RVs as housing in Silicon Valley: from shadow rentals to safe parking

Lippert Components, a major supplier to the RV industry, is reporting a good financial year. Concurrent surveys indicate that a majority of RV owners express satisfaction with their lifestyle.

RV manufacturers in Indiana are dealing with sudden shifts in tariffs on imported components. This follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision that altered duty collection rules. The situation has created operational challenges for the local industry.

RV dealerships are advised to adopt personalization strategies to foster customer loyalty. Key suggestions include showcasing employee RV travel stories, organizing customer contests, and creating pet brag boards. These methods aim to make the sales environment more relatable and memorable, potentially increasing customer engagement and sales.

The number of people living in RVs and vans has surged in California due to unaffordable housing. San Jose opened a safe parking site for 86 vehicles, which is full, while a gray market for renting old RVs has emerged in the Bay Area.

Globe Trekker has introduced a new camper for Ford E-350 and E-450 cutaway chassis. The design features a patent-pending E-Flex Zero torsion subframe that allows up to 22 degrees of frame twist for improved off-road articulation. The camper is built with composite panels that are 50% lighter than comparable models and is designed for four-season use. The base price starts at $55,000.

Supertramp has unveiled its latest Paragon model, a truck camper designed for the Ford F-350. The camper is constructed entirely from composite materials to reduce weight. It features a full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping accommodations for four people.