Aboutcamp BtoB - issue 41 by Fuori Media srl

Issue 41

DECEMBER/JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

Editor’s note

e are approaching our 14th anniversary, having delivered over 40 editions of our magazine (Aboutcamp BtoB) to the global caravan industry. This end-of-year issue is particularly anticipated by the market and contains, as always, a report of the most interesting new products presented at the most recent shows; but this year there is an additional novelty: we have placed a strong emphasis on cross-media integration with a lot of content also produced in video so it can be easily accessed by clicking on the QR Code published next to the article(s). In particular, we refer to our report from Elkhart, with numerous interviews and insights into the main players in the sector, and also the report of the most curious

novelties found at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2023. While in Düsseldorf, we also produced a special video on components and technologies for the first installation on motorhomes, caravans and vans, which we are sure will be very popular with technicians, designers, and product managers. We have also received several emails and telephone calls from people wanting to know if we will attach the trade fair calendar to the magazine again this year. Yes, off course we will! We are always very grateful to receive testimonials of appreciation for our work, so, if you feel like it, please do not hesitate to write to us. We hand over this issue to you that is particularly ample and full of in-depth analysis. We wish everyone a successful 2024. We are preparing for the CMT in Stuttgart in January 2024, so please let us know if you want to meet us there. Antonio Mazzucchelli

Contents • 24 Interview with James Turner

Columns

Swift set for a bright future

• 44 Teleco From RV to smart RV

• 86 Airxcel North America Creating another path forward

• 46 Sguinzi Glass, elegance, prestige

• 88 AMA Composites North America Automotive products and technologies

• 48 Dimatec Light: exterior and interior

• 90 Brianza USA Corporation New possibilities for the industry market

• 50 HB Fuller Better quality pressings

• 92 Eberspaecher North America 50 years of growth… and counting

• 52 Ofolux Expanded production

• 94 Euramax and Amerimax Euramax for Mobility

• 54 Truma Innovations 2024

• 96 Fiamma Inc Keywords: product and service

• 56 JL Audio Power is nothing without DSP

• 98 Lippert Forward-thinking innovation

• 58 IndelB Cool style

• 100 Tecnoform USA Interior quality assured

• 60 SFC Energy 20 years of energy solutions

• 102 Vetroresina North America Heavy duty laminates

• 62 Thetford Insert for RV washrooms

• 104 Vitrifrigo America Focus on refrigeration

• 64 Arvikon Comprehensive solution for RV control

Reports • 28 Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon News and curiosities Video report: “Technology & Components” • 66 Elkhart RV Open House News, statistics, interviews with RVs and components manufacturers

Market • 106 Czech Republic Republic of motorhomes

N ews Erwin Hymer Group: expansion of production and logistics areas The Erwin Hymer Group has announced the expansion of its production and logistics areas in Bad Waldsee. After the approval of the Bad Waldsee city council at the end of July, a total area of 21,000 m² was purchased with the assurance of a right of first refusal for a further 12,000 m². Hymer’s sandwich parts production and the logistics center of the newly founded EHG Services GmbH are to be housed in the Teichäcker and Wasserstall areas of the Gewerbepark Nord (North Industrial Park). The investment for both construction projects totals 30 million euros. Hymer GmbH & Co. KG’s existing “Werk 3” factory site in the North Industrial Park will be expanded by more than 8,000 m². Construction will begin in Q1 2024 and is expected to be completed in

Q2 2025. By bundling production, assembly and logistics in a central area, transport routes can be shortened and the costs for building maintenance, servicing and energy supply can be reduced. The new logistics location

for EHG Services GmbH, on the Wasserstall site of the North Industrial Park in the immediate vicinity of the Erwin Hymer Museum, also follows the prin-

ciple of short distances. A new service and logistics center for the Erwin Hymer Group is being built on an area of 21,000 m² with a floor area of more than 8,000 m². The employees benefit from the Wasserstall business park’s central location and good public transport connections. The development of the new areas is carried out according to high environmental standards. Green roofs and photovoltaic systems will make a significant contribution to achieving the groupwide sustainability goals. “Our investment in the Bad Waldsee base is a clear commitment to the region and our employees,” says Alexander Leopold, CEO of the Erwin Hymer Group. “In this way, we strengthen our competitiveness, create the conditions for sustainable growth and secure jobs.”

Editorial

Aboutcamp BtoB helps professionals in the caravan/RV and leisure industry around the world keep up to date with all the latest business news and market trends in this sector. It’s the most well informed source of B2B information in Editor in Chief: Antonio Mazzucchelli the caravan industry, with a unique global perspective and an international direttore@aboutcamp.eu team of correspondents delivering daily news online at www.AboutcampBArt director: Federico Cavina toB.eu, a bi-monthly e-newsletter, and a high quality print magazine delivered (free) in Europe, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, JaEditorial team: Renato Antonini pan, China, Korea, Argentina, Brazil, Chile. The Aboutcamp BtoB magazine is John Rawlings - Terry Owen - Enrico Bona published four times a year with features including exclusive interviews with Steve Fennell - Paolo Galvani - Giorgio Carpi senior management from the industry, reviews of the major exhibitions around Peter Hirtschulz - Andrea Cattaneo the world, and reports about the latest market trends, plus in-depth profiles of Bartek Radzimski - Irene Viergever OEM suppliers who specifically manufacture components for this sector. With all the recent acquisitions, new technological developments and more and Web team: Maurizio Fontana - Gabriel Lopez more consumers buying leisure vehicles around the world, Aboutcamp BtoB is essential reading for everyone working in any business related to the caravan industry. While so many flock to the internet, and have an inbox full of emails, Aboutcamp BtoB Sales International: decided to print a paper magazine direzione@fuorimedia.com so that it gets more noticed, read, Would you like to receive the Sales Italy: Giampaolo Adriano appreciated and discussed; so, we print edition of Aboutcamp +39 338 9801370 wish you happy reading! BtoB? It is free of charge! adriano@fuorimedia.com Subscribe on www.aboutcampbtob.eu

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Print edition

Web edition Aboutcamp BtoB is also a website updated daily with news and information dedicated to RV builders and OEM producers. The website is supported by a professional newsletter sent monthly to the professionals in the RV sector. We also strengthened our presence on LinkedIn, where we manage the business page of the magazine but also the group “Caravanning Professional” which allows us to develop direct and informal relationships with decision-makers in the RV industry. On our website is possible to read online the print edition of all Aboutcamp BtoB issues at: www.aboutcampbtob.eu/read-the-magazines

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N ews CIVD has a new president win Hymer Group and Werner Vaterl from Knaus Tabbert AG, who will continue to oversee Technology, Environment & Infrastructure. Jürgen Vöhringer, representing Vöhringer GmbH & Co. KG, was re-elected by the members to continue serving as a representative for the supplier industry. Additionally, the board welcomed a new face, Bernhard Kibler from Dethleffs GmbH & Co. KG. Kibler will assume control of the finance department and brings many years of industry experience to support the association’s ongoing endeavors.

since 1961

After nine years as Caravaning Industrie Verband e.V. (CIVD) president, the industry veteran Hermann Pfaff is retiring. For his outstanding services to the association and the caravanning industry, the CIVD honored him as the new honorary president with the CIVD Medal of Honor in Gold, the association’s highest awards. Heading the Board of Management will be Bernd Löher (Hobby Caravan) who brings over two decades of industry experience to his new role as President. He has been an active participant in various CIVD committees and has been overseeing the association’s finances since 2020. His track record and longterm involvement with the association make him a valuable asset in CIVD’s forward momentum. Dr. Holger Siebert of Eura Mobil was confirmed as Vice-President, maintaining his responsibility for the organization’s public relations efforts. Also retaining their positions were Martin Brandt from Er-

Garmin acquires JL Audio Garmin has completed the acquisition of JL Audio, a privately-held U.S. company that designs and manufactures audio solutions for marine, aftermarket automotive, powersports, home and RV customers. JL Audio will continue operations at its current headquarters in Miramar, Fla., and in its facilities in Portland, Ore., and Phoenix, Ariz. It employs more than 600 associates who will become part of the global Garmin team.

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Production of flat and curved kitchen doors and lockers

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Renault, Volvo and CMA CGM: all-new electric vans The Renault Group and Volvo Group are to join forces to address the growing needs of decarbonized and efficient logistics by creating a new company managing the development of an all-new generation of electric vans. The two groups look forward to CMA CGM joining the new company. Renault and Volvo will continue to seek additional investment and business partners. An all-new family of fully electric and software defined vehicles will be introduced by the new company. The production is planned to start in 2026. The vehicles will be built on a new fully electric LCV skateboard platform that will offer high modularity for different body types at low cost and breakthrough on safety requirements. The van will offer outstanding compacity for urban mobility, high polyvalence for tailor made solutions, different battery capacities with unprecedent 800V feature for vans.

DexKo Global acquires TCM Projects B.V. DexKo Global Inc. has signed a definitive agreement to acquire TCM Projects B.V. (“TCM”), a distributor of levelling systems and suspensions for the Scandinavian market. TCM is located in Wapse, Drenthe/The Netherlands, and in Skene/Sweden. The family-owned company is a distributor of hydraulic levelling systems and air suspensions. The current owner, Miro de Jong, will retain his key role and bring his team of four with him. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. Following the acquisition, AL-KO Vehicle Technology (“AL-KO VT”), a business unit of DexKo, plans to expand TCM’s existing service center into a fully equipped AL-KO VT customer center in Skene near Gothenburg, Sweden. This expansion will extend its European network of customer centers to a total of eight sites. “The acquisition of the company and the new customer center allow us to widen our service offering for the whole of Scandinavia,” says Fred Bentley, President and CEO at DexKo.

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N ews Thor Industries reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2023 results THOR Industries, Inc. has announced financial results for its fourth fiscal quarter and full fiscal year ended July 31, 2023. Net sales for the fourth quarter were $2.74 billion, a decrease of 28.4% compared to the record fourth quarter of fiscal 2022. Consolidated gross profit margin for the fourth quarter was 14.4%, a decrease of 310 basis points when compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2022. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, net cash provided by

operations totaled $507.5 million and the Company made principal payments of $300.0 million on its Term Loan and $50.0 million on its ABL. Net sales for fiscal year 2023 were $11.12 billion, a decrease of 31.8% compared to the record fiscal 2022. Net cash provided by operations for fiscal year 2023 totaled $981.6 million compared to $990.1 million in fiscal 2022. During fiscal year 2023, the Company returned $138.0 million to shareholders via cash dividends and repurchases of common stock. “Our fiscal fourth quarter results demonstrate a continued focus on solid execution and our ability to consistently perform through changing market conditions. Our European segment achieved another quarter of record performance while our North American operating teams made further progress with our independent dealers to reduce and rebalance channel inventory ahead of the model year 2024

rollout. As a result of the operational and commercial strategies enacted across our operating companies during the current RV down-cycle period, THOR and its independent dealers are well-positioned for both the next cyclical upturn and sustainable long-term growth,” said Bob Martin, President and CEO of THOR Industries. “Fiscal 2023 presented a series of challenges as a result of higher interest rates, rising inflation, increased economic uncertainty, ongoing supply chain constraints and geopolitical issues. At the same time, it highlighted the strength of our experienced operating management teams and proven business model. In response to macroeconomic pressures that drove softening retail demand that persisted throughout our fiscal year, our teams successfully adapted to these fluctuating market conditions with a focus on achieving solid through-cycle profitability.”

Ford starts a three year hydrogen fuel cell powered E-Transit trial Ford Europe is undertaking research into the potential for hydrogen as an on-board energy source for its E-Transit. The project will establish if hydrogen fuel cell technology can deliver more zero-emission range to heavy-use E-Transit customers travelling high mileages, with maximum loads, ancillary equipment such as chillers and with limited charging opportunities in the working shift. Part funded by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC), Ford’s consortium of six automotive technology leader and fleet operator partners will help to determine the supporting hydrogen refuelling infrastructure required.

Ford Pro, the company’s commercial vehicle (CV) and services division, will use the pilot to expand its conversion expertise, supported by engineers and E-Transit specialists from Dagenham (UK) and the company’s nearby Dunton Technical Centre, in Essex. Ford’s hydrogen fuel cell E-Transit project with the APC will validate the vehicle’s business case by linking Ford expertise with fuel cell powertrain experts and fleet operators, including Ocado Retail. Other partners on the project are BP, capturing hydrogen usage and infrastructure requirements; Cambustion, testing the fuel cell system; Viritech,

designing hydrogen storage systems; and Cygnet Texkimp, providing the pressure vessels’ carbon fibre tooling. Hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity by combining hydrogen from an onboard tank with oxygen, with resulting zero emissions, extended range and quicker refuelling. Ford has researched fuel cell technology since the 1990s, developing many prototypes and demonstrating the first-generation E-Transit fuel cell vehicle at the CENEX Low Carbon Vehicle Show in 2021. A low-volume test fleet of eight fuel cell Ford E-Transits will run for six-month periods over the three-year project to 2025.

Corrigendum: Truma article on Aboutcamp BtoB 40 An unrevised draft of the article “Let’s create a sustainable, inspiring future together” was mistakenly published on Aboutcamp BtoB issue 40 printed magazine (from page 46 to page 49). It contains some errors and inaccuracies. Among these errors was the incorrect name of Truma’s founder, Phillip Kreis. The online version of the magazine has been published with the corrected article. We extend our sincere apologies to Truma Group and to the Co - CEO Alexander Wottrich.

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N ews New study in Germany shows trend towards caravanning holidays is set to continue The results of a study by GfK presented by the CIVD (caravan industry trade association in Germany) show that caravanning will continue to have great popularity in the future as more and more people value flexibility, being close to nature and individuality. Among other things, the study examined the change in personal values and attitudes of different age groups as well as their affinity for caravanning as a type of holiday. The results show that, in general, people are tending more and more towards values which caravanning, as a flexible and nature-oriented form of holiday, reflects. Visitor numbers (254,000) to the Caravan Salon 2023 in Düsseldorf already show that caravanning continues to be very much in demand. In Germany, the 50-65 age group proved to be the one most pro-caravanning in Germany: the numbers of caravans and motor caravans owned are the highest among 5059 year-olds, followed by the 6069 age group. The high affinity for mobile holidays is fuelled by a more active lifestyle in society: both the 50-65 year-olds and the Millennial generation (26-43 year-olds) not only live longer than their peers 15 years ago, but are also healthier and more active in their leisure time. This makes caravanning as a flexible and individual form of

travel even more attractive for these groups. It is not only health awareness and more active lifestyles that are shaping today’s society. A social change is also taking place in personal values and attitudes. Fundamental values such as family, freedom, vitality and friendship are lasting and resonate with all participants in the survey . In contrast, the importance of closeness to nature and individuality has increased even more compared to 15 years ago. Caravanning embodies and combines these elements and is thus considered very attractive to today’s holidaymakers. This also becomes clear when asked about the reasons for a caravanning holiday: the people surveyed stated that self-determination, closeness to nature and flexibility were the most important reasons for a holiday with a motor caravan or caravan.

Lippert acquires Marine Trailer Performance Lippert has announced that its subsidiary, Kinro Texas, Inc., has acquired substantially all of the business assets of Marine Trailer Performance (“MTP”), a marine axle manufacturer located in Houston, TX. MTP also specializes in axle lubrication systems, hydraulic brake actuators and performance disc brakes for boat trailers. The acquisition of MTP closed in May 2023. This strategic move significantly rounds out Lippert’s axle portfolio, allowing it to provide innovative marinized axle solutions to a myriad of OEMs who manufacture both boats and boat trailers, as well as aftermarket dealers and distributors. MTP will help Lippert capitalize on a notably underserved part of the market, utilizing Lippert’s coast-to-coast axle manufacturing and warehousing capabilities to provide the best product and service possible.

Airxcel’s Dicor Products promotes Marc Brunner to Division President Dicor Products, an AIRXCEL® brand, has promoted Marc Brunner from General Manager to Division President with effect from November 1, 2023. Marc Brunner has been with Airxcel since 2016 serving as the Vice President of Operations and then General Manager of Dicor Products, United Shade, and Vixen Composites. In his new role as Division President, Marc Brunner will focus on streamlining operations, driving growth, and enhancing customer satisfaction across the three brands. “Marc has been instrumental in the success of Dicor Products, United Shade, and Vixen Composites since joining our team,” said Anthony Wollschlager, Airxcel Group President. “His strong leadership, strategic vision, and operational expertise make him the ideal candidate to lead our business into the future.”

Hobby extends the watertightness guarantee to 12 years Hobby is extending its current watertightness guarantee for its caravans and motorhomes from five years to an impressive 12 years. All new vehicles from the 2024 model year onwards will benefit from the extended guarantee. Europe’s most popular caravanning manufacturer wants to offer its customers a better service and is demonstrating the confidence it has in the durability and quality of its own products by taking this important step. The caravan and motorhome manufacturer from northern Germany is proud to have reached this important milestone and to be offering its customers this new, additional benefit. To ensure that a caravan or motorhome remains watertight in the long term, all Hobby customers still need to have an annual inspection carried out by an authorised Hobby dealer, which is subsequently documented in a test report. Customers can log in to the Hobby members’ area and set a handy reminder for when their next watertightness test is due and get in direct contact with their local dealer.

N ews Winnebago issues fourth quarter and full year fiscal 2023 results Winnebago Industries, Inc. has reported financial results for its fourth quarter and full year Fiscal 2023. Revenues for the Fiscal 2023 fourth quarter ended August 26, 2023, were $771.0 million, a decrease of 34.6% compared to $1.2 billion for the Fiscal 2022 period, driven by lower unit sales related to current market conditions and dealer efforts to reduce inventories, and higher discounts and allowances compared to prior year, partially offset by carryover price increases. Gross profit was $127.5 million, a decrease of 39.4% compared to $210.4 million for the Fiscal 2022 period. Gross profit margin decreased 130 basis points in the quarter to 16.5%, as a result of volume deleverage and higher discounts and allowances compared to prior year. Operating income was $57.5 million for the quarter, a decrease of 53.4% compared to $123.6 million for the fourth quarter of last year. Fiscal 2023 fourth quarter net income was $43.8 million, a decrease of 47.0% com-

pared to $82.6 million in the prior year quarter. Reported earnings per diluted share was $1.28, compared to reported earnings per diluted share of $2.61 in the same period last year. Adjusted earnings per diluted share was $1.59, a decrease of 47.4% compared to adjusted earnings per diluted share of $3.02 in the same period last year. Consolidated adjusted EBITDA was $72.9 million for the quarter, compared to $139.2 million last year, a decrease of 47.6%. President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Happe commented, “While the consumer market continues to be challenged and our fourth quarter results reflect a stubborn retail environment, we continued to see the benefits of our diversified portfolio on our results for the fiscal year. Our team has remained intently focused on rationalizing inventory levels, optimizing our supply chain, and appropriately managing capacity, output, and cost in a strategic manner. Those efforts, combined with disciplined cap-

ital allocation, have enabled us to drive sustained profitability in our consolidated results supported by our diverse portfolio of premium brands, allowing us to continue investing in our growth initiatives and return meaningful value to our shareholders. Our continued focus on strategically investing in our business, new products and innovation reflects the confidence we have in our ability to drive growth and expand market share by providing our customers with more diverse and exciting options. As always, I want to thank our 6,250+ Winnebago Industries employees for their continued hard work and dedication in a challenging and dynamic environment.”

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Alde: changes to senior management Alde International Systems AB has announced that Petter Johnsson is stepping down (for personal reasons) from his position as MD and Stefan Lindström has been appointed acting Managing Director. Petter Johnsson will return to the position as Finance Manager at Alde as the present Finance Manager is leaving the position for new challenges outside the company. Stefan Lindström has been marketing manager at Alde since 2018, actively involved in the business strategy team and has several years of experience in the industry and other international industries. He takes up his new position with immediate effect and will continue to retain his responsibility in marketing.

All in Caravaning Beijing: 19 to 21 April, 2024 Over the past 12 years, the All In Caravaning (AIC) exhibition in China has committed to establishing an international and professional exhibition platform for the Chinese RV and camping industry. Since 2013, the exhibition has been held annually in mid to late June. However, in order to further support the development of China’s camping and RV industry and in response to the local consumer market and demands of the majority of exhibitors, AIC 2024 has been adjusted from its usual slot in June to 19 to 21 April, 2024. Mr. Fang Dehe, Secretary-General of the Recreational Vehicle Branch of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, pointed out: “We’ve noticed that the Chinese RV market tends to be more active during the Spring Festival and the May Day holiday. Many RV buyers make their purchases during this time, allowing them to drive and enjoy their RVs during the May Day holiday and the subsequent summer vacation. The rescheduling of AIC 2024 to April with more pleasant weather environment in Beijing, is conducive to attracting more potential buyers to the exhibition.” The organizers will also increase advertising and promotion efforts in mainstream media and targeted potential customer groups in aims of inviting more prospective buyers and visitors to the exhibition. AIC 2024 will present a more diversified and enriched array of products, technologies and services. Exhibits will cover complete RVs, accessories, camping sites, camping equipment, and many more, showcasing the latest innovations and industry trends. At the same time, AIC 2024 will showcase the diverse possibilities of caravanning in different environments, further intensifying visitors’ experience at the show. With strong support from Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, the world’s largest show for motorhomes and caravans, AIC is dedicated to bringing the pinnacle of the global RV exhibition to China.

N ews Lippert announces leadership changes for its EMEA Group Joerg Reithmeier has been promoted to the role of Group President EMEA. Joerg has had a long and decorated career in the automotive and caravanning industries spanning 27 years. Before becoming a Senior Advisor to Lippert in 2019, Joerg spent almost 10 years at the Erwin Hymer Group (EHG), serving on their board of directors from 2015 – 2019. Joerg has served as Managing Director for Lippert’s Caravanning group in Europe for the last year, bringing focus and structure to Lippert’s Italian, German and Dutch caravanning businesses. In his new role, Joerg will oversee all of Lippert’ Caravanning, Marine and Rail businesses in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Jason Lippert, President and CEO of Lippert, commented, “Joerg’s extensive experience will help keep us on the upward trajectory that our EMEA Group has experienced for nearly a decade. Joerg has been instrumental in bringing together the many complex businesses in Europe that we’ve acquired over the years that span several different countries and cultures. Our goal is to continually build Lippert into a brand in Europe that is every bit as strong as it is here in North America. I am looking forward to seeing Joerg further our customer relationships in Europe and take Lippert to the next level with a heavy focus on product innovation, culture and customer experience.”

Michele Checcucci will extend his responsibility as Chief Business Development Officer for EMEA beyond Europe and will help Lippert introduce the North American RV Market to new and exciting caravanning products. Michele will also assume the lead role in the new RV Aftermarket Division in Europe as well as continually push the DoubleCOOL™ brand of patented acrylic door solutions for the global retail grocery market. Additionally, Michele will be responsible for helping lead Lippert’s mergers and acquisitions activities in Europe. Michele’s own company was acquired by Lippert in 2017 and he has since helped Lippert acquire several more businesses in Europe. Jason Lippert commented, “We see significant additional potential in the aftermarket area in Europe. There is a huge range of aftermarket products from Lippert’s North American markets which can be introduced to the EMEA market. Additionally, we want to start specific product development activities for our aftermarket segment. There is also a huge potential by bringing European designed products to North America. Michele will make all necessary efforts to add European products wherever possible to Lippert’s product offering in the US. We are convinced that we couldn’t have found anyone better than Michele for this role.”

Lorenzo Manni has been promoted to the role of Managing Director, Caravanning EMEA, which serves all RV and caravanning markets outside of North America. He previously held the title of Vice President of Sales, Caravanning EMEA. Lorenzo joined the Lippert team through the acquisition of Project 2000 SRL, an Italian manufacturer of bed lifts, steps and TV brackets, back in 2016. Lorenzo has an extensive background in customer relationships and business development in the European Caravanning Market that span over a decade. In this new role, Lorenzo will oversee all aspects of Caravanning EMEA as well as the Asia Pacific region. Jason Lippert commented, “Lorenzo has proven in recent years that he is one of the most respected and capable leaders in our industry. We are excited that he will take over this new position. Lorenzo has a wide experience in our industry and knows exactly what our customers need. This is the ideal basis to develop customer-oriented products, further improve our production processes and to further strengthen our partnerships with our customers.”

Gianluca Cricchi has been promoted to Vice President of Operations for Italy and Tunisia. Gianluca joined Lippert in 2021 when he was hired as the Caravanning Operations Director. In this new role, Gianluca will extend his previous responsibility as General Manager for the Caravanning Division of Lippert Italy and will oversee all Lippert operations in Italy and Tunisia which primarily manufacture products for the Caravanning and Rail Industries. In his short time at Lippert, Gianluca has successfully streamlined many of Lippert’s European caravanning operations which consist of several different complex businesses that came through acquisitions. Gianluca will continue to drive improvement, leadership development and the streamlining of operational efficiencies across all of Lippert’s European businesses. Joerg Reithmeier commented, “With the appointment of Gianluca we will have all Italian and Tunisian operations under one leader. Gianluca is not only highly experienced in all forms of operations and strategic production development but is also a great leader and is very much respected by our team members. Gianluca will bring our rail operations to the next level and will make sure that we leverage all potential synergies between our rail and caravanning facilities in Europe.”

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N ews Farewell to Raffaele Jannucci The Aboutcamp BtoB editorial team joins the mourning of Raffaele Jannucci, who passed away on November 20 at the age of 93. A brilliant innovator in the plein air tourism sector for over five decades, Jannucci’s career began with a law degree, leading him into advertising and then to become the public relations head for Corriere della Sera’s group. His venture into publishing with the magazine Italia Caravanning evolved into 2C and then into Plein Air. This magazine was a driving force in the success of Italy’s caravaning industry, fostering growth and development that resonated across borders. His family, including his two daughters and wife Luciana, mourn a man who was not just a successful entrepreneur but also a true visionary whose legacy will continue to influence outdoor tourism. “Three years ago, he became a columnist for our newspaper Camper Professional Italia, writing a leading article in each issue and offering Italian industry professionals insights that were always current and focused,” says director Antonio Mazzucchelli, “A man of culture, a brave entrepreneur, and an extraordinary communicator. We have lost a special person”.

