Lippert Components has announced that several of Thor Industries top towable manufacturers, including Keystone RV, Dutchmen RV, and Crossroads RV will feature LCI’s PSX1 Power Stabilizers. will feature LCI’s PSX1 Power Stabilizers, or other electric leveling, standard on all brands starting with the 2020 model year.

LCI’s PSX1 Power Stabilizers eliminate manual cranking. LCI’s PSX1 Power Stabilizer utilizes a singular motor that operates the two stabilizer legs independently, meaning when one leg finds the terrain surface, the other leg will automatically adjust to match the other’s height.

“Including power stabilizers as a standard feature is a true game-changer,” said Jason Lippert, LCI’s president and CEO. “RVers have been using manual scissor jacks since the birth of our industry. There have been so many innovations in the RV industry since then, but yet here we are, still using manual crank jacks. The auto industry has made similar moves towards power and convenience. For example, consumers would be hard pressed to find a car in today’s market that comes with a crank down window. We believe the RV owner deserves better, and more importantly, future RVers will demand better. These three brands are truly leading the industry by putting their end users first, and we’re proud to support these industry-wide innovations.” 

PSX1 Power Stabilizers feature anti-rust, heavy-gauge steel with a durable powder coat finish, and a waterproof switch kit. Furthermore, the improved braking system helps prevent side-to-side movement.

“The addition of power stabilizers or leveling across all product lines is a huge benefit for dealers and owners of Keystone, Crossroads, and Dutchmen products,” said Jeff Runels, Keystone RV’s president and CEO. “We are excited to continue to lead the industry with features that make camping easier and more accessible for buyers at all price points.” 

nuCamp RV is broadening its portfolio with the launch of new RV models at Open House.

nuCamp RV will be exhibiting its full line of RV offerings at the Elkhart Open House, including the T@G teardrop trailer, the T@B 320 teardrop camper, the Cirrus truck camper, and the AVIA travel trailer. In addition to its current lineup, it will be presenting three new prototype models: the new smart Cirrus 820, the new T@B 400 solo, and the redesigned T@B 320.  

“Even with the current climate in the industry being what it is, we have never been as enthusiastic as we are this year for an Open House,” said Scott Hubble, nuCamp’s CEO. “We will be sharing several unique and innovative things – most notably, the newly redesigned T@B 320.”

The unveiling of the new T@B 320 will take place at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 23.

“Not only did the exterior get a facelift but the interior includes several smart features for the modern-day consumer,” said Hubble.

nuCamp will exhibit a prototype of the new Cirrus 820 truck camper. The company took its top-selling truck camper and structured it to be a smart camper with a custom App that syncs many major features and functions.

The T@B 400 is also releasing a new prototype of a new, radical floorplan that features an expandable north-to-south sleeping area. nuCamp will be offering exclusive show pricing during Open House week continuing through Sept. 30. The nuCamp booth is located at the corner of Executive Drive and County Road 17.

Eight months ago, the world’s first completely electric motorhome debuted at a German trade show. With a range of 124 miles, the camper showed that while the RV industry continues to work towards more eco-friendly designs, the big limitation is range.

This story by Megan Barber originally appeared in Curbed.

Now, that same zero-emissions RV is on the market with a longer range and interior photos, to boot. At the 2019 Dusseldorf Caravan Salon, the WOF Iridium debuted with a whopping 249 mile-range with the motorhome’s highest battery pack. Dusseldorf also allowed camper lovers a first glimpse inside the Iridium, although the layout is pretty standard.

The Iridium features a dry bathroom and shower, kitchen, and a split double bed. A dining lounge in the front of the camper can seat five thanks to the swivel front cab seats, a dual-seat rear bench, and a side seat. Other amenities include an awning, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. 

The Iridium EV is the brainchild of two German companies, ElektroFahrzeuge Stuttgart (called EFA-S, an electric vehicle retrofitter) and WOF, a camper van manufacturer. WOF contributed their commercial vehicle chassis while EFA-S provided the drivetrain and battery technology. The E-camper’s bodywork comes from the Swiss camper van manufacturer Maurer Fahrzeugbau.

It has a newly advertised range of 249 miles.

Editor’s note: This is the twelfth entry leading up to 2019’s Elkhart Open House. To read the last preview, click here. For the full Open House preview, be sure to check out the September 2019 issue of RV PRO.

Winnebago Industries 

Leading up to Open House Week, Winnebago was touting the debut of the Boldt, which it describes as a four-season Class B motorhome designed for real-world use, from exploring urban areas to nature’s hidden gems. 

The camper van is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis featuring a 3-liter V6 diesel engine with features including blind- spot monitoring, active brake assist, rain sensor and auto-high-beam assist. It comes in two floorplans, the 70KL and 70BL, and is available in four-wheel-drive. 

Product features include the Pure3 Advanced Energy system, which eliminates the traditional RV generator and gives owners the ability to power through the night without the use of shore power. The Boldt also features extensive insulation and cabinet construction that is designed to create a quiet and comfortable camper van.

Winnebago will showcase a variety of towables and motorhomes during Open House Week, including the debut of the Boldt (pictured), described as a four-seasons Class B motorhome.

The View and Navion has been completely redesigned inside and out for an unparalleled C-class experience and features the all-new SuperShell Sleeper Deck that provides premium thermal and acoustic insulation, advanced Mercedes technology, residential amenities, and numerous features to extend off-grid capability with industry leading holding tanks, standard 200-watt solar and a 2,000-watt inverter. The interior is filled with fashionable interior and residential amenities, such as the innovative induction/LP dual cooktop, lighted galley drawers and industry-leading sprung cushion dinette and sofa seats. 

