Jessica Rider
Manufacturers, including East to West RV, have several exciting models for 2023.
Words by Jessica Rider
Every fall, RV manufacturers congregate at the Dealer Open House in Elkhart, IN, to not only showcase new models but present new design concepts, innovative appointments, and the latest trends in time for the winter show season.
Held annually in late September, the three-plus day trade show attracts many of the largest and most popular manufacturers, allowing dealers to observe their new models and order inventory. Most importantly, it sets the tone for RV sales in the coming year.
Short of being virtual in the last few years due to COVID-19, I make a point to attend the event to gauge the latest launches and RV trends firsthand. The short version is there were many similar designs similar to recent model years but there were also a variety of exciting new features in motorhomes and trailers to expect for 2023.
Jessica Rider
Clean interiors with even more functionality are some of the latest trends.
Looking ahead, it’s apparent the industry is embracing a younger demographic and providing many comforts of home for those spending more time on the road. There were concepts like mud rooms and trendy air-fryer ovens in one of Heartland RV’s fifth wheel while new manufacturers such as Ember RV introduced its line of compact overland travel trailers. The concept? Go anywhere, work anywhere and live anywhere with total function and style.
Winnebago, too, launched its off-road friendly and high-clearance Hike Travel Trailer (in addition to several floor plans, features and a new class B series). Thor Motor Coach also showcased five new motorhomes, indicating manufacturers are targeting a variety of enthusiasts and styles of RVing.
RV Insider
Business analysts revealed specific economic challenges, which have affected the industry the last few years, will continue over the next two quarters (at the time of the event) but are optimistic about a rebound in mid-2023. However, ITR Economics, a financial research and consulting firm based in Manchester, NH, is forecasting a 16 percent decrease in RV shipments through next year. Among many factors, they attribute the decline to the current economic climate and the large amounts of dealer inventory.
Jessica Rider
Manufacturers are targeting a variety of enthusiasts and styles of RVing.
More specifically, the class C market is likely to experience the largest decline in shipments. Still, growth is expected for Class B models, truck campers and travel trailers due to more enthusiasts favouring backcountry adventures, continued consumer interest in RVing and new buying trends.
As an example, owners are no longer purchasing their last unit but rather their next unit with the average RVer purchasing four or five models throughout their RV experiences. Although the current economic landscape of the US and Canada may seem challenging, the industry, overall, is optimistic about maintaining a moderate level of growth in the coming years.
I am excited for what is to come and have my eyes set on new models including those from Forest River’s RiverStone RV and the new selection of new entries from East to West RV. If you are planning to visit a national and regional RV show, take the time to look at the great new features that are designed to make your camping experience that much easier and enjoyable.
Happy Camping!