H.B. Fuller: new business centre H.B. Fuller has chosen Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as its strategic regional business centre, marking a significant milestone in its global expansion goals. The move was cemented with the acquisition of a 15,000m2 facility of an adhesives manufacturer, XCHEM International LLC, based in the Al Hamra Industrial Zone. Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) and Boz Malik, Senior Vice President, Global Construction Adhesives, H.B Fuller, marked the facility launch during a recent lease signing ceremony. More than a century-old global giant, the USD 3.75 billion company H.B. Fuller is actively expanding the regional presence of its global adhesives portfolio. Offering a wide range of speciality adhesives and coatings, H.B. Fuller serves industrial and infrastructure applications, particularly in the fast-growing construction markets of the MENA region, with customers in more than 140 countries.

N ews Salone del Camper 2023 set new record: over 100,000 visitors The 14th Salone del Camper in Parma (Italy) was a great success not only in terms of the number of exhibitors (400) and vehicle (600+), the increase in floorspace (+20%), but also because it set a new record of over 100,000 visitors. Antonio Cellie, CEO of Fiere di Parma, said, “The Salone del Camper 2023 has confirmed the positive trend of the industry on both the industry and tourism fronts. Technological advancements shown in the many interesting new products,

make this type of holiday more tempting and contribute to the desirable tourism offerings in Italy”. Gloria Oppici, the Salone del Camper’s brand manager, said, “Campers are a great way to rejuvenate, stay safe and have unrestricted holidays favouring local experiential, cultural and culinary enrichments of the area.” Italy’s Tourism Minister, Daniela Santanchè, visited to show the sector’s importance to the Italian economy. “Italy’s challenge,” declared Minister Santanchè at the opening of the Salone del Camper, “is to make tourism a primary industrial enterprise, also focusing on the off-season. The Government’s will is to stand beside the entrepreneurs in the sector, and our commitment will be directed towards the implementation and requalification of rest areas, as well as reducing the VAT to 4% for campers purchased by people with a disability”.

“In conclusion,” said Gloria Oppici, brand manager of the Salone del Camper, “the fair is an automotive expo but also the only event for people who like to travel and enjoy the luxury of freedom while on holiday. We are pleased that there is a political commitment to support camper rest areas and incentives for purchasing recreational vehicles for people with disabilities; this means that the sector is being given the consideration it deserves.” “The Association of Camper Manufacturers (APC), co-organizer of the Salone del Camper along with Fiere di Parma, was very satisfied with this success,” concluded Simone Niccolai, President of APC. “This shows that the camper is increasingly appreciated in Italy, for enjoying one’s free time in all seasons and in total comfort. And not just for vacations.”

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N ews Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles enhances new Crafter van range Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has announced the initial details of an enhanced version of its large Crafter van, including extensive technical update comprising a new cockpit landscape and new assist systems and a new digital cockpit. Pre-sales of the new Crafter are scheduled to start in Europe in April 2024, followed by markets such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and South America. A new infotainment system with free-standing display offers intuitive operation, stateof-the-art apps and a high degree of individualisation. There is also a new electronic parking brake for more space when moving around the vehicle, new multifunction steering wheel and new selector lever as in the ID. Buzz. The Crafter is one of the most modern commercial vehicles in its segment. More than 354,000 units of the current generation were sold up to the end of last year.

aboutcamp_issue_39_UK_VC 210x148.indd 1

New leadership in Marketing and Aftersales at Knaus Tabbert Knaus Tabbert has announced that Daniela Jungwirth (30) is now in charge of the Marketing department and Roland Huzenlaub (54) is now in charge of the Aftersales department. Daniela Jungwirth graduated as a Marketing Manager (MBA) and also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Communication. She comes from Freyung and has worked for Knaus Tabbert since late 2016. More recently, she has made a decisive contribution as Project Manager to driving forward digitisation within the Marketing team. Roland Huzenlaub (54) is now in charge of the Aftersales department. Prior to joining Knaus Tabbert, the Business Administration graduate (MBA) from Stuttgart held a number of positions for prestigious companies in the automotive sector and mechanical engineering industry. These include, among others, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Wacker Neuson and Efaflex. He also boasts more than 20 years’ experience in aftersales and customer service.

11.04.23 10:20

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N ews Stellantis has completely renewed its range of light commercial vehicles “Six brands, one force”. With this slogan Stellantis presented in one fell swoop the complete renewal of its light commercial vehicle (LCV) range: 12 models in all segments of its Citroën, Fiat Professional, Opel, Peugeot, and Vauxhall brands, as well as the preview of the new Ram ProMaster EV which will be launched by the end of 2023. In the presentation conference, held in Balocco (Italy), great importance was also placed on the ecological transition, with the announcement of second generation BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles), which offer greater autonomy on all models (up to 420 km) and which will be enriched in 2024 with medium and large vans with hydrogen fuel cells. An unprecedented announcement in terms of size and content which served to underline Stellantis’ strength on global markets: first position in Europe and Latin America, second position in Africa, and third in North America. In fact, a third of the entire group’s turnover comes from the commercial vehicle market, which is already well positioned on the electric segment: in Europe, Stellantis is widely in first place with 43% market share. As part of the Dare Forward 2030 plan, the goals in the commercial vehicle sector are to double the 2021 turnover, achieve an EV mix of 40% (including heavy-duty vehicles) and generate a turnover of €5 billion in services. At the basis of the an-

nouncements is a strategy called Stellantis Pro One based on 5 pillars, with a 360-degree approach: offering the widest range of products in the sector; maintain leadership in the field of zero emissions with complementary solutions, such as hydrogen and retrofit interventions; create a fluid and personalized customer experience; create a new digital ecosystem for setup and transformation operators, and offer 100% connected services. Preserve brand identities In this context, each European brand, despite sharing platforms that are 100% common today, will maintain its own identity, because the buyer of a commercial vehicle tends to reconfirm their trust in the brand. Fiat Professional will thus maintain its image linked to practical and innovative solutions for load management, Citroën will be character-

ized by on-board well-being thanks to solutions such as the Advanced Comfort Seats, Peugeot for the design and refinement of the interiors with the distinctive i-Cockpit, Opel and Vauxhall will have a particular focus on technology, with high-tech lighting, including matrix headlights. What the 12 models in the new range have in common is the choice not to compromise on performance. The revised design of each vehicle features innovative cockpits, a new infotainment system with 10-inch monitor, 18 updated driver assistance systems (ADAS) capable of bringing up to Level 2 autonomous driving, 100% connectivity as standard starting this year, and the innovative e-PTO (electric Power Take Off) solution, which allows the traction battery to be used for conversions. Starting from 2026, over-the-air updates will be guaranteed, with the aim of reaching €5 billion in revenues from connected services. “This second generation of zero emission vans, in line with customer expectations and offering greater BEV range, an additional fuel cell offering, 18 ADAS, comprehensive connectivity and innovations such as electric ‘Power Take Off’, will further strengthen our current leadership in BEV vans and across all segments,” said Xavier Peugeot, Senior Vice President Commercial Vehicles Business Unit at Stellantis.

I nterview with JAMES TURNER

Swift set for a bright future The last few years have proved very challenging for our industry, but Swift has strived to use the problems to its advantage Words Terry Owen

e visited the Swift factory in East Yorkshire to interview Swift Group’s CEO, James Turner, supported by Marketing Director, Joanne Mitchell. Aboutcamp BtoB: How has your business changed in recent years? James Turner: Despite the obvi-

ous major issues around Covid and the subsequent supply chain problems, it also enabled us to accelerate planned changes, both in the production and office environments. When employees were unable to come into work in in 2020, we found that many office staff were able to work quite successfully from home.

Then, once restrictions eased and people returned to the factory, we decided we could adopt a hybrid working model. This comprises core hours at the office, which are specific to the needs of each department, with the rest working from home. Productivity has proved to be very good and people are now happier

as they have the flexibility to work around their children and other commitments. We now have a hot desk set up where staff book a desk before coming into work. Other advantages of this are that they never know who they’re going to be sat next to and so staff integration has improved, and the hybrid model also fits with our sustainability drive, less trips saves on emissions. What’s more, flexible working also allows us to recruit from further away - we’ve even had people from overseas working for us. Because fewer people are in the office at any one time, we’ve been able to significantly reduce the total office space and undertake a major refurbishment. We’ve decided that hybrid working is here to stay, and so the space freed up will be put to a good alternative use. Aboutcamp BtoB: Have you found any downsides to hybrid working? James Turner: One result of hybrid working is that people don’t get together as much as they used to and to counter this, we’ve introduced the Swift Active programme. It involves the running of a monthly activity for

people to take part in. Examples include go-carting, five a side football, three peaks climb, golf, and so on. We encourage employees to lead healthy lifestyles and have a health and wellbeing officer who organises the Swift Active programme and does much other work related to the wellbeing of employees. We also have an ambassador in a local boxer who is currently the English champion and encourages our sport and fitness activities. Aboutcamp BtoB: How has production changed? James Turner: We used the Covid downtime to bring forward the installation of new high-tech machinery, the construction of new buildings and the refurbishment of old ones. The goal has been to increase our onsite production capacity to cope with the anticipated demand. To this end, all our furniture, GRP (GFK) and laminated panels are made in specially dedicated areas of the site. These currently feed no less than eight product assembly lines with two more set to come on stream in March next year. We believe the GRP facility is one of the largest of its type in Europe.

In line with the enlarged activity, we expect to increase the number of employees from the current record high of 1350 and are building a new car park to accommodate them all. Aboutcamp BtoB: Swift is known in the industry for its staff training academy, how does that work? James Turner: The Swift Academy was launched in 2015 and it’s something we’re very proud of. It’s the baby of our Chief Operating Officer, Amy Archer, who kicked it off when she was deputy MD. The Academy offers employees the opportunity to join structured development schemes including bespoke internal training workshops and accredited programmes that lead to formal qualifications. Currently we have 114 apprentices in our programme, that’s about 8.5% of our total workforce. During Covid we set up a step-in programme to recruit people from industries that were failing because of it, such as hospitality. This has worked really well with many deciding to stay with us. Aboutcamp BtoB: Swift is also known for its long service awards,

GRP (GFK) production facility

CNC Gantry Processing machine

Panel dividing saw

Hard point location

I nterview with JAMES TURNER

Swift’s TV advert

proudly presented at product preview events. What is the current situation? James Turner: We are fortunate in having a very loyal workforce, many of whom stay with us year after year. Currently we have some 130 employees with more than 25 years’ service. Aboutcamp BtoB: Unusually for an RV manufacturer you took out a TV advertising campaign earlier this year. What were the drivers for this and what was the result? Joanne Mitchell: We wanted to reach a different and larger audience of potential buyers and the research we did said that the best and only way to do this quickly was through TV. We knew the exact demographic of people we wanted to reach and using SKY’s ability to serve adverts down to individual households, along with Channel 4 in the north of England, we reached 11.2 million people with our first burst of advertising. Utilising SKY’s attribution tool, we were then able to measure the exact impact of the campaign and the subsequent traffic to our website. For

example, we know that it’s been successful in generating leads for our dealers. That’s why the campaign is on-air again for three weeks as we speak. Aboutcamp BtoB: How do you handle customer care and after sales 2023 apprentice intake support queries? Joanne Mitchell: We have a new online customer por- ware has helped us achieve a fourtal called My Swift Life and this is a star rating for customer service with great resource for customers to get Trustpilot – something that’s unusual information quickly and self-serve in for our industry. many cases, also our customer care team has introduced a new software Aboutcamp BtoB: We’ve heard the system called Zendesk. It manages old works canteen has gone, what Customer service more efficiently. can you tell us about that? When a customer generates an en- James Turner: We’ve replaced our old quiry, whether by phone, email or canteen with a totally new café style social media, the software logs that facility christened Hub Sixty-Four. enquiry into a ticketing system for It’s named after the year 1964, when allocation to the best person within Swift was founded. The café serves a the team to deal with it. It also allows selection of fresh foods at breakfast the generation of KPI’s so we know and lunch as well as being open to how quickly we are dealing with que- shift workers around the clock. ries and whether we have a first-time It’s a place where people can not only resolution or not. eat, but also have time away from the Our agents can see all custom- workplace for less formal meetings er details in one view and then over a coffee or whatever. To promote go online to connect with them its use, we ensure that the food availin their preferred way. The soft- able is cheaper than can be found outside the factory. It caused quite a stir when we opened it with Left: local MP opens the local MP cutting the ribbon, the on-site café. and the press in attendance. Below: the interior The café has been a great success and is used by everybody. At £2m it was a significant investment for us but it’s proved invaluable from a staff recruitment and retention point of view.

Aboutcamp BtoB: What’s your assessment of the current market and future trends? James Turner: The touring caravan market is seeing an underlying decline of around 5-6% each year. We expect this to continue for some time, albeit with excursions above and below the trendline. At some point we expect it to level out but it’s difficult to say when that will be. In the short term we expect some recovery towards the trendline. The motorhome market is continuing to grow well and we think this will last for some years yet. Fortunately, we’re now beginning to see an easing of the chassis cab supply problems. Currently we build on Fiat and Ford but will keep our options open as the market evolves. The holiday home sector is growing slowly each year, although there is too much stock in the market just now. We therefore expect a period of correction before growth resumes. Being involved in the three sectors enables us to flex our production facilities according to the individual demand at any one time and to better control our costs. Aboutcamp BtoB: What impact do you think the move towards electric vehicles will have on our industry? James Turner: I think we’re a long way off the mass production of BEV motorhomes but hybrid technolo-

Swift’s factory at Cottingham

gy will take off first, as we are now seeing with towcars. It’s inevitable we’ll be led by the base vehicle manufacturers and what they have to offer. I don’t think our industry is big enough to have much effect on its own. Aboutcamp BtoB: How long have you worked at Swift and how did you become CEO? James Turner: I’ve worked for Swift for almost 30 years now. I started as a production engineer and worked my way through the ranks until I ended up running the operations side of the business here at Cottingham. In 2012 the chairman of the business, Peter Smith, invited me to become MD. Then, in October 2022, I became Chief Executive Officer. I’d like to emphasise that what we have achieved would not have been possible without the loyal and skilled team of people here, who are making it all happen. This very much includes the production staff who turn out our products to very exacting standards. In everything we do we set out to grow the business and we’ve been very successful in doing this. We see a really bright future!

Swift is unusual amongst RV manufacturers in that it also produces holiday homes and lodges

Swift at a glance Based on a 40-hectare (100-acre) site at Cottingham in East Yorkshire, Swift is the UK’s largest manufacturer of touring caravans, motorhomes and holiday homes. The company also engages in the provision of motorhome rental from its sites in Manchester and Edinburgh. Current turnover is in excess of £300m. Massive investment in recent years has seen the site expand significantly with much of the factory looking new and full of high-tech machinery. One production building alone is 180 metres long. Swift was founded in 1964 by Ken Smith and his business partner Ken Day. Their first caravan was just 10 feet long. The following year Smith bought out his partner and carried on the business with his wife Joan. Today the Smith family still have an interest in the business although MBO’s in 2012 and 2018 have given management a majority stake.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023

CARAVAN SALON inspires the community With 254,000 visitors from 65 countries, CARAVAN SALON 2023 made a very positive statement. More than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries showed their innovations and current models in 16 exhibition halls as well as the outdoor area

he Caravan Salon 2023 showed that the holiday form of caravanning is inspiring more and more people and that the community is constantly growing. An excellent atmosphere, intensive dialogues and exchange of information prevailed on the fair grounds. Manufacturers and

Words editorial staff

dealers reported promising customer discussions and numerous sales deals. More than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries showed their innovations and current models in 16 exhibition halls as well as the outdoor area. On more than 250,000 square meters, leisure vehicles of all sizes and price

ranges, mobile homes, awnings, and roof tents were on display. Accessories, technical equipment, and extension parts were very popular with the entire caravanning friends. In addition, visitors could plan their next trip or holiday individually at the stands of the camping and motorhome sites

2023 EDITION Exhibitors

over 750

Visitors

254,000

Halls

and at the destinations. The Caravan Salon 2024 will take place from Friday, 30 August till Sunday, 8 September.

Erhard Wienkamp - Messe Düsseldorf

“With 254,000 visitors from 65 countries, Caravan Salon 2023 made a very positive statement. In view of the challenging general conditions, we are more than pleased that we were able to achieve such a successful result. Trade visitors from all continents and consumers from all over Europe travelled to Düsseldorf and thus provided the special international flair of the Caravan Salon”, says Erhard Wienkamp, Managing Director Messe Düsseldorf.

Stefan Koschke - CARAVAN SALON

Stefan Koschke, Director Caravan Salon, adds: “Our attractive and varied supporting program fully convinced the visitors. Both the ‘StarterWelt’ and the trend theme ‘Abenteuer Selbstausbau/DIY’ are central information hotspots at the Caravan Salon. The Travel & Nature CONNECTED stage has a huge fan community in Hall 3 with its colorful program on caravanning destinations around the world as well as advices on hiking and outdoor activities”. The newly elected Bernd Löher, President of the Caravanning Industry Association, summed up the 62nd edition of Caravan Salon very positively: “Many visitors, a very good atmosphere and unrivalled product variety. This is how people know and appreciate Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf. As a sector we can consider ourselves very luckily because such a positive trade fair result cannot be taken for granted in view of the tight economic situation and is an extremely positive impulse for the car-

avanning industry. With this, Caravan Salon once again reinforces its importance as a leading trade fair and beacon for our industry. My special praise goes to all exhibitors, who – despite difficult circumstances – again set new standards in terms of product quality and diversity. The wealth of innovations in vehicles, accessories, and services is and will remain the hallmark of Caravan Salon. Though it should not be forgotten that not only the products but also all aspects of caravanning have long since been

Bernd Löher - CIVD

given a big stage in Düsseldorf. This is why I am very proud that we were again able to welcome many personalities from business, science, and political spheres to Düsseldorf. When high political dignitaries such as Minister Mona Neubaur or Minister Oliver Krischer pay a visit to our trade fair, this is an indication that caravanning receives the attention it deserves as a tourism and economic factor. However, this is only the beginning of CIVD’s work and the newly elected board will continue to commit to promoting the economic and tourist potential of our form of holiday ever further”. The exhibitors “Caravan Salon offers Knaus Tabbert ideal conditions for presenting themselves to the many visitors. The interest in our vehicles and visitor footfall in our halls was gratifyingly high. At the same time, after the overheated times of the pandemic, we now see a variety of ranges on offer again and, hence, also a certain normalization of the market, which is also reflected by the stable sales figures on a high level,” sums up Gerd Adamietzki, Chief Sales Officer at Knaus Tabbert.

Gerd Adamietzki - Knaus Tabbert

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023 ers confidence and security that they have invested their savings correctly”.

Holger Schulz - Hobby

“For Hobby Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf marks the start of the new model year and is a key business climate barometer for the whole caravanning sector at the same time. We are delighted that our expectations were far exceeded and that we can look back on a very successful trade fair period with our dealership partners,” says Holger Schulz, Hobby’s Managing Director for Sales, and goes on to say: “This year we have revised our entire caravan portfolio and presented it in Düsseldorf for the first time. The interest in Hobby caravans and motorhomes continues unabated and we are very much looking forward to this new season. A special thank you goes to Messe Düsseldorf, which has been instrumental to this success with almost perfect organization and very good public relations”. Dr. Holger Siebert, Managing Director of Eura Mobil GmbH and Trigano Deutschland KG: “This year’s Caravan Salon was characterised by the motorhome manufacturers’ improved ability to deliver. Whereas last year you had to wait 1 to 2 years for your new dream motorhome, today the times are 3 to 12 months. The fact that - similar to house building - the manufacturing costs and thus also the prices of motorhomes have increased significantly has hardly affected the interest in mobile leisure. Customers are interested and want to buy new mobile homes. For some of our brands, such as Eura Mobil, Challenger, or Benimar, we were even able to increase the previous year’s good sales despite price and interest rate increases. Last but not least, the complete range of products covering the market and the professional atmosphere at Caravan Salon give custom-

Holger Siebert - Eura Mobil - Trigano

“For its brands Hymer and Eriba, Hymer GmbH & Co. KG looks back on a well-attended trade fair week and a good atmosphere at Caravan Salon 2023. The interest taken in this form of travelling continues unabated. In addition, stable prices and significantly improved delivery capability compared to the previous year are having a positive impact. In many personal conversations we learn that visitors attach increased importance to quality, especially in view of the design, functionality, and furnishings of vehicles. Our trade fair message ‘More Style. Less

Christian Bauer - Hymer

Limits.’ sums up this expectation and the interest taken in our innovations illustrates that our premium strategy precisely fulfils the expectations of demanding camping enthusiasts. Caravan Salon, as one of the world’s biggest trade fairs for mobile travelling is still a relevant format for us to meet and exchange ideas with dealers, partners, and customers as well as interested parties”, says Christian Bauer, President of Hymer GmbH & Co. KG. Bernd Wuschack, CEO Sales, Marketing and Customer Service at Carthago Group: “Due to the continuing very

Bernd Wuschack - Carthago

tense supply and price situation we came with mixed expectations regarding success this year. We were all the more satisfied with the actual results of Caravan Salon. The attention that caravanning receives as a form of holiday continues to be very high which was reflected by the rising visitor numbers and the numerous positive conversations we had at our stands. To sum up, the trade fair for us boasted a high quality and pleasant atmosphere. At this juncture, it should also be mentioned that the cooperation with Messe Düsseldorf has worked as excellently as before. The highlight for our dealership partners and ourselves was the evening we spent together at the exhibition stand with our guest of honour Johann Lafer”. “After a mixed fair last year, we travelled to Düsseldorf with rather subdued expectations and were very positively surprised. Customers take great interest in our entire range of models, they are looking to buy, are also very well informed beforehand and specifically focus on models and/or series before they come to our stand! Especially our Plus models on Citroen and Mercedes platforms are very popular and the highlights at the fair. We were likewise surprised by the great interest taken in buying 6.40m models. All in

we have a lot to offer with our quality initiative ‘Wanderbares Deutschland’, but it would be desirable for many more destinations to join in. With the two well-received specialist events organized by the German Hiking Association together with its partners, we have noticed that the Caravan Salon offers a good platform for professional exchange and makes industry trends visible. The German Hiking Association is very pleased that its expertise in sustainability, trails and hiking is valued by the trade fair with its 140th anniversary, thank you very much”.

all, a successful Caravan Salon,” sums up Robert Hein, Head of Marketing, Press and Product Development at the Pössl Group.

Eva Karlsson - Dometic

Robert Hein - Pössl

“Caravan Salon is a very important platform for us. The event offers great opportunity for Dometic in many ways. It gives us a place to showcase our technical products with easy to grasp demonstration and real-life use case – which our customers, both business side and consumers, appreciate a lot. Another aspect is that the event is a place to meet our custom-

ers. As a global player in the industry, Caravan Salon’s broad audience help us to interact with our multinational customer base. We welcome our customers from all over the world”, says Eva Karlsson, President of Segment EMEA at Dometic. Ute Dicks, Managing Director of the German Hiking Association (DWV): “This year’s Caravan Salon showed us that there was a demand for more combined offers concerning caravanning and camping with outdoor offers including hiking and cycling. Of course,

“Caravan Salon is increasingly evolving into a key travel fair where people are seeking far more than caravans and other vehicles,” rejoices Dr. Heike Döll-König, Managing Director of Tourismus NRW. “This also became clear at our stand: especially in demand were tips for hiking and for city trips – both themes where NRW is perfectly pitched for all travellers”. Under the motto “Draußenglück in NRW” eleven exhibitors presented the camping and caravanning destination North Rhine-Westphalia at the joint NRW pavilion. Nine tourism regions, Tourismus. NRW and Campingverband NRW were featured here. Michael Krämer, CEO at Campwerk GmbH: “In the middle of a challenging year marked by innumerable insecurities and unfavorable weather conditions, it is such a joy to see how reliably Caravan Salon serves as an anchor point for the sector. The event’s impressive visitor attendance and response has made it clear: the passion for the adventure that is camping remains consistently high, despite all adversities. Particularly encouraging was also the noticeably higher footfall on weekdays, which had seen rather less traffic in the past. This high attendance is an extremely positive signal not only for Campwerk but for the camping industry as a whole. It underlines our confidence in a promising future. Altogether, we are highly satisfied with the results of this year’s Caravan Salon and look to next year with great anticipation”.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023

News and curiosities from the Caravan Salon

Use the QR code to watch our video showing curiosities from the CSD 2023

There was no shortage of curiosities at the last Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf. We’ve seen some really unusual caravans, motorhomes, and leisure vehicles in general. In this article we offer you a selection Words John Rawlings and Paolo Galvani

Bürstner Lyseo TD Lounge – Germany One of the interesting concepts on the Bürstner stand at the Caravan Salon was the Lyseo TD Lounge with a slide-out, an uncommon solution on European vehicles. Inside, the slide-out adds a lot of extra floor space in the lounge which makes it feel really spacious, all of which ends up making the interior of this semi-integrated model resemble a studio apartment The slide-out features a domestic-style sofa that converts into a bed, and opposite there is a large storage unit and TV. There is also a stylish kitchen and an end bathroom.

Crosscamp Flex 541 – Germany A campervan that caught our attention was the Crosscamp Flex 541, with its multifunction modular interior and removable shower/ wardrobe. The seating and table can fold away to create space to carry bikes or other leisure equipment. For the night, the double bed can be made behind the front seats. As an option you can have one or two additional folding seats, or the pop-up roof which

adds a double bed. This campervan is built on the Opel Movano chassis.

Citroën Type Holidays France

On the Stellantis stand, there was this retro-styled Citroën campervan with ribbed body panels, reminiscent of the Type H van, and they confirmed this is actually going on sale. Based on the Jumpy, the interior is a conventional, modern campervan with a side kitchen and all today’s comforts – including a pop-up roof. For the night, the lower bench converts into a double bed and in the pop-up roof there is another bed. The body panel was created by the Italian firm Caselani, and the vehicle is built under Citroën licence.

Deddle RV – China Deddle RV is a brand from China, present for the first time at the German show. They presented three coachbuilt vehi-

cles, all of them no longer than 6 meters, as required from the Chinese law. The RVs were driven from China and headed to Italy, to the Iveco plant. Equipped with a washing machine and a lot of internal and external innovations, these vehicles require the C driver licence, due to the weight over 3,5 tons. The company has a 10-year history in China and owns three plants. The idea is to start exporting to Europe some of their RVs and then, if the answer from the market will be positive, to open a branch office or a local factory.

Derubis Series 5 – Belarus

Etrusco 600 DF 4x4 xFlip – Italy The Italian brand, Etrusco, had a clever way to make the rear transverse bed wider in its Ford 600 DF 4x4 campervan conversion – with its new xFlip pop-out hatch to stretch out into. A really neat and simple solution for taller customers. This campervan has a length of just 598 centimeters and offers abundant interior space. A new sliding and folding door in the bathroom area optimizes movement space.