The Intent is designed to provide owners the opportunity of a Class A living at a price that meets their budget. The newest floorplan in the lineup offers a highly functional layout, with three slide-outs, a spacious bedroom with a walk-around queen bed, and a large galley. 

New floorplans of the Class A diesel Forza will be on display, including the 38F. Product features include a queen or king walkaround bed, enjoy a double sink in the master bathroom, and relax on the TrueComfort+Sofa. 

Winnebago Towables will introduce a new fifth wheel and travel trailer line. Other enhancements to the product line include new floorplans in the Minnie and Micro Minnie lines. 

Additionally, Winnebago Towables will relaunch the Spyder toy haulers. All floorplans include a private bedroom and kitchen area with top-notch appliances. The garage area has plenty of space to park toys and is equipped with tie-downs bolted to the frame.

Grand Design RV

The Grand Design display near the RV/MH Hall of Fame will include some must-see updates from Solitude, Momentum, Transcend, Imagine and Reflection. The Solitude 390RK features a rear kitchen layout with the kitchen raised above a built-in storage space below. 

The unit is entered from the living area and a left turn takes the RVer up to the kitchen. The kitchen has a double slide with an island that includes the eating area. Below the kitchen, in the back of the unit, is the storage area featuring pull-out MORryde trays.

The Grand Design Reflection 300RBTS features a lighter interior and a bedroom slide.

For Momentum, the 376THS fifth wheel toy hauler has no door-side slides, which means the camping area is more open. It has an 11-foot garage and will be the smallest among Momentum’s fifth wheels. 

The 29GO has an open back end that can be used to carry toys or as an extra room. It is built to sleep six people. Among five new floorplans, Imagine will feature the 24MPR. The space in the 29-foot long trailer can be a second bed- room or a bunk room or a garage for toys. 

Imagine’s 3250 has opposing slides and an island kitchen. It’s the first triple slide travel trailer Imagine has had. It’s got a big pantry with a barn door on it and its own private bunk room with lots of storage. 

Transcend comes in with three new floorplans including the 30RBS with a rear bath and bedroom slide. 

Reflection will display the 240RL, a smaller unit with a rear living room, among its three new floorplans. 

Riverstone & Riverstone Legacy 

This year the two separate Riverstone and Riverstone Legacy segments combine to form one segment under Riverstone with a Legacy package. 

The Legacy package will offer upgrades on items like tires, Bose sound systems, Dyson vacuum system, full-body paint, backsplashes and more. 

A new feature implemented across all lineups is a new Insignia 24-inch stand-alone four-burner range that looks very residential and is different from the traditional built-in cooktop. 

Riverstone will see a new decor package debuting at Open House with new wall vinyl, new cabinet colors including one called Juno Grey, and coordinating carpet and tile. A new lighting package, backsplashes and bedspreads will round out the redesign providing a more modern look. 

Riverstone and Cedar Creek products will now have the option for a Thule Crown awning. The awning has no legs and is the result of a partnership between LCI and Thule. 

Two of the nine floorplans available in the Riverstone lineup will be garage models. Not designed as a toy hauler, the garage is for the individual or couple who is carrying golf carts or the big touring-type motorcycle. No living space is sacrificed as the bed lifts up and down. 

Riverstone production is moving into a new 100,000-square-foot facility.

Thor Motor Coach’s 2020 Class A Outlaw toy hauler motorhome will get a number of upgrades, including an upgraded dash and a media player with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display that includes a navigation system and SiriusXM radio.

Thor Motor Coach 

This summer, TMC began shipping to dealers 2020 A.C.E. models, including the 32.3 floorplan, which features bunk beds, a king-sized bed and a full-wall slide-out. Consumers can choose from three new interior decors, which include all new flooring and countertops, two exterior graphics and a new cabinetry wood color. 

Consumers also will see new technology with the Winegard ConnecT 2.0 4G LTE router and Wi-Fi extender and the Thor Motor Coach App.

TMC also is highlighting its 2020 Super C motorhome lineup with four unique floorplans, two of which offer four-wheel drive. Standard this year on Super C RVs is the Winegard ConnecT 2.0 4G LTE Router and Wi-Fi. Thor owns a third of the Class A market, and its Palazzo, Aria, Venetian and Tuscany diesel brands will take center stage at Open House. TMC is updating the Palazzo interior decors and adding safety features such as the bird’s eye window. 

Aria motorhomes feature four new full-body paint packages and inside a power drop-down overhead bunk, which is unique in the diesel market. The Aria also features Winegard ConnecT 2.0 4G/ Wi-Fi antenna, a 2,000-watt, pure-sine wave inverter, a tankless water heater, and hardwood cabinetry. 

Venetian motorhomes see the biggest changes for 2020. New this year is the B42 built on a Freightliner tag-axle chassis. Venetian now features a 30-inch entry step, three air conditioners, a 10,000-watt generator, an Aqua-Hot heating system, six house batteries, an electric water hose, and power cord reels, Girard patio entry awnings, keyless entry system and push-button start. 

This year, the Rapid Camp+ wiring control system receives an upgrade and features both digital and analog controls. Rapid Camp+ is App-enabled and allows operation of lights, expanding slide-outs and check battery levels from a phone or tablet. Rapid Camp+ is available on Hurricane, Windsport, Miramar and Challenger RVs.

Model year 2020 Outlaw Class A toy haulers include an upgraded dash and house design with an Axxera media control dash radio. This media player consists of a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, App-based navigation and SiriusXM radio. 

