Reduced travel during the COVID-19 pandemic created revenue and profit fluctuations for the recreational vehicle industry. However, the economy’s recovery, the continued rise of e-commerce, and renewed travel interest have boosted the RV industry. Results from the RVIAs February 2024 survey found total RV shipments increased by 17.8% compared with the same period in 2023, marking the fourth consecutive month of increases. ¹

While post-pandemic recovery has stabilized after a high-growth period, with RV sales dropping 16% due to inflation and gas prices in 2022 and early 2023, the RV industry's future is still promising, driven by market segmentation, an aging population's interest in outdoor recreation, and the younger generations that value experiences and ability to work anywhere. The RV Industry Association estimates 2024 shipments at an encouraging 329,900 to 359,100 units and shipments between 374,200 and 408,600 units in 2025. ²

Price competitiveness remains crucial for RV manufacturers as consumers seek affordable options that fit their lifestyles.

More Electric / Green Logistics / Sustainability

The development of electric and hybrid RVs is a significant advancement, aligning with global sustainability goals and promising a cleaner future for the industry.

An overall shift toward sustainable transportation is driving innovation in the RV industry, with a growing focus on all-electric and hybrid models. Consumers across all generations, especially those considered Gen X, are willing to pay more for sustainable products, prompting companies like Thor and Winnebago to introduce electric motorhomes. Government incentives are also helping drive interest in electric and solar on-board power generation.

Continuing with the theme of sustainability, the demand for energy-efficient appliances and solar-powered systems in RVs is also growing. Innovations by Ford, Mercedes, and other automakers are designed to improve towing capabilities and electric vehicle range. The new focus on sustainability also includes using renewable resources, better insulation, low-flow water systems, LED lighting, and adopting lighter, recyclable materials to reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

Compact RV Trailers Gaining Popularity

Compact RV trailers are increasingly popular due to their affordability, space efficiency, and versatility. These compact trailers cater to a broad market by offering a practical and economical solution for outdoor adventures. They provide significant savings for families compared to motorhomes and fit various budgets and camping needs.

Compact trailers currently represent 20% of all RVs in the U.S., compared to 14% for Class A motorhomes.

These lightweight trailers are ideal for camping enthusiasts who lack the space, budget, or appropriate vehicle for a full-sized RV. New compact trailers have been introduced to capture this market range in size between teardrop and pop-up trailers. They often lack bathrooms but may include optional outdoor shower stalls.

Pop-up campers are also making a comeback as a low-cost, lightweight option for minimalist campers.

Aerodynamic Design is Key to Fuel Efficiency

The reduced range of electric vehicles to tow a trailer and the current cost of gas have fueled the need for lighter and more aerodynamic trailers. According to a CleanTechnica article, aerodynamics is more important than weight. Weight is easy to figure out, but understanding which designs are truly the most aerodynamic and will deliver greater fuel economy/EV range is a little more challenging. 

RV Lifestyle conducted an A/B test to determine the true significance of aerodynamic design. The test surmised that the more aerodynamic trailer, despite being double the length of the non-aerodynamic trailer, nearly double the weight, 7 inches taller, and having twice the tires to turn, still got 12% greater fuel efficiency.

Technology Integration

The integration of smart technology is revolutionizing the RV camping experience by enhancing comfort, convenience, and safety. Modern RVs are equipped with Internet of Things devices for remote monitoring and temperature control, lighting, fuel, and water levels. Mobile apps interface with RV systems, providing updates and alerts to users' smart devices for real-time information and control.

Sophisticated navigation systems tailored for larger vehicles account for road restrictions and recommend safe, RV-friendly routes. Wi-Fi Improvements and satellite internet options allow remote workers and travelers to stay connected, supporting the growing community of digital nomads using RVs as mobile offices. All these technological advancements allow RVers to stay connected and informed, making RVing a more appealing lifestyle and enjoyable experience.

RV Ownership – Demographic Shift

The RV industry is experiencing a significant demographic shift. The ability to stay connected, which allows for changing work habits along with changing lifestyle preferences, is helping the RV market expand to include a younger and more diverse group of owners. The rise of remote work has spurred interest in RVs, allowing people to combine travel and work from anywhere.

While the typical RV owner is in their mid-40s, overall RV ownership is evenly split between those above and below age 55. However, ownership is starting to skew younger, with 18-to-34-year-olds now comprising 22% of current owners. Additionally, 84% of younger groups (Millennials and Gen Z) plan to buy another RV, mostly preferring to buy new models instead of used ones. Nearly 31% of current RV owners are first-timers, reflecting a recent surge in RV popularity. ³

Enhanced Convenience Features

The RV market's evolution reflects a commitment to meeting varied consumer preferences while enhancing comfort, functionality, and sustainability. More choices and customization options are now being offered to cater to diverse needs and lifestyles.