Derubis is a boat manufacturer from Belarus with almost 30 years of experience in the shipbuilding industry that is now offering two distinctive caravans – one on a single axle and the other larger one on a twin-axle chassis. They feature some design inspiration from the boat world. Their monocoque body made entirely of fiberglass guarantees resistance, reliability, and safety for passengers.

Dethleffs Yoka Go – Germany The new Yoka Go motorhomes from Dethleffs are aimed at those who want to take lots of outdoor gear for their hobbies. The interiors are minimalist and functional with removable seats, a wider side entrance door and a rear tailgate to make it easier to load and carry bikes, etc. The compact kitchen unit has 10-litre fresh water and 10-litre waste water canisters, large kitchen worktop extension, induction hob and large drawer for the optional compressor cool box.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023 Fendt Live-Work-Connect caravans – Germany The German caravan brand Fendt had an interesting project showing how a caravan could be designed to be used as somewhere to work. It builds on the concept of hybrid working and people now being able to work from anywhere. This concept has been designed in conjunction with various brands to supply the equipment and technology to make these caravans mobile offices. Inside one caravan, there was a workstation that folds away when not required. In the other vehicles there was a large screen for hosting conference calls or training, etc.

an upgraded standard specification and is based on the Mercedes Sprinter and available in two layouts – one with a transverse rear double bed and one with twin single beds.

Hotomobil Gladiator – Turkey The Gladiator from the Turkish brand Hotomobil is designed to fit pickups for off-road adventures. It has a large double bed, seating area, kitchen, and washroom. It is available in two-dimension, one standard for European pick-up e and one Xlarge for the American pick-up.

– Germany

The new Ford Nugget, based on the all-new Ford Transit/Tourneo Custom, made its debut at the Caravan Salon. It is produced for Ford by Westfalia and its unique layout with rear kitchen continues to the new model. There are various refinements and improvements over the previous model, including an external shower with hot water and a rear seat easier to move. Changes was made to the kitchen too, especially to the fridge: from a top loading chest refrigerator to a drawer refrigerator.

Frankia Neo Black Line – Germany The Neo Black Line from Frankia has a bold and modern design inside and out. Its Easy-Load system consists of a redesigned rear of the vehicle with easier access to the garage thanks to a rear tailgate and low loading height. It also has

Ford New Nugget

Knaus Yaseo – Germany Knaus showed its new Yaseo caravan range. The Yaseo 500DK is designed for families with up to three kids. The

purpose of this vehicle is space saving, because it is made for electric vehicles and to be light. The seating corner and eating table can be transformed into a big double bed, 1.60 wide and 2.0 meters deep. The lounge corner can be transformed into three beds for children, thanks to a slidable couch which turns into a double bed and to a pull down cupboard that transforms into another bed. The relatively small bathroom has an hidden basin that slides in and out, and if you need to shower

there is a slide mechanism to create space to shower.

MTC MobilTec Vialla Piccola and Electric – Germany

Robeta Adonis – Slovenia

The Vialla Piccola is a micro camper conversion based on the Ford Transit Connect with a rear seating area, kitchen, and a pop-up roof. With a price starting at €38,000 it features side doors on both sides and it can also be built on Volkswagen Caddy Maxi. MTC MobilTec also had the Vialla Electric, a 100% electric van conversion of a Ford Transit featuring an end washroom, L-shaped kitchen, and front lounge. This is one of the first examples of electric camper van on the market, and it is interesting to note the choice from the German manufacturer to have a very particular internal layout, so they do not have to directly compete with more traditional van converter.

The Adonis is a luxury campervan from Robeta, a manufacturer in Slovenia. It is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Measuring just under 6 meters in length, it can accommodate up to 4 people while driving and 2 for the night. Adonis comes with a fully equipped chassis, from the audio-navigation system and the full range of assistance and safety systems (blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree camera, etc.), to the automatic closing of the electric sliding doors. The model includes a kitchen with a sliding a countertop made of genuine Kerrock (similar to granite), a “hidden” sink and a bathroom with an innovative 180-degree bi-folding glass door.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023 Rovinns Gaia – Turkey Gaia is a caravan from a manufacturer in Turkey. It has a one-piece fibreglass bodyshell with a side door and a rear door. It is bright and modern inside and available in a couple of different layouts. The total length, including the drawbar, is 570 centimetres with an effective vehicle mass of 900 kg.

Saly Vanjero – Turkey Another manufacturer from Turkey is Saly. This is its compact Vanjero motorhome, which has a total length of 5.90 meters, a light cabin, and a standard equipped weight of 2,500 kilograms. The interior width is 2.00 meters. The vehicle is based on Fiat Scudo.

Wingamm Oasi 610M – Italy

Volkswagen New California – Germany One of the stars of the show was the Volkswagen California Concept. It is based on a LWB VW Multivan instead of the Transporter that the current California uses. It has twin sliding doors and a kitchen that can be accessed from outside. The model on display was a plug-in hybrid. We expect to see the production version sometime in 2024.

Winnebago ERV2 – USA

The premium, family-owned Italian brand, Wingamm, was back at the Caravan Salon this year with its range of motorhomes featuring monocoque bodyshells and interiors with a distinctive style. This model is the Oasi 610 M, with a French bed on the right side and a total length of 610 centimetres. It can accommodate up to 4 people, thanks to its patented drop-down bed. The toilet compartment located in the rear area is made of solid fiberglass and HPL laminate. The all-electric ERV2 prototype from Winnebago, based on a Ford Transit had been shipped over to Dusseldorf from the USA. It is one of 12 prototypes being assessed in USA. It uses innovative, lightweight interior materials to save weight and help to improve the range of the batteries. At this stage of development, the chassis electrical system is not yet capable of communicating with the on-board system, and therefore the respective batteries are managed separately. However, Winnebago is talking to Ford to find a way to create a more integrated system.

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023

Video report: “Technology & Components” Paolo Galvani and John Rawlings

This year, the editorial team at Aboutcamp BtoB has once again produced a video report from Halls 13 and 14 at the CSD

e’ve interviewed leaders from about 40 partner companies featured in our publication, focusing on the latest product and technological innovations unveiled at the trade show. For those interested in specific products or brands, we’ve divided the video—which runs for over an hour and a half—

Mark Davis Business Unit Manager at Aqua-Hot (Airxcel) Aqua-Hot Gen 1, a compact forced air heating system with a hot water system in an all-in-one unit, fueled by Diesel or Propane/Butane.

into segments. This allows viewers to directly access the section related to the company of their interest by scanning the QR codes on these and subsequent pages.

Marco Corradini CEO AMA Composites Italy Different kinds of light, aesthetic materials for inner and external treams. LWRT technology and Jess heating system for floor, walls, and ceiling.

Lorenzo Maggini Andrea Lombardi Technical Sales Manager AL-KO VTE

Onda connectivity system, to control the vehicle and its accessories via Bluetooth or WiFi, based on CL-BUS protocol and connected to CI-BUS.

Commercial & Mktg Manager Bartolacci Design Metacrilate material to get any effect, shape, color, in order to have the best efficiency and the best price manufacturing custom fornitures for RVs.

Davide Verde Håkan Streimer Head of Sales Alde International Systems AB Alde Plus heater, for “unlimited” hot water on the RV, and AquaClear water cleaning system against bacterias, smell, bad taste.

Area Manager Brianza Plastica SpA Elydecor goes behind the standard idea of GRP, being a completely customizable material for every piece of furniture on the recreational vehicle.

Andrea Fisher Sales Manager, Consumer Products Caframo Seeker products for RVs. A complete range of fans with different features.

Roland Oldenburger Business Manager Recreational Vehicles Dekalin Dekasyl MS-7, new trasparent sealant for sanitary areas in caravan and camper, and the Dekasil evergreen 8936.

Paola Minguzzi Italian Products (representative Castagnari) Presenting shower doors, dashboards, sinks, acrilic material in black and/or white.

Richard Pirovino CEO Dimatec SpA

A complete range of lights for RVs: tracklights, bathroom lights, acrilic light panels, bars and touch lamps, external lights with proximity sensors.

Erik Öhman Head of Sales Mobile Units Cinderella The toilet that incenerates everything leaving a small amount of ash. Waterless; capacity: 4 persons per hour.

Matthias Büscher Manager RV-AM EMEA Dometic New aircon range, fridge and induction cooktop for van application, lithium battery Tempra from NDS to replace AGM batteries.

Ursula Scalia Head of Sales & Marketing CTA

Structures for safety belts anchorage, the lighter structure in the market and a patented solution for electric vehicles. Dinettes, ladders, and TV brackets.

Leonhard Bazlen Mktg Segment Manager Climate Breezonic generation of air conditioning system to cool and heat thanks to the heat pump, and the new E-Airtronic electric heater.

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R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023 Gabriele Morbidelli Business Unit Manager Automotive & Leisure Indel B SpA

Lapo Ermini Managing Director FAP Srl

Plein-Aircon 12V air conditioning system with new inside splitter units, managed via App and complete with adaptive and predictive functions.

Entrance doors with two points lock, new driver door weighting only 19 kg, and patented flat lock for garage doors - two points lock too.

Axel Gläsel Sales Representative Lamilux

Stefano Giorgio Fiamma Customer Service

Lamilux Sunsation, very UV resistant surfaces for RVs sidewalls with many design options for the interiors.

Bike carriers to load 60 Kg and four standard bikes, and concept van awning with automotive appearance and many new features.

Emilio Gambineri Director of Product & Project Management, Caravanning Europe

Francesca Filippi International Sales & Mktg Manager Filippi 1971 Srl Laminated plywood panels, lighter sandwich panels, full furniture kits in flat packs, curved and special components, carbon and natural fibers.

Vania Stefanini Italian Products (Naldini, Tecnowall, Dreoni, Baraldi)

Ansgar Hinrichs Global Sales Director RV HELLA LEDayFlex modular system for designing daytime running lights, position lights and direction indicator; new led rear lights. FAURECIA FAU_22_00002_ForviaHella_Logo_CMJN JFB

94 avenue Gambetta - 75020 PARIS +33 (0)1 85 56 97 00 www.carrenoir.com TONS RECOMMANDÉS (CMJN)

C100 M75 J0 N0

Tailor made solutions meeting sector specific requirements on weight, price, material. Sandwich panels, furniture complements, upholstery...

Ce fichier est un document d’exécution créé sur Illustrator version CS6.

Date : 26/01/2022

TECHNIQUE ÉCHELLE 1/1

since 1961

R-Wave (surfs and canoes) accessory for R-Bike carrier for vans, Manila innovative bedlift, customizable modular doors, and panoramic windows.

Naldini furniture care quality

Marcello Maestri Managing Director Nobilpan SpA

Flat lamination, laminated panels with different coatings, lightweight panels, honey comb and plywood panels, sandwich panels.

Massimo Montella Andrea Emanuele Key Account Bus & RV OFOLUX Srl Sliding spotlight on electrified track with USBC charger, ring automotive design lamps, stylish spotlights in flexible, fixed or adjustable versions.

Sales Manager Sguinzi Pietro SpA

Windows and doors, focusing on the glazed skylight for van application, automotive technology, providing high insulation.

Huub Huitink Robert Garbe Export Sales Manager Optiplan

GRP sheets for exterior application, roofing, interior application, flooring, and new products partly made with recycled PET.

Sales Director Super B

Super B batteries talking with VW California, very light Epsilon lithium batteries, premium suppliers in the industry.

Alessandro Rossodivita Ginevra Signorini Purchasing Manager Palomar

Sandwich panels, introducing new materials to meet market trends, panel customization, and sustainability by re-using waste material.

Technical and R&D Director Tecnoform SpA Tecnodesign to meet customers requests on new projects, from material selection to final furniture realization. Decor box with new finishing trends.

Linda Mazzotti Alain Sagnard Technical Sales Manager Europe Ravago Building Solutions XPS family of materials for sandwich panels, thermal insulation solutions for a long life of the RV walls avoiding water absorption.

Export Department Teleco Group

Satellite antennas facelift, black colors, internet mobile connectivity for RVs, air conditioners black range, lithium premium batteries.

 41

R eport Düsseldorf - Caravan Salon 2023

Norbert Van Noesel Marketing Manager Thetford

Compressor fridge for campervan with functionality and safety features, Twusch toilet to upgrade Thetford cassettes towards a kind of ceramic bowl.

Michele Marchionni Export Manager Vitrifrigo

Slim range of refrigerators, light and energy savers, digital thermostat to keep the fridge connected through CI-BUS protocol.

Patrick Dehaen Sales Director Thule RV

Removable awning for compact vans, 60 kg capacity with three rails bike rack for Stellantis vans, tow bar elevated tent for electric cars.

Dennis Weiss Sales mgmt and special projects Vohringer

3D parts wall coverings inside the RV to save weight, improve acoustic and aesthetics, and water resist materials that allow to save 50% of weight.

Jan-Peter Albers Product Manager Truma iNet X

iNet X panel upgraded infrastructure with the accessory of iNet X Connect, Truma Mover smart A4 for twin axles caravans.

Denis Merle Sales Director Webasto Thermo & Comfort SE Air conditioning systems, slim line fridges with nano-compressor, built-in fridge products for vans, all focused on energy saving.

Fabrizio Baglioni Sales Director Vetroresina SpA Low density polyester laminate - 20% weight riduction - for floors, walls, roofs, Vetroskin Delta with 3D effect, Vetroprint, Vetroformex, sustainability.

Tim Batist Managing Director Westacc Group

Lighting switch and socket materials and electrical fuse boxes, lighting solutions for Stellantis vans, flexible lights range, USBC sockets.

Company news TELECO

From RV to smart RV The new WLT24EX WiFi Router connects all on-board equipment to the internet. It interfaces directly with smart TVs and Teleco antennas to connect the entire motorhome to the 4G mobile network or camping site Wi-Fi Words Giovanni Ricciardi

n a recreational vehicle, Internet access is available via a variety of devices, from an everyday smartphone to a mobile router (dongle). However, the most efficient solution is a Wi-Fi router installed in the motorhome itself which – just like at home – provides wireless access for all devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers and smart TVs.

Optional wall bracket

Teleco has wide experience in this area, and is now proud to present its new WLT24EX WiFi Router, which connects to 3G and 4G mobile networks to offer a stable, efficient internet connection for the vehicle and its immediate surroundings. The stand out feature of the device is that not only will it connect to mobile networks and use them to create a wireless network inside the vehicle, it can also connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks, like those of a camping site or public facility. This offers users an internet connection which does not use up the often costly and limited data traffic provided by the SIM in the router itself, as well as doing away with the need to reconfigure all their devices every time they connect to a new Wi-Fi network. The WLT24EX Wi-Fi Router therefore enables users to use their onboard internet connection for browsing, listening to music and watching streaming videos, optionally with the Teleco TEK22W11 smart TV (compatible with the router out of the box), which can be connected to a satellite + Wi-Fi antenna like the CombiSat WiFi antenna or a DVBT/T2 + Wi-Fi antenna like the WING-LAN11, using its integrated 2G-3G-4G-5G antenna to receive mobile data traffic.

A router like the Teleco WLT24EX also WiFi enables users to access and control all their connected devices remotely. All connections and functions are managed with the router’s web-based interface, to set credentials, manage available networks and check the status of connected devices. The router can be powered directly off the vehicle’s on-board 12V power supply without the need for an external PSU or transformer.

In partnership with

Above: the optional Wing-LAN 11 antenna for simultaneous mobile network and TV reception

ry about interference and low signal strength.

Antennas and accessories The WLT24EX WiFi Router works perfectly as soon as it is connected to the 12V power supply, but the company also offers a range of accessories to expand its functionality and performance. In particular, an external antenna can increase the range and efficiency of the signal, thus offering faster browsing. Using an external transmission device also enables the router to be installed anywhere in the cab or the living compartment without having to wor-

The following accessories are currently available: • TAW85-M2 MIMO 2X2 antenna Waterproof external antenna compatible with LTE, 3G, 4G and 5G networks. The base can be glued to the roof and installed in the grooves in the motorhome’s body. It operates in the 700-6000 MHz band, with a maximum gain of 6 dBi. • TAW85 antenna This offers the same connectivity as its big brother, the TAW85-M2, but installs into the cable ducting of an external satellite antenna. • CombiSat Wi-Fi satellite antenna This is an easy to install compact satellite antenna designed for use in combination with the TAW85 antenna. It can be folded down to reduce aerodynamic resistance when driving. • Teleco Wing-LAN 11 antenna This combines LTE, 3G, 4G and 5G mobile networks with DVB-T2 TV reception and DAB+ radio. It is easy to install on the roof, and can be located in the grooves in the

motorhome’s body. Its compact aerodynamic design means that there is no need to fold it down when driving. • Teleco TEK22W11 smart TV A 21.5” FullHD smart TV which automatically connects to the WLT24EX WiFi router. It is the ideal interface for controlling the vehicle’s on-board connections with its web browser. Its tuner can receive both digital terrestrial signals (using the Wing-LAN 11 antenna) and satellite signals (with the CombiSat antenna). The included remote control can also be used to control the antennas themselves. Teleco smart TVs are also available in 15”, 24”, 32” and 40” versions. The above antennas and accessories are also available in kit form: • Kit HS1 Includes the CombiSat Wi-Fi satellite antenna, TAW85 mobile cable duct antenna, WLT24EX WiFi router and 21.5” TEK22W11 smart TV. • Kit HS2 Includes the TAW85-M2 antenna, WLT24EX WiFi router and 21.5” TEK22W11 smart TV.

Telair air conditioners: total remote control with Wi-Fi All functions of the Telair Silent Plus and Clima e-Van systems can be controlled using an app from any location. Teleco’s new Wi-Fi system enables users to use their smartphones to control their Silent Plus or Clima e-Van conditioners remotely from any location, or connect with Bluetooth to turn them into normal remote controls when they are close to the vehicle. Combined with the WLT24EX WiFi router, which keeps the motorhome on-line for as long as the battery lasts, the Teleco system gives the user total control at all times.

Company news SGUINZI

Glass, elegance, prestige Sguinzi has really revolutionised the RV industry: ever more European manufacturers are abandoning transparent surfaces made of plastic in favour of high quality glass offerings from the Milanese vendor Words Renato Antonini

guinzi is working on an ever-increasing number of projects for the RV industry. And project work itself is the foundation for its success, because Sguinzi is not just a fabricator, but also offers fully-fledged design services. In 2022, the company, located just outside Milan, experienced a growth in turnover of 10%, and this trend has continued through 2023, bringing their annual earnings to around 15 million euro. The RV industry has played a significant part in this growth, currently accounting for around 35% of its business. This is quite surprising when we consider that despite its sixty year history (which it celebrates this year), the company has only been working in the RV market for the last six years. “We currently have thirteen projects in the RV segment,” says Stefano Lovati, Chef Operating Officer, Sguinzi, “and the on-going growth of this area of our business is giving us great satisfaction. Not just because of the growth in our turnover, but also due to the new challenges which stimulate us to find novel solu-

tions for this continuously evolving sector. We have plenty of manufacturing experience: we have been making glass windows, doors and rooflights for the automotive sector since the Sixties. But our strength also lies in the fact that we have our own design department, with our own design and engineering staff. This means we can quickly develop projects, either by ourselves or in co-design with the client. When we started working in the RV sector, our projects were governed by our clients’ very stringent guidelines; now, on the other hand, our clients know that we are capable of achieving excellent results from just a few basic ideas and very open specifications.” After initial discussions with the client, our design office draws up a first draft, the concept drawings which form the basis for the project itself. Sguinzi offers RV manufacturers turnkey solutions, including design, product engineering and vendor selection. Left and above: the new panoramic roof for Giotti Line

In partnership with

Panoramic roof for Adria motorhomes on the MAN chassis

Panoramic roofs: a real turning point Sguinzi offers a wide variety of solutions for the RV market. A large part of their work is related to the cab and integrated body, for which they make sliding windows and driver-side doors. They also make doors for the living compartment, including complex, stylish models like those they made for Adria’s top-of-the-line Astella caravan. But Sguinzi’s fastest growing products are its panoramic roofs, the glass panels mounted above the windshield. They have made a variety of panoramic roofs for motorhomes on the Fiat Ducato chassis, for the Trigano Group among others. They have also recently made panoramic roofs for motorhomes on the Ford Transit chassis, while Adria commissioned the panoramic glass roof for its new MAN chassis motorhome from Sguinzi. They are also working on designs for motorhomes on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis. Meanwhile, Sguinzi’s panoramic roofs for motorhomes have also attracted

the attention of manufacturers looking for panoramic roof solutions for low profile motorhomes, for installation in the mini-top between the cab and the living compartment. A first version has already been made as an exclusive product for the Giotti Line brand and the Rapido Group. But major developments are around the corner, with upcoming projects for the caravan sector with panoramic curved front cowlings in glass.

openable ones, featuring a very easy to use single handle. The user no longer has to fiddle with a number of small levers, but can rather do everything with a large, ergonomic central handle which is easy to use and also attractively designed. As for the new panoramic roof for Giotti Line low profile motorhomes, the external ABS shell has been done away with and replaced by an aluminium frame which supports the large central openable section as well as the two smaller fixed side panels. “Our panoramic glass roofs are very stylish - but they’re also very technical,” says Stefano Lovati, “because they don’t deform in hot conditions and they can be fitted with a modern control handle, rather than the conventional solution with its many small levers. We use the latest generation glass to make a thin and yet still very robust panel, so that the result is not really much heavier than a transparent plastic panel. What is more, the cost of glass is similar to that of PMMA, and we can achieve good thermal insulation with double-glazed panels - much the same as those used in the home.” Sketch for the driver’s door of a motorhome

Panoramic roofs: how they’re made Sguinzi panoramic roofs are fast becoming a favourite, for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, glass is a very stylish material: it is smooth and shiny and does not age. After its first fixed models, Sguinzi started making

Automotive products for the RV industry The company’s increasing involvement in the RV market has grown its turnover and also required it to expand its workforce. They have also invested in processing technologies, with new aluminium machining tools and an expanded welding department, as well as automating a number of fabrication processes. The breath of fresh air that Sguinzi has brought to the RV industry is also supported by its long experience in the automotive sector. Sguinzi has been a vendor of doors and windows for buses and coaches for many years, and it has also worked in the special vehicles, construction site machinery and earthmoving equipment segments, as well as military and police vehicles. One of their major clients for glass rooflights is the Stellantis Group, along with Iveco and Renault.

Company news DIMATEC

Exterior and interior: the two natures of light A new range of exterior lights is born, with both modular and all-in-one options, along with a new range of flush-mounting spotlights for the interior Words Renato Antonini

he celebrations of Dimatec’s fortieth anniversary are nearly over, and the company is making the most of the experience it has gained over the years to reinforce its presence in the lighting market with new products for RVs. The Italian company’s operations in the market are two-fold: in addition to its well-established production of interior lights, it has also been making exterior lighting systems since 2012. And the stand out product in the new offering is precisely a range of exterior lights, an important investment in response to its clients who are increasingly turning to Dimatec as a reliable, versatile partner for their needs. In recent years, exterior lights have become increasingly critical components in the RV market: the choice of exteri-

or lighting modules characterises the vehicle not only in terms of its image, but also in terms of production costs. “European manufacturers’ increasing appreciation of our exterior lighting solutions has led us to make a new investment,“ says Alexander Vohwinkel, Key Account Manager, Dimatec, “this time in a completely new range of head and tail lights with diffuse led lighting, which also stand out for their design. This very comprehensive range of products is currently under development: we have already launched a number of lighting modules, but others will soon be announced. These are not entry-level products, but rather high quality midrange options. They are suited to use on a variety of RVs, both motorhomes and caravans.”.

Top: a possible combination of tail light modules. Left and below: a variety of single modules

Modular lights for personalised solutions The new range includes both modular units and an all-in-one option. The modular components are designed for flush-mounting in the rear bumper or vertical panels. The largest unit is L-shaped (left and right handed), and includes the reversing light, rear fog light and turn indicator (with flasher). There is also a bar light with reversing light and dynamic turn indicator. This is primarily designed for horizontal installation, but can also be installed vertically (although in this case the turn indicator is not dynamic). There are also a number of smaller modules, both single-function (like turn indicators) and dual-function (like a reversing light with turn indicator). These elements can be combined as desired to make the rear of the vehicle stand out from the competition or from other models by the same manufacturer. The company will also be launching a more compact module for mounting to the front of fully-integrated motorhomes as a DRL (Daytime Running Light).

In partnership with

All these options feature diffuse led lighting, an effect which depends on both the led itself and the lens. The range also includes a large all-inone tail light for flush mounting in the rear bumper, with left and right handed versions. This is suitable for both motorised RVs and caravans. It has a dynamic shape, again designed to enhance the style of the rear of the vehicle. It integrates all lighting functions: clearance lights, turn indicator and reversing light. The caravan version is fitted with a reflector triangle, while the motorhome version includes a rear fog light. This all-inone option is more expensive than a modular solution, but it’s easier to install, so the manufacturer has greater freedom of choice. “The market for external vehicle lights has very high quality and safety standards, and that has always been the

hallmark of our production. However, Dimatec’s rapid growth in this market segment is also due to the fact that we are able to offer manufacturers the option of personalising their vehicles with the tail lights,” says Alexander Vohwinkel, “in a relative simple way and at reasonable cost.” New interior lights As for interior lights, Dimatec presented a new range of flush-mounting spotlights at the Dusseldorf Caravan Salon. Here too, the manufacturer has a wide range of options, because each light is available in both fixed and adjustable versions, with touch controls or conventional button operation. In addition, there is an attractive range of colours and finishes: black, aluminium, chrome and satin-finished nickel. “Flush-mounting spot lights are cur-

Alexander Vohwinkel

rently the most popular interior lighting solution in the RV market,” Alexander Vohwinkel concludes, “and every vehicle has at least ten of them, so Dimatec is always presenting new options to breathe new life into this simple and yet strategic product.”

