Airstream
Airstream Nest travel trailer
RV BUSINESS
Airstream Inc. has just launched the Nest fiberglass travel trailer, representing a new chapter in Airstream’s nearly 90-year story of design innovation. “There’s really nothing else like it,” said Airstream President and CEO Bob Wheeler. “Nest acknowledges Airstream’s lasting legacy, while anticipating a new potential for outdoor adventure.”
Originally conceived by Oregon designer Robert Johans, Nest was acquired by Airstream in March 2016 and further developed in-house, with Johans coming aboard as project manager.
“We saw the acquisition of Nest as an opportunity for Airstream to curate the kind of good design we feel is essential,” said Wheeler. “Nest is modern, it’s functional, and it’s innovative in a way you rarely see in this industry.”
Nest’s semimonocoque fiberglass structure was styled by automotive designer Bryan Thompson, who also worked on Airstream’s iconic Basecamp model. The exterior design features a low stance and wide front windshield inspired by the shape of ski goggles. Six windows, a skylight, and an innovative vertical doorway window create ample light into Nest, “blurring the line between the interior and the outdoors,” the release stated.
Inside Nest, modern design touches hide generous storage. Premium fixtures, a two-burner stove, a microwave, and a wet bath with contemporary amenities ensure travelers are equipped with all the comforts of home. A minimalist approach ties everything together, giving owners ample space to relax, prepare meals, sleep, and store gear for both short and long adventures.
Airstream
Airstream Nest travel trailer
Additionally, two available floorplans provide consumers with flexibility for their travel needs. One floorplan offers a U-shaped dinette that converts into a bed, while the other features a permanent bed with a plush Tuft & Needle mattress.
While Nest’s fiberglass shell is a departure for the company known for manufacturing iconic aluminum travel trailers, Airstream founder Wally Byam saw fiberglass as a sign of 20th century progress. He built several fiberglass prototypes in the ’50s and early ’60s, experimenting with what was, at the time, a relatively new material.
“Wally was a design pioneer, and he recognized the versatility of fiberglass,” said Wheeler. “He was always innovating – always pushing the envelope – and we think Wally would be pleased to see Airstream continuing that tradition with Nest.”
At 3,400 pounds, Nest is easy to tow and is priced from $45,900 MSRP. Airstream dealers nationwide started receiving inventory this month.
Originally published here.