While retirees seek comfortable and easy-to-use RVs for winter travel, families look for units with bunk beds; rustic campers want off-grid capabilities, and digital nomads need built-in offices. Special-use RVs for tailgating and outdoor adventures are also on the rise.

Other enhanced features that are more in demand include expanded storage space for adventure gear, outdoor kitchens to bring the comforts of home to an outdoor setting, and improved water storage to support longer stays in remote locations.

Luxury amenities such as gourmet kitchens, smart bathrooms with spa-like features, and built-in entertainment systems are becoming more common as well, making RVing a luxurious yet practical travel option. Innovations in interior design create versatile, multifunctional living spaces with convertible furniture, larger windows, and open floor plans that offer a spacious feel and panoramic views.

Prioritizing Safety

The RV industry is prioritizing safety and health with several innovations and features. These advancements reflect its commitment to making RVing safer and healthier and enhancing the overall travel experience.

For example, companies like Jayco are introducing anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and improved anti-sway technology to enhance stability during towing. Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking are becoming standard to help reduce accident risks. New RVs often include fire suppression systems and carbon monoxide detectors to enhance living space safety.

Health and wellness improvements are being integrated into RV designs that focus on hygiene. This is, in part, a response to COVID-19 pandemic-related consumer concerns. These improvements include items like better ventilation systems, mold-resistant materials, and easier-to-clean surfaces. High-end models are now equipped with water filtration systems to ensure access to clean drinking water.

The Significance of Digital Marketing and E-Commerce

RV dealerships are leveraging digital tools to engage customers more effectively and measure their return on investment. Dealerships use Google AdWords, chat windows, and text alerts to attract and retain customers.

For their part, customers are well-informed about products, pricing, and dealerships, emphasizing the importance of managing online reputations and responding to reviews. The RV purchasing process increasingly starts and sometimes concludes online, with buyers influenced more by online information than in-dealership salespeople.

Austin Hardware and Supply is committed to helping you stay ahead of the curve. We stock thousands of items from leading manufacturers that meet the changing needs of the RV industry. In addition, our in-house engineers are here to help you reimagine and redesign products that will help you keep up with market trends. If there’s a product you feel can be optimized for today’s changing environment, please contact us, and our engineers will be happy to listen and help bring your vision to life.

_______________

¹ https://www.rvia.org/reports-trends/rv-shipment-reports/2024-02/february-shipment-report-shows-18-increase

² https://rvbusiness.com/rv-shipments-to-rise-to-median-of-391400-by-end-of-2025/#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThis%20new%20forecast%20reinforces%20our,RVIA%20President%20%26%20CEO%20Craig%20Kirby.

³ https://www.rvia.org/news-insights/millennial-and-generation-z-interest-rvs-has-skyrocketed-throughout-2021

The Importance of Testing and Quality Control for Rivets

The importance of working with rivet manufacturers whose testing and quality assurance programs meet regulatory requirements to produce certified rivets cannot be overstated. A structure or equipment's performance will be only as reliable and safe as the rivets that hold it together. Rivet manufacturers must adhere to rigorous testing protocols and quality standards to guarantee that their rivets will perform as expected.

Image c/o TecNiq, Inc.

Lighting Requirements for Marine Vessels

A critical part of safe boating is complying with international and local lighting standards that allow the vessel to always maintain clear visibility. Marine vessel operators are responsible for ensuring all lighting meets relevant standards and regulations. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) publishes the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972, also known as Collision Regulations (COLREGs), which defines the requirements for navigation lights. Additionally, regulations specific to a vessel’s operating region established by local maritime authorities must also be considered.

Proper use and maintenance of several different types of lights are critical for safe marine operations. Each type must comply with maritime navigation regulations and play a specific role in ensuring that the vessel is visible to others and can effectively communicate its intentions.

Just like land-based vehicles such as truck bodies, cargo vans, and trailers, marine vessels require proper ventilation to ensure the health, safety, and comfort of occupants, the longevity of equipment, and the avoidance of degradation of certain cargo.

Here is a brief look at the critical role proper ventilation systems play in marine vessels.

For starters, ventilation systems provide fresh air and maintain an appropriate temperature for crew and passengers on board. They also reduce the levels of carbon dioxide and other contaminants.

Preventing the spoilage of perishable goods on board is also important. Proper ventilation controls temperature and humidity levels to avoid spoilage and loss of cargo value. As important as that may be, it may be one of the less significant roles of proper ventilation on a marine vessel. Consider the transport of hazardous materials. Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent the accumulation of dangerous fumes and gases and to ensure the ship and its crew remain safe.

