Cabover

Cabover, short for cab-over, is a vehicle design in which the driver’s cab sits above the engine compartment. The term is used in two main contexts: truck and bus design, and recreational vehicles with an overhead sleeping area.

In trucks and buses, the cab-over-engine (COE) layout places the engine under or directly ahead of the cab, creating a flat front surface. This configuration allows a shorter overall length for a given wheelbase, improving maneuverability and cargo space in tight environments and urban operation. COE designs were especially popular in Europe and Asia from the mid-20th century onward and remained common in the United States for many medium-duty commercial vehicles for several decades. The design typically requires vertical access for engine maintenance and can involve different considerations for safety and climate control compared with conventional long-hood trucks.

In recreational vehicles, the term cabover also refers to an overhead bunk, a bed located above the cab. This arrangement is common on Class C motorhomes built on truck or van chassis and serves to maximize sleeping capacity without increasing the vehicle’s overall length.

Safety, regulatory, and maintenance considerations have influenced the prevalence of COE layouts in some markets, with many operators transitioning to conventional cabs for reasons including crash standards, driver visibility, and ease of maintenance. Despite this, cabover configurations remain notable for their compact front profile and efficient use of space in both commercial fleets and recreational vehicles.