Enhanced Storage On 2008 Four Winds Models
Four Winds International announced the addition of Mega Storage “” enhanced exterior storage “” on select 2008 type C motorhomes and some type A Windsport and Hurricane models.
Mega Storage is said to offer more exterior storage capacity than most type C motorhomes, as well as additional features. The extra-large rear storage compartment has conveniently located exterior doors on all sides for easy access. The storage capacity ranges from approximately 96 to 120 cubic feet on type C models, and approximately 124 to 125 cubic feet on type A models.
Large objects such as sports and recreation equipment, personal items, and luggage for extended trips can be stored safely in the Mega Storage compartment. It features recessed storage bins with removable lids that can be used for storing tools or as a built-in ice cooler. It also comes with a plastic folding table and a spare tire with cover in a recessed carrier.
For additional information about the company’s line of 2008 type A and type C motorhomes, visit www.fourwinds-rv.com or call (574) 266-1111.
Former RVIA President Named Chairman Of National RV Board
National RV Holdings recently named David Humphreys, former president of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), as its new chairman of the board. Mr. Humphreys replaces Doy B. Henley, who had served as chairman since September 2001.
National RV Holdings president and CEO Brad Albrechtsen stated that this appointment will help the company enhance its position as a leader in the industry. “Dave is no stranger to our business, having served as a company director since February of last year. And he’s certainly no stranger to the RV industry,” he said. “He’s going to hold us accountable and help us get things done. I can’t think of anyone more qualified to lead the charge for National RV as we head into the future with all of our innovations and plans for success.”
Mr. Humphreys was president of RVIA from 1979 to 2006. During his tenure, he was the leading spokesman for the RV industry, expounding upon the advantages, innovations, and enjoyment associated with RV travel.
In addition to Mr. Humphreys’ appointment, Len Southwick also has been named to the National RV Holdings board of directors. Mr. Southwick, president of the company’s National RV subsidiary since September 2006, joined the company as vice president of customer service after a lengthy career in the retail automotive industry.
Blue Bird Corporation Agrees To Sell Wanderlodge Line
In mid-July Blue Bird Corporation announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Wanderlodge RV product line and manufacturing facility to Complete Coach Works of Riverside, California. The transaction also includes Blue Bird’s Coachworks Coach commuter models and is part of Blue Bird’s long-term strategy to refocus the company exclusively on the school bus market.
“The sale of Blue Bird Coachworks to Complete Coach Works marks the end of our initial product line rationalization plan,” said Bob Shaughnessy, chief executive officer of Blue Bird. “This transaction represents an important step toward returning Blue Bird to its roots as the nation’s premier school bus manufacturer.”
Earlier this fiscal year, Blue Bird’s transit bus products became part of affiliated transit bus manufacturer North American Bus Industries Inc. (NABI), and their manufacture was moved to NABI’s Anniston, Alabama, facilities.
The Blue Bird Wanderlodge line (one of the nation’s oldest luxury motor coach brand names) currently includes the 450LXi and M380 motorhomes. During the transition period, Blue Bird and Complete Coach Works will work closely to ensure the continued satisfaction of the current customer base, including ongoing parts and service support.
Complete Coach Works is the United States’ largest supplier of remanufactured transportation vehicles, repowers, emission upgrades, and wheelchair lift retrofits. The company has served the transit industry for more than 20 years.
According to Dale Carson, president and CEO of Complete Coach Works, the acquisition “represents a perfect fit and will provide an opportunity for the expansion of our operations to the Southeast. We look forward to our long-term association with the Fort Valley community and continuing to be a vital part of their economic foundation.”
RV Market Projected To Grow In 2008
The RV industry will see renewed wholesale shipments growth in 2008, and the industry’s long-term prospects look bright, according to economist Richard Curtin, Ph.D, director of surveys at the University of Michigan.
“Throughout the recent economic turmoil, RV shipments have remained robust, showing none of the volatility of an earlier era,” said Mr. Curtin, who announced his RV market forecast at an event sponsored by Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) in June.
Mr. Curtin predicts that RV shipments will increase 3.5 percent in 2008 to 367,100 units. The growth in 2008 will be led by travel trailers, which are projected to increase by 5.4 percent, and by type A motorhomes, which are projected to increase by 4.4 percent.
Mr. Curtin said that shipments for the remainder of 2007 will continue to be strong, though lower than the record growth levels the industry has seen in recent years. The RV industry shipped 390,500 units in 2006, a 30-year record. The 2007 total is expected to be the industry’s fourth-highest in the past 30 years.
Mr. Curtin projects that RV ownership will rise from 7.9 million households in 2005 to 8.5 million in 2010.
“The leading edge of the baby boom generation has just entered their prime retirement ages, and the number that retires will accelerate over the next decade,” he said. “Moreover, the RV industry has been successful in attracting younger buyers.” The ongoing change in age distribution means that more consumers will enter the age range in which the highest RV ownership rates are recorded, he noted.
Mr. Curtin predicts the expected growth in RV ownership will be accompanied by a change within the RV industry toward more varied features suitable for diverse uses, more age-friendly features, more upscale destination campgrounds, and more energy-efficient units.