Modern marine-grade adhesives and sealants are designed to protect against water, chemicals, temperature extremes, and environmental degradation. The improved structural bonding capabilities of many of today’s products offer a myriad of benefits, including:

• - Support using light, one-piece composite hulls
• - Reduce construction time
• - Improve aesthetics
• - Durability
• - Flexibility
• - Longevity
• - Noise-reducing
• - Vibration dampening
• - Watertight seals
• - Better UV and chemical protection than ever before

Through the first half of 2024, the truck and trailer market continues to show signs of stabilizing. The market recovery from the excess capacity that originated during the pandemic due to an increase in new trucking companies has been slow. While there has been a reduction in the number of operating carriers, the adjustment and recovery have been slow. According to an article by Trailer/Body Builders, “The good news: The pandemic disruption and recovery have largely run their course, and traditional market cycles seem to be falling into place. The bad news: The freight cycle bottomed out in 2023, and the rebound remains on the horizon; that means that the heavy-duty trailer and truck markets can expect a down year in 2024.”

Companies are encouraged to focus on new trends as the market recovers to maintain competitiveness. Chris Bouchard writes, “The trailer industry is undergoing a transformative period, marked by innovative designs, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on sustainability. Encompassing recreational trailers to tractor trailers, several trends are shaping the future of this essential automotive industry sector.”

Corrosion poses a significant risk to trailer safety, gradually weakening the structure and leading to potential failures. Understanding the impact of corrosion is important for maintaining your trailer's longevity and reliability. In this blog, we explore the dangers of corrosion, its causes, and practical prevention strategies to ensure your trailer remains safe and roadworthy.

Taking steps to prevent trailer corrosion is critical for improving the useful life and productivity of the trailer, and it can also significantly impact road safety.

Corrosion can weaken a trailer's structural components, including the frame, chassis, and load-bearing parts. When the load-bearing capacity is compromised, cargo stability suffers. If the trailer can’t support the load, the domino effect is a risk that the cargo shifts or falls off the trailer. Shifting cargo and structural failures can lead to accidents on the road.

Another critical factor regarding trailer roadway safety is the reliability of the brake system, which can be compromised when the trailer becomes corroded. Corrosion can damage the brake lines, connectors, and other components, which can reduce braking efficiency or even lead to their complete failure.

Industrial tapes serve various purposes in manufacturing, construction, and other specialized applications. In this post, we’ll briefly review each and then consider the key considerations for choosing them instead of liquid or spray adhesives.

Duct, electrical, packaging, double-sided, and transfer are found commonly in industrial applications.

Duct tape is prized for its strength and versatility. Commonly used in construction applications, it’s strong enough to use in various applications on the job site, including temporary repairs, sealing, and fastening.

Electrical tape offers insulation and safety for electrical work due to its resistance to electrical currents. It’s typically used for bundling, color coding, and splicing electrical wire.

As the name suggests, packaging tape is used to secure boxes and other packages for shipping.

Structural, or bonding, tapes have bonding strength strong enough to serve as a replacement for mechanical fasteners, such as screws and rivets or welding. To ensure performance, structural tapes must resist environmental factors such as moisture, chemicals, extreme temperatures, and more. Many structural tapes are double-sided and coated with adhesive on both sides. They come in various forms, sizes, and strengths, including transparent, foam, acrylic, high-performance, and more. Double-sided tapes are often used for mounting, joining, and assembly, and while not all double-sided tapes are considered “structural,” most serve as a permanent bonding solution.

The benefits of structural tapes include weight reduction, improved aesthetics, enhanced sealing, stress distribution, and assembly time efficiency. They also help as a dampener, reducing vibration and providing impact resistance.

Transfer tape is a highly versatile industrial tape with a thin adhesive film but no carrier or backing. It’s easily transferred to most dry surfaces from a peel-away release liner.

No matter what type of trailer, proper ventilation is necessary for health, safety, and comfort. This can be effectively achieved by combining natural and mechanical ventilation methods.

Fresh air can flow through your trailer by natural ventilation methods such as windows, fixed vents, and skylights with built-in ventilation. Positioning windows on opposite sides is always a good idea for creating cross ventilation. Vents should be placed at both high and low points to take advantage of natural convection, where hot air rises and cooler air settles. It’s important always to be sure that vents are not blocked by an obstruction, which will mitigate effectiveness.

Installing roof and side vents is especially crucial for utility trailers transporting perishable goods.

In climates where natural ventilation is not enough, mechanical ventilation can be achieved via roof-mounted exhaust fans, air conditioning units, and portable fans. Individually or in combination, these methods can effectively remove hot air from the trailer and improve air circulation. When using a mechanical system such as air conditioning, schedule regular maintenance to clean vents and fans and replace air filters when needed.

Proper lighting and trailer lighting compliance are essential for the safe use of trailers on the road. This post will discuss the similarities and differences between trailer lighting requirements and those for cars and trucks.