Meanwhile, TMC continues to gain traction with its lineup of RUVs: the Axis and Vegas, built on the Ford E-series chassis, and the Compass and Gemini, built on a Ford transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter diesel chassis. RUVs feature Rapid Camp+, LED lighting and are solar prepped. 

Finally, TMC is making a splash in the Class B motorhome market with the launch of the Sequence motorhome, which is built on the fuel-efficient RAM Promaster 3500 window van chassis. The motorhome debuted at the RVX show in Salt Lake City. 

The Sequence features an exterior accessory package from Thule that includes bike and roof racks plus a patio awning. Additionally, the motorhome is equipped with a Go Power! 190-watt solar charging system that allows an additional energy source if boondocking, plus a Winegard ConnecT 2.0 4G/Wi-Fi system. 

TMC’s 20L floorplan features modern interior decor inspired by European designs and is equipped with a Froli sleep cooling system and adjustable headrests. The new concept includes four seat belts throughout the coach. 

Convenience features are throughout the Sequence, such as the 7-inch touchscreen dash radio with Apple Carplay or Android Auto enabled. The intuitive Rapid Camp+ multiplex wiring platform makes setting up camp easy; the TrumaCombi Eco water heater/furnace allows faster heat times.

RV shipments this year might be down a bit from historic highs the past two years, but that doesn’t mean that RV manufacturers plan to scale back their new and updated product offerings for September’s Elkhart Open House Week. Far from it.

Reps for large, medium-size and small manufacturers all told RV PRO that they are planning about the same number of product debuts at this year’s event compared to last year, and in some cases representatives say they will be bringing more inventory than past years to showcase for dealers. 

Meanwhile, there are a number of new developments for this year’s Open House Week. Notably, Forest River is moving its massive exhibit to the company’s East to West manufacturing facility near the Elkhart Municipal Airport. (Previously the RV manufacturer hosted its event at the company’s Dynamax plant at the intersection of County Road 6 and Northland Drive.) 

For its part, Thor Industries is staying put at the RV/MH Hall of Fame, but this year’s exhibit will take place on a newly paved surface. Also at that location, the Hall of Fame will host a major display of aftermarket suppliers, while a second major exhibition for suppliers will happen near Forest River’s new exhibit space. 

In short, there is a lot happening at this year’s Elkhart Open House Week. Click the links below for more details on what to expect at this year’s event.

1. TAXA and Braxton Creek RV

2. Jayco

3. nuCamp, Aliner, Entegra Coach, and Highland Ridge

4. inTech, Gulf Stream, Newmar, and Riverside RV

5. Little Guy, NeXus RV, Surveyor, and Forest River

6. REV Group, Lance Camper, Renegade RV, and Midwest Automotive Design

7. East to West, Shasta, Cardinal, and Prime Time

8. Keystone RV, Airstream, and Dutchmen RV

9. XLR, Sabre, Dynamax, and Salem/Wildwood

10. Heartland RV, KZ RV, CrossRoads, and DRV Luxury Suites & Cruiser RV

11. Coachmen

12. Winnebago, Grand Design, Riverstone, and Thor Motor Coach

Keystone RV lead the market in both luxury and mid-priced fifth wheel sales last week at “America’s Largest RV Show” in Hershey, Pa., according to the company.

“After last week’s sales performance at Hershey, there is no question that our brands are positioned to have a really strong year end and 2020. It’s an exciting time for the company,” said President and CEO Jeff Runels.

Keystone leveraged the show to launch the redesigned Montana and Montana High Country lines.

“We suspected we had the tiger by the tail with the new design of both product lines, but we’re always anxious to get new products in front of consumers,” said Sam Lengrich, Montana assistant product manager. “The buyers at Hershey confirmed that Montana and Montana High Country are on the right track. The results we saw were extremely gratifying.”

Keystone’s Sprinter brand saw a massive sales increase at Hershey, doubling last year’s record sales to lead the field in mid-priced towables.

“We have been pushing Sprinter, taking risks that other brands are unable or unwilling to do – making changes to industry standard floorplans, moving to different materials, adding unexpected features like pull-out pet bowls, beds and leash holders,” said Product Manager Jonathan Gust. “Intuitively, we knew customers would respond, and now we have proof.”

Keystone is reporting that the Cougar also performed exceptionally well. This brand has also seen a refresh with a move to white high-gloss laminated sidewalls and debuting their “Off-The-Grid Solar Camping Package.”

Rounding out Keystone’s success were performances other brands who introduced all-new products, including  Alpine and Avalanche, who both outsold last year’s numbers, Fuzion, who sold more units than any other brand in their display, and Raptor, who’s new 429 side-patio floorplan was the talk of the show.

All of Keystone’s products will be on display next week at Thor Industries’ 2019 Dealer Open House.

Lippert Components has announced that Forest River is adopting LCI’s Space Saver Upper Deck chassis design and Rhino Box pin box on all 2020 Cardinal and XLR Nitro fifth wheel units.

“After months of staying involved with LCI on the Space Saver Upper Deck, our team felt that the construction and design provided a better product for the customer,” said Michael A. Terlep, general manager for Forest River Cardinal. “The strength of the new upper deck, and the increased strength of the Rhino Box pin box, allows for our customers to more safely travel the country. The design allows us to be more accommodating with our floor plan design, especially when it comes to the usability of our walk-in closets.”

LCI’s patent pending Space Saver Upper Deck provides additional floor space and minimizes the large step commonly found in front of cabinetry or inside of walk-in closets in most fifth wheels, according to the company. LCI’s new chassis design utilizes a larger front beam, eliminating the need for the rear beam behind the pin box.