A pair of the new all-in-one lights for the rear bumper

Company profile The new range of flush-mounting spotlights with fixed or adjustable light module

A specialist supplier of lighting systems for recreational vehicles, Dimatec S.p.a. has been in business for over three decades. Officially founded in 1983, the company’s roots go much further back, considering that its founder Richard Pirovino began doing business in the sector with his first installations in 1974. In 1989, Dimatec entered the lighting sector manufacturing lamps, and just a few years later launching Veralux, an exterior 12 Volt fluorescent lamp with 11 Watts of power that soon became a best seller in the caravanning market. Dimatec operates both in the original-equipment market and aftermarket, selling its own products while also acting as a sales agent, bringing together recreational vehicle manufacturers and component producers, offering a huge gamut of accessories and spare parts. Dimatec obtained ISO 9001:2000 certification in November 1999, and has worked tirelessly to enhance its internal production processes in order to achieve its objectives, while constantly striving to provide better and better customer service. In 2017 Dimatec upgraded its certification to the new ISO 9001:2015 standard.

Company news H.B. FULLER

Guaranteeing better quality pressings For manufacturers who seek to produce the best-looking panels, reduce waste and imperfections, and save precious time during the production process, there are clearly several benefits of using H.B. Fuller’s low-foaming technology adhesives. With its depth of experience in the caravan and motorhome sector, manufacturers can switch to using H.B. Fuller’s low-foaming technology adhesive with the greatest confidence of its total support Words John Rawlings

s manufacturers use more composite alternatives to wood in floor, wall and roof panels to reduce the effects of any water ingress, some have encountered a new issue of CO2 getting trapped and causing bubbles to be

visible, particularly on side walls. The main issue of the switch from EPS to XPS is that XPS is a less porous material than EPS so it doesn’t release the CO2 as readily as EPS. In response to this issue, H.B. Fuller has developed a solution using a new range of ad-

hesives using LMC (Liquid Moisture Curing) and low-foaming technology. Production and quality issues As a leading manufacturer and supplier of adhesives used in the manufacture of caravans and motorhomes,

In partnership with

H.B. Fuller works closely with several manufacturers in Europe. From listening to customer feedback, and closely monitoring industry trends, H.B. Fuller knows that the switch from using wood for battens, particularly in side walls, to composites (with high density of foaming PV of PU or PP), is that the release of the CO2 has become less easy than before. Also, as XPS has a thinner skin on top, it is not always very easy to get good adhesion. Before, EPX was much easier to bond. The CO2 needs to escape or the excess CO2 can result in problems during the pressing process that negatively affect the external appearance of caravans or motorhomes. This adversely affects the external appearance of the vehicle (and potentially its resale values) and not only causes negative customer satisfaction issues, but could also damage the reputation of the manufacturer. The solution: LMC low-foaming technology CO2 is created as a by-product of the chemical reaction between the polyurethane adhesive and water. To solve the issue of CO2 forming as a micro foam and not being released the experts at H.B. Fuller developed low-foaming technology for a new adhesive product. Using the same amount of this glue

generates considerably less micro foam, so the risk of trapping excess CO2 during the process of making a sandwich panel for a caravan or motorhome is drastically reduced. H.B. Fuller is already supplying some leading European brands with its low-foaming adhesive but has found that some manufacturers are not aware of it yet, while some are nervous about changing from an existing adhesive product from H.B. Fuller. Benefits of low-foaming technology In addition to the improved quality and aesthetics from reducing the risk of unwanted defects in body panels, using low-foaming technology adhesive also has other benefits for the manufacturing process. Usually, with the standard process, the excess foam has to be cleaned from the press after each panel is pressed to reduce the risk of imperfections in the next pressing; but with the low-foaming alternative the press needs much less cleaning, and the nozzles are also cleaner, so valuable time is saved during the production process. During the production process, once the press is closed the CO2 cannot escape, so some wait as long as possible before shutting it, but the longer the press is open, the lower the quality can be; however, with the low-foaming adhesive it can be

Above and below: Standard grade (left) versus Low foaming grade (right)

closed immediately - another opportunity to save time and reduce the risk of imperfections. In addition, when using LMC low-foaming technology, the pressing process also requires considerably less pressure. Usually, a good quality sandwich panel requires around 0,3 to 0,5 bars (3 to 5 tonnes/m²). Less pressure improves the look of the panel as there is less chance of the frames in the panel showing through. Another advantage of low-foam technology is that it is possible to glue the PVC floor at the same time while making the sandwich panel. With standard adhesives, this is usually a two-step process with the sandwich panel of the floor made first, then the bonding of the PVC floor carried out later in the second stage. Today, the use of a low-foaming LMC glue allows the panel to be made and the PVC floor to be glued directly to the PU line at the same time, thus eliminating the second step using an acrylic adhesive generally applied manually with a roller. Testing, testing... To demonstrate the strong adhesion of the low-foaming technology adhesive, in tests H.B. Fuller removed the GRP outer layer to show the more extensive area the adhesive has covered compared to the standard LMC.

Company news OFOLUX

Electronics

New building Bus products assembling

RV & SV products assembling Metalwork

Plastic extrusion

Warehouse

Expanded production to meet increased demand Ofolux celebrates the start of 2024 with the expansion of its Italy plant. It is also launching a series of new interior light products Words Renato Antonini

n response to growing demand for its products, Ofolux is expanding its production facilities and re-organising its operations. The company has recently acquired a large industrial building close to its Brunello (Varese, Italy) plant, and is currently preparing for its inauguration. This is a major investment that testifies to the company’s need to manage its continuing growth and prepare for new challenges. “We have been looking for a way to expand our Italian plant for some time,” says Cristina Oblatore, owner of Ofolux with her brother Luca, “in response to the boom in RVs during the pandemic and the current re-opening of the bus market, which was heavily penalised by Covid-19. It

is true that the European RV market has recently slowed down, but this has not impacted us because we have acquired a number of new clients. This is why we have expanded our plant - which is in any case a good investment in future growth.” Ofolux currently has three production plants - its main factory in Italy, one in Tunisia and a third in Mexico. The company is focused on three primary markets: RVs, buses and special vehicles. Its core business, in all three sectors, is lighting solutions for the vehicle interior (spotlights, dome lamps and lighting strips), but its interior design and fabrication business is also growing fast. The new building has a surface area of around 6.000 sq.m., which doubles its space

at Brunello, where Ofolux’s original 3.500 sq.m. building is located, along with the 3.000 sq.m. building acquired in 2020. When the expansion is completed, the company will have around 12.500 sq.m. under cover, as well as a large outdoors area. The new building will house the components warehouse, as well as the bus product assembly line and mechanical fabrication department. “This expansion will enable us to re-organise our logistics and consolidate our production of electronic SMT assembly,” says Cristina Oblatore, “in addition to our operation in Tunisia. We will be keeping our foreign branches, but have now created a major industrial hub in Italy. We have decided to bring part of our external

In partnership with

production into the Italian factory, in order to assure access to the supplies we require. The new building will be operational from January 2024, and the restoration of the original factory will be completed a few months later. This renewal of our plant will also en-

able us to expand our production of plastic extrusions, which we also use as components for RV interiors.” Last year, Ofolux achieved certification to the IATF 16949 automotive standard, which is a requirement for the bus sector, but also a guarantee

for the RV market. In order to handle the increasing volume of orders, the company has not only expanded its plant, but has also gradually increased its workforce: Ofolux now has 90 employees, 60 of whom are employed at the Brunello plant.

Ring interior lamp

Adjustable spotlights, Art. 1000A

The name says it all: Ring is Ofolux’s new diffused light dome lamp, featuring a ring-shaped design in line with current trends in the lighting market. It is primarily intended to be used as a ceiling lamp, but can also be wall mounted for a striking visual statement. It has a 30 cm diameter, and the light emitted by the ring-shaped lighting element is diffused across the entire volume of the lamp. It is lit by a LED strip, and is available in 2.5W and 7W versions. The housing is made of translucent polycarbonate in a satin finish.

After successful prototyping, the new Art. 1000A adjustable spotlights are now available in a variety of versions. All versions feature the ability to adjust the beam in any direction. They are circular in shape and have an ABS surround in matt black and silver, as well as other colours on request. They emit a diffused or focused beam, and can be equipped with touch switch. They are rated 2W, with a 200 lumen lighting power.

Electrified rail Ofolux’s range of electrified rail-mounted spotlights is now available (Art. 600). A number of adjustable spotlights can be positioned as desired on the rail, which is available in any specified length. Note that each spotlight has its own on-board on/off switch. The spotlights are rated 1.45 W, with a lighting power of 100 lumen. Available with optional USB-C 3A.

External light The new Art. 190 dome lamp is designed for installation on the vehicle’s exterior. It mounts to the wall to light the area in front of the vehicle, in front of its main door and under the awning. It is 184 mm long and just 20 mm thick. The beam is directed downwards at a 34 degree angle. It may be small, but it has a lot of lighting power, at 4.2W / 1200 lumen. The standard versions are available in black or white, and grey is available on request.

Company news TRUMA

Truma - Innovations 2024 The German Truma Gerätetechnik is a worldwide leading manufacturer of comfort products for caravans and motorhomes. The company’s products include heating and air conditioning systems, hot water boilers, manoeuvring systems as well as electricity and gas supply systems. Almost every camper in Europe knows Truma Words Peter Hirtschulz

ince the company was founded in 1949 by Philipp Kreis, it has made a name for itself as a system supplier for heating, air conditioning, water heaters, manoeuvring aids and gas supply in caravans. With the innovative Truma iNet X system, Truma takes account of digital networking in everyday camping life. The search for innovative ideas continues to drive the company’s success day after day, which is only possible due to the fact that many employees are enthusiastic campers who not only develop products but use them themselves. In addition, there is an intensive dialogue with customers, as most new products are based on customer requests. Even if the neutral observer partially identifies only marginal changes, exactly those changes have been the reason for the company’s continuously growing success over decades. Truma products are known for their sophisticated technology, ease of use and high (functional) quality. Truma presented its new and technically innovative products for the coming camping season at the Caravan Salon 2023 in Düsseldorf.

Aventa also available in black version A new version of the well-known Aventa roof-mounted air conditioner series celebrated its premiere. They are designed in stylish black and are therefore a response to current market requirements for retrofitting, converting and upgrading. Truma is now expanding the portfolio of the tried-and-tested Aventa roof-mounted air conditioner series to include a black version enabling camper vans to benefit from the design changes as well. The Aventa compact, the Aventa compact

In partnership with

Heavy Duty Mover smart A4 for heavy double-axle vehicles Truma’s next innovation is the addition of another model to the popular Mover smart series, the new Mover smart A4 for double-axle vehicles. With this new manoeuvring system, Truma will be offering a fully automatic and attractively priced Mover from January 2024 - which manoeuvres voluminous and heavy double-axle vehicles safely by remote control - even in the tightest of spaces. The advantages of the Mover smart A4 • Parking with millimetre precision in the tightest of spaces • Easy and stress-free manoeuvring by remote control • Automatic stop function for greater safety • Manages inclines of up to 13 per cent • Easy manoeuvring of caravans weighing up to 2,800 kilograms

Truma iNet X Connect - smart operation “en route” Truma iNet X Connect, the remote module of the Truma iNet X system, was presented at the Caravan Salon as the third innovation for the 2024 season. The remote module enables the use the Truma iNet X App while keeping a distance from the vehicle. Thanks to the supplied eSim, it establishes a mobile phone connection and thus enables the devices in the caravan or motorhome to be controlled via smartphone. This means that not only all connected devices can be controlled from anywhere, but their status can also be viewed from anywhere at any time. Switch on the heating while on the move? It works! You no longer have to be near the vehicle to control the connected

devices or view various status displays. The market launch is planned for June 2024. The new Truma iNet X Connect module will then be ready for use at any time. It integrates itself automatically into the Truma iNet X system or can easily be retrofitted together with the control panel. The iNet X Connect can be used in Europe with the exceptions of Andorra, Belarus, Russia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Ukraine and Turkey: access to a large number of available mobile phone networks allows a high degree of flexibility with the uncomplicated activation of 30- or 365-days-packages. The popular Truma service remains available for all product content.

Technical specifications

Truma Aventa compact

Truma Aventa compact plus

Truma Aventa comfort

Cooling power

1.700 W

2.200 W

2.400 W

Calorific power

1.700 W

Current 2,8 A absorbed in cooling (230 V)

4,4 A

4,2 A

plus and the Aventa comfort will be available in the new black design starting from january 2024.

External unit dimensions

785 x 560 x 265 mm (W x D x H)

1.008 x 660 x 248 mm (W x D x H)

Air distributor dimensions

556 x 496 x 46 mm (W x D x H)

670 x 523 x 46 mm (W x D x H)

Above: Truma Aventa compact

Roof opening dimensions

380 x 350 mm / 400 x 400 mm (W x D)

On the left page: Truma Aventa comfort

Weight

27,5 kg

29,5 kg

33 kg

Company news JL AUDIO

Power is nothing without DSP Having good acoustics inside the cockpit is extremely important. The noises that come from the wind, engine or road can, in fact, be a big source of stress for both the driver and passengers. JL Audio’s solution helps create a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience Words Giovanni Ricciardi

n recent years, manufacturers have begun to pay a lot of attention to soundproofing the engine compartment and environments of recreational vehicles. Even manufacturers of audio systems specifically for these vehicles have faced this problem, and among these, JL Audio is perhaps the most original and innovative company in the sector. Unlike its competitors, JL Audio offers an integrated ecosystem of amplification and an environmental acoustic measurement system, the MAX Audio Measurement System. A well-designed acoustic environment contributes significantly

to creating a more comfortable and pleasant travel experience, and the audio system is a fundamental part of this experience; to obtain the best results, however, it is necessary to eliminate the so-called “guess work” and proceed with mathematical precision. To obtain maximum sound quality inside the cockpit, it is no longer sufficient to have high-quality speakers and a high-level receiver. Instead, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) is needed that is capable of best managing all the sound of both the infotainment system in the cabin and the audio inside the cell. Traditionally, this task is entrusted to the amplifier, however, in most cases this offers rather limited configuration possibilities. JL Audio offers top-of-the-line solutions for any type of vehicle, including motorhomes. It has gained valuable experience from its roots in the nautical world, where the management JL Audio was the perfect match for Robeta top-of-the-line Schumacher Edition

A JL VXi series amplifier installed on-board: the TüN 4 software is able to analyze the frequency response of the environment

In partnership with

of acoustics is made extremely complex by the constant noise of the sea and by the construction characteristics of the boats. These almost always offer spaces very prone to unpleasant resonance effects. To solve these problems, JL Audio has understood that it is not only important to give the user the possibility of configuring their system down to the smallest detail. It is also essential to have safe and precise measurements of the acoustics of the environment, so that the settings can, with surgical precision, prevent the sound of the system from touching frequencies that can be annoying when listening. MAX Audio Measurement System For this reason, JL has developed its MAX Audio Measurement System, a measurement kit composed of an audio interface to which five connected microphones can analyze the frequency response of any environment with extreme precision, from the cabin of a sailboat to the cell of a van, from a home theatre system to a small live music venue. For users of JL VXi, TWK and MVi series amplifiers, MAX includes full integration of the amplifier’s DSP controls to greatly simplify measurement setup by allowing you to perform DSP analysis and adjustments using only your computer and proprietary software TüN 4. The software is free for PC and Mac, and

TüN 4: fast, precise, and easy audio analysis for everyone

allows you to process analyzes with extreme simplicity, then sending the recommended settings to the JL DSP you have chosen to install. Using the kit is, therefore, very simple: just mount the five microphones on the dedicated support and connect them to the interface, position them in the environment you intend to analyze (it could be the driver’s seat, or one of the seats in the living area), connect the interface via USB to the computer and reproduce a signal in the system you are analyzing. Thanks to the TüN 4 software you will not need any additional setup or calibration, and you can start analyzing the system immediately. Some of the most important functions include tweeter and woofer range calibration, as well as managing the phase and delay of each installed speaker. The brain of the whole system is obviously the TüN 4 software, which is free for all uses. If you have installed on-board a JL VXi, MVi or TWK series amplifier, the software will be able to analyze the frequency response of your environment and automatically calibrate your entire system in real time. You can obviously manually modify any setting and set an equalization curve that best reflects your tastes, but you can do it starting from a base that is certainly the best possible for your environment. JL Audio’s MAX Audio Measurement System is one of the simplest integrated systems to use and is capable of carrying out tasks on its own that otherwise would require instruments costing a few tens of thousands of euros. Investing in a high-quality audio system is not only important for music enthusiasts, but is a crucial element for safe travel. The right combination of sounds can transform every holiday into an unforgettable experience, ensuring that every four-wheel adventure is an experience to remember.

What you can do with MAX Audio Measurement System • Test and analyze any audio system in real time, with maximum detail on the three dimensions of the signal: volume, frequency, and time • Simplify the tuning process of an audio system as much as possible, in any environment. Simply connect your instruments, place your microphones, open the free TüN software, and you’re ready to go • Quickly test any type of environment to correctly set the crossover and speaker phase • Measure and evaluate the frequency response and sound pressure of each zone of a marine or RV environment • Perform dual FFT measurements on volume, phase, and frequency response (RTA and spectrogram), combined for deeper analysis in real time, all on 5 simultaneous channels • Perform a stereo FFT measurement on 5 channels, simultaneously and in real time, with extremely accurate representation of volume, phase, transmission delay, frequency response and noise level • Synchronize each channel with a precision that touches the microsecond: setting the delay of each speaker becomes very simple and automatic • Change the DSP parameters during the analysis directly from the software, testing the result in real time • Play test signals (white and pink noise, sine waves, square waves, and others), or Wav files.

MAX is designed to make the most of all the analysis tools offered by Tün 4, but it is possible to use the software with any type of microphone. Indeed, if you use the “Measure Only” mode, you can use the measurement data to set, obviously by hand, the settings of any DSP. Although it is possible to use Tün 4 without the tools for which it was designed, it is not recommended, and could lead to results that are decidedly far from those hoped for. The software is in any case free, and it may be interesting to do a field test to understand its potential.

Company news INDEL B

Cool style Further improvements to the Plein-Aircon 12V air conditioner, now available in two versions, but Indel B’s OFF range also sees the introduction of three new refrigerators Words Renato Antonini

ndel B, with the OFF line, continues to work with great success on two fronts: on the one hand with the refrigerators, which make up the company’s core business, and on the other with the Plein-Aircon 12V air conditioner, a new and promising production channel in the RV sector. Furthermore, these are two types of product, both backed by Indel B’s vast experience in the field of compressor refrigeration. Starting with the Plein-Aircon 12V, the revolutionary compressor air conditioner designed by Indel B to operate using just the 12 V auxiliary battery, without having to connect to the external 230 V mains. It is designed for air-conditioning the sleeping area of camper vans and compact semi-integrated vehicles, two vehicle categories that have had a real boom on the European market in recent years. The 2024 model of the Plein-Aircon 12V was unveiled at the 2023 edition of the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, showing not only a cosmetic restyling, but also including functional and construction modifications. An evolution that underlines Indel B’s major investment in a

product that is deemed strategic. The range is now divided into two versions: Plein-Aircon 12V Ringlight and Plein-Aircon 12V Lightbox. Both adopt a new diffuser with a more efficient configuration of the fins, which allows for more precise air distribution and greater flexibility of use, even allowing for vertical air flow. The Ringlight version features a customisable central panel and a perimeter LED light. It is possible to choose between a white or blue light. The customisation possibilities of the viewing panel are many and allow Plein-Aircon to be integrated into the interior décor style. It is possible to apply textiles (also soft-touch), wood, wood-effect laminate or other patterns to the panel surface; in short, maximum freedom of expression is on offer. The Lightbox version, on the other hand, is

designed to reproduce the luminous effect of a rooflight, so it has a diffused artificial light, which can be either white or blue. The blue light creates a pleasant visual effect, but is also perfect for night driving, as it doesn’t disturb the driver. For the revamped Plein-Aircon, in addition to manual operation there is also a remote control via an app on your smartphone, using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Indel B’s Pre-Adaptive technology is designed to adapt the function of the air

Elite 86

In partnership with

Plein-Aircon 12V Ringlight

Plein-Aircon 12V Lightbox

conditioner by learning the user’s habits, but also to fine-tune its performance according to the weather conditions in the current or future set location. Three new refrigerators As far as Indel B’s OFF refrigerators are concerned, three new models have been added to the range. The Elite 86 refrigerator is part of the Italian manufacturer’s most stylish and innovative range: it is a compressor refrigerator with a vertical construction, designed to make the best use of tight interior spaces. It has an overall capacity of 85 litres (freezer compartment 10 litres) and the interior

Drawer 85, also available in 130L capacity

can be configured in various ways thanks to the freely movable shelves and the accessories provided. This refrigerator weighs 23 kg, has a height of 862 mm, a width of 380 mm and a depth of 522 mm. Power input is 45 W and consumption is 0.5 kWh/24h. The Elite line of refrigerators is designed for built-in installation with a front in view, thanks to its tasteful design: the minimalist handle is flush with the door and the door itself has a stainless steel effect with an anti-touch finish. The SECOP compressor is energy-efficient and extremely quiet. Flush-mounting the refrigerator is quick and easy thanks to the Easy Fix system. The Drawer 85 and 130 models are totally different: they too are compressor refrigerators, like the rest of Indel B’s production, but they do not have a front opening door, but rather a drawer opening, and therefore with sliding loading space on the outside. They are designed primarily for installation in motorhomes vans and mini-vans, for flush-mounted installations capable of adapting to awkward spaces. The Drawer 85 has a total volume of 85 litres (freezer 11 litres) and weighs 22.5 kg. It is 630 mm high and 475 mm wide, while its depth is 551 mm. Low consumption: 0.36 kWh/24h. The movements are made easy and smooth for the user thanks to the stainless steel guides fitted with roller cushions. The Drawer 130 model has a high capacity, which as the name indicates totals 130 litres (freezer compartment 13 litres). The loading space is flexible, thanks to the product holding accessories and repositionable drawers. The dimensions are 755x525x556 mm, while the total weight is 26.5 kg.

Company news SFC ENERGY AG

20 years of self-sufficient energy solutions in the caravanning market With off-grid camping becoming more popular than ever there has never been a better time to invest in independent energy solutions. SFC’s EFOY products offer a silent and environmentally friendly way to generate power anywhere Words Terry Owen

FOY FUEL CELLS have been serving the leisure market for 20 years. During that time there has been a continual focus on performance and reliability so that today the company has become a worldwide market leader in fuel cell technology. That’s why their products can also be found

in a wide range of professional applications such as stationary and mobile surveillance, telecommunications, critical infrastructure and remote wind monitoring. Such is their reliability; they are even used by the military in the field and save the soldier up to 80 percent of battery weight.

Now in its fifth generation, the EFOY FUEL CELLS are the ideal power generator for both 12 V and 24 V batteries. EFOY covers all energy demands In the year 2023, the trend towards self-sustained energy continues to gain momentum with energy supply being a key topic not just for end users but also for manufacturers. Coupled with EFOY’s compact lithium batteries its fuel cells become the “Autonomy Starter Kit” – a powerful energy source that is even suitable for beginners. The EFOY range tops out with the EFOY Pro 2800, which has a daily power output of 250 Ah. EFOY Li 70 - small yet mighty A lithium battery with just 70 Ah may seem small at first glance. However, upon closer examination, the advantages of this battery, become crystal clear. Firstly, the capacity is already sufficient for many users, making it particularly popular among compact vehicle owners due to its size.

In partnership with

Secondly, it’s perfectly tailored for charging with the EFOY FUEL CELLS, joining with it if the energy demand rises. Creating the powerful “EFOY Hybrid Power” with a self-sufficient energy supply for any outdoor adventure. The fuel cell uses the battery just as a buffer, with the actual energy stored in the M10 fuel cartridge. Depending on the demand, the fuel cell converts the fuel into electrical energy. The charging control of the two EFOY products is seamlessly synchronized, significantly extending their lifespan. The Battery Management System (BMS) communicates all battery parameters via the SFC Bus System to the fuel cell. This is how electricity is generated fully automatically, transforming 70 Ah into nearly 1,000 Ah with an M10 fuel cartridge. Power in all weathers EFOY FUEL CELLS produce power whatever the weather, unlike solar panels or wind generators. Even in bad weather, or during long periods of winter, power is always available. All their products are able to operate at temperatures down to -20 °C. They can also be combined with solar for even more options. Additional features such

as inbuilt frost protection and the EFOY Cloud capability ensure that EFOY FUEL CELLS stay well ahead of the game, with the widest possible appeal. Quality First At SFC, ensuring the highest quality standards is a key success factor for its innovative products. The company is ISO 9001 certified and all products are tested by TÜV Süd. The fuel cartridges are not just certified for road transport in RV’s but also for the highest standard of air transportation according to UN 3473. Highest quality standards are also crucial for the EFOY lithium batteries. With EN 62619, RC 10, CE and UN 38.3 certifications these requirements are met at the highest level. All products are developed in Germany and the fuel cells are still manufactured at their headquarters in Brunnthal, Munich. Efficient and environmentally friendly EFOY FUEL CELLS are based on DMFC (Direct Methanol Fuel Cell) technology. They convert chemical energy into electrical energy without interim stages and with relatively little loss of efficiency. The methanol in the fuel cartridge is supplemented by oxygen from the air,

EFOY Fuel cells EFOY 80

EFOY 150

EFOY Pro 2800

Max power

40W

75W

125W

Max charging capacity / day

80 Ah

150 Ah

250 Ah

Rated voltage

12V/24V

Weight

6.5kg

6.9kg

7.8kg

448 x 198 x 275

Dimensions L×W×H (mm)

5-year warranty

EFOY provides a 5-year warranty on lithium batteries as standard.

An EFOY self-sufficient fuel cell power solution

and is used to produce electricity. In addition to power, the only other products are waste heat and water vapour, with a small amount of carbon dioxide, making the whole process both efficient and environmentally friendly. Global leader Today SFC Energy is a leading provider of hydrogen and direct methanol fuel cells for stationary and mobile hybrid power solutions. The company is aiming for a revenue of more than €100m in 2023 for the first time in its history, and has been part of the selection index SDAX since 2022 at the Deutsche Boerse. Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO of SFC Energy: “We are proud to look back on 20 years of fuel cells in the leisure market. This is where our roots lie and in these two decades, SFC Energy has grown from a small start-up to a global leader in hydrogen and methanol fuel cells, which has sold more than 65,000 fuel cells, saving about 5,000 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).” Undoubtedly, the latest EFOY generation draws upon two decades of invaluable experience, positioning it as the ideal choice for reliable and self-sufficient caravanning, thus actively contributing to the energy transition in our industry.

EFOY lithium batteries EFOY Li 70

EFOY Li 105

Rated capacity

70 Ah

105 Ah

Rated voltage

12.8V

Weight

11.8kg

16.3kg

269 x 175 x 190

368 x 175 x 190

Dimensions L×W×H (mm)

EFOY FUEL CELLS are complemented by perfectly matched lithium batteries to provide a clean and silent off grid energy solution.

