As you all know I try to follow all the new technology and how it can improve our RV Lifestyle. I have just read the details of a design of new diesel pusher chassis by Workhorse, the company that bought out Chevrolet RV Chassis business a few years ago. They have teamed up with Onan (a Cummins subsidiary) to bring to our market an exciting new technology. It is called ‘Coach Command’. There is a computer in almost everything that we use today, from a toaster to a TV to a VCR to an Electronically Controlled Diesel Engine to an Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission. I tried to count the number of ‘computers’ in my Dynasty and here’s what I came up with. I am using the term digital computer in its broadest definition. Engine Control Unit, Transmission Control Unit, Generator Control Unit, RC-7 Generator Remote Control Unit, Power Transfer Switch, Inverter, Anti-lock Braking System, Automatic Traction Control, GPS Navigation System, Odometer, Road Relay 4 Engine Monitoring System, Satellite RV Receiver, Both TV’s, VCR, AM/FM/CD Receiver, Refrigerator, Roof Air Conditioners/thermostat, Cell Phone, Laptop etc. I’m sure I missed a few but the count was at least 18. This article does not take away from the other interesting mechanical things about this new Chassis – ahh maybe a new article here.

The Onan Coach Command system connects to all of these systems and more providing one central source of information and control using a touch screen to communicate. Workhorse is the first major chassis manufacturer to integrate all of the electronic computer devices in the coach, providing system performance tracking to prevent problems. Hopefully this will translate into fewer breakdowns and visits to the service facilities. Country Coach has been doing this kind of design for a while, but not as comprehensive in its coverage. Some of the million dollar bus conversions, like the Marathon, have also done some electronic system integration. I believe that Workhorse is the first major chassis manufacturer to step up to the challenge of total coach integration. Literally everything that has ac or dc power connected to it is now part of their system. Not only are all major systems monitored but they are controlled to prevent overloads, blown fuses, overheated engine, overcharged battery etc. Automatic starting of the Generator when the batteries are discharged is an example of this integration. For those who travel with pets, this system can start the generator and air conditioners when the temperature inside the coach is getting too high for them. The Coach Command system also boasts a wireless internet connection so that two way communication with the Workhorse Coach Customer Care Center. Reporting of system status and trouble shooting from almost anywhere in the US is now possible. I believe that they have selected to use the Packet Data System that has been offered by several Service Providers, like Verison, Sprint, and AT&T. They state that the Customer can share this internet connection using a laptop computer. The coverage for wireless internet connections through cell phones is getting better but it still does not cover some of our most treasured RV spots. I was not able to get the details about this part of Coach Command. Coach Command includes a complete GPS Navigation System as an integral part of the product. Coach Command purports to allow the RV Owner to perform all routine system checks from a single, easy to use, wireless touch screen display.

I look forward to finding out more about this system. It does raise the bar for all RV chassis manufacturers. Virtually every new car has this same technology integrated into the design and operation of the vehicle. It is so hidden from view that most of us don’t realize that if we over rev our BMW (or Chevrolet), that this fact will be recorded and used if there is a warranty claim that might have been caused by this act. The first thing any mechanic “now called a vehicle care provider” does when you take your newer car into his shop is to plug his computer into the ‘car computer’ and get all the codes. Vehicle repair people are more like computer technicians every day. It is the same with motorhomes. There is good and bad with all new technology, but I think Coach Command promises to be very good for us as our motorized homes become so complex.

The New Diesel Pusher Chassis from Workhorse is called the R series and will be in full production in the first quarter of 2003.

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