As part of the Space Saver Upper Deck’s development, LCI has created a new pin box that utilizes high-strength, low-alloy steel and features a load rating of 21,000 pounds.

“At XLR this year, we’ve focused on two major arenas, partnering with innovative suppliers and providing our customers with a refined 2020 XtraBuilt XLR lineup,” said Rob McCartney, product manager for Forest River XLR. “The Space Saver Upper Deck from LCI achieved both of these goals and allowed us to get creative with some things we haven’t been able to offer our customers previously. It also simplified and cleaned up our interior aesthetics in the front portion of our fifth wheels.”

“Our R&D teams have been working hard to continuously provide innovative chassis solutions that satisfy the needs of consumers,” commented Andy Murray, LCI’s chief sales officer. “We’re proud to partner with Forest River Cardinal and XLR to give RVers much more freedom and flexibility for their towing and lifestyle needs.”

Both the Rhino Box and Space Saver Upper Deck have been extensively tested and exceed the performance requirements of SAE J2638-17.

Editor’s note: This is the twelfth entry leading up to 2019’s Elkhart Open House. To read the last preview, click here. For the full Open House preview, be sure to check out the September 2019 issue of RV PRO.

Cherokee Wolf Pack 

This year, Cherokee Wolf Pack toy hauler fifth wheels and travel trailers are offering bigger floorplans to accommodate even larger toys retail customers might take camping. 

“The big motivator this year was that we had a floorplan to fit every side-by-side on the market including the Polaris RZR and the Can-Am Maverick. Then, they decided to build the Can-Am Turbo, which is 72-inches wide and almost 14-feet long. That was too big for any of our floorplans. 

“So, we added a new 15-foot, 10-inch garage model – the 365Pack16 – and the Can-Am Turbo fits. The new floorplan will be a 102-inch-widebody unit with a half-bath in the back. That was the push to do that floorplan,” says Chris Grathen, sales manager for Cherokee Wolf Pack. 

New floorplans in fifth wheels include the 365Pack16, 305Pack22, 335Pack13 and the 27Pack10 in travel trailers. The 305Pack22 is an open-concept floorplan featuring a 22-foot-garage that customers can drive straight into and into the kitchen and living area. 

“When the slide comes in, the sofa folds up against the wall and the floor flips up to wrap around the front tire when the slide is in,” says Grathen. “It creates an opening in the slide floor where you usually can’t pull the wheel up, but now you can and it goes right around the front wheel.” 

Grathen says the floorplan addresses feedback the RV maker has heard from customers on the West Coast, where they use their RVs in sand dunes. 

The 335Pack13 is a U-shaped kitchen floorplan with a 13-foot garage, offering a slightly shorter, lighter and smaller unit than the 365Pack16. The configuration still has a half-bath in the garage, but offers a more open living area and more countertop space. 

The new 27Pack10 travel trailer floorplan is a double-over-double bunkhouse. 

“Generally, all manufacturers have a floorplan out there that is a double-over-double bunkhouse that is a volume piece and top-seller. This is exactly that floorplan,” Grathen says. “We put the bunks beds on a bed lift system so you can lift it up and create a half garage. There’s still a full ramp door on the back, so you can pull a golf cart, ATV or motorcycle. You won’t fit a side-by-side because it’s only a half garage. The other half will be a bathroom.” 

A new solar option this year will allow the dealer to operate all 12-volt systems without the need of a truck or battery pack. Sales staff will be able to turn on the lights, operate the slide rooms and awnings for the customer on the lot.

For 2020, the Cherokee, Grey Wolf and Wolf Pup lineup have expanded to include the Black Label upgrade as an option across all platforms. Black Label upgrades include things such as frameless windows and a fiberglass exterior. (Note: Pictured is a 2019 model Grey Wolf.)

Cherokee, Grey Wolf & Wolf Pup Line 

The Cherokee Grey Wolf and Wolf Pup lineup have expanded to offer the Black Label Line across all platforms. Black Label was in Wolf Pup and is now an option in Cherokee and Grey Wolf as well. 

The Black Label offers an upgraded version of each unit with a fiberglass exterior, solid-surface countertops, a gel-coat exterior, frameless windows and other upgraded items. 

In Cherokee, there will be the new 234DC, which is an open floorplan with a sofa dinette on the slide-out and a queen bed up front. 

“It’s the perfect little couple’s coach,” says Collin Spickler, product manager. “It’s one of the smallest Cherokees that we’ve done. It has a full outside kitchen in a little 23-foot print with a big slide-out.” 

As for the Wolf Pup lineup, the new 14CC Wolf Pup is the smallest Wolf Pup to be built yet. 

“It’s the smallest we’ve got, but it’s literally got everything – a huge bathroom, nice big dinette and queen bed up front. What’s super unique is its rear-entry rather than the typical door-side or passenger-side entry,” says Spickler. 

This allows the customer to utilize the entire awning. They can put a big table under the awning and not worry about the steps being in the way. 

A new standard across the board will be a new refrigerator by Furrion, exclusively on the Cherokee, Grey Wolf and Wolf Pup lines.

Cherokee Alpha Wolf & Arctic Wolf 

Product Manager Jeff Cripe knows his Arctic Wolf fifth wheels are his bread and butter. His group has performed a lot of research and used focus groups to poll as much information as they could to see what their customers wanted. 

“We found our product is somewhat light and caters to smaller trucks,” Cripe says. “With that in mind, we went through a redesign in the bedroom and bathroom area to pull some weight out of there and the hitch area. We went from double entry to single entry, but that allowed the space to create a larger closet.” 