Company news THETFORD

Twusch insert set to transform RV washrooms The simplest ideas are often the best and so it is with Thetford’s new Twusch product. It’s a lightweight porcelain insert designed to sit inside the bowl of a Thetford toilet, instantly giving it the feel and performance of a household one. Words Terry Owen

Twusch at Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2024

wusch was originally developed by a German family-owned business. It offers a worldwide patented solution for RV owners who want the performance of a ceramic toilet. Thetford liked the product so much it bought the Twusch brand, patents and portfolio, closing the deal just days before the 2023 Dusseldorf show.

Dirk Valder, Head of Product Management at Thetford “With a Twusch inlay, the performance of the cassette toilet is pushed to a higher level. For every Thetford cassette toilet an inlay will be available. With very small effort a plastic Thetford toilet can be turned into a toilet with a more domestic feel.”

In partnership with

This kit makes fixing a piece of cake

Silicone mastic seals the rim The insert simply pops in place

Ideal for RV end users The simple and fast fitting process makes the Twusch the ideal upgrade for those wishing to take their washrooms to the next level. The good news is that Twusch inserts are also available for many older Thetford toilets, no longer in production. Model availability currently includes the C2/C3/C4, C200, C220, C250, C260, C400, C500, Bravura, Aqua Magic V, and Aqua Magic R. What’s more, end users can easily fit it themselves using readily available sanitary silicone sealing mastic. With an installed base of some six million plus units, that’s a huge potential market. It’s a truly great investment and improvement to any RV with a Thetford plastic toilet.

Number one for hygiene The insert is made of smooth, nano-sealed porcelain, making it more hygienic than plastic. It’s very easy to clean and can reduce water consumption. As you might expect, the Twusch is also scratch and stain resistant, antibacterial and detergent-resistant. This helps to keep it looking like new with every flush.

Lightweight The fact that Thetford Twusch is made of porcelain, might suggest that it will add a lot of extra weight to the RV. Dirk Valder: “With its strong, but thin walled, porcelain inlay, Twusch adds less than 800 grams weight to your cassette toilet, and reaches the same performance as a full ceramic bowl. It’s truly a great investment and upgrade to your RV toilet.”

Easy fit Sealing is currently by means of a hand applied silicone rubber mastic bead around the rim but in close cooperation with Thetford, both the fixation and the sealing of the inlay will be enhanced in the near future, supporting an even easier very easy and leakproof installation.

The Twusch is such a neat fit, it looks completely original

Availability Twusch inserts are currently available just to the aftermarket.

Company news ARVIKON

The comprehensive solution for RV control This year, at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Arvikon unveiled its second-generation Smart Caravaning™ control system. This innovation stems from the growing market demand for RVs with smarter integrations, enhanced functionality, remote accessibility, and simpler installations. In essence, Arvikon’s solution seeks to deliver an experience parallel to what users expect from mobile devices or primary car units. To demonstrate this, a dozen vehicles equipped with Arvikon’s advanced system graced the event

he landscape of RV technology is undergoing a dynamic and fast transformation. As time passes and users invest more in their recreational vehicles, their expectations are evolving in tandem. Increasingly, they benchmark the RV control experience against the intuitive interfaces of mobile devices, car control panels, and even smart home systems. Among the top demands are an integrated, singular display system for comprehensive vehicle control, remote access with support, heightened security for both the vehicle and its occupants, and smarter, more intuitive system operations. On the other hand, installers and bodybuilders also prioritize a solution that is straightforward to implement, requires no programming and is both robust and cost-effective. They also seek striking aesthetics to accentuate the design value of their vehicles, coupled with the ability to tailor the system to their unique brand identity.

In partnership with

Arvikon Smart Caravaning™: Revolutionizing RV Control Arvikon Smart Caravaning™ is a game-changer, presenting a comprehensive solution that aligns with contemporary RV user expectations. This system integrates the controls of nearly every conceivable RV device onto one consolidated display on the wall, or via mobile devices. Think of everything from heating, lighting, water and energy management, to features like kitchen appliances, elevated beds, surveillance systems, and alarms—all conveniently managed from one place. Specially designed hardware tailored for the RV sector distinguishes Arvikon’s products. Notable features include “plug & play” inputs/outputs, effortless customization, quick installation and the absence of any intricate programming. By simply connecting one of the 200 compatible devices—40 of which are digital through the now essential CIBUS standard protocol — it’s instantly ready for use through Arvikon’s intuitive interface. “We imagined an integrated system where a diverse range of equipment harmonizes together like a well-coordinated team. Arvikon ensures that each device adds value, far surpassing its standalone potential,” explains Hector Cedillo, co-founder. Intelligent automation offers smart scenarios, such as: a presence simulator, welcome mode, anti-frost protection, night-time settings and an eco-friendly mode to maximize natural resources. Pumps, cookers and refrigerators are just a few of the devices that see enhanced functionality, ensuring greater safety and efficiency. One of Arvikon Smart Caravaning™’s flagship features that its clients are particularly fond of is the transition from physical to electronic fuses. This shift guarantees superior protection, precision, robustness and a heightened user experience. The system’s graphical interface is impeccable. Available on 7, 10, or even 15-inch high-resolution multitouch displays, users access an unmatched realm of control and intelligence. Beyond primary controls, the system offers access to all PDF manuals, consumption history reviews and connectivity for multiple mobile devices. As explained by Christophe Pasquali, co-founder, “For installers, manufacturers and bodybuilders, Arvikon offers a spectrum of advantages. These range from sophisticated aesthetics and simplified installation processes to bolstered equipment protection and the possibility of extending remote support to clients.” At the recent Dusseldorf Caravan Salon, it became evident that Arvikon’s appeal

extends beyond traditional RVs like motorhomes, vans, caravans and overland vehicles. Interest spiked for all kind of related vehicles: horse trailers with living quarters, tiny houses, bus conversions, food trucks, ambulances, patrol vehicles, mobile workshops, mobile clinics, library vans, mobile showrooms, refrigerated vans, broadcast vans, mobile training units, pet grooming vans, mobile barbershops, beauty salons... and, of course, for marine… the possibilities are infinite. “For Arvikon,” concludes Christophe Pasquali “ensuring safety and security isn’t just a feature – it’s a commitment. Beyond the capability to remotely access the vehicle from anywhere globally, the system enriches peace of mind with its suite of integrated third-party security enhancements. These include, through third party products integrations, alarms, an SOS button, geo-fencing capabilities, sensors for doors and windows, surveillance cameras and a presence simulator mode. Additionally, thoughtful features like display protection can lock the diesel cooker, safeguarding children from potential risks”. Hector Cedillo adds: “Arvikon is equally dedicated to preserving the vehicle and its integral equipment. The system actively aids maintenance, alerts users about potential misuse, records past incidents for better issue understanding and facilitates remote assistance for swift troubleshooting. Expanding on its core principle of universality, Arvikon continuously endeavors to incorporate a broad spectrum of brands and devices. The company remains open and enthusiastic about collaborations, inviting recommendations and partnerships from brands and manufacturers alike”.

About Arvikon Arvikon, headquartered in Madrid, is a trailblazing company specializing in the design and manufacture of control systems for recreational vehicles. Established five years ago, Arvikon made its market debut just two years ago, and in this short span, it has rapidly expanded its footprint across Europe and beyond. With a keen focus on B2B services, Arvikon’s solutions are tailor-made for RV professionals — they’re outof-the-box compatible with 95% of vehicles in the market. For OEM manufacturers, Arvikon offers specialized services ranging from design, cabling and harnesses to advisory services and specific technical solutions and hardware. A proud member of the CIVD association, Arvikon champions the CIBUS protocol, which is now the benchmark standard for the RV sector in Europe. The company seamlessly integrates all CIBUS devices, collaborating closely with brand partners and manufacturers. Furthermore, Arvikon’s solutions are certified under the R10 automotive legislation, ensuring they meet the exacting standards set for vehicle bodybuilders.

Hector Cedillo and Christophe Pasquali

R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

The 2023 Elkhart RV Dealer Open House Returns RV manufacturers and suppliers welcomed back thousands of dealer representatives and industry partners in Elkhart County for the largest RV trade show of the year in the U.S. The event was held from September 25 to 27 and Aboutcamp BtoB met with industry leaders over three days to report about the latest RV models, products and concepts for 2024

Words and photos: Antonio Mazzucchelli and Steve Fennell

he annual Elkhart RV Dealer Open House, the only RV trade show of its kind in the United States is where dealers from North America and parts of Europe secure model-year inventory and observe the latest products and new market trends. This was the second consecutive Elkhart RV Dealer Open House since the interruption of COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021. The event brought together more than 30 of the top RV manufacturers and 130-plus suppliers to meet dealer demand for 2024. The event, founded by Thor Industries and Forest River Inc., was devised to provide a space where manufacturers could introduce all their brands to dealers and

suppliers in a “closer-to-home staging area.” It was a natural progression given approximately 80 percent of global RV production is in Elkhart County. Several additional industry players such as Winnebago Industries, The REV Recreation Group, The Rapido Group, and Gulf Stream Coach, to name only a few, are also very much essential to the show’s success. All continue to attend with strong presences every September. The open house has long been an inviting, industry-only trade event. It’s a clear departure from being hosted in traditional exhibition halls and one specific location. Various outdoor areas and company headquarters throughout Elkhart County provide a comfortable

atmosphere where manufacturers can meet with their dealer base, suppliers and industry partners. “The open house is the Super Bowl of RV shows,” says Donald Clark, President of Grand Design RV, a manufacturer of travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers. ”Elkhart County is where all of the RV dealers converge to see all the new and existing brands.” While Forest River Inc. presented its new model lines among its expansive grounds in Elkhart, Thor Industries occupied a number of acres at the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum. Regardless of the location and manufacturer, many erected exhibition tents to manage unexpected weather, offer food and bev-

erages and provide an area to discuss present and future orders. Suppliers such as Lippert showcased an expansive display of its latest product innovations at its headquarters for visiting dealers throughout the week. Additionally, this year marked the third annual RV Hall of Fame Supplier Show. It was staged in an exhibit hall at the RV/ MH Hall of Fame and Museum, which attracted aftermarket manufacturers, distributors and vendors from every segment of the wholesale RV industry. New Models and Innovations With an apparent lower dealer presence than in previous years - reportedly as a result of a slowing US economy, unfavourable interest rates, and oversupply of dealer inventory - the economic landscape partially mirrored RV trends and a future outlook. However, RV manufac-

turers did present innovative designs to look forward to in 2024, which will undoubtedly continue into the following model year. Several RV brands across all segments introduced new functional living spaces, enhanced handling and driving features, optimal autonomy with remote connectivity and contemporary exterior styling. All reflect the popular trends, changing demographics and new RV buyers that were first recognized at the height of COVID-19. As the 2023 open house drew to a close, Aboutcamp BtoB visited with a number of the most successful manufacturers and suppliers across Elkhart County, speaking with numerous representatives and senior executives. Over the following pages, we report on the latest RV trends, concepts and designs to provide an outlook on what to expect for 2024.

Below: An aerial view of the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum during the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House. Photo Tom Grancey

R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

A brighter future RV shipments continue to decline and 2023 will end with major losses, but analysts expect a significant recovery in 2024

recent report from the RV Industry Association (RVIA) presents a contrasting scenario for the RV market. The October 2023 report indicates a downturn, with shipments falling by 13.1% compared to October 2022. Despite this decline, future projections are optimistic. The “RV RoadSigns Quarterly Forecast” predicts a recovery in 2024, with an expected 22-24% increase in shipments. This optimism is underpinned by strong consumer interest in RVing as a travel option, suggesting that the current market slump is seen as a temporary setback rather than a long-term trend.

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October Shipment Report The RVIA report also entailed a detailed analysis of the RV market’s current status. In October 2023, total RV shipments reached 28,371 units, marking a 13.1% decrease from the 32,652 units shipped in October 2022. This downturn continues a trend, as year-to-date RV shipments are down by 40.6%, totaling 266,492 units.

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Craig Kirby, President & CEO of the RVIA, highlighted a significant increase in RV travel intentions during the holiday season, noting a 30% rise compared to the previous year, with 20 million Americans planning to go RVing between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. This uptick in holiday RV travel intention is attributed to the sustained and increased usage of RVs, especially by those who have recently adopted the RV lifestyle.

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The Forecast The RVIA’s quarterly forecast report anticipates a significant rebound in RV shipments for 2024. According to the Fall 2023 issue, prepared by ITR Economics, RV wholesale shipments are expected to exceed 350,000 units while the projected range is between 363,700 and 375,700 units, with a median of 369,700. This represents a 22-24% increase over the projected 2023 year-end figures, that are estimated to be between 287,200 and 307,000 units, with a median forecast of 297,100 units.

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The report further breaks down the figures into specific categories of RVs. Towable RVs, primarily conventional travel trailers, saw a decrease of 9.2% in shipments compared to the previous October, totaling 24,825 units. Motorhomes experienced a more significant drop, which were down 33.4% with 3,546 units shipped. Park models also saw a decline, with a 15.0% decrease in shipments compared to the same period last year, resulting in 431 wholesale shipments.

THOR introduces EV chassis; enhances next-level customer service The THOR Global Innovation Team, a department within THOR Industries, recently announced many new initiatives and internal projects to advance its work on electric Recreation Vehicles (eRVs) and provide improved customer experiences to differentiate the products and services offered by the THOR family of companies. We spoke about these initiatives with McKay Featherstone, Senior Vice President of Global Innovation Thor Industries

he Global Innovation Team works with the THOR family of companies, outside partners and RV industry suppliers to identify and develop innovations that enhance the RV experience. The team also increases the sustainability of RVing from the factory to the campsite. Some key focus areas include creating points of differentiation for the THOR family of companies’ products, meeting the expectations of future RV owners, and supporting production processes at its facilities across the US and Europe. New developments in eRVs Following the launch of two eRV concept vehicles (an EV B+ motorhome and travel trailer) in early 2022, THOR Industries partnered with California-based Harbinger Motors to accelerate the extension of eRV technology into Class A and Class C RVs. THOR was drawn to Harbinger by the start-up’s innovative, clean sheet, medium-duty electric chassis design. The Harbinger chassis’ innovative features include easily swappable battery modules, which are housed within the side, top and bottom rails and easily accessible for service. Another design feature is its compact motor and gearbox that provides a potential pure-EV platform for THOR’s operating companies to inform the design of the next-generation Class A and Class C eRVs. Similar to motorized European RVs, the Harbinger chassis is positioned low to the ground for optimal aerodynamics to offer more range and comfortable han-

dling. This feature, combined with drive-by-wire steering, creates a better driving experience and more cab design flexibility. New developments in connected vehicles and customer experience In early 2023, THOR Industries became the first RV OEM to partner with SpaceX. The partnership entailed the application of the innovative Starlink® satellite connectivity at the factory in select vehicles among THOR’s North American operating companies. More convenient RV operation is now available after the company debuted Apple® CarPlay®integration. The system displays vital system information on the tow vehicle or motorhome’s infotainment screen, leveraging the company’s global connected vehicle platform. The information from those apps is easily accessible through CarPlay-enabled motorhomes and tow vehicles, making it easier to monitor important RV functions such as tire pressure, tank levels, battery status and more during travel. The integration was announced at the Elkhart Open House and will launch this year with select Airstream vehicles and will roll out globally in 2024. There are also plans to extend this functionally to the Android AutoTM ecosystem. “Consumers will be able to access our brands’ Connected Vehicle apps through CarPlay seamlessly, just like

The Harbinger medium-duty electric chassis

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other apps on their phone,’’ McKay Featherstone, Senior Vice President of Global Innovation told Aboutcamp BtoB. “It eliminates the need to view your phone while driving and eliminates the need for a third-party screen. It’s another example of innovation to improve the owner experience.” Further efforts to improve the RV ownership experience include innovations in improved customer support resources for its operating companies. To this end, THOR has established an approach to create vehicle-specific resources and digital systems for owners and agents to make the operation of an RV easier and resolve issues faster. “A competitive advantage to THOR is our scale,” says Featherstone. “We’re able to leverage the successful rollout of the global-connected vehicle platform in Europe and build on this success for customers in North America, while also continuing to enhance in-app and in-vehicle system benefits for our family of companies globally.” Should the RV owner require more information, live chat can be enabled in the app to connect with customer support. With access to specific details about the consumer’s model and the support history, the agent will have ready access to a summary of the owner’s previous and open cases, the make/ model of their RV, and a history of other vehicles they’ve owned. As a result, questions can be addressed more efficiently and promptly. “We are working to empower our customer support agents to make it easier to have high-value human interactions with our owners so when customers contact our companies, agents have all the information and content they need,” says Featherstone. “Our brands are excited about this and we’re continuing to invest in these digital platforms.”

Report 2023 Elkhart RV Open House A Airstream Pottery Barn Special Edition Travel Trailer

irstream, an operating company of Thor Industries, is well-known for its iconic lineup of travel trailers. Following the announcement of its collaboration with The Pottery Barn home furnishing retail chain, Airstream introduced a special edition trailer with a bright, spacious interior and chic Pottery Barn accents. Based on the 28 International, its dual axle design serves as a platform for an interior with a sleeping capacity of up to five, spacious, plush living areas, modern appliances, and a variety of outdoor accessories that appeal to stylish-minded consumers. The Pottery Barn Special Edition Travel Trailer is currently available to dealers for 2024.

Watch the full presentation

C Crossroads RV Hampton

opeka, IN-based Crossroads RV began operations in 1996 and has since established a national distribution base. The Hampton is a contemporary destination trailer consisting of nine floorplans with a maximum length of 42 ft 11 in and can sleep up to seven. The newest edition is the HP390FVL, the fourth model to feature a loft in addition to tasteful, modern appointments, fixtures and systems, which are found across this model line. Structural integrity comes in the form of several components like the ⅝” floor decking, ⅜” roof decking, enclosed underbelly and one-piece, seamless roof. All are supported with a 3-year Limited Structural Warranty.

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C Coachmen RV EURO 25EU

oachmen RV manufacturers many of the industry classes and dealers had a first look at the pre-production EURO 25EU. This 27ft coach has an all-new euro design and represents a departure from its previous 2024 class A models. The 7.3L Ford V8 engine allows heavy loads, which in turn has an impressive 8,000-pound towing capacity. Its interior is well-appointed with comfortable living spaces and tastefully appointed decor and cabinetry. Combined with its streamlined, low profile, the 25EU is designed to offer simplified handling and function of a B-van or class C motorhome.

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D Dynamax Isata 5 Series - Extreme Package

he Dynamax Isata 5 series was represented at the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House with a prototype Extreme Package following dealer requests to further meet off-road applications. Upgrades include a lifted chassis, Four-Point LiquidSpring Smart Suspension, 41” tires and an upgraded, off-road-style front bumper with LED lighting. It’s based on a 4WD Ram 5500 SLT Chassis with a Cummins 6.7L I6 Turbo Diesel Engine. An optional dealer Xplorer Package is also available for 2024. It adds four lithium house batteries (400aH total), a 950W solar package, thermostatically-controlled auxiliary backup heat and enhanced Insulation in the walls, floor and roof.

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R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

Innovation counts North American dealers had a first look at Grand Design RV’s new travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers. President, Donald J. Clark, discusses the models, market share and what continually drives the company forward

rand Design is one of the newest players in the US RV industry, having been established approximately 10 years ago. For 2024, the company continues to produce contemporary and cutting edge trailer designs for its dealers and consumers. Aboutcamp BtoB: What are the most successful models in Grand Design’s series of travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers? Donald J. Clark: What we’re very proud of is the Grand Design Imagine travel trailer, which is the top-selling laminated travel trailer in the industry. For 2024, Grand Design introduced an entry-level Transcend travel trailer that we believe will be another very strong seller. We are also the manufacturer of the number-one-selling toy hauler/travel trailer called the Momentum. So, these are just three models that attack these major segments of the market. Aboutcamp BtoB: With those successes, who is Grand Design’s target market and what other models best serve dealers and consumers? Donald J. Clark: It depends on the model. Our Solitude fifth wheel is targeted at RVers who may want to spend the winter down south. It’s the number two seller in its class of luxury fifth wheels, which is a major segment in the industry right now. Our Reflection fifth wheel is also very popular. We consider it a volume-oriented product and is a major profit centre for our dealers.

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Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you think has changed in the Grand Design models over the last 10 years that have contributed to this success? Donald J. Clark: We

have been in business for a little more than 10 years and are doing very well. What has changed for Grand Design in that time is the advancement in technology, diagnostics and the service side of the RV business. We have since embraced technology to offer our customers several conveniences in many of our models such as one-touch systems for levelling, awnings and slides, making them easily camp-ready. As a company, we now have a full breadth of products where a dealer doesn’t require any other brand on their lot as Grand Design covers all the major segments. We are not a small boutique-style manufacturer. We only want to major in the majors and target 95 percent of the customer demand for our dealers. That’s what we specialize in. Aboutcamp BtoB: A lot of manufacturers are adjusting their product lineup for 2024 given the slowing market. How has the current economy affected Grand Design and how are you reacting to it? Donald J. Clark: It has made us stronger. When the economy has been strong for 12 years, a pace is established to deliver a dealer’s product in a timely fashion. This allowed us an opportunity to take a step back. At a time when some brands are waiting until the economy bounces back, we increased our investments in new product and innovation. At this event alone, Grand Design has introduced two new subset brands and 21 new floor plans. We’re bringing exciting new products to our dealers so they can show them to the retail consumers and keep even more people in the Grand Design family. The Elkhart RV Dealer Open House is where we take this oppor-

tunity to show our new products and innovations. Aboutcamp BtoB: What additional incentives has Grand Design implemented to further strengthen its model lines for 2024? Donald J. Clark: We’ve increased the breadth of our products as we want to hit the segments that we wanted to when we first founded the company. We’ve broadened the reach of the Grand Design brand by introducing lower-price segment products to attract price-conscious consumers into the Grand Design family and then have them stay in our family as their needs progress.

E East to West RV Tala

Forest River Inc. brand, East to West RV’s new Tala class C joins its existing motorized division that includes the Entrada and Entrada M-Class. Based on an AWD Ford Transit chassis, the Tala was designed with a number of features yet with few options for 2024 to better streamline supply and optimize dealer orders. Quality, however, has not been compromised. Frameless windows with integrated day/night shades, two-inch walls with Azdel composite backing and an over-cab bunk that’s unique to the Ford Transit AWD chassis are just a few quality standards.

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G Grand Design Influence

rand Design has been manufacturing towables for just ten years and within that time, its travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers rank as some of the top sellers in the North American RV industry. For 2024, the company introduced three new models, the Serenova travel trailer as well as the Reflection 100 Series and Influence fifth wheels. The 3803GK and the 4003 BH Influences have lengths of 38ft 3in and 40ft 4in, respectively. With an MSRP priced between the Reflection and the top-of-theline Solitude, the Influence will be an attractive model for its dealers and their consumers.

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Report 2023 Elkhart RV Open House H Heartland RV Corterra

eartland RV manufactures more than 20 RV lines combined across its fifth wheel, travel trailer and toy haulers segments. The Corterra fifth wheel is new for 2024 with three floorplans. The company explains its fifth wheels incorporate powder-coated structural I-beam frames and a series of fullheight cross members for added lateral support and a solid floor foundation. Inside, the Corterra has many selling features including a fully-equipped galley and residential furniture. It’s also one of the select models in the brand to feature a new exclusive TRIO Airflow AC unit, which can offer up to 40 percent more airflow for optimal cooling efficiency.

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H Holiday Rambler Invicta 36Y

he new Invicta 36Y from Holiday Rambler is a family-inspired coach with space maximized to include what the company calls a Kid’s Cave, a designated part of the interior at the rear of the unit for children and guests alike. The area includes a convertible jackknife sofa, games centre, bunk with storage, an LED TV, and a two-piece bath. It also serves as a second bedroom. The 36Y is also complemented by a spacious living area with an L-shape dinette and a well-appointed galley. Outdoor features on the 36Y include a large LED TV and an exterior kitchenette with a refrigerator and pull-out griddle.

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Jayco Eagle Fifthwheel 360DBOK

ayco has been a Thor Industries brand since 2016 and recognized numerous times for its innovative trailer designs. One of the models the company presented to dealers at the 2023 Elkhart RV Dealer Open House was its new 360DBOK floorplan in the Eagle Fifthwheel series, bringing the total number of units to 12. The core of the 43ft 360DBOK is its open layout and four-slide design, which supports a king bed, an island kitchen, and free-standing and theatre seating. A variety of optional packages upgrade the 360DBOK with solar power while dry camping and extreme weather packages are also available.

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L Lance Camper 2255

ounded in 1965 and one of the few RV manufacturers headquartered on the U.S. West Coast, Lance Camper had on display six new models. The new 2255 is all about exterior and interior quality. Dual Azdel composite walls, a formed fibreglass front cap, and Truma water heating and A/C systems are a few of the exterior features. Combined with a spacious living area with modern appliances, premium leather upholstery, and a full-width rear bathroom featuring a full stand-up shower, the 2255 will serve the North American travel trailer market well.

