WASHINGTON, D.C. – As spring approaches, refineries are beginning their transition to summer blend fuel, which often results in higher prices this time of year. This week, gas prices rose by a few cents, bringing the national average to $3.16 per gallon. Routine seasonal maintenance and an offline refinery in Northern California are putting additional strain on supply. These factors are pushing gas prices up, which means consumers may see higher prices at the pump as warmer months approach.
The national average per kilowatt hour of electricity at a public EV charging station remains the same at 34 cents.
According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand increased from 8.32 million b/d last week to 8.57. Total domestic gasoline supply dropped from 251.1 million barrels to 248.1, while gasoline production increased last week, averaging 9.3 million barrels per day.
Today’s national average for a gallon of gas is $3.16, about 10 cents more than a month ago and 6 cents less than a year ago.
Oil Market Dynamics
At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI dropped $1.95 to settle at $71.37 a barrel. The EIA reports that crude oil inventories increased by 4.1 million barrels from the previous week. At 427.9 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 4% below the five-year average for this time of year.
Quick Gas and Electricity Stats
Gas
The nation’s top10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.79), Hawaii ($4.55), Washington ($4.10), Nevada ($3.85), Oregon ($3.74), Arizona ($3.40), Alaska ($3.39), Pennsylvania ($3.36), Illinois ($3.27), and Washington, DC ($3.27).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Mississippi ($2.68), Texas ($2.74), Oklahoma ($2.75), Louisiana ($2.76), Kentucky ($2.79), Alabama ($2.82), Tennessee ($2.82), Kansas ($2.84), Arkansas ($2.84), and Missouri ($2.85).
Electric
The nation’s top 10 most expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are Hawaii (55 cents), West Virginia (47 cents), Montana (44 cents), Tennessee (42 cents), Idaho (42 cents), Arkansas (42 cents), Kentucky (41 cents), New Hampshire (41 cents), South Carolina (41 cents), and Alaska (41 cents).
The nation’s top 10 least expensive states for public charging per kilowatt hour are Kansas (22 cents), Nebraska (24 cents), Maryland (25 cents), Missouri (25 cents), Iowa (28 cents), Texas (29 cents), Utah (29 cents), Michigan (29 cents), North Dakota (30 cents), and South Dakota (31 cents).
Drivers can find current gas and electric charging prices along their route using the AAA TripTik Travel planner.
SAN DIEGO – Roof Space, the fast-growing, next-generation rooftop tent brand from Germany, is excited to announce that it has expanded to the U.S. market. The company’s unique Roof Space 2 tent, which combines the durability and ease of use of a hardshell tent with the small footprint and spaciousness of a softshell tent, fits almost any vehicle and features a panorama mode for scenic views. It is available from the company’s retail and warehouse space at its new U.S. headquarters in San Diego, online and from select dealers across the country.
“We’re excited to bring our innovative rooftop tents to adventurers across America,” said Jakob Heider, CEO and Co-Founder of Roof Space. “When we set out to find a tent that would meet our needs, we couldn’t find one. Among hardshells, wedge-style tents are likely the most durable and easiest to use, but they aren’t small enough to fit over a standard pickup truck bed or on a car, and softshells have the smallest footprint, but are complicated and don’t last as long. So we decided to make our own – the result is the Roof Space 2, which has the best footprint-to-sleeping area ratio of any hardshell tent on the market.”
The Roof Space 2 can accommodate up to two adults and one child or pet.
Like a hardshell tent, the Roof Space 2 features an aluminum case for durability when folded, rather than a soft travel cover, and opens with ease, taking less than a minute to unfold with one hand. Like a softshell rooftop tent, it has a small rooftop footprint, fitting vehicles as small as Mini Coopers, and nearly as much sleeping space as a queen-size bed when unfolded, plus more for storage. When unfolded, the case also provides all the support needed to keep the tent from falling without the ladder.
Roof Space tents also offer a panorama mode, in which the front third of the tent opens, turning it into a terrace with a true 270-degree view that’s ideal for scenic landscapes, sunrises and sunsets.
The Roof Space 2 is priced at $3,499.99 and includes the tent and case, a foam mattress, an anti-condensation mat, telescoping ladder and all mounting hardware.
Accessories like an awning, panorama mode mosquito net and base annexes are sold separately.
A four-person tent for larger families, the Roof Space 4, is expected to be released in spring 2025. When unfolded, it will have the largest sleeping area of all hardshell tents on the market.
About Roof Space
Roof Space’s unique rooftop tents were inspired by Jakob Heider and Immanuel Schneider’s shared passion for adventure and desire for a more innovative camping solution. The company’s rooftop tents are designed and engineered in Germany, became a reality after a successful crowdfunding campaign and were named a German Design Award winner in 2024. They combine the durability and ease of use of a hardshell tent with the spaciousness and small footprint of a softshell tent, fit almost any vehicle and feature panorama mode, turning into a terrace with a breathtaking 270-degree view. Roof Space is committed to pushing the boundaries of rooftop tent design. For more information, visit https://roofspace.com/.