The result was increasing storage space by 90 percent on an Arctic Wolf product that doesn’t have a bed slide. 

The new 287BH floorplan is a family-friendly bunk model that provides a separate sleeping area in the back, acting like a closed-off room. 

“Most people don’t like curtains, so it has a hard door. There are oversize bunks in the rear and a deluxe outside kitchen,” says Cripe. The 291RL floorplan has a rear living room, opposing kitchen and living room slides, a big island, coffee bar and full-depth pantry.

Cripe says the RV maker also will debut two new floorplans featuring a bed slide – the first of its kind for the product line. “These will be the first two we’ve ever done, but we saw with our platform as it pertains to weight and average cost of materials that it made all the sense in the world to make a bed-slide model. We’re rounding out the fifth-wheel lineup with the new entry of bed slides,” he says.

One model will feature a triple slide rear-living room with an outside kitchen. The other will be a loft bunk model with four slides, an outside kitchen, loft and lower bunk area. 

Meanwhile, the Arctic Wolf interior is getting a new look with a modern farmhouse feel, featuring a new mesa maple driftwood cabinet color, a high-efficiency 12-volt residential fridge and exclusive Zebra shades that have both a light and dark panel, either filtering light or blacking it out entirely. Cherokee has the exclusive on Zebra blinds. 

A new smartphone App will allow the customer to use the control panel in the unit to control mechanisms like the awning, light zones, slide-outs and the monitor panel. All models also will have an 80-inch residential queen bed. 

Another exclusive for the lineup is a new MORryde step that’s still cantilevered but is now detachable as a kick plate. 

Alpha Wolf will receive the same interior revamp as Arctic Wolf, and will feature a deluxe outside camp kitchen in every model. 

Alpha Wolf will have the new 26RB couple’s coach debuting at the Expo, featuring a rear bath. 

Campervan manufacturer Westfalia has chosen to use Eberspaecher’s heating systems in the latest iteration of its James Cook model. The fourth-generation camper is equipped with Hydronic S3 Economy as standard. The Plugtronic electrical heating system can also be added as part of the optional Westfalia 4-Season Comfort Package.

In the new James Cook, Westfalia relies on two components from the Esslingen-based climate control experts. The Hydronic S3 Economy Diesel heater, which is controlled via CI-BUS, forms the basis of this heating design. For trips to colder regions, the James Cook can be fitted with the optional Westfalia 4-Season Comfort Package, which includes the Plugtronic electrical heater.

When the engine is not running, the heater can be plugged into a power grid (230 volts) – at a campground during the night, for example – to provide silent heating of the vehicle due to its electrical operation.

Mastervolt, a leader in marine and RV power conversion, and Thor Motor Coach recently announced a new custom system for onboard power technology. Power Products System Integrators (PPSI) collaborated with Thor engineers to develop a new system designed to provide grid-quality power without the need for a generator or AC source. 

The Mastervolt MLI Ultra Li-Ion batteries provide a total of 11,000 watts. The integrated battery management system monitors the individual battery cells to optimize performance. It can be directly integrated into NMEA 2000 or RV-C networks, so key battery data can be viewed on displays that are on the same network. An embedded data recorder tracks and records charge and discharge cycles over the life of the battery. 

“The new MLI Ultra batteries from Mastervolt truly represent an evolution and new level of performance in Li-Ion technology,” said Reese Bischoff, national sales manager for Power Products. “We felt that Thor was an ideal launch partner for this technology in the Class B category because of the sophisticated electronics and loads that are built into Thor Motor Coaches.” 

The Mastervolt CombiMaster inverter/charger provides a pure sine AC power source to operate all sensitive electronics on the coach. At the same time, it charges the Li-Ion batteries when plugged into an AC source. When a dedicated AC source is not available, batteries are charged via a 280-amp alternator and Alpha Pro III regulator. Key data of the entire system is readily viewable on the EasyView display screen. All of the components communicate on the same network, so they are constantly sharing data and optimizing the system for performance and safety, according to the company. All of the components in the Mastervolt system come with a 5-year warranty. 

“We pride ourselves in being industry leaders when it comes to introducing cutting edge technologies,” said Jon Krider, VP of product development and marketing at Thor Motor Coach. “We are excited to be partnering with Mastervolt, as their technology aligns with our high standards.” 

Horizon Global has closed the sale of the company’s Asia Pacific (APAC) business segment to Pacific Equity Partners (PEP) for $233 million in cash, subject to customary closing adjustments. Horizon Global will use the net proceeds to significantly reduce its debt and allow for increased financial flexibility.

“We would like to thank the APAC team for its contributions to Horizon Global and its leadership throughout the sale process,” said Carl Bizon, president and CEO. “We believe the APAC business will continue to perform well under its new ownership. … We view the sale process as a success and will use a substantial portion of the net proceeds to pay down our first lien term loan. We are now better positioned to accelerate our ongoing business improvement efforts in our remaining segments and, importantly, continue to provide our customers with best-in-class towing and trailering solutions.”

“APAC is led by an outstanding management team and has a track record of developing innovative products and solutions for its customers,” said Andrew Charlier, managing director of PEP. “We are excited to support management by investing in product development, geographical expansion, and the potential acquisition of additional brands in order to continue to deliver quality products and services to our customers.”

Aliner has expanded its product lineup with a family-size camper that can welcome four adults. The new addition will be on display at this week’s Elkhart RV Open House. The Family Camper is the latest in A-frame campers from Aliner.