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R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

Newmar’s staying power With a new and existing line of class A coaches and forward-thinking methodologies, the company continues to grow and remains one of the leading luxury RV brands. We talked with Casey Tubman, President Newmar Corporation, Winnebago Group

asey Tubman and Newmar Corp. possess forward-thinking concepts with a strong internal focus on company initiatives to move well ahead into the new model year. Aboutcamp BtoB: What is the most innovative product in your portfolio of Class A models right now? Casey Tubman: What we have introduced that’s very innovative for 2024 is a 38’ floor plan within our Mountain Aire brand. It has a Spartan K3 Tag (dual) axle chassis and 525 hp Cummins diesel with Comfort Drive adaptive steering and Passive Steer technology as standard. So, what the Mountain Aire offers is a very high towing capacity, a

very high weight rating and luxury appointments for maximum function and comfort in a 38-foot coach that steers like a sports car. Based on its design, the Mountain Aire is easy to maneuver in areas like state and national parks. It received a lot of attention at this year’s Elkhart RV Dealer Open House and we are very excited about it. Aboutcamp BtoB: Newmar was acquired by Winnebago Industries in 2019. What changes has the brand experienced in the last few years since the acquisition? Casey Tubman: Winnebago has six different business units and all are independently operated including Newmar. What we are starting to see are new synergies within the enterprise around the supply chain and other spaces where best practices can be shared. Newmar has a supply chain team but we now have support from an enterprise group - other business units what I like to call sister companies. So, if a sister company has something that’s working and is beneficial, we have access to those resources and processes. The main point is that we are better together as an enterprise than any standalone business. Aboutcamp BtoB: Can you provide additional examples of the synergies that have been created? Casey Tubman: What’s important to us as a manufacturer is maintaining work safety for our employees. We have reduced the number of safety instances by 50 percent in the last couple of years. Again, that’s a space at the enterprise level where Winnebago Industries helps us understand operational updates that we can do, changes that we can make, and how we can

leverage our efforts to help our employees remain safe in the workplace. Aboutcamp BtoB: Is the slowdown of the market affecting Newmar similar to other RV brands? Casey Tubman: Newmar is certainly not exempt from the slowdown. We may not feel it as much as other brands, though. Our buyer is a luxury buyer and while interest rates for consumers may affect sales, Newmar is in a good position market-share-wise and we have adjusted our output to match our sales. The company continues to grow as one of the top diesel class A manufacturers and we feel good about that. We also know the slowdown is short-term. By that, I mean it may continue for a year to a year-and-a-half but Newmar is prepared for this. We know during COVID-19 that consumers learned that the outdoors is relaxing and stress-relieving. It’s a pastime they will continue to enjoy. So, the number of people experiencing RVing has grown and we’ll see that growth happening over time. Aboutcamp BtoB: In your opinion, has the supply chain crisis come to an end and what do you think the industry learned after COVID-19? Casey Tubman: From a supply chain standpoint, yes, the industry is in much better shape. For us at least, we learned about the importance of being cognizant of inventories in the field, further recognizing demand fluctuations, the changes in macroeconomics, and looking ahead to the future versus just today. Now, as we assess our supply chain, we look for dual-sourcing opportunities to ensure we always have Watch the an industry partner full interview we can turn to. Also, if overall demand starts to slow, we need to react quickly. Those are some of the learnings we have realized.

N Newmar London Aire 4551

he 2024 London Aire is just one of four available class A’s in the brand’s Luxury Series. The London Aire 4551 Aboutcamp BtoB walked-through is built on a Spartan K3 Tag Axle chassis producing 605 horsepower and 1,950 lb./ ft. of torque. The 4551 has a three-slide design that supports a king bed, two living spaces, and a well-appointed galley featuring new tiled backsplashes. Additional new features for 2024 include four interior decor options with porcelain flooring and maple hardwood cabinetry while the exterior sees new front/rear caps and an available lithium-ion battery system.

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P Palomino RV Pause

he 2024 Palomino Pause is off-road-ready and offers another solution for dealers to reach the outdoor adventure market. The series consists of four floorplans with lengths of a little more than 25ft, GVWRs over 9,000 lbs. and ground clearances of 25 in. The featured aftermarket MorRyde Independent Air Ride suspension with Bilstein Shocks offers an additional 12 in of road travel while huck bolted aluminum frame reduces vibration. An appealing addition to the Pause is the Garmin ONE (Operation, Navigation, Entertainment) power system to simplify the control of lighting, temperature, power, and navigation systems via a Vieo RV infotainment system.

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R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

On the cutting edge of RV developments Mike Lanciotti, President of the REV Recreation Segment, talks to Aboutcamp BtoB regarding the manufacturer’s successful brands and moving into the 2024 RV buying season

ike Lanciotti and his team understand RV trends. The company offers a range of new concepts across its classes to meet current demand for its dealers and consumers.

units at a lower cost while contenting more affordable items in the coaches. That is the concept that seems to work right now for most models and what is most appealing to the retail buyer.

Aboutcamp BtoB: The Elkhart Dealer Open House is considered by RV manufacturers and dealers to be the most anticipated industry trade show of the year. How did you feel about the 2023 event and the reception from dealers and suppliers? Mike Lanciotti: We received a good turnout of suppliers and dealers. Even though Monday started a little slow, more of our dealers arrived and we had a lot of positive activity and interest throughout the week.

Aboutcamp BtoB: The REV group is very active in the EV market among many of its commercial segments. Are there plans to introduce EV technology in the REV Recreation brands? Mike Lanciotti: At this point, the answer would be no. Right now, we’re debugging EV technology and determining what works well and what doesn’t. Then, we’ll see what we can do. Due to the various sizes of our units such as the Renegade RV XL, it would take a lot of EV pow-

Aboutcamp BtoB: What percentage of the RV segment is the business of the REV Recreation Group? What is the most successful brand? Mike Lanciotti: The REV Group’s RV segment accounts for approximately a third of sales of the REV group. Among all the brands, Renegade RV is - at the time - the most successful. It continues to operate at a high, consistent level with very high-quality products and margins. Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you feel are some of the reasons for these successes? Mike Lanciotti: Some of the successes pertain to the stronger class C segment, which right now is one of the leading classes in the industry. The Class B segment is also very strong. Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you feel are the new buying trends among consumers as we head into the 2024 buying season? Mike Lanciotti: I think the trend right now is certainly offering lighter-weight

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er to run and function without having to recharge. Plus, most of our customers who own these larger units drive three to four hours at a time. With EV technology you would need to charge it for a considerable amount of time. There are a lot of reasons why we aren’t fully exploring EV technology in our recreational segment. What’s interesting, though, is we have fully utilized the benefits of lithium batteries for powering the interior systems and to be in the spirit of the green, we offer diesel generators and natural gas generators as additional clean power sources.

R Renegade RV XL 45BBC

enegade RV is the most successful brand in REV Recreation Group’s portfolio of RVs and the XL Super C is considered the flagship in the series. Aboutcamp BtoB walked through the 45BBC that’s built on a Freightliner Cascadia 126 Tandem Axle chassis with a DD16 engine producing 600 hp and 1850 ft. lb. of torque. Some of the top-selling appointments both dealers and its consumers will find appealing across the model line include richly-appointed rear master bedrooms, dual baths, porcelain flooring, hardwood cabinetry, and Cambria Quartz Countertops throughout.

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T Thor Motor Coach Palazzo GT

he Palazzo GT was just one of the models from the company that interested dealers for its affordability without making concessions to quality and function. The Palazzo GT has four floorplans ranging from 34ft 11 in to 38ft 11in, allowing dealers to meet specific consumer preferences within the same series. All floorplans are based on a Freightliner chassis with a choice of either a 300 or 340 hp ISB 6.7L diesel engine. Three slide configurations in addition to a variety of standards, decor packages, and popular options are additional key selling points.

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R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

Building on an iconic brand Rapido Group’s Roadtrek Inc. launched the longawaited pre-production Westfalia. Nicolas Rousseau, CEO of the Rapido Group, explains its new concepts, designs and appeal for North American and European dealers

he Rapido Group’s RV brands are some of the most recognized on a global level. Nicolas Rousseau spoke to us about the current developments in 2024. Aboutcamp BtoB: The Rapido Group has been making excellent inroads after acquiring Roadtrek. The company just announced the fantastic news that Westfalia has been relaunched in North America and Europe. Can you tell us about some of the concepts and reasons behind that decision? Nicolas Rousseau: This class of RV is very popular in Europe, the U.S. and Canada and the Westfalia brand is known in North America as thousands of units have been sold since the 1960s. So, it just makes sense to relaunch the brand in the B-van market through Roadtrek operations. Aboutcamp BtoB: How is Roadtrek adjusting to the current U.S. economy and the slowdown in the RV industry? Nicolas Rousseau: We have seen sales slow as well. Production has stalled slightly but we are currently designing some new additional innovative products to promote and trigger sales. Aboutcamp BtoB: Who is the consumer you are targeting for the relaunched Westfalia brand? Nicolas Rousseau: After meeting with our dealers, we learned that the vehicle is used much differently in North America than in Europe. For example, in Europe, people sleep and shower in the vehicle and use it for their vacation for one or two weeks. In the

United States, it’s also used as a secondary vehicle for outdoor events, taking kids to sports activities as well as camping. So, there are dual usages, but it’s a vehicle that people can use at a remote destination and have full autonomy with lithium batteries and a variety of features. Of course, it will be designed and adapted for both the North American and European markets. Aboutcamp BtoB: Were you happy with the results of this year’s Elkhart RV Open House? Nicolas Rousseau: We had a lot of dealers visiting our booth and many were interested in Westfalia. So, we collected requests and started establishing a dealer network as we begin production January 24. Watch the full interview

T Tiffin Phaeton 37 BH

he Phaeton 37 BH from Tiffin is one of the company’s most popular diesel coaches. At 38.2ft, its interior has been optimized to include a bath-and-a-half design that is commonly found in coaches with larger floorplans. The Cummins L9 450 hp engine is now standard for all 2024 Phaeton class A’s and is built on a raised rail chassis, which eliminates previous interior steps to the bath. The 37BH can accommodate a new power front bunk and/or stacked washer/dryer without compromising existing living space and there’s a choice of new cabinetry, upholstery fabrics, and decor packages.

Watch the full presentation

W Westfalia

oadtrek Inc. presented the pre-production Westfalia to dealers following the announcement of the vehicle’s return to the North American RV industry earlier this year. Manufactured at Roadtrek’s headquarters in Ontario, Canada, the 2024 floorplan offers a classic, simplified yet modern approach to sleeping space, storage, and optimal function. A significant feature is a foldable seat/bench, which transforms into a bed. Combined with the pop-top, there’s a sleeping capacity of six or four without the roof-bed. Consider the Euro-styling, accent lighting and variety of appointments, and the new brand will provide plenty of comfort to fully live today’s van lifestyle.

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R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

Meeting new RV trends Winnebago prides itself on product development, dealer service, and staying ahead of the curve. Huw Bower, President of Winnebago Outdoors, details the company’s focus to meet the ever-changing landscape of the North American RV Industry

innebago is synonymous with RVs among consumers. At the industry level, the company is known for its new innovations with a strong focus on connectivity and meeting new challenges. Aboutcamp BtoB: What are your top priorities for product innovation in the next one or two years? Huw Bower: We have a few focus areas. On the towable side of our business, we are looking at light-weighting our designs while improving fit, finish, and quality across our whole product lineup. We are also innovating price points by creating a feature-benefit specification at a lower price and em-

bracing that with our new Access travel trailer line. Our focus is to offer a price point with lots of value so consumers can get into the Winnebago brand at a lower cost than they have ever seen from the company. On the motorhome side, product innovation starts with, for us, the core product features and floor plan innovations. We see that in terms of the new Ekko Class C on a Sprinter chassis. The extended length provided us with opportunities to increase functionality. Our focus also extends to connected solutions with our Winnebago Connect system we launched on the View and Navion Class C’s. It’s an exciting step forward and how people can experience our product, both physically and digitally. Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you think are the biggest trends in the RV market right now and in the next one or two years? Huw Bower: The class B market in the US has grown rapidly in recent years. Consumers are looking for an off-road lifestyle and boondocking experience, which are important trends for us. Our response is new lithium systems we’re bringing to the marketplace as well as partnerships with EcoFlow and the acquisition of Lithionics by Winnebago Industries. This will help us create durable, reliable, and effective power solutions for all of our vehicles. Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you think are some of the biggest challenges of meeting consumer expectations? Huw Bower: We’re renowned for the quality of our product, parts availability and service that we provide to dealers, and ultimately to consumers. The challenge

for the industry is consumers expect quality levels that exceed the typical bar of the RV industry. So, constantly aspiring to improve the fit, finish, quality, and reliability of our products is key for long-term growth. Aboutcamp BtoB: The ERV2 was a significant launch in the industry. What can you tell us about product developments? Huw Bower: The ERV2 started as a concept vehicle. We then developed a prototype and put it into “the wild” with hundreds of consumers testing the model for three to four months. We took a lot of refinements from the fit-and-finish layout and the integration of the Winnebago Connect system and evolved from that feedback. This is not a normal step in product development but it has been very beneficial. It has some intriguing features, and we’re proud to be creating an electric RV prototype. Aboutcamp BtoB: The platform is certainly interesting and a step up in the camper van segment. What is your forecast for 2024 and beyond for that market? Huw Bower: The camper van has had a strong growth trajectory in the last few years and has even eclipsed class A models. We think it’s an attractive place to be. There’s a lot of competitors in that space now but it’ll keep a healthy dynamic and competitive edge in that space. As that market keeps innovating around that lifestyle, I think it’s going to be a catalyst for continued growth and play an important role in the RV industry.

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W Winnebago Solis Pocket 36B

innebago launched a variety of new models including its Solis Pocket class B. By incorporating a wet bath at the rear of the coach, which serves as a lavatory and utility needs, designers were provided ample space to incorporate a multi-functional dinette/lounge, offering more functional B-van living. The 36B also introduced the Winnebago xEcoFlow Power Kit Pro as an option. The new system comes following a partnership with EcoFlow last May and is an advanced 5-in-1 lithium-ion-based power management controller, which combines five components in one hub to simplify powering systems.

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ACCESSORIES

D Dexter Axle Company

subsidiary of DexKo Global Inc., The Dexter Group operates 20 manufacturing facilities and has more than 3,800 employees in North America with 50-plus company-owned distribution centres, providing supply chain, pricing, delivery and service for several markets. Headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, The Dexter Axle Company is a premiere supplier of trailer parts, towing

Bryan Bergin

components and various accessories as well as a complete line of doors, venting products, and range cover solutions for the RV Industry. The company had a number of products on display at this year’s RV Hall of Fame Supplier’s Show. Its 12V-powered and non-powered Vetadomes are available with clear or tinted covers, the company’s E-Z Lift design to raise and lower the

vent to maximize different heights, and have an upgraded weather seal. The company also introduced a new line of one-piece, stamped 12V range hood covers. They come in ducted or non-ducted units and house a fan, light and removable filter. A full line of vents are available that pair with the hoods. Also on display was the 5000 Series of RV doors. Incorporating galvanneal steel, an extruded aluminum frame, and a frameless 12” x 22” window, all doors in the 5000 Series have a continuous hinge running the full length of the door for optimal strength and come with a standard travel trailer or optional motorized lock. Matching screen doors are available and feature a slider and optional handle.

Watch the video

R eport 2023 Elkhart RV Open House

Supplier’s show set to return in 2024 The Recreational Vehicle/Manufactured Home (RV/MH) Hall of Fame and Museum in Elkhart, Indiana, announced the completion of the exterior of its new 36,000 sq ft exhibition hall at the Northern Indiana Event Center

he facility is once again set to stage the annual trade-only Hall of Fame Supplier’s Show during the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House in September 2024. According to the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum, plans are currently underway to complete the interior while the existing 18,000 sq ft Ingram Hall will once again offer space with outdoor and special locations across its grounds available upon request. The facility now has a combined capacity to accommodate 300-plus exhibitors. In its fourth year, the event draws aftermarket manufacturers, distributors and vendors from every segment of the North American wholesale RV industry. The 2024 open house is tentatively scheduled for September 23 to 25 and early pre-registration is currently available for the supplier’s show. Established by the RV/MH Heritage Foundation in 1972, The RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum preserves, recognizes and commemorates the significance of the US RV and manufactured home industries. Spanning 100,000 sq ft, the facility and museum have become a

fixture in the region. Its number of exhibition halls, a pavilion, an 80-seat theatre, and conference/meeting spaces host trade, private and special events throughout the year. Every August, The RV/MH Hall of Fame recognizes company leaders, dealers, and association members of the RV and manufactured home industries for their commitment, contributions, and accomplishments. The inductees are announced at the annual Hall of Fame dinner/ceremony where ten industry members are honoured. To date, more than 450 members across both segments have been recognized. “We have had as many as 78 potential inductees in one year as there are a lot of key people and pioneers in the RV and manufactured home industries,” says Darryl Searer, President of the RV/ MH Hall of Fame. “Designated committees in each segment narrows the list down to five in each industry and the Hall of Fame Induction Dinner is held on the third Monday of August.” Potential RV/MH Hall of Fame members are required to serve the industry for a

minimum of 25 years and be sponsored by an industry member with three submitted support letters from colleagues, friends or family. A designated Hall of Fame Committee then determines the legitimacy and the candidates are considered for the following year’s class. One of the major public draws throughout the year is the RV/MH Hall of Fame Museum, which recognizes the past and present developments of the RV and manufactured housing industries. Self-guided public tours lead through exclusive exhibits and displays. They range from vintage units and vehicles in the early 1900s (including the oldest known trailer from 1913) and classic Winnebagos and Airstreams to models that evolved through the 1980s. Other areas include The Go RVing Hall, which exhibits contemporary campers, while the Exhibitor Hall recognizes the history of several parts manufacturers and service providers from both industries. Manufactured housing displays that present period homes, select vintage automobiles and a library with more than 25,000 consumer and trade publications/periodicals are other highlights of the tour. For more information about the facility and updates about the 2024 RV/MH Hall of Fame Supplier’s Show visit: www.rvmhhalloffame.org

Watch the video of Darryl Searer at the RV/MH Hall of Fame

D Dometic: new mobile power solutions

ometic Corp. is one of the leaders in equipment for the RV and outdoor recreation industry with operations in approximately 100 countries and a global distribution and dealer network. The Swedish company had a strong presence at the 2023 open house and showcased a series of innovative products that will be available in Spring 2024. Following the acquisition of several companies in the outdoor power solutions market in North America, Germany, and Italy in the mobile power space, Dometic presented its Go Power! PowerBoard™, a

pre-built, pre-wired power system with minimal connection points, allowing an “out of the box” installation for OEMs. The goal is to reduce installation time while simplifying the process on the factory floor. The PowerBoard™ consists of the primary components an OEM requires to provide an off-grid Mobile Power System. These include an inverter/charger, solar controller(s), a DC power distribution center, interconnects, and circuit protection. Each unit is fully assembled and tested prior to delivery, offering manufacturers an easy mobile power system addition to their models. The components that comprise the PowerBoard™ are completely connected and can integrate into existing multiplexing systems. The PowerBoard™ provides a complete solution to run various RV comfort systems, inBrent Clark cluding Dometic’s new

low-profile FreshJet Rooftop A/C units. For 2024, the company presented its 48V FreshJet A/C. Available in ducted or non-ducted units featuring a heat pump and an exterior LED lighting strip, the unit is rated at 3,000 watts of cooling power or 10,000 BTU output. Pairing the 48V A/C with a DC-to-DC step-up converter allows the 12V system to power the A/C more efficiently. A new 12V 6,000 BTU Dometic RTX A/C is also available for the truck and B-van market. To power the unit, a 12V PowerBoard™ is available to improve installation time on new builds. Additionally, the company has transitioned into a series of 12V refrigerators to offer improved function and better accommodate mobile power systems in RVs. Models are available from 8 cu ft. to 10 cu ft. and have Watch the a drawdown time as video low as a few hours. A 12V PowerBoard™ can power them, further increasing its overall function for several RV systems.

T Truma North America celebrates 10 years of “Simply Better”

o round out the 2023 RV Dealer Open House, Truma North America celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special luncheon at its North American headquarters in Elkhart, IN. More than 125 guests, which included several OEMs and business partners, were in attendance to commemorate the milestone. The company opened its first Elkhart location in 2013 before breaking ground on a new state-of-the-art facility six years later in 2019. It now serves as administration with warehouse space, a service centre, an Alde heating system pre-assembly facility, and a certified climate testing chamber. Truma North America has since continued to grow in sales, staff, and operational square footage while consistently capturing market share and experiencing growth year-over-year. The Elkhart location is just one of six of the company’s facilities worldwide. Its corporate head office is based in Germany. The invite-only event included special presentations from senior executive staff, key employees, and industry partners as well as the announcement of new systems for 2024. “We are here to celebrate a milestone of ten years of doing business in North America and are proud of the partnerships that have been developed with OEMs throughout the industry,” said Truma Corp. President and CEO, Gerhard Hundsberger. “We don’t think of Truma as a vendor, we strive to be partners with manufacturers, dealers and customers.” During the presentation, Hundsberger announced the new Truma Saphir, an under-the-bench air conditioner system with electric heating capability that can better accommodate smaller RVs. “The total value of Truma partnerships can be found beyond

our products,” added Hundsberger. “It is the way we develop our systems, talking with OEM partners, testing new ideas, auditing installations and ensuring we are achieving the absolute best in quality.” The celebration hosted also a presentation by Alexander Wottrich (Co-CEO of the Truma Group). Wottrich emphasized Truma’s commitment to finding tailored solutions with their partners, aiming to enhance products and create exceptional outdoor experiences. Wottrich also congratulated the North American team for a successful decade and expressed gratitude for their valuable partnerships.

Watch the video

Alexander Wottrich

Gerhard Hundsberger

Company news Airxcel North America

Creating another path forward

Words Steve Fennell

Airxcel broadens its reach in the North American RV Industry with two new product lines based on its core competencies and product trends. Anthony Wollschlager, president and CEO of Airxcel, explains the company’s vision and innovative new concepts

nthony Wollschlager is looking ahead to 2024. With numerous products in its brand portfolio, the Airxcel leader and his team have established clear goals to successfully remain competitive through 2024 and beyond.

Aboutcamp BtoB: With a number of impressive products available from Airxcel, what is manufactured locally in Elkhart, IN? Anthony Wollschlager: We manufacture and distribute several products in our brand portfolio locally. These include Dicor Products, Vixen Composites, United Shade, Cleer Vision, Valerium Awnings, InVision, Dicor Power and Elkhart Composites. We also have several distribution centres in Elkhart where we take products from some of our other operations around the country and consolidate them in this area. This just makes sense geographically to serve our local OEMs better. Aboutcamp BtoB: What can you tell us about the structure of Airxcel’s facility? How many square feet is it and how many staff does the company employ? Anthony Wollschlager: We have more than 650,000 square feet of manufacturing and distribution space in the Elkhart area. That continues to increase as we launch new products to either manufacture or distribute from Elkhart. From a headcount standpoint, it varies based on the business in Elkhart. Our largest headcount businesses include Cleer Vision, Suburban and Coleman Mach. Aboutcamp BtoB: What new products are you presenting to your OEMs for 2024? Anthony Wollschlager: We launched several new product categories (late 2022),

including baggage doors from Cleer Vision, entrance door steps from Suburban and awnings from Velarium. Just last week we launched gas manifold systems from Suburban, a full line of appliances under the brand InVision plus a full line of power products that includes converters, inverters, chargers, lithium batteries, solar panels and the like under the brand Dicor Power. Based on the current RV market in the US, we wanted to refocus our efforts on product innovation that fits our core competencies. An example would be the baggage doors from Cleer Vision. There are a lot of synergies between manufacturing glass windows and baggage doors. So, we focused resources in the right areas and brought new products to market. They also meet current trends and there was a need to have additional suppliers in those spaces. Aboutcamp BtoB: With the US market slowing, do you feel it will affect the market in Europe as well? Anthony Wollschlager: There are still global challenges that are impacting both the US and European RV markets shown by the softening in RV shipments. When there’s uncertainty, hesitation to buy can be the result. If you look at the RV industry historically, this is not something new. What is encouraging however is the number of first-time RV buyers. That’s very exciting and provides a springboard for future growth to surpass historical highs, which is what we have done as an industry prior. So, if more stabilization occurs in the world, I do anticipate the market rebounding over the next few years. There is a positive note despite the market slowdown. Consumers are still using their RVs in the US and Europe. As a result, our aftermarket sales continue to be robust.

Use the QR code to watch the full interview

Aboutcamp BtoB: What’s your forecast for the RV industry in the next five years? Anthony Wollschlager: The RV Industry Association (RVIA) publishes a report about their forecasts over the next 12-month period. If you look at the raw data based on the cyclical nature of the RV industry, you would anticipate that from 2023, the industry will start to consistently increase wholesale shipments. The historical data proves this. That’s what we’re building our business around right now. I think the caveat is that first-time buyers are utilizing RVs to build memories. That’s where I think our industry truly has an upside.

In partnership with

InVision matches quality Airxcel Inc. recently launched its all-new InVision line of high-end RV appliances and ancillary products. They are available as complete suites to aesthetically coordinate RV interiors and provide a contemporary residential atmosphere. The line includes refrigeration, ranges, range hoods, and microwaves, as well as laundry, dishwashers, and small personal appliances. Among its number of new innovative products is a residential French door 12V refrigerator that was complemented with a choice of glassdoor wine coolers, portable coolers and ice makers. Upgraded water pumps with filtration and other water-related products are also new for 2024. For more information visit invisionrvproducts.com

All in range with Dicor Products Dicor Products recently introduced a full line of ETL-listed power management products including 30-amp and 50-amp Bluetooth Power Centers. Both combine an AC/12V DC distribution panel with a built-in converter, which can readily serve as the main source to control RV lights, awnings and slideouts via an online app. Additional new products from Dicor Products include 100W, 195W and 400W solar panels, roof ports, PWM and MPPT charge controllers, 100Ah and 260Ah LiFePO4 batteries and 30-amp and 50-amp transfer switches. A lithium battery wall-mounted monitor is also available. www.dicorproducts.com

Velarium direct-fit slide-out topper awnings Velarium, a manufacturer of aftermarket-replacement RV awnings and related components, announced a line of slide-out topper awnings for 2024. A direct-fit replacement of awnings from other manufacturers, the slide-out topper awnings are made of 13.5 oz, 3-ply vinyl and designed to be 20 percent more resilient to cold-cracking and mildew. Slide topper awning roll tubes with black canopies range in various sizes and 22 units are available. www.velariumawnings.com

Velarium goes vertical Velarium’s new vertical arm awnings have several innovative appointments and functions. Ease of use begins right at the installation process with an extruded aluminum canopy edge rail that offers a clean, snug fit into the awning edge “C” channel. This not only results in faster installations but reduces the chance of snagging or tearing the awning fabric. Other key features include a pitch adjustment, LED lighting, a durable vinyl canopy, and a single or double awning switch assembly (with manual override). Sizes range from 10’ to 22’ and can accommodate a variety of RV makes and models. www.velariumawnings.com

Company news AMA Composites North America

Automotive products and technologies AMA Composites challenges American manufacturers to integrate the automotive industry systems into their RVs to offer high quality products at lower cost. Marco Corradini, CEO of the Italian company, tells us how

Words Renato Antonini

MA Composites has taken its first steps in the American market: its participation at Elkhart Open House is just the start of a wider, more diversified campaign, and the promise of growth matching its experience in Europe is very real. This dynamic approach is very evident from our chat with Marco Corradini.

but that’s not all. We want North American builders to understand that we don’t only offer a product, but rather a new technology, a different approach to the build. Our innovative technologies enable us to offer light weight, soundproofing, attractive styling and fast assembly. All governed by an automotive industry approach.