AUBURN, Calif. – LGS Group, the master distributor for InterMotive Vehicle Controls, announced the promotion of Bryce Grenon to National Sales Manager. Based out of the Auburn, Calif., office, Grenon will be responsible for managing customer relationships and sales for the school bus market.
Grenon has been a valuable member of the LGS Group inside sales team for two years. His previous experience includes over 10 years in sales and technical support. Grenon can be reached at [email protected] or 775-831-2002 extension 225.
“We are eager to see Bryce take on this new challenge and bring his exceptional skills to the outside sales team,” says Marc Ellison, VP of Sales and Marketing at LGS Group. “There’s no doubt he will continue to make a significant impact.”
LGS Group is the master distributor for InterMotive Vehicle Controls, manufacturer of electronic control systems designed to optimize vehicle fuel economy, safety and productivity. LGS Group has locations in California, Nevada and Indiana. To learn more, call 775-831-2002 or visit www.lgs-group.com or www.intermotive.net.
NEW YORK – GiraffeG4 Sentinel System LLC has launched a groundbreaking “low clearance” collision mitigation app designed specifically for trucks and RVs, according to a release. This new app, part of the GiraffeG4 Sentinel System, is set to revolutionize how drivers avoid costly accidents with low bridges, trestles, and other height-restricted hazards.
The app offers real-time height detection and GPS integration, creating a comprehensive database of low-clearance locations across the U.S. and Canada. Designed to complement existing navigation tools, the G4 Sentinel app provides drivers with audible alerts and hazard warnings 100 yards before they reach a potential obstacle, ensuring they can take action to avoid a collision.
Unlike traditional navigation apps that focus on route planning, the G4 Sentinel System prioritizes collision prevention. It doesn’t direct users from point A to point B; instead, it works seamlessly alongside any navigation app, providing a dedicated layer of protection against height-related accidents.
Key Features of the GiraffeG4 Sentinel System
Proactive Alerts: An audible alarm and visible height sign notify drivers of upcoming hazards.
Broad Database Coverage: Over 12,000 hazardous locations mapped across the U.S. and Canada, with a particular focus on the Northeast corridor.
Fleet Customization: Fleets can utilize the app to create custom databases of low-clearance locations specific to their routes, including parking garages and delivery areas that lack signage.
Weatherproof Precision: Utilizing sound wave technology, the app functions reliably in all weather conditions.
The Sentinel System was born out of a need identified by founder Frank Nugent, a truck driver who experienced firsthand the challenges posed by low-clearance hazards. Recognizing the limitations of existing tools, Nugent, alongside his son Brian, collaborated with sound engineers and app developers to create a robust solution.
This app is particularly effective for drivers relying on non-commercial navigation tools, which often lack low-clearance warnings. By adding the G4 Sentinel System to their toolkit, drivers can mitigate the risks associated with tall vehicles in urban and rural areas alike.
The G4 Sentinel System is an essential tool for fleets managing trucks and vans in the 9 to 12-foot height range, as it not only prevents damage but also ensures safer and more efficient operations. Drivers receive consistent, location-specific warnings, regardless of who is behind the wheel.
Rising out of the Utah desert is a new oasis of sorts, a 53-acre Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, which offers expansive luxury camping and glamping opportunities and a massive waterpark as well.
Located in Hurricane, Utah, this is Utah’s first-ever Jellystone Park and it was developed by Scott Nielson, who previously owned one of the region’s largest RV dealerships.
Scott Nielson and family
Besides RV sites and cabins, the resort features two swimming pools, multiple giant water slides, a splash ground with kiddie slides and a lazy river. Campers can also hang out at the man-made lake with its beach and challenging floating obstacle course, jumping pillow, large playground, gem mining or a number of sport and game courts.
Nielson recently was interviewed for WCM’s Park Update, a weekly podcast and video show produced by Woodall’s Campground Magazine (WCM), a sister publication of RVBusiness. Ben Quiggle, editor of WCM, and Mike Gast, former vice president of communications at Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA), co-host the weekly program.
The show is sponsored by Midwest Electric Products.
During the show, Nielson dived into the issues he faced developing the park, what spurred him to go into park ownership, how his kids helped him make key decisions and more.
Below is an edited transcript of that show. You can watch the full show at https://www.youtube.com/@woodallscm or listen to it as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Google Podcasts.
WCM: What were you doing before the campground bug hit you?
Scott Nielson: I owned a chain of RV dealerships, Nielsen RV, and when we sold to Camping World, I decided instead of selling an RV that I wanted to sell the fun.
WCM: How did your experience on the dealership side prepare you for park ownership?
Nielson: When you’re selling RVs, you know exactly what the turning radiuses are, about opposing slide outs, the connections, the amperage…etc., so it really helped us develop these campsites to accommodate big rigs. I developed every campsite to accommodate a Prevost bus essentially.
WCM: It seems as though you have taken this development a lot further than we see a lot of new construction projects go. It looks like it has been there longer than it has been. You obviously decided that you weren’t going to open this thing with multiple phases. There doesn’t appear to be a lot of missing pieces. Was that intentional?
