The boat-building industry is evolving with a strong focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and customization, adapting to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.

Boat builders manufacture various types of watercrafts for personal, commercial, and governmental use. The industry is highly influenced by consumer confidence, disposable income, and economic conditions. Because boat purchases are highly discretionary, the COVID-19 pandemic and rising interest rates have dampened demand.

In response to the economic challenges, manufacturers continue to look for solutions that will appeal to a broader demographic. Meanwhile, they are also responding with innovations that meet the desires of today’s consumers. In this post, we will examine what is happening in the industry.

When two different types of metals are joined together, a process called electrolysis—also known as galvanic corrosion—can occur. Electrolysis happens when two dissimilar metals are directly connected, causing the lesser of the two metals to corrode. The two metals must also come into contact with a conductive electrolyte for the process to occur. Ultimately, this can damage the joint, causing the metals to fail.

Several factors contribute to electrolysis when joining dissimilar metals, including differences in electrical potential, composition, and exposure to moisture or other corrosive substances. Let's take a closer look at each of these factors and how they can impact the durability of the joint.

Electrical Potential

The enclosure manufacturing market trends indicate a dynamic shift towards more advanced, flexible, and sustainable solutions that cater to evolving industrial needs and technological advancements. Innovations in materials science are also leading to the development of lighter yet more robust and durable enclosures.

Enclosure manufacturing processes are becoming more automated to be more efficient, efficient, and precise. Robotics are used for welding, assembly, and quality control, leading to faster production cycles and reduced labor costs. They’re also expanding their global footprint to access new markets and optimize their supply chains. This includes establishing manufacturing facilities in strategic locations and forming partnerships with suppliers and distributors worldwide.

What to consider when choosing work truck lighting.

Work trucks are durable vehicles built to handle heavy loads, withstand adverse weather conditions and rough terrain, and endure high mileage. The lighting you choose for your work truck has to match that durability. Work truck lights must be highly durable to function properly in all types of weather, plus they have to withstand vibration and impacts. Today’s LEDs offer long life, low power consumption, and resistance to harsh environments.

5 Essential Tips You Can't Overlook When Building a Food Truck

Manufacturing food trucks involves many critical considerations. Some are obvious, but others are less so. One of the first things under consideration is cooking and food preservation equipment. Depending on the food being prepared, they could include grills, griddles, and ovens. Indeed, they’ll need some type of refrigeration and possibly even a freezer.

Space in a food truck is at a premium, and depending on how many people need to work at a given time and the space required for food and cooking equipment, it could make for a very cramped environment. How to make the best use of that limited space is always a top concern.

Marketing is also a top-of-mind concern. Specifically, the exterior design of the food truck and signage to indicate clearly what types of food and beverages are being sold and to help the truck stand out are obvious considerations.

However, some aspects of a food truck's build are often overlooked. Addressing these overlooked elements can significantly improve the truck's functionality, safety, and longevity. Here’s our list of 5 not-so-obvious considerations for food trucks.

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.

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