Aboutcamp BtoB: Why have you chosen to enter the large and very complex North American market at this point in time? Marco Corradini: AMA Composites took its first steps in the RV market in 2006: after we had shown European makers what we can offer and gained the confidence of companies that had previously used more traditional systems, we felt that this was the time to make ourselves known in America as well. And we can also leverage the fact that we are members of the AMA group, which has branches worldwide and already has offices in North America.

Aboutcamp BtoB: What technologies are you talking about? Marco Corradini: In recent years we have select a number of technologies for use in the RV sector, technologies which have already proved their worth in the automotive, aerospace and building&construction industries. For instance, we use the LWRT technology to make components for the interiors of campervans, motorhomes and trailers. As an example, we can make interior wall covering and finishing elements, like the living compartment ceiling. But we have also applied nanotechnology and thermal super-insulation products to RVs, like aerogel, which is ideally suited to insulating campervan box panels.

Aboutcamp BtoB: What products will you be offering American RV makers? Marco Corradini: In recent years, our growth in Europe has been driven by the campervan segment. We therefore aim to penetrate the North American market by concentrating on this particular segment. Every year, we make thousands of moulded parts for the interiors of campervans built on Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer and Citroen Jumper chassis. These chassis are very similar to a model made by the Stellantis group, the RAM ProMaster, which has been used in North American campervan builds for many years. This means we are well prepared to offer a range of tried-and-tested industrial products. Aboutcamp BtoB: So you’ll soon be offering parts for campervan interiors? Marco Corradini: Certainly,

Aboutcamp BtoB: Do these products and technologies need to be adapted to each client’s requirements? Marco Corradini: We offer a range of consolidated products and technologies, but we can also adapt to the client’s requirements, no matter how particular. Our job is to advise the client which solutions make most sense for his vehicles, production runs and cost targets. This is where AMA Composites’s ability to leverage a whole range of technologies comes into play, so that we can offer complex pre-assembly parts which integrate a variety of functions, from the load bearing frame to the thermal insulation, decorative finishing and electrical and heating systems.

In partnership with

Aerogel With its very high thermal insulation (0.015 W/mK), Aerogel can be the perfect solution for thermally insulating the most challenging parts of vehicles, like campervan box panels. Its very high insulation performance can reduce fabrication times while improving the overall result, which all adds up to customer satisfaction. There is also the carbon aerogel version, which combines outstandingly high performance with minimal thickness (around 3 mm). And in contrast with normal aerogel, it does not not generate dust during processing.

LWRT The LWRT (Light Weight Reinforced Thermoplastic) technology enables AMA Composites to apply an automotive solution to the RV sector. It allows the company to make very strong but lightweight parts: for example, an LWRT panel will weigh just one quarter the weight of an ABS panel of the same thickness. Ama Composites has been able to reduce costs by using large wooden moulds, thus doing away with conventional aluminium moulds, a solution perfectly adapted to production runs of 50 to 2000 units. It can be used to make panels for the campervan’s interior, including the sleeping area, the lower sections of drop-down beds, the wheelhouse cover, and finishing elements for the vehicle’s rear doors and sliding side door. A variety of finishes can be applied during construction (fabric, synthetic leather, etc.), and it can integrate thermal insulation layers, electric cabling and heating system components. “To offer just-in-time service to RV builders, AMA Composites will be making a standard semi-finished part (compatible with any RAM-Ducato model) in fabric finish LWRT, for monthly shipping to the AMA branch warehouse in Indianapolis, where it can be trimmed to the client’s specifications,” says Marco Corradini.

JESS heating membrane The Jess conductive heating membrane offers excellent performance in a very thin layer. It is ideal for heating certain areas of the living compartment as a supplement to the vehicle’s primary heating system. The extremely thin membrane can be shaped as desired and powered with DC current. Since it runs at low voltage, it can be safely installed in the floor, walls or roof.

Hydraulic levelling systems AMA Composites, working together with the AMA Group’s hydraulics business unit, can offer its clients custom hydraulic cylinders with metal feet for stabilising and lifting the vehicle. These hydraulic levelling systems have a variable capacity: since it also works in the earthmoving equipment sector, AMA can offer tried-andtested solutions capable of lifting vehicles weighing several tons. AMA already makes hydraulic cylinders to order for its RV sector clients.

Use the QR code to watch the showcase of the products presented at the Elkhart RV Open House by Joel Diges

Company news Brianza USA Corporation

New possibilities for the RV’s industry market James Witty, the new President of Brianza USA Corp., speaks after the Open House in Elkhart: “The demand of flat grp laminates for the recreational vehicles’ industry is steady, but we’re ready for new challenges”

rianza Plastica, a leading European company in the production of grp flat laminates, is investing a lot of efforts in broadening its presence in the American market. In fact, last June, Brianza USA Corp., expanded its workforce and James Witty, equipped with extensive sales and leadership experience, as well as in-depth understanding of RV manufacturing industry, took over as president. After the Open House fair in Elkhart, we met James Witty and asked him few questions: read the interview below, to discover more about the nowadays trend of the grp flat laminates’ market. Aboutcamp BtoB: Recently, you have visited the Open House RV Dealer Show in Elkhart, what are your impressions? In your opinion, what is the trend of the RV industry nowadays?

Words Andrea Cattaneo

James Witty: Yes, I visited the Open House in Elkhart last September, and I had the chance to talk with some leaders within the RV industry; they seemed to me very positive about the future of the market. The demand of grp laminates for recreational vehicles is steady and now it is the perfect time to study new solutions for our clients. Aboutcamp BtoB: In view of the feedback after the Open House and the expanding market, how is Brianza Plastica facing this eventual change? James Witty: Brianza Plastica has recently decided to expand its workforce here in the US: now, we have more employees, a new Territory Sales Manager and Plant Manager, and we are creating a team stronger than ever before. Previously, I have been involved in sales, forecasting, business strategy, training as well as general management of sales and technical support. We are aware of the growing market and, thanks to our good-quality products, we are ready to welcome new customers and opportunities, as well as facing important challenges. Aboutcamp BtoB: How has it been going introducing Brianza to new clients? James Witty: I have been working for Brianza USA Corp. for seven months now, and the OEM’s feedback is absolutely positive. Thanks to my past experience in the RV industry, I have developed positive relationships with RV OEM Executives. This is a relationship-based industry and I feel blessed that I’ve got the relationships I have: they were built on a foundation of honesty and hard work. I’ll always do whatever is needed to make it happen for my customers and I think they know that. These relationships have allowed me the

opportunity to have already met with many decision makers within RV. The message has resonated, and I believe our hard work will bear fruit shortly. I also believe that the reputation of the parent company in Italy, based on over 60 years of experience in the production of high-quality grp laminates, is helping me to build with old and new clients a solid relationship. Aboutcamp BtoB: You have told us that the workforce of Brianza USA Corp. has expanded, can you tell us more about your relationship with the parent company in Italy? James Witty: We get in touch with the parent company daily: I believe that the dialogue and the exchange of ideas and opinions with our colleagues in Italy is crucial. Our contact person is Andrea Bollani, Export Area Manager, who has visited us several times. Every time is a precious occasion to meet our clients and to study together new products’ solutions to offer a better and more satisfying service to the costumers. Aboutcamp BtoB: How do you see Brianza Plastica in the next ten years? James Witty: I am very positive about the future of Brianza Plastica and Brianza USA Corp. We will expand and reach important sales volumes in America as we have done throughout Europe and abroad. We have the right product, process, and people. There are definite differences in fiberglass than my previous experience. For one it’s a longer process with much more testing involved. I feel extremely comfortable with how hard we are striving for excellence on a daily basis. The narrative of “fiberglass is fiberglass is fiberglass” has to be a thing of the past. I want to provide the best looking and performing fiberglass product in the market. I want Brianza fiberglass to be a selling advantage. Luckily for me, our product backs up that viewpoint.

In partnership with

Brianza Plastica is one of the most important European companies in the production of fibreglass laminates, with over 60 years of experience in the sector. On the strength of its success and consolidated presence in the European market as a preferred supplier of semi-finished products for the automotive market, specifically in the field of recreational and commercial vehicles, in 2014 Brianza Plastica established its own subsidiary in the United States, Brianza U.S.A. Corporation, located in Elkhart, Indiana. The choice of Elkhart as the location for the company’s commercial outpost in America was not random: Elkhart is widely known as the “RV Capital of the World” because it is home to numerous major manufacturers of recreational vehicles. In particular, Brianza Plastica is able to provide the demanding market with flat grp panels produced using two

different technologies: discontinuous cold laminating and continuous hot laminating. The products which belong to the Elycold family are made by discontinuous lamination and, thanks to the cold polymerisation of the material, the fiberglass is nearly invisible in the final product. On the other hand, the composite materials of the Elyplan grp laminates reach the highest possible polymerisation during the continuous hot laminating process and the result is perfectly flat and excellent quality fiberglass panels. All Brianza Plastica fiberglass laminates are produced using the finest raw materials and are light, hail and UV resistant, waterproofing, corrosion, and strong impacts resistant. Among the most widespread Brianza Plastica’s products in the US is worth mentioning Elycold Standard and Elyplan Super HF.

Elycold Standard

Elyplan Super HF

The main characteristic of this grp laminate is perfect flatness, an indispensable feature for the production of very high-quality panels, with very good aesthetics. Elycold Std. is available in the opaque or glossy version, and it is widely used for applications in the external bodywork of the recreational vehicles.

The product with the best surface finish. If fact, it combines high aesthetic appeal with a highly competitive price. Moreover, it can be produced with or without gelcoat protection and with woven roving reinforcement, in order to increase its mechanical performances. Elyplan Super HF is available also in different colours such as metallic green or dark silver.

Elycold Standard matte white and glossy white

Elyplan Super HF glossy white

Brianza USA Corporation headquarters in Elkhart, Indiana

Company news Eberspaecher North America

50 years of growth… and counting As a global systems company, Eberspaecher North America continues to move forward with contemporary technology and optimal function Words Steve Fennell

ith innovative new heating and cooling systems as well as current developments in the EV space, Oleg Riabtsev, President of Eberspaecher North America, remains focused on the changing RV trends and interests of the North American - and global - RV industry. Aboutcamp BtoB: Eberspaecher was just one of the major suppliers at the 2023 Elkhart RV Dealer Open House. What were your thoughts on this year’s event and as a supplier, what were some of the benefits of the company’s presence this year? Oleg Riabtsev: The Elkhart RV Dealer Open House is a great B2B event to get in touch with the whole RV industry in North America and present our products, innovations, and competencies. For this year’s event, we displayed the prototype of the Breezonic, our new rooftop A/C system with a heat pump function, and the first E-Airtronic electric air heater for consumers. The feedback was very positive and the event is always beneficial for us. Aboutcamp BtoB: When did Eberspaecher start manufacturing heating and climate control solutions in the RV market and how have its products evolved since that time? Oleg Riabtsev: We have been in the vehicle heater business in North America for half a century and 2023 marked our 50th anniversary. Our first heaters for the general automotive market were used in RV applications

decades ago. Since then, we have continuously improved our products for RV applications, especially regarding noise, consumption and altitude adjustment. Within our segment approach, we developed products and accessories specifically for this industry and optimize them for our partners and consumers. For example, our Hydronic Aquasystem NA is a new water heating system that we specifically introduced for the North American RV market. Aboutcamp BtoB: Eberspaecher has a long line of heating and climate control solutions for RVs in the North American and European RV industries. What is the company’s current top seller among its industry partners in each market? Oleg Riabtsev: The new Breezonic air conditioning system with a heat pump function is a global solution for efficient and high-performance indoor cooling and heating. We developed a 120V AC version for North America and a 230V AC variant for Europe. Our third-generation Airtronic air heater series, which integrates an automatic altitude adjustment up to 18,000 feet with almost silent operation, continues to be our global best seller. Additionally, as I already mentioned for North America, our Hydronic Aquasystem is also very popular. Aboutcamp BtoB: As select manufacturers are designing EV prototypes in the RV industry, how have Eberspaecher’s products evolved towards that trend? Oleg Riabtsev: As a global automotive supplier, we already have a lot of experience with electric heaters and air conditioning solutions. From electric high-voltage heaters and low-voltage PTC heaters to EHVAC systems, we can already supply a variety of products for different voltage levels. We recently developed the first E-Airtronic for interior heating specifically for the e-RV market. The unit can easily be mounted inside the vehicle where heat is needed. With its 1 kW of heat output, it’s also very compact and suitable for multiple installations in different zones of an RV. The energy can either be supplied from the battery or the landline energy net. Due to its modularity, there will also be coolant heating and hybrid versions with both energy sources available. Aboutcamp BtoB: Given RVs are becoming more connected with new technology to provide simplified user experiences, how is Eberspaecher remaining competitive in that space? Oleg Riabtsev: As a global system supplier, we are working on connectivity solutions for all of our products and systems. For example, the new Breezonic can be controlled via an App or HMI. For those customers who prefer HMI, we offer customized solutions to control and maintain the systems.

In partnership with

Breezonic

E-Airtronic

This is the newest rooftop unit in the company’s line of thermal management systems. Designed for campervans and a range of RV classes, both integrate heat pump functions with reversible circulation to provide cooling and heating capabilities in one compact model. The operation is very efficient and has a low profile and weight. To meet industry trends, the Breezonic incorporates an environmentally-friendly R32 refrigerant operating system, which results in less global warming potential (GWP) by 68 percent. A compressor with inverter technology offers speed-controlled, quiet operation and low energy consumption, while smooth start-ups prevent current spikes or power overloading.

The E-Airtronic EHV1 is designed specifically for the electric vehicle RV market to ensure reliable warm interior temperatures for a variety of new models. With a power-saving 1 kW of heat output and an integrated blower, the E-Airtronic can heat specific areas of an RV while its modular design allows it to be used as a heater or hot water heater. Multiple units can even be synched for one complete heating solution with an efficient low-power draw. It has a quiet running operation and PTC technology prevents overheating and reliable, on-demand heat. The E-Airtronic will be available in April 2024.

Hydronic Aquasystem NA Airtronic 3 The Airtronic 3 is a third-generation air heater in this series and comes in four models (for a total of 12 versions) with power outputs ranging from 2 kW to 8 kW. The 2kW and 4kW systems can accommodate gas or diesel applications. Optimized power consumption provides efficient heating with low draw and some of the benefits include a stepless heat output control and acoustically optimized metering pump technology to ensure smooth, quiet and efficient operation. Select models integrate automatic altitude adjustment systems to better operate at elevations up to 16,400 feet.

Designed for the North American RV market, Eberspaecher’s tankless Hydronic Aquasystem operates via a Hydronic S3 diesel or gasoline coolant heater to deliver interior heat and on-demand hot water. The 12V/120V A/C unit has a modular design to accommodate a variety of RVs. Its 11 cm touchscreen interface is backed by a CAN-based communication system, making it compatible with a variety of existing heating accessories. Some other benefits include an automatic altitude compensation adaptor, a three-speed interior fan and a fuel-sipping consumption of .59 litres per hour for diesel and .67 litres per hour for gasoline.

Use the QR code to watch the showcase of the products presented at the Elkhart RV Open House by Ken Ritchie

Company news Euramax and Amerimax

Euramax for Mobility in partnership with Amerimax

Words Andrea Cattaneo

Discover the new Amerimax for Mobility and explore the possibilities of lightweight metal called StrongLite through a conversation with Brent Cripe and Jack Feyen, who have spent their entire careers in the RV industry

or decades, Euramax for Mobility and Amerimax for Mobility have been recognized as leading suppliers of aluminum to the RV industry. With the acquisition of Amerimax for Mobility by a family investment holding that also owns Euramax for Mobility, the two companies are deepening their commitment to the RV industry and will be working closely together. Embracing tradition Introducing the new yet familiar Amerimax for Mobility: a leading supplier of aluminum for recreational and transportation vehicles in the US. Nestled in Nappanee, Indiana, Amerimax’s roots run deep, anchored to both its heritage and its unwavering dedication to the RV and transportation industry. As Amerimax for Mobility enters a new chapter under common ownership with Euramax for Mobility, it’s not just

a fresh beginning; it’s a continuation of a legacy and an embodiment of an iconic company that stands the test of time. A leading supplier VP of Sales, Brent Cripe, enthusiastically states, “I am thrilled by the benefits of being under common ownership and I am dedicated to serving the numerous customers with whom I’ve built trusted relationships over the past two decades. We have been a loyal partner in the RV market for over 50 years.” Brent’s European colleague, Jack Feyen, based in the Netherlands, adds, “We are very much looking forward to supporting Amerimax for Mobility by sharing products and expertise from Euramax for Mobility. Our owners are fully committed to making Amerimax for Mobility a leading supplier in its industry.” Serving OEMs across the globe “We aim to be the primary service partner for our US customers. Establishing long-term strategic partnerships to help our clients succeed in their ambitions is what defines us,” says Brent. In his capacity as Strategic Account Manager, Jack, alongside the Euramax team, supports Amerimax for Mobility in their mission: “We share our knowledge, based on our 50+ years of experience as a coil coater and aluminum supplier. Nothing fills us with greater pride than seeing caravans and motorhomes with Euramax’s pre-coated aluminum side walls. Naturally, we aspire to provide this service in all regions and to all OEMs. Under common ownership, we now extend this service to

Jack Feyen

Brent Cripe

the US as well, and consequently, we are ‘On your side’ across the globe.” Setting the standard “Amerimax for Mobility is dedicated to upholding the high standards of quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service,” Brent explains. “Our collaboration with Euramax will provide valuable support in various aspects, including sourcing through their global supply base, leveraging extensive decades of experience for knowledge sharing, and introducing innovative products like StrongLite and pre-coated aluminum up to 2600 mm (103 inches). I extend a warm invitation to anyone who is not yet acquainted with us or wishes to reacquaint themselves with our offerings to get in touch with me.”

In partnership with

Introducing StrongLite: the innovative lightweight metal for a lighter exterior Both in the US and Europe, Amerimax and Euramax for Mobility are introducing their new product, StrongLite. It represents the next generation of aluminum, being even stronger and lighter. StrongLite undergoes three additional rolling steps, with extra magnesium being added during the process. This enhances the strength of the aluminum and allows for thinner applications, resulting in lighter walls and weight savings of up to 20-30 kg (45-65 lbs.) per vehicle. Unique in the mobility industry “StrongLite has been exclusively developed for Euramax and Amerimax in close cooperation with one of our strategic suppliers,” says Strategic Account Manager Jack Feyen. “It’s these long-term relationships that perfectly exemplify what we mean by ‘On your side.’”

Strong and light from all angles Rather than using conventional 0.8mm aluminum in Europe, StrongLite allows for the use of 0.7mm for the exterior walls of a caravan or camper while maintaining the same structural strength and aesthetically premium appearance. StrongLite is also offered in our distinctive wide-coated aluminum – delivering an exceptionally sleek and lightweight wall. Combining StrongLite with Interlite (for the inside) allows you to build an incredibly strong, seamless, wood-free sidewall. In addition, StrongLite offers new possibilities for the roof, enabling you to create a lighter roof while keeping the construction in perfect balance.

More strength, less energy Enhance strength, improve dent resistance, save weight, and reduce costs with the high-quality alloy StrongLite. Compared to standard alloys, StrongLite makes for a 15% lighter wall. This sustainable solution benefits both current and future mobility projects, as weight becomes increasingly important in the future. In practical terms, the weight savings can reach up to 20-30 kilograms (45-65 lbs.) per vehicle.

Company news Fiamma Inc

Keywords: product and service For many years, Fiamma has been a byword on the American market for quality products and service, as Charles Pozzi, the company’s Managing Director, tells us Words Renato Antonini

igh quality awnings and bicycle racks are the main products Fiamma offers the North American market. But Charles Pozzi tells us that just making and selling an excellent product is not enough - the key to success is aftersales service.

Aboutcamp BtoB: Fiamma and the North American market - is this a new relationship, or a well-established reality? Charles Pozzi: Oh, very well-established - we took our first steps in North America as long ago as the Seventies. It was America that enabled us to grow our RV business, when we started importing American products to Italy. But after a short while we decided to take the opposite approach: instead of importing, we started exporting, and Fiamma launched its awnings on the American market in the early Eighties. Today North America accounts for around 6.5% of our turnover. Our primary products for the American market are awnings and bicycle racks. Aboutcamp BtoB: The USA market has been growing and shrinking - how does it affect you? Charles Pozzi: Although the market has shrunk somewhat in recent months - which was predictable - we’re still very happy with how things are going. Over the last eight years, our North American turnover has quadrupled. This is due principally to the growth in sales of Class B and Class C integrated RVs, which are our primary target segments. Aboutcamp BtoB: How are your North American operations organised? Charles Pozzi: We set up our branch in Orlando, Florida in 1980, so we have a long history there. For some time we also made our products directly in America, which was challenging but necessary because of the high import duties at the time. When the situation changed, we shut down our production there, and replaced it with exports from Italy. The Orlando branch currently has ten employees, five of them working in the warehouse and five dealing with sales and aftersales. Aboutcamp BtoB: Who are your American clients, and how do you stand out from the competition? Charles Pozzi: 70% of our American turnover is generated by supplies to OEMs, with a smaller amount coming from aftermarket sales. We don’t work with the big manufacturers, our clients are mainly small converters who demand high quality and want a Made in Italy product. However, we are official vendors of bicycle racks to Airstream. Our rep-

utation is built on three pillars: the design and high quality of our products, our fast deliveries, and our aftersales service. We have invested heavily in service: three of our Orlando staff are dedicated entirely to service, and our clients are very pleased with the results. We always answer calls immediately, and everything is handled in-house, rather than by a contractor. Our spare parts warehouse is well stocked, we guarantee our parts for at least ten years after end of production, and we ship in 24/48 hours. Aboutcamp BtoB: Do you have any plans for change over the short to medium term? Charles Pozzi: We plan to open a second warehouse on the West Coast within a year, to better organise our logistics and ship from the other side of the US faster and at lower cost. We are also designing a number of products specifically for the American market, which will be launched within the next three years.

In partnership with

F45 Eagle and F65 Eagle

CarryBike DJ

Our Eagle awnings are very popular in America: in contrast with normal awnings, they are not supported by poles, but are rather completely cantilevered. They are also fully automated, opening and closing with an electric motor. There is also a Wind Detection System which automatically retracts the awning in strong wind conditions. The F45 Eagle is wall-mounting, available in 350, 400 and 450 cm models, all with an extension of 250 cm. The F65 Eagle, on the other hand, is designed for campervans, and installs on the roof: it is available in the 400 cm length for motorhomes and 319, 349 and 399 cm models for campervans (complete with mounting bracket).

Designed for the Stellantis family of vehicles, which includes Fiat Ducato and RAM ProMaster models, the CarryBike DJ bicycle rack occupies only one of the campervan’s two rear doors. This leaves the other door clear for the Fiamma Deluxe DJ Ducato ladder. The CarryBike DJ mounting bars and rack itself must be purchased separately. It is designed to carry two bicycles.

CarryBike ProC Fiamma’s very popular lineup of bicycle racks includes the CarryBike ProC, featuring a very compact, vertically adjustable frame. It is ideally suited to rear walls with windows, because the vertical distance between the mounts can be adjusted from 40 to as much as 80 cm during installation. It can carry up to 4 normal bikes, or 2 e-bikes.

CarryBike for Airstream F45 and F80 Classic, tried-and-tested awnings, operated with a manual winch handle. They are either wall-mounting (F45) or roof-mounting (F80), and are equipped with poles to support the extended section. The F45s version is available in a variety of versions, in lengths from 190 to 450 cm, as well as different extensions. The F45L version is the largest awning, available in 435, 485 or 535 cm models, with the same 250 cm extension for all models. The roof-mounting F80 series is available in a variety of models for trailers, campervans and motorhomes.

Airstream uses Fiamma bicycle racks on its iconic trailers. The aluminium structure of the CarryBike rack is the perfect match for the riveted aluminium construction of Airstream trailers. It can carry two bicycles.

Contact: Kelly McDaniel Sales & Operations Manager

Fiamma Inc, Orlando, Florida

Company news Lippert

Forward-thinking innovation As a global market leader, Lippert has established a solid foundation to ensure cutting-edge systems and engineered components for the North American and European RV industries Words Antonio Mazzucchelli

boutcamp BtoB spoke with President/CEO, Jason Lippert, about the company’s internal focus and future growth.

