Change is ever-present in the RV industry. Even with today’s economic challenges, RVers are still RVing, and motorhome designers are still designing. Thus, it seemed appropriate to seek answers to the following question:
What do you think motorhomes might be like in 10 years?
A new Type B will be introduced on the Ford electric Transit Connect van using a fuel cell and compressed natural gas (CNG) for recharging of the battery and as the generator. Type As will reduce in size, with 32 feet taking the place of 37 feet. More will be diesel-powered, using the Ford F-53 chassis to make front-engine diesel more affordable. The Ford EcoBoost engine running on CNG will be the power plant of most Type Cs. Fuel cells and solar will be standard on most midpriced units. Slideouts will be activated with cables rather than rack and pinion to save weight. Bedrooms will disappear on most coaches and tri-fold air mattress couches will become the main bed. Bathrooms will return to the rear and include closets and drawers for clothing. Aerodynamics will be a focal point of exterior design, both front and rear, to maximize fuel economy.
Paul Helmstetter, F204763
Davenport, Florida
I don’t believe the 2020 motorhomes will be any smaller space-wise than today’s motorhomes, but they will be lighter. Lighter and stronger materials, being developed now, will be included in the new designs. Lighter weight results in less fuel used, as lower horsepower is needed to move that weight. The ranks of Type B and C motorhomes will expand, while fewer Type A models will be available. Historically, Type Cs appeal more to larger families, because they’re usually equipped with more seats and beds than Type As. While families may not grow larger, those families will want more friends to accompany them in their travels. In the past decade, Type Bs also have grown larger and the model availability has grown exponentially as RVers step up from smaller trailers and step down from larger coaches. With fuel prices jitterbugging all over the map, Type B model lines will expand. There’s just one thing I’m sure of, though: the next 10 years are going to be fun!
Jim Brightly, F358406
Bullhead City, Arizona
I am hoping that motorhomes, as well as cars, will be like the ones seen in the cartoon series “The Jetsons.” Imagine folding up your motorhome and towed car into a briefcase after flying around!
Ranita Jones
Cincinnati, Ohio
Future questions:
1. What famous person would you like to go motorhoming with, and why?
2. How do you decorate your motorhome for the holidays?
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