“As a leader in the ultra-lightweight towable category, we always strive to bring new and innovative products to the market. We are excited to showcase this new model to our dealers at the Elkhart Open House,” said Allan Reeping, director of sales.

The Family Camper comes with two new options: an additional fiberglass color choice in gun-metal grey and a special spot for pets. 

This model also comes in two floorplan options. One with an outdoor slide-out kitchenette, complete with a two-burner stove and 12-volt portable refrigerator/freezer, swivel cassette toilet, outdoor shower and an interior sink.

“We aren’t just manufacturing camping trailers,” said Aliner President Brett Randall. “Our mission is to provide a product where families can build a lifetime of memories. And isn’t that what it’s all about?”

Roadtrek is set to showcase at Open House for the first time as a brand-new company. 

The Roadtrek brand will be making its tradeshow debut at Open House since it was acquired by Groupe Rapido in France earlier this year. Now a brand-new company, Roadtrek will have six models on display representing the range of models from its lineup that it plans to move forward with. These include models built on the Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit chassis. 

Ready to welcome and meet dealers in the display will be Groupe Rapido President Pierre Rousseau and Groupe Rapido CEO Nicolas Rousseau. Representing the management team from North America will be Len McDougall, head of sales and service, and Karyn Torcoletti, head of marketing and communications. 

“We are looking forward to attending Open House and talking firsthand with dealers and suppliers at the show about the revitalization of the Roadtrek brand in North America,” said Rousseau.

“This is an exciting time for all of us at Roadtrek, we encourage prospective dealers interested in being a part of its bright future to come by the booth and see us,” said McDougall.

Roadtrek will be on the south side of Executive Parkway from Sept. 23-26. 

Forest River has adopted Lippert Components’ OneControl ConnectAnywhere smart RV technology for all 2020 Cedar Creek and Riverstone brand units. New 2020 Cedar Creek and Riverstone owners will receive a free Amazon Echo Dot, as well as three free months of data, from Lippert Components.

2020 Forest River Cedar Creek and Riverstone units will feature the smart RV technology of OneControl ConnectAnywhere, which allows users to access the internet through a cellular connection. ConnectAnywhere provides an increased signal range. ConnectAnywhere incorporates cellular technology that allows owners to control and monitor many of their RV systems from anywhere there is an available cellular signal. Users will be able to control lighting, water tanks, and more, and with the free Amazon Echo Dot, owners can use voice commands to control their RV systems.

“ConnectAnywhere not only gets RVs into the touch pad era, it also allows us to communicate on a platform users are familiar with,” said Curtis Gunter, General Manager at Forest River. “The ability to send information directly to the end consumers will enhance the ownership experience. We are very excited to offer OneControl ConnectAnywhere in these units.”

Every new 2020 Cedar Creek and Riverstone owner will receive a free Amazon Echo Dot featuring Alexa-enabled voice control. These owners will also be able to redeem three free months of cellular data from LCI’s wireless data plans. With the Echo Dot, owners can use voice commands to operate their unit’s OneControl enabled systems and features.

“Forest River is offering RVers a unique opportunity with the incorporation of OneControl ConnectAnywhere. With the free Amazon Echo Dot, owners can utilize Amazon’s Alexa voice-controlled technology to control and monitor lighting, water tanks, and anything they would normally use Alexa for,” said Andy Murray, chief sales officer for LCI. “With three months of free data, we’ve essentially turned these RVs into a Wi-Fi hotspot so owners can bypass busy campground Wi-Fi. We’re excited to offer Forest River’s customers this unique feature so they can fully experience and enjoy the connected RV experience.”

Editor’s note: This is the fourteenth entry leading up to 2019’s Elkhart Open House. To read the last preview, click here. For the full Open House preview, be sure to check out the September 2019 issue of RV PRO.

R-Pod is getting a number of updates for the new model year, including a panoramic windshield on most R-Pod floorplans. (Note: Pictured is a current year model.)

R-Pod/No Boundaries

Product Sales Manager Cody Schade says a couple big things have happened at R-Pod, including the creation of a slightly wider R-Pod unit that has a walk-around queen bed.

“It’s something our customers had been asking for, for a long time. We gained a lot of momentum this year,” says Schade. “The benefit to an R-Pod with a walk-around queen bed is that we’re still one of the lightest weight units on the market, due in part to aluminum construction, as well as Azdel substrate. That means there’s no wood in the sidewall. That, coupled with the fact that the R-Pod is slightly narrower, means all of our units are either 6-1/2 or 7-feet wide.” 

The new R-Pod192 in development features a Murphy bed. Headed into its 11th year as a brand, the R-Pod brand has a large owner’s forum Schade says his team uses as a resource to develop new features and camper-friendly standard items. 

Notable items being added to the R-Pod product as a result of customer feedback are space-saving pocket doors instead of swinging doors and the inclusion of a central vacuum system. 

The No Boundaries lineup has three distinct segments: the 10 series, less than 2,000 pounds; the 16 series, under 3,500 pounds; and the 19 series, under 5,000 pounds. 

New this year will be a full-protected fiberglass front cap with integrated windshield standard on all 16 and 19 series, as well as the central vacuum on the 16 and 19 series. 

No-Boundaries product will feature upgraded interiors with new upscale wood-grain cabinets and appointments, as well as seamless edge countertops in a metropolitan gray finish. New units will feature a Bombay interior palette with new furniture, valance and bedroom packages. 

Cedar Creek 

Cedar Creek also will receive a new décor package and the Insignia 24-inch free-standing gas range in the Silverbacks, Hathaways and Cottages. 

