airstream, he spent 4 years trekking ’round the country in search of the greatest spaces and places in the U.S. He’s since settled a bit and has spent the past few years running a glampground in NW Montana (right by Glacier National Park). His Montana property features 5 vintage Airstreams, cabins, a tiny home, and more for guests to experience upscale outdoor accommodations. In his spare time, you might find him on Flathead Lake, troubleshooting an Airstream upgrade, or basking in other beauties of Montana.

    View all posts






Source link

Volvo set to ditch LiDAR for 2026 – and Luminar is BIG mad

0
Volvo set to ditch LiDAR for 2026 – and Luminar is BIG mad


It seems like the writing was already on the wall last week when Volvo moved to make its Luminar-supplied LiDAR system an option – there are now reports that the Swedish car brand is set to ditch LiDAR tech entirely in 2026.

In a recent SEC filing following a missed interest payment on its 2L notes, Luminar confirmed that Volvo’s new ES90 and EX90 flagship models (along with the new Polestar 3) would no longer be offered with LiDAR from Luminar. The move signals a full reversal on the safety tech that had started as standard equipment, then became an option, and is now (according to reports from CarScoops) gone altogether.

In a statement, a Volvo Cars USA spokesperson added the decision was reportedly made, “to limit the company’s supply chain risk exposure, and it is a direct result of Luminar’s failure to meet its contractual obligations to Volvo Cars.”

This is what Luminar had to say about the current, icy state of the two companies’ relationship as of the 31OCT filing:

Advertisement – scroll for more content

The Company’s largest customer, Volvo Cars (“Volvo”), has informed us that, beginning in April 2026, Volvo will no longer make our Iris LiDAR standard on its EX90 and ES90 vehicles (although Iris will remain an option). Volvo also informed the Company that it has deferred the decision as to whether to include LiDAR, including Halo (Luminar’s next generation LiDAR under development), in its next generation of vehicles from 2027 to 2029 at the earliest. As a result of these actions, the Company has made a claim against Volvo for significant damages and has suspended further commitments of Iris LiDAR products for Volvo pending resolution of the dispute. The Company is in discussions with Volvo concerning the dispute; however, there can be no assurance that the dispute will be resolved favorably or at all. Furthermore, there can be no guarantee that any claim or litigation against Volvo will be successful or that the Company will be able to recover damages from Volvo.

As a result of the foregoing, the Company is suspending its guidance for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025.

LUMINAR

On November 14, Luminar confirmed that Volvo had terminated its contract altogether, in a blow that could leave Luminar rethinking its long-term future and planning litigation against its biggest ex-customer.

The news follows a host of significant upgrades to the EX90 that include a new, more dependable electronic control module (ECM) and 800V system architecture for faster charging and upgraded ADAS that improves the automatic emergency steering functions and Park Pilot assistant.

Electrek’s Take


You can’t spend years telling everyone you’re miles ahead because you have LiDAR, then ditch LiDAR, and pretend no one is going to call you out on it. They had better hope they don’t up on Mark Rober’s YouTube channel doing a Wile E. Coyote impression (above).

That said, it’ll be interesting to see if ditching the LiDAR has a negative impact there. Or, frankly, whether ditching the LiDAR and its heavy compute loads will actually help mitigate some of the EX90’s niggling software issues. It could go either way, really – and I’m not quite sure which it will be. Let us know which way you think it’ll go in the comments.

SOURCE: Luminar, via SEC filing; featured image by Volvo.


If you’re considering going solar, it’s always a good idea to get quotes from a few installers. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you that offers competitive pricing, check out EnergySage, a free service that makes it easy for you to go solar. It has hundreds of pre-vetted solar installers competing for your business, ensuring you get high-quality solutions and save 20-30% compared to going it alone. Plus, it’s free to use, and you won’t get sales calls until you select an installer and share your phone number with them. 

Your personalized solar quotes are easy to compare online and you’ll get access to unbiased Energy Advisors to help you every step of the way. Get started here.

Add Electrek as a preferred source on Google
Add Electrek as a preferred source on Google

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.



Source link