The roots of mobile homes can be traced back to the 1920s, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that motorhomes and campers gained widespread popularity. Automakers capitalized on the trend by offering accessories that transformed cars into mini campers.
In 1973, Chevrolet took a budget-friendly approach by introducing tents for compact cars. The Vega, followed by the Nova and LUV mini trucks, featured the Hatchback Hutch option. This move marked a significant step in making life on the road more accessible.
General Motors (GM) raised the bar by offering an extensive suite of camping accessories for the Greenbrier van. The bundle included a roof-top tent, a canvas shade, a bed, and a kitchenette, providing a more comprehensive camping experience on the road.
Not to be outdone, American Motors Corporation (AMC) entered the scene with the Hornet Hutch in 1973. Designed for the Hornet compact, this accessory tent utilized the car’s fold-down rear seats and large hatch to offer sleeping quarters for two adults, providing a viable alternative for short road trips.
Despite these innovations, car tents failed to gain widespread acceptance. Most enthusiasts opted for dedicated RVs, leading to the discontinuation of many car tent options by 1980. These tent-equipped vehicles are now a rare sight, with many people unaware of their existence.
# FAQs
## FAQ1: What happened to car tents after 1980?
Most car tent options were discontinued by 1980 due to limited popularity. Enthusiasts preferred dedicated RVs for a more comfortable camping experience.
## FAQ2: Why are tent-equipped vehicles rare today?
Tent-equipped vehicles didn’t sell in large numbers, contributing to their rarity today. Many people are not even aware that such options existed.
## FAQ3: What made the AMC Hornet AMX unique?
The 1977 AMC Hornet AMX was a one-owner car in pristine condition. Equipped with the AMX package, it was part of a limited production run in 1977, appealing to young buyers with sportier aesthetics.
## FAQ4: How rare is the Hornet Hutch option?
The number of Hornets ordered with the Hornet Hutch accessory is unknown. However, examples like the 1977 AMC Hornet AMX with both the AMX package and the optional tent are exceptionally rare, possibly unique.
## FAQ5: Is the Hornet Hutch-equipped AMC Hornet AMX the only one in existence?
While it cannot be definitively stated, given the limited records, the 1977 AMC Hornet AMX with the AMX package and the optional tent could be the only surviving example, making it a rare and unique find.
