Recreation Specialists, based in Wakarusa, Indiana, have two models on the production line at present: the Moab AC, based on the Acela Monterra (M1078 LMTV) military chassis, and the Moab F550, built on the Ford Super Duty 550 chassis. The foundation of these tailor-made, bespoke vehicles is solid, high-quality tubular steel for the sub-frame, while the coach’s body is fashioned from lightweight, durable tubular aluminum and 1/4-inch fiberglass panels. Equipped with cutting-edge solar charging panels and a multitude of high-grade lithium batteries, not to mention a generous 150-gallon freshwater storage capacity, the Moab is designed for extended, off-grid excursions. The Acela Monterra military chassis, with a refurbished Caterpillar engine, features a unique design that allows the coach’s box to move independently from the chassis, adapting to rugged terrain and uneven surfaces. An 8-foot-tall engine snorkel allows this camper to submarine across deep rivers, not that you would ever need to take the Moab for such a deep swim.
Tuttle characterized the MOAB as “an extreme off-road/off-grid motorhome, offering absolutely amazing capabilities for owners.”
The MOAB unit systems are 100% electric, with no LP. The unit’s industry-leading solar panel and battery system is 48V, which is 4 times more efficient than a 12V system, the release continued. It features a 17-kilowatt energy storage system that will allow owners to spend extended periods of time off the grid while enjoying full use of the unit’s various systems, including the air conditioning.
The MOAB box can be installed on numerous chassis and platforms, and RS is planning on also showing a smaller model built on a Ford Super Duty 550 chassis at the Elkhart RV Open House.
The larger MOAB unit actually sits on floating platform which allows the box to twist and turn separately from the chassis as the vehicle traverses extremely rugged terrain with uneven surfaces. A nearly 8 feet tall engine snorkel allows the MOAB to traverse deep waters, while the unit’s self-inflating/deflating 46” tires allow it to literally go anywhere.
“A lot of traditional motorhome manufacturers will put a Class C on a four wheel drive chassis, and call it offroad, but it still has street tires and a pretty paint scheme like typical unit. The extreme offroad market is unique, with customers willing to pay more for a unit that will allow them to truly go offroad for extended periods of time. We have enlisted customers in this market to help us design the MOAB and we are confident that we have something unique to offer the market,” said Tuttle, “and it is our hope that we might find a handful of dealers who want to carry the best and not just another motorhome.”
For more information, contact Recreational Specialties at 574-370-1728, or email scott.t@stjameshlds.com
