RV Shipments Rise 11% in First Quarter

RESTON, Va., May 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- America's wholesale recreation vehicle (RV) shipments shot up 11% in the first quarter of 2013, fueled by strong consumer response to the versatility, affordability and innovative designs of new models, according to market data collected by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA).

Shipments for all of 2013 are projected to total 307,300, an increase of 7.5% from 2012. This growth projects to an 85% increase from the RV industry's recession low in 2009, and would mark the first time shipments surpassed 300,000 units since 2007. Shipments rose 13.3% in 2012.

"RVs offer an affordable, flexible and comfortable way for families to escape the pressures of every day life, and to share fun activities that create warm memories and strong family bonds," said RVIA President Richard Coon. "When the recession changed the way many Americans think about their family finances and how they would vacation, RV manufacturers responded to the new economic reality by designing and building products with the right mix of space, amenities and price points, further positioning RVs as the ideal way for families to travel. That's why demand for RV ownership is growing, and why dealers are getting ready to meet that demand."

While the industry has seen strong growth in both towable and motorized categories, motorhome shipments are up 23.7% in the first quarter. The travel trailer category, comprising nearly 90% of all RV shipments in recent years, is up 9.8%.

Many of the new products offered by RV manufacturers include units that are smaller, lighter, and more aerodynamic and fuel efficient. These lighter models help reduce fuel consumption, and lighter weight travel trailers can be towed by smaller passenger vehicles. Many RV manufacturers are building trailers designed to be towed by popular family minivans or crossover SUVs.

Today's RVs are full of functionality and technology. Many offer gourmet and outdoor kitchens, well-appointed bathrooms, expandable floor plans and layouts that allow for multi-function uses, and state-of-the-art electronics.

"More than 20 million Americans go RVing every year because of the unmatched freedom and flexibility RVs provide when traveling," said Coon. "There's no better way to save money, see more of the country and spend more time with family."

Nearly 50% of RVs worldwide are made in America with the industry employing more than 250,000 Americans.

Consumers can learn more about today's RVs by visiting www.GoRVing.com.  

RVIA is the national association representing approximately 400 manufacturers and component suppliers producing 98 percent of all RVs made in the United States. Visit www.RVIA.org for more information about the recreation vehicle industry.

SOURCE Recreation Vehicle Industry Association