Aboutcamp BtoB: Lippert continually displays cutting-edge concepts and visions for the future of international caravanning that underline your commitment to propelling the RV industry forward. How important is the role of Lippert and other suppliers in redefining standards and possibilities within the RV industry? Jason Lippert: Regarding innovation, when there is collaboration there are more opportunities than if a supplier or an OEM is developing a concept on their own. Collaboration is always best. In my opinion, Europe is doing a much better job of collaborating whereas in the US, there are a lot of suppliers introducing new components and the OEMs adopt them quickly. So, there’s a little difference between the US and European RV markets concerning collaboration and innovation. Lippert is one of the best examples of an innovative company. We have resources dedicated to innovation. We’re always introducing new products, our footprint is pretty significant and the collaboration within our own company is substantial. I can’t speak for other suppliers but it’s hard to find innovative people and let them create for a couple of years and see what happens. I don’t think many do that because there’s no immediate ROI. The other trick to innovation is

having a select group of very creative people designing and developing relevant products. Once you decide to make an investment, you need the right team. I think there are several reasons why innovation is difficult but I do feel the OEMs and suppliers do a very good job of developing new products. Aboutcamp BtoB: Motorhome manufacturers are increasingly producing components in-house that were previously bought from suppliers such as chassis, furniture, walls and more. Is this a winning strategy? Would it be better to have a supplier that handles market fluctuation instead of investing resources to internalize some processes? Jason Lippert: There are not a lot of historical examples that would prove it is a winning strategy. That concept would make business strategies much more complex when you have to win at designing components, coming up with innovative products, and then having your own company adopt those elements. It can ultimately put a company in a spot where they’re limited to their designs. At Lippert, we collaborate with the whole industry to create ideas from companies and innovate based on that collaboration, whereas OEMs are not going to collaborate with other OEMs. As there would also be more plants, more people, more processes, and more integration, all of that would stifle innovation. We have specialized groups for our chassis, furniture, window and glass processing, etc. All those groups just focus on those divisions. Lippert isn’t a vertical company because it would create too much complexity. We can’t be experts in everything but we want to be experts at the products that we build. Aboutcamp BtoB: Is the supply chain crisis truly over? What has Lippert learned from it and is there a possibility of it recurring in the future? Jason Lippert: There will be another hiccup somewhere along the line. What we’re trying to deal with now is the global markets. A lot of companies are de-risking their supply chain in China, specifically, and have been vocal about de-risking in China. We have moved a lot of products offshore from China and some back to the US. Concerning the supply chain crisis, everybody learned a lot about the importance of diversifying their supply base since their go-to partner at the time couldn’t produce at the rate they needed. We’ve also learned to find more good suppliers and become more flexible internally. Lippert has even started building some of its products so we have a 100 percent source and more flexibility. It will certainly prepare us for the future should another supply chain issue arise. Aboutcamp BtoB: From Louisville to Salt Lake City and now with the Elkhart RV Dealer Open House, is this the path for

In partnership with

future trade shows in the RV industry? Do you ever feel the lack of a traditional exhibition hall? Jason Lippert: One thing the RV industry in the US is generally good at is change. New companies are coming into the industry, new product ideas are being launched and the expositions are always evolving, which I think is good. The Elkhart RV Dealer Open House creates an environment where relationships can be worked on and is encouraging. The event also really bolsters the community. Approximately 10,000 people come here, which helps local hotels, restaurants, and retailers. When we were going to Louisville, we thought, “why are we going to a city that has no vested interest in RVs? Why are we bringing the city all this money? Why aren’t we doing it

here?” So, Forest River Inc. and Thor Industries got together and made the right move by making Elkhart County the home base for a major RV trade event. Aboutcamp BtoB: Lippert placed a strong emphasis on creating a culture where everyone matters and improving lives by building strong relationships within the company. How does Lippert ensure operations and innovative projects that are consistently aligned with its core values of caring and responsibility? Jason Lippert: When we talk about values, we talk about having a great company with a culture revolving around everyone matters and they feel like they matter. With the 30 years of leadership I’ve had here, there’s significant consis-

Lippert 4000 Series Frameless Bonded Windows With a reported exponential growth in its window division within the last five years - more than doubling the number of units produced - Lippert introduced the new 4000 Series Frameless Bonded Windows, designed specifically for the RV market. The new series has aluminum frames with a variety of aesthetic appointments. These include built-in shade/screen combinations, privacy glass, a large vent opening and a rectangular design with squared-off corners to offer a contemporary, residential interior look.

Lippert Anti-Lock Braking System The latest addition to Lippert’s axle program is the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), designed to prevent wheel lock-up, minimize fish-tailing, and maintain control before bringing the vehicle/trailer to a stop in adverse conditions. The analogue braking system works in tandem with existing trailer brakes, yet operates independently from the vehicle’s brake controller and will not interfere with the gain settings. It also pairs with Lippert’s OneControl system that displays vehicle speed, status, and additional pertinent information during travel.

tency. We’ve made values real because our team members can count on those values that we have established. I talk about values at plants every week. When there aren’t strong values or more importantly, consistent values, at a company, people will leave because the leaders aren’t consistent. We’re not perfect and Lippert’s company team members know we’re going to hold people accountable in a very respectable way. While there sometimes might be a problem, we will address the problem when it arises. This lends itself to the business side. High retention, a strong culture and meaningful, trusting relationships will create more consistent product quality, a better safety record and more innovation, which make a business great. That’s why culture at Lippert is so important.

Titan Leveling System LevelUp from Lippert was the first automatic hydraulic levelling system for the towable market in 2009 and the company has since produced more than 100,000 units. The new Titan Levelling System, introduced in September 2023, is designed for fifth wheels and motorhomes and is installed at the OEM and dealer levels. Technicians will appreciate its bolt-on process with 50 percent fewer parts. Following three years in development, the system is built of machined aluminum and anodized cylinders with a slim, lightweight profile. Operation is simplified by an exterior water-proof touch screen or via a smart device and Lippert’s OneControl system. Other features include redesigned footpads with optional LED lighting and on-screen troubleshooting.

Bluetooth Door Lock The Lippert Keyless RV Door Lock with Bluetooth is available as an aftermarket upgrade on a variety of RV doors with standard latches. Installation is made easy without wiring and the lock fits models with 2¾” x 3¾” cutouts and door thicknesses of ⅜” to 1½.” In addition to a variety of selling features, entry is accessed by a key, keypad and Bluetooth via the company’s OneControl app. It also has a 60 ft Bluetooth range. Six smart devices can be paired per lock, and left-hand latch configurations and right-hand configurations are available. Lippert supports the unit with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. For more information about Lippert visit www.lci1.com

Use the QR code to watch the showcase of all the products presented at the Elkhart RV Open House by Jarod Lippert

Company news Tecnoform USA

Interior quality assured With a recently formed US subsidiary and a toptier portfolio of industry partners, Tecnoform is establishing a stronger presence in the RV furnishings market on a global level

enzo Kerkoc, President and CEO of Tecnoform S.p.A - and now Tecnoform USA - understands the challenges of meeting US and European RV industry trends with contemporary, functional and lightweight designs. Aboutcamp BtoB: The team at Tecnoform attended the 2023 Elkhart RV Dealer Open House. What was your opinion on this year’s event and what were some of the benefits of Tecnoform attending? Renzo Kerkoc: The Elkhart RV Dealer Open House has for years been an essential event for Tecnoform. It sets the tone of the US RV market for the year and where we meet with our industry partners on completed and future projects. Additionally, it allows us to establish new business relationships for future collaborations. The open house also provides us with the opportunity to visit with all of the major RV manufacturers and understand how much of an influence and how established - European interior designs are in the US RV industry. Tecnoform has always been the “tres d’union” between the two major global RV markets. More and more customers have e n t r u s te d Tecnoform with radical revisions of their RVs or creating new designs

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Words Steve Fennell

to meet trends and demand. This includes overall style and lightweighted products, in addition to furniture that is simple to assemble with minimal tolerances and robust quality. When we are at the event, we present multiple examples of our designs to customers or potential customers in the travel trailer, class B and class C segments. The Elkhart RV Dealer Open House is an excellent way to determine our product’s maximum potential. Aboutcamp BtoB: It’s apparent that Europe has a lot of influence on RV interiors in the North American RV industry. What are some of the reasons? Renzo Kerkoc: It has become evident in recent years that Europe influences interior trends of RVs in the US. The main reason is that consumers are increasingly attentive to this as well as the materials used and quality of furnishings so they can better enjoy time in their RVs. We pay close attention to trends. Tecnoform offers a collection of materials reserved for our customers aimed at satisfying their requests. Aboutcamp BtoB: European RV furniture incorporates lightweight materials to remain within weight limits in RVs. How do you better manage weight in your furniture designs while still retaining quality, function, and cost? Renzo Kerkoc: Weight management is one of the features that customers are increasingly requesting. Our experience and continuous research allows us to create products with solutions dedicated to weight reduction. We do this without sacrificing quality, aesthetics, and functionality. These characteristics are what distinguishes us in the industry. Our particular attention to the assembly and construction method of our furniture, which is increasingly recognized and appreciated by our customers, helps us develop cutting-edge solutions. This results in reduced assembly times on the production line.

Aboutcamp BtoB: The price of raw materials has increased significantly in the last few years. Are you now seeing costs normalizing? Renzo Kerkoc: As of mid-2021, our average purchase prices have increased by 18 percent. In Q4 2023, average prices fell approximately six percent. In particular, the materials that have had the greatest impact and which will struggle to return to 2021 prices are MDF and plywood panels. Unfortunately, for both materials, the gap compared to 2021 remains very high at approximately 30 to 40 percent. Aboutcamp BtoB: Tecnoform hosted an open house at its new manufacturing facility this past summer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to better serve its US industry partners. When are you expecting it to be in full production? Renzo Kerkoc: The production ramp-up is expected for the first half of 2024. We will have a technical team from Tecnoform S.p.A., visit the facility for over a semester. Their focus area is on the training of US employees and the production of orders from customers who immediately placed their trust in us when we announced the opening of the plant in Michigan. The presence of the technical team will provide us with the opportunity to carefully evaluate production output and make any necessary corrections. This means we can maintain the quality that our customers are accustomed to. To accomplish this, there are three fundamental components required including machinery, raw materials and single-work. The machinery and raw materials are completely the same as those used at the Tecnoform S.p.A manufacturing facility in Italy. Our focus is to help our US employees understand the culture and quality that has always characterized Tecnoform S.p.A. in the global RV market. This is why the training of our US employees is very important but we know it will pay off over the long term.

In partnership with

A Tecnoform-designed interior of the Coachmen RV Cross Trail

perfectly aligned lower drawers, and pull-out solutions for optimal storage and function - inside and outside the coach. As a result, the Entegra class B appealed to many dealers and OEMs. Rounding some of the company’s special events in 2023, Tecnoform invited its US customers to the new facility in Grand Rapids. It included an innovative, digital presentation that projected a navigable rendering of a caravan furniture project. It allowed those in attendance to visually observe the interior of a Tecnoform-designed caravan with the ability to change the textures and the styles of furnishings. Select models of coaches were also on display with completed layouts. www.tecnoform.com

A proven 2023; Tecnoform looks ahead to a promising 2024 Tecnoform S.p.A., founded in 1965 and based in Bologna, Northern Italy, has evolved into one of the global leading suppliers of luxury RV furnishings, reporting earnings of €32 million in 2022. Following the opening of Tecnoform USA Inc., its new US subsidiary at a 172,000-square-foot facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the company further extends operations for OEMs in the US in addition to Europe and Australia. With innovative, forward-thinking interior RV designs, Tecnoform will continue its focus on producing custom-fit solutions for its industry partners in 2024. From European-style cupboard doors, high-end shaped components, and surfaces/tops to decorative panels and complete kits, the designs are contemporary and shape an RV interior with comfort and function. In addition to attending the fall Elkhart RV Dealer Open House, various ‘Tecnoform-interior-designed’ models were presented at the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa earlier this year. These included the Coachmen RV Cross Trail, an off-road-ready class C. The furnishings were specifically created by the Tecnoform team to provide elegant, modern and comfortable interiors. Winnebago, too, presented several coaches with cabinet doors manufactured and designed by Tecnoform. The models entailed a Vista class A, featuring custom appointments finished with a special wood-effect paper for a

truly captivating and aesthetic profile. Select RV manufacturers also opt for the available van kit, which is another excellent solution for interiors and is entirely designed and manufactured by the company. In 2021, following a collaboration with Jayco and Entegra Coach, the kit was integrated into the Jayco Terrain and Entegra Coach Launch class B models, which remain very popular in the RV market today. More specifically, the Entegra Coach’s innovative, sporty layout was designed and reimagined by Tecnoform with a multifunctional interior. In addition to providing a solid, quiet ride and the utmost liveability, the unit entailed a stylish, clean fit-and-finish with modular overhead cupboards,

A completed custom van kit integrated into an Entegra Coach Launch class B

The redesigned bedroom on the Winnebago Vista class A

Tecnoform USA’s facility in Grand Rapids, MI

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Company news Vetroresina North America

Heavy duty laminates and innovative surfaces Elena Colombarini is General Manager of Vetroresina LLC, the Vetroresina SpA plant in North America: she talked to us about their new automated production line and innovative products Words Renato Antonini

etroresina Spa has been working in the North American market for many years, supplying laminates to RV manufacturers for their varied sandwich panel requirements. But alongside their conventional fibre glass laminates, the company is becoming ever more appreciated for their more advanced products. Aboutcamp BtoB: When did Vetroresina Spa open its North America plant? Elena Colombarini: We started exporting to the United

States in the late Nineties: the large American RV market was a very attractive prospect, with the potential to considerably grow our turnover. We were able to achieve excellent results in just a short time, and so we opened a branch in the United States in 2008. Aboutcamp BtoB: How is your American branch organised? Elena Colombarini: Vetroresina LLC is located in Greenville, South Carolina. We broke ground in 2005, and production started in 2008. The American plant has an area of nearly 36,000 sq.m., including production, warehouse space and offices. We employ a workforce of around 40 people. Aboutcamp BtoB: How do you approach the American market, and what’s your production capacity? Elena Colombarini: 70% of Vetroresina LLC products go to the RV sector, but construction and goods vehicles - especially refrigerated cells - also make up a good share of turnover. We also operate in the marine products marketplace. 2021 was a big year for us, with the inauguration of our new production line, very similar to the one in our Italian plant. This has greatly expanded our production capacity, and we are now able to produce as much as 4 million sq.m. a year. The new production line is mostly automated, designed to make glass fibre laminates measuring up to 400 feet (120 m) in a discontinuous cycle. The panels are wound onto rolls for easy shipping by road. Although the new plant is designed primarily for making thin laminates, we have been able to adapt it to the production of heavy duty panels, up to 1/4”, which are particularly suited for making the side panels of large RVs. Aboutcamp BtoB: What is your current situation, and what do you have planned for the future? Elena Colombarini: We’re very pleased with what we’ve achieved in North America so far. We supply the top manufacturers in the RV market, and our products are also used by a number of sandwich panel manufacturers. Vetroresina LLC has a diversified product offering, and our production lines are very flexible. Talking with our clients is very important, and we aim to be more and more a solution provider for them. As for our future projects, we’re currently developing a new product for use in RV roofs. And we’re also making in-roads into other markets: we already have a good turnover in supplies to hunting and fishing home manufacturers, because our products are highly weather resistant, and can also be customised with a range of colours and finishes.

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In partnership with

Vetrolite: heavy duty panels

Vetroprint

The Vetrolite line consists of low density laminates, ideal for making heavy duty panels from 3.0 to 6.0 mm (¼” / 6 mm panels are available on request). These panels enable manufacturers to do away with a wooden or thermoplastic underlayer, which are required to keep the surface even when using thinner panels. The glass fibre panel can be up to 14 m long, which covers the entire side of a large RV. This product reduces processing time and costs precisely because there is no need to glue it to an underlayer. And when you use these panels, the metal frame of the body is completely concealed. Doing away with a wooden underlayer also means that you have no joints between the plywood sections, and so there’s no risk of the wood degrading over time. The thick gelcoat surface can be sanded and then painted. The colour can also be integrated into the gelcoat surface.

Vetroprint laminates stand out for their very attractive finish. They are designed to be visible, and do away with the need for a cover layer or paint. A variety of effects are available: wood, stone, brick, carbon fibre - Vetroprint is available in any custom design, in a matte, high gloss or textured finish. Since it is available up to the 6 mm thickness, it can be used as the RV body floor, thanks also to its non-slip gelcoat finish. Vetroprint is widely used for interior walls, as well as being very popular for giving a special look to the outer walls of the body. The system saves a lot of processing time and expense because there’s no need for a cover layer like a PVC floor or painted wall. Vetroprint outer wall panels last longer than walls decorated with adhesive graphics. Vetroprint has excellent weather resistance, is waterproof, washable and UV resistant, and is also easy to repair. It is an excellent substitute for conventional RV materials and finishes, and it’s also gaining ground in construction and marine applications. It is also a popular choice for manufacturers of small towable hunting and fishing homes.

Vetroguardian Designed for special applications, primarily in construction but also on RVs, Vetroguardian is a range of self-extinguishing laminates. The product is fire resistant, generates low toxicity fumes, and is self-extinguishing. It is available in a variety of thicknesses and a wide range of RAL colours. It can be finished glossy or matte, and is available both with gelcoat and without, for applications in which the look of the product is of no importance.

The Vetroresina LLC production site in Greenville, South Carolina

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Company news Vitrifrigo America

Focus on refrigeration A specialised manufacturer of compression refrigerators, Vitrifrigo has recently taken its first steps in the American RV market and already achieved considerable success, as related by Michael Boccarossa, export area manager for North America Words Renato Antonini

itrifrigo has been operating in America for some time now, but it has only entered the RV market in the last couple of years. The RV business took off immediately, to the extent that this segment already generates a considerable part of the company’s turnover, as Michael Boccarossa tells us. Aboutcamp BtoB: How long has Vitrifrigo been operating in the North America market, and what is it doing in the RV market? Michael Boccarossa: Vitrifrigo has had operations in North America for many years, but we only entered the RV market a couple of years back. The company has been supplying the North American marine sector for around twenty years, offering original equipment for yachts and other vessels, as well as aftermarket solutions. We also have a well-established presence in the heavy transport sector, supplying aftermarket compact refrigerators for trucks. Two years ago, we expanded our operations in North America in response to the boom in the world RV market, a strategy we had already implemented in Europe: we supply equipment both to OEMs and the aftermarket sector. Many of our products are UL certified , and we are considered a first choice vendor for members of the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. Aboutcamp BtoB: What is the value to the company of the various segments of the North American market? Michael Boccarossa: The marine market accounts for around 50% of our turnover, while the truck market adds up to about 20%. But I have to say that just two years in the RV market have yielded almost unbelievable results - it now accounts for around 30%

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of our turnover. The key is that we are focused exclusively on refrigeration: refrigerators are not just one of Vitrifrigo’s products - they are our only product, and always have been. This makes us highly specialised, and the quality of our refrigerators is a byword among recreational vehicle OEMs. Aboutcamp BtoB: Do you have a factory and sales offices in North America? Michael Boccarossa: Our production facilities are still in Italy, but export operations are well-established. We have offices in Florida, the Vitrifrigo America LLC branch at Pompano Beach. The branch was set up almost twenty years ago, and currently employs five people in the warehouse and order management. In order to be closer to the RV factories at Elkhart, we set up a third party logistics service there with a contractor who handles our stock on our account. This enables us to offer high quality, fast service to RV manufacturers. Aboutcamp BtoB: What do you offer to the American RV market? Michael Boccarossa: Recent years have seen considerable growth in Class B RVs, i.e. campervans, and we already had considerable experience in this segment in Europe, so we were quickly able to gain the confidence of American manufacturers. We are also appreciated by manufacturers of special off-road vehicles, and more recently we’ve also started to supply refrigerators to trailer manufacturers. Our main strength is our direct control over

production, which is all done at our Italian plant. This assures excellent quality and reliability, as well as the option of customising the product to the client’s specifications. We offer a product which is certainly cost-saving, but with uncompromising quality. American RV manufacturers have seen that our refrigerators work well, with excellent cooling power even with their low power consumption.

In partnership with

C 90 DW Vitrifrigo launched its C 90 DW model to promote the drawer refrigerator concept in the American market. The refrigerator loads from above and the sides, so that the refrigerated compartment is accessed by pulling out the drawer containing the food and beverages. Bottles and food are easy to access and store with the user at the right or left of the refrigerator: this makes the best use of space in small interiors like those of campervans and mini campervans. The unit has a volume of 3.2 cu.ft. and weighs 55.1 lbs, with a power draw of 45 W.

Slim 90 M The Slim 90 M refrigerator is designed specifically for the RV market, and recently obtained UL certification. It is designed to optimise the use of space in campervans, thanks to its narrow, compact footprint, while also making best use of the curvature of the walls thanks to its profiled rear housing. It can be installed either under-counter or at eye level. The compressor can be installed remotely, up to 1.5 metres / 5 ft away from the refrigerator itself. It has an interchangeable front panel, so that it can be adapted to the vehicle’s interior design. It has a total volume of 3.2 cu.ft. and weighs 42.5 lbs, with a nominal power draw of 39 W.

DRW 180 A Outstanding versatility and high capacity: this is the DRW 180 A, a stainless steel dual compartment refrigerator-freezer with digital thermostat. The unit has a total volume of 5.3 cu.ft. It uses just one compressor to cool its two independent compartments. The user can switch the compartments between refrigerator and freezer modes independently whenever they want, or even run them both as freezers or refrigerators. With its no-frost system, the unit does not need to be defrosted, and it has a fan system to ensure uniform cooling inside the two compartments. In Europe, the model is reserved exclusively for the marine market, while in America it is appreciated by special RV and expedition vehicle manufacturers.

Use the QR code to watch the showcase of the products presented at the Elkhart RV Open House by Lance Boggs

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Market CZECH REPUBLIC

Republic of motorhomes: 50% growth in 3 years The Czech Republic is a small market that is growing every year. As a result, there are more and more motorhomes on the roads, thanks to new registrations and the growth of the used market Words Martin Strimpfl

ike many other European countries, there was a sharp increase in interest in recreational vehicles, especially motorhomes, in the Czech Republic during the years 2021 to 2022. Prior to this, RVs had already been enjoying a growth in popularity. For example, in mid-2013, there were 8,354 motorhomes registered for use in the Czech

Republic, but after 10 years, this number had risen to 27,414 vehicles. However, even in mid-2020, there were “only” 18,391 motorhomes on Czech roads, but three years later, in mid-2023, their number had increased by 9,023 vehicles. This growth amounted to an impressive 50 percent increase in only 36 months. The growth in the popularity of motor-

homes in the Czech Republic was not hindered by the well-known production issues during that time, such as the shortage of base vehicles, certain parts and equipment, or the rising prices of new motorhomes. These adverse influences only partially manifested themselves in the registration of brand-new vehicles in 2023. On

Number of registered RVs in use in Czech Republic (mid-year count) 2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

Motor caravans

8354

9053

9822

11204

12906

14796

16700

18391

21059

24409

27414

Caravans

31235

31659

32603

33000

32829

32479

32126

31709

31544

31446

31286

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2022

1.813

711

2021

2.361

766

2018 - 2022

the other hand, there was an increase in the import of used motorhomes from abroad, and as a result, the overall number of registered motorhomes continues to increase steadily. When examining the development in the number of motorhomes in the Czech Republic, there are two noticeable trends: • The first is the continued convergence of the number of motorhomes and trailers (caravans), and it’s possible that in the next five years, there may be a shift in the ratio, with more motorhomes registered in the Czech Republic than trailers. It appears that after a slight delay, the Czech Republic is catching up with the trend towards motorhomes that began in many traditional caravanning countries long before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• The second trend is the unwavering interest in motorhomes, both new and used. Many local authorities, primarily at the regional level, have also noticed the increasing number of motorhomes. A number of them have already announced (in some cases, repeatedly) grant programmes focused on building the necessary infrastructure for motorhomes and modernizing existing campsites. Just this year (2023), nearly €3m have been allocated for this support, with additional millions in other related programmes, resulting in dozens of new camping locations being constructed or even already finished.

Source: AKK ČR

Motorhomes - brand-new registration since the beginning of the year 2500

2021

2000 2022

1500

2020 2019

2023

2018

1000

500

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

The data was provided by the Camping and Caravanning Association of the Czech Republic (AKK ČR), a non-profit organization established in 2019 to support the modern development of caravanning in the Czech Republic. Through close collaboration with legislators, media, regions, municipalities, industry companies, nature conservationists, and many other entities, AKK ČR works to improve conditions for free travel, raise general awareness of caravanning, and highlight its positive impact on tourism and its economic significance. Among other activities, the organization regularly publishes statistical data about motorhomes and assists regions in setting the conditions for their grant programmes.

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N ews Australia Caravan Industry Association of Australia partners with national TV The Caravan Industry Association of Australia is launching a national TV cooperative to put camping front of mind to millions of viewers with its annual ‘Road to a Million Campaign’. In partnership with the Channel 7 TV station’s Sunrise programme, the popular host, Katie Brown, is setting off on a road trip exploring some of Australia’s most exceptional holiday parks, shining a spotlight on the allure of caravan and camping experiences. On the 7th, 8th & 9th of November the Sunrise programme will feature three days of exclusively tailored content, promoting the fun adventure of the caravan and camping dream to eager campers. This national TV platform provides the perfect opportunity to highlight the chance to win $1,000,000 simply by embarking on a road trip and supporting local tourism and regional economies. Amidst prevailing cost-of-living challenges, caravan and camping remains Australia’s most value-driven holiday choice, plus there is now the added incentive with a chance to ‘Win a Million Dollars’. The upcoming week promises excitement, with a carefully curated itinerary that showcases the splendour and uniqueness of a caravan and camping holiday. The adventure kicks off at BIG4 Caloundra Holiday Park, featuring a range of engaging activities, including a special pancake fundraiser breakfast. Moving onward, the journey will lead to Esk Caravan Park, where a packed itinerary awaits, from capturing moments of the host driving a 1954 Viscount Pickup Van to sampling a locally brewed coffee. The final leg of the journey brings the Sunrise team to the North Star Holiday Resort in Hastings Point, NSW. “Caravan & Camping is Australia’s best value holiday. Not only does it offer exceptional value for money, but it also facilitates a reconnection with nature, relationships, and a break from the daily stresses of life. What makes it even more appealing is the added opportunity to win a million dollars,” said Stuart Lamont, CEO at Caravan Industry Association of Australia.

Parliamentary Friends of Caravanning group established The Caravan Industry Association of Australia has welcomed the establishment of the Parliamentary Friends of Caravanning and thanks Chair Senator Helen Polley and Co-Chair Scott Buchholz MP for championing the industry’s voice in the capital city, Canberra. The Parliamentary Friends of Caravanning will support the travel and tourism industry, local manufacturers and operators across the supply chain, many of which are small and micro businesses, allowing them to connect with parliamentarians about the value caravanning brings to the regions. “The Parliamentary Friends will encourage travellers to explore destinations otherwise less accessible by other modes of transportation and recognise the wide-ranging benefits the caravan and motorhome industry brings to the regions,” Senator Polley said. Caravan Industry Association of Australia CEO, Stuart Lamont, said: “the establishment of the group is again further recognition of the industry’s economic contribution, social and wellbeing offering and diversity of offering for the Australian tourism landscape.” “While many policy makers regularly engage in caravanning (including everything from camping, motorhoming through to staying in cabins), the industry offers much more than simply a positive recreational activity – $27 billion of economic activity from local manufacturing, employment, sovereign supply chains, visitor economy spend, and regional dispersal.” “We look forward to working with the Parliamentary Friends group on further demonstrating the strengths and diverse offerings of the industry as well as continuing to build strong bi-partisan relationships in the Nation’s Capital,” said Stuart.

Promoting accessible tourism in the caravan industry The Caravan Industry Association of Australia is proud to announce a partnership with The Accessible Group (Accessible Accommodation) to raise awareness of the power of Accessible tourism within the caravan and camping industry. It is looking forward to encouraging caravan holiday parks to build accessible friendly infrastructure and promote the facilities available for those travelling with accessible needs right across the country as part of a caravanning experience.

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Last November Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) facilitated an infrastructure grants program for caravan holiday parks (thank you Senator Farrell for your support on this), and it was great to see so many projects looking to incorporate accessible friendly developments under this funding program. Over 20% (some 3.8 million) of trips annually are conducted in the caravan and camping industry with a member of the travelling party identifying as having accessible needs.