The greatest thing about the introduction of new model year vehicles is the anticipation of which new trends and technologies will be introduced. That’s probably even more amplified for recreational vehicles, as more and more people are becoming interested in the RV lifestyle.
This year is no exception. Currently, a lot of focus is being put toward electric RVs, where manufacturers are looking for breakthroughs in battery technology that will provide more range and simplified recharging. But until gas and diesel-powered vehicles are fully obsolete, manufacturers are still paying attention to fuel-fired units to make sure innovation is still at the forefront of their latest designs.
So, what can you expect for 2023? RV Trader poked around and checked out some of the latest trade shows to find the most amazing new trends and technologies available. Here’s what we discovered.
Going Off-Grid
Studies have shown that younger RVers who are new to the camping lifestyle are more interested in going off-grid. However, that doesn’t mean they want to be completely devoid of technology. Travel trailer manufacturers are paying attention and complying by adding off-road suspension and tires, solar panel upgrades that are being offered as standard features (rather than aftermarket additions), and universal vacuum systems that don’t require hoses.
For off-grid enthusiasts, Winnegago’s FLX package offers an integrated system of five technologies that allow camping in comfort for up to five days without electrical or water hookups. The Go Power!® 200-watt solar panel charges the electrical system and is pre-wired for an additional portable panel. The panel is connected to the 320-amp hour Lithionics® battery which is connected to a Xantrex™ inverter that provides clean and quiet, 110-volt current for household appliances. The system also incorporates an ultra-efficient Trauma® AquaGo® water heater, VarioHeat™ furnace, and Aventa air conditioning system. To round out the tech, the Showermiser freshwater reclamation system provides almost-instant hot water and recirculates the unused cold water to conserve water use.
Pickup Truck Bunk
For those who just want to convert their pickup truck into an amazing camping experience, Soaring Eagle Campers is a new manufacturer of ultra-lightweight, all-aluminum truck campers that are fully insulated and feature a seamless fiberglass skin. The XL model features a cab-over bunk, portable toilet, and basic kitchen.
Mobile Office
For those who use their Class A RV or other RV as an office while on the road, the Fleetwood Frontier GTX 37RT features a WiFiRanger SkyPro 4 with LTE, 300-watt solar panel, and cellular booster. This is a WiFi package that connects an internal unit with an external unit to provide WiFi and cellular service from up to one mile away.
Speaking of office space – While not a technological advancement, the Keystone Montana 3941FO fifth wheel features a sizable private office space that provides campers with a “work” environment while on the road.
Also, Thor Industries recently entered into an agreement with SpaceX’s Starlink to provide high- speed, low latency internet, even when the vehicle is in motion. This will be offered in a select group of Airstream, Entrega Coach, Jayco, and Tiffin models this year.
Going Vertical
To emulate a greater feeling of “home”, destination trailer manufacturers are now offering “two- story” trailers with staircases that lead to upper-level lofts. The Forest River Salem Grand Villa 42View is one such model that has a loft over the master bedroom and another over the full- feature bathroom. This bathroom includes a shower, sink, porcelain-foot toilet, and space for a stackable washer/dryer.
The added space allows for greater creature comforts throughout the rest of the rig. Some of these features include a three-burner cooktop, oven, microwave, center island with bar stools and sink, double French door refrigerator, sectional sofa, 50-inch television, sound bar, and electric fireplace.
What Moves You?
Manufacturers constantly solicit and review customer feedback to find new ways to make their products better. While that input has led to innovative new technologies like LED lighting and self-leveling rigs, it has also fostered less glamorous innovations. Some examples are water pressure regulators that keep the water pressure safe for your pipes and circuit analyzers and surge protectors that do the same thing for your electricity connection.
So, what’s your next stop? Whether you’re in the market to purchase a new or used RV, trade in your current rig for something different, or you’re just ready to sell, make RV Trader your starting point. You’ll find more than 200,000 listings of various makes, models, and classes available across the United States. Be sure to use our filters to narrow down your search and pinpoint exactly what you want. We’re ready to go when you are.
By Barrett Baker