Nielson: We wanted to get all of our attractions and all the amenities upfront. We do have a phase two. It actually was a phase two and a phase three, but we incorporated all of it into phase two and that is about 230 additional sites. Those will come online here in just a couple months.
When everything is complete, we will have around 330 big sites.
WCM: What’s your customer base look like? Are you after the total transient that’s going to be going someplace? Are you trying to grab people for a week or two or longer?
Nielson: During the summer we’re after that transient nightly rental, but during the winter time we’re in a mild climate to where a lot of folks from states like Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Salt Lake City, come down. It’s a really nice climate and the senior citizens come down, the snowbirds and they spend the winter.
There’s a lot of different activities we’re going to do like events and ice cream socials, and all that kind of cool stuff with entertainment to accommodate the snowbirds when they come down to the resort. It is a full-time, year -round resort. We never close and a lot of the resorts are busting at the seams here in Southern Utah with the snowbirds during the wintertime.
WCM: You have a tremendous water park, but you are located in the desert, how was that even logistically possible?
Nielson: That was a challenge because we do go through famines, if you will, where there’s just scarcity of water. What people don’t realize, though is there are massive aquifers under the ground. We have these massive lakes, if you will, under the ground and if you can pay to drill the well and pump the water to procure that then you’re okay, and that is what we were able to do. We drilled down about 450 feet, and we pump about a hundred gallons a minute.
That is how we filled our manmade lake. We own our own acre feet of water and then the health department requires culinary water for the water park.
WCM: What was the process to get this park built? Was the local government easy to work with?
Nielson: It was three years of dealing with a lot of red tape and other bureaucratic issues, but overall, everyone wanted to help us. Eventually, we were able to get to the point where we could start building.
When the building started we had to blast through the entire 50 acres because it sits on a major lava flow with really hard rock. We had to blast the area just to get it level and then dig in the trenches and lay in miles and miles of pipe for sewer and water, along with electrical wire.
WCM: You mentioned in a press release that your kids were involved somewhat in the process. Can you talk a little bit about how they helped?
Nielson: We went all over the country and we stopped at the Jellystone Park in Larkspur, Colo., which is a very nice park. We went golfing and my kids — I have seven kids and my youngest is six years old, my oldest is 17 —start getting hot and they’re tired and they start complaining, and I’m thinking, “Wait a minute, what’s wrong with this picture here?” Then we went to Randy Isaacson’s park in Caledonia, Wis., and they have an indoor golf area. It was like glow in the dark mini golf and my kids loved it. It was also built in a smaller area. My kids are like, “This is a no brainer.”
So, we’re going to be doing this backlit mini golf in our event center, as opposed to a one-and-a-half-acre miniature golf. That was all from the kids. I could go on and on about situations like that, where the kids really enjoy certain things at Jellystone, like the mining sluice, but going to most Jellystones, they have this small little mining sluice. They don’t make it a production. We made our mining sluice a full-on production. We made it huge, but now we base our events and activities around that. I’m telling you, since we opened, we will have 60, 70 people out there mining with this sluice material, and that was all because of my kids. That’s what they enjoy, and so based on that, that’s how we designed the park. Multi-million-dollar decisions.
WCM: What challenges does the manmade lake bring to park ownership?
Nielson: We had to get a couple lifeguards that were deep water certified. Keeping qualified lifeguards has been a challenge because we are a year-round park. So, when school starts back up that can be an issue.
The process of just having it installed was also interesting. Commercial Recreation Specialists came out and did the installation. They were phenomenal to work with. Very seamless process and it worked out great. We lined the entire lake with clay instead of like an inner tube type liner which makes it friendlier to the environment.
WCM: Are you thinking of owning multiple parks down the road?
Nielson: The plan with this park was that it is one park of many. The parent company I created is Glamper’s Inn and my motivation is to build that brand. I noticed that the big dogs, like Sun Outdoors and Equity Lifestyles and so forth, they just don’t have a lot of infrastructure or parks from the Midwest to west coast. Through the development company and my experience in the RV business, I think there is plenty of room in this space.
FAIRFAX, Va. – The application for the Mike Molino RV Learning Center College Scholarship Program is now available online. The scholarship is available for undergraduates currently employed in the RV industry, who are dependents of an RV industry employee, and to those seeking a career in the RV industry after graduating.
The $2,500 award will be applied to the cost of tuition for the 2025-2026 school year. The deadline for submitting all required items is July 11, 2025. Dealer principals, and their families and dependents, are not eligible for the award.
The program was created to help foster the next generation of RV industry leaders, and this will be the 34th scholarship awarded since its inception. It is made possible by the generosity of Joanne and Newt Kindlund, co-founders of Holiday RV Superstores, the first publicly traded RV dealership. Newt Kindlund remains an active participant in RV industry affairs and is a director emeritus on the Learning Center’s board of directors.
The Kindlund family increased its contribution of the Mike Molino RV Learning Center’s Kindlund Family College Scholarship Program to $370,000 in 