New standards for all segments in Cedar Creek include a second air conditioner, a 20-cubic-foot electric refrigerator, a 50-amp power cord reel, a 2-inch bike rack receiver, no rear bumper, washer/ dryer prep on the Silverback, power theater seating, Insignia TVs, LCI One Control Wireless Command Center and a new front closet design with removable cabinets allowing for side-by-side washer and dryer installation. 

The Silverback Edition will debut the 29RW floorplan, which features a large rear window with hidden drop-down 50-inch television. The floorplan is roughly 34 feet, so it can fit at provincial and state parks, while retaining a full-length pantry, king bed and all the amenities customers are used to. 

The 29RW will feature a new Graphite décor package, a heated front storage compartment with Diamond Tread floor covering, a freestanding table with four chairs, a central vacuum system with automatic dustpan and front storage access port. The bathroom has a new trough style sink and medicine cabinet. 

The Silverback 37FLB features a front living room bath-and-a-half with a raised rear bathroom, creating plenty of exterior storage. The 37FLB rear hide-a-way garage has five locked access panels. A new standard feature will also include solar prep. 

The new Cottage 40CFK2 has opposing slides in the front, a massive island, free-standing dinette, a hide-a-bed sofa and power theater seats all in a 102-inch widebody. 

The LCI One Control Command Center will allow the customer to operate the HVAC and other components from basically anywhere via an App and cellular connection. 

Sandpiper & Sierra 

The Sandpiper and Sierra lines will see lots of aesthetic changes this year from graphics to wood-grain colors. 

Features that were once options will now be standard, including a king bed standard, a second 15,000-BTU air conditioner, a six-point hydraulic level-up, and a high-efficiency radiant foil floor and roof. 

New features include the stainless-steel four-burner range, new furniture styling, solid-surface countertops, LP quick disconnect, Ranchester Maple wood grain, rustic wood grain flooring, new exterior graphics and designer interiors. They also will have new memory foam mattresses and 50-inch flat-screen TVs, among other features. 

A new feature is the Underbelly Armor – a rigid, solid product that runs between the I-beams to help with road debris and keeping critters out. 

A brand-new product line launching in the Sierra line at Expo is the Sierra C-Class, a full-profile fifth wheel that is lighter and easier to maneuver to cater to the three-quarter-ton truck market. 

The Luxury Sierra C-class will feature an automatic electric leveling system; a gel-coated fiberglass exterior; a MORryde entry step with strut; a 10.7-cubic-foot, 12-volt stainless-steel refrigerator; a two-tone fiberglass painted front cap; Underbelly Armor; 16-inch tires with 6,000-pound axles; and slam-lock baggage doors.

Travel Lite’s new Evoke X Series is modeled off of last year’s successful Evoke debut, but is smaller and easier to tow. It has the same sleek interior design, however.

Travel Lite 

Any number of RV manufacturers can rightly claim to be trendsetters within the industry. 

But a year ago at Open House, Travel Lite broke the mold of RV manufacturing and its own history of being a small trailer/ camper manufacturer when it introduced the chic full-sized Evoke travel trailer series. 

As an encore, the RV manufacturer has taken the Evoke and given rise to the new smaller Evoke X Series. 

Evoke X will be smaller, but still feature marine-grade flooring, European-style curved cabinetry, a deep gel-coat exterior and widebody stance with 18-inch wheel rims and exterior LED lighting. The Evoke X line will feature a toy hauler, something that was not included in the original Evoke line. 

It will stay true to the Travel Lite tradition of being lightweight, offering people who want to stick with a smaller tow vehicle such as a Toyota Tacoma or Ford F-150 an option to buying a bigger truck. 

A toy hauler floorplan also will be introduced into the full-sized Evoke. 

In addition, Travel Lite will be introducing a line of full-sized travel trailers and truck campers under the PEAK 9 label. Johns says the trailers will be super sleek and the campers will feature some of the company’s best-selling floorplans with new exteriors and interior fabrics as well as gel-coat and molded front caps.

Travel Lite also is renovating the Superlight series. All the interiors are being redone with a similar interior look moving away from the stainless steel and mirror look. It will have gel-coated sidewalls. 

TAXA Outdoors will be unveiling new Mantis, Cricket, TigerMoth and Woolly Bear models for 2020 at Open House. New models will offer updates and renovations to key interior and exterior features of the habitats.

The 2020 Mantis features include a new pop-up roof offering panoramic, 360-degree views and increased ventilation with six large windows, a new rear-door hatch to allow for a more open footprint and accessibility for storage of adventure equipment. With a dry weight of 2,882 pounds, it is towable by most SUVs.

“We listened to the needs of our customers and fans when designing the new Mantis,” said CEO and Founder Garrett Finney. “With more living space for bigger families, a more open-air design and versatile storage options for bikes and kayaks, intended to better bring the outdoors in, we can’t wait for people to get out and explore in this new model.”

Additional new features include a multi-function seating and dining system that offers space for eating, playing games or working while inside, and when removed offers a large bed to accommodate taller owners.

Wider bunks and new imported European cushions allow for more comfortable sleeping, and the addition of attachment points for use with a hammock or rooftop tent offers added sleeping space for five or more.

The 2020 Mantis starts at $46,167. 

Camp365 will unveil its new, nationwide dealer program at the West Campus of the Elkhart RV Open House, Sept. 23-26, in Elkhart, Ind. 

Made in Albia, Iowa, and Eden Prairie, Minn., and the product of 9 years of design, engineering, testing and patenting, this camper stores in less than 28 square feet of floor space and can fold out to a 700-cubic-feet cabin with enough headroom – 7 feet and 6 inches.

Its aerodynamic design and lightweight materials put it at 1,490 pounds. Features include dual-layer insulation, Truma propane heater, air conditioner, as well as a water system and a toilet.

“And with 83 cubic feet of dry storage and optional side carriers for bikes, paddle boards, and other favorite ‘weekend toys,’ our happy owners find they can pack heavy and for long stays,” said Camp365 CEO Kevin McGregor. “Our customers are storing their campers next to their family car in a standard garage, and even in storage sheds, and then taking them places no other camper can go. We’re seeing them using their Camp365 campers in ways we never imagined.”

New for 2020 model year, Keystone RV has launched a private quad bunkhouse in the new Passport 3400QD. The wide bunks in the Passport 3400QD can fit two children.

“We’ve seen two important trends that this unit addresses,” said Ryan Shuff, passport product manager. “The first is that people are waiting to get married and have kids. This includes campers. Second, we see a lot of interest in groups of friends going on camping, fishing and hunting trips. The 3400QD is one RV that can accommodate everyone. No one gets left behind.” 

Available to dealers in August, the 3400QD can be towed by a full-sized SUV or half-ton pickup and features a walk-in pantry behind the entertainment center and a double wardrobe in the bunkhouse.

Outside the bathroom sits a huge linen pantry and the rear cargo door provides room for oversized camping items such as bikes, firewood, and large totes.

The 2019 Elkhart Open House is just around the corner. With so much to see (legendary band Styx) and do (the grand opening of the RV Technical Institute), it’ll be hard to stop by every booth and display. But this year Coachmen’s Apex brand is debuting a little project it has been working called the Tera.

Scroll down for photos of several Apex units and features.

Geared toward overland adventurists and Millennials, the Tera comes in at 7-feet wide and weighs around 2,500 pounds. The unit boasts a full queen bed, dry bath, bunks, outside kitchen, solar, and 6-cubic-foot refrigerator.

“This will be a small off-grid camper, all-terrain tires, compact, but feature filled,” said Kevin Silcox, product and sales manager at Apex. For campers focused on adventures, it definitely hits all the right notes. “We’re extremely focused on the weight side of things. The materials and the quality rather than having a gadget-filled camper.”

That doesn’t mean Apex isn’t offering extras. For instance, an off-grid package that includes a 100-watt solar panel and control charger is available for the Nano. The line itself is getting two new floorplans with the addition of another easy-to-tow expandable unit. The extra unit has three tent ends, expanding sleeping capacity up to seven.

Additionally, a 50-gallon water tank is standard, and the galley area has been revamped with a new Dometic two-burner, drop-in cook top with a flush-mount glass cover. The galley also includes a new under-mount sink. In all, the 22-foot, 6-inch Nano weighs in at 3,416 pounds, again proving what can be done in a lightweight category.

“You see out there in the industry right now a lot of travel trailers trying to get into our size and weight category,” said Silcox. “But we got the roots and the foundation. We’re already there heavy into the under-30-foot, 4,000-pound trailer, and now we’re adding all these extras in it that this new type of buyer is looking for.”

But to get a little more room, Apex will be showing off two additional Ultra Lite floorplans. The new 284BHSS double bunk-bed model has a full outside kitchen under an awning and 36-inch barn door bedroom entry with a standard Tri-Fold Hide-a-Bed sofa. Unlike the smaller options, the travel trailer is Apex’s heaviest, weighing 5,790 pounds and reaching 32 1/2 feet in length.

Meanwhile, the Ultra Lite 253RLS offers an upgrade to theater seating. The bathroom is loaded with two storage closets, one as a linen closet and the other as a multi-function wardrobe.

Finally, the 220EXT Extreme Lifestyle toy hauler with 13-foot-long storage area is ideal for bikes, kayaks, four-wheelers and other toys, while offering a full queen bed and fully functional bathroom.

“It allows dealers to stock their lot with travel trailers but not have just the same ones, giving the customer more options,” said Silcox.

For more information on Apex ahead of Open House, click here.

The Goshen News recently reported that production may resume at Travel Lite RV in Syracuse, Ind., next month. Travel Lite President Dustin Johns said that the company has to reevaluate its growth plan and business model after losing about 70 jobs recently.

In an interview with RV PRO, Johns mentioned how the timing wasn’t right in the industry for the rate in which they were expanding the company. As a result, Travel Lite will shut down one production facility, consolidating to one facility.

“I have hired so many people … for revenue numbers we’re just not going to hit this year with the slowdown,” Johns said. Recent data from the RV Industry Association showed a dip in July sales, for instance, going down by 23 percent compared to July 2018. “I had to step back and figure out how many people I needed in each group in each department.”

As he’s stated previously, the plan is to resume production on Oct. 21.

“As a company, there’s certain things that we’ve done for 20 years that we know we have a very good hold on and that we’re really talented at,” said Johns. And then there’s other new, emerging products that he is uncertain of releasing just yet until the company has a better grasp on how the industry is behaving. “Is right now a good time to put out a fifth wheel and start a fifth wheel plant? And I think if you do a survey of CEOs across the industry, they’d probably say it’s probably not.”

Travel Lite has been exploring a fifth wheel option this year, but Johns said it’ll better to back it down for now and manufacture something they know their dealers do well with.

“When times stabilize a little more, then do stuff like that,” he said. “That’s basically what’s been going on.”

For an Open House preview on Travel Lite, be sure to read RV PRO’s “Road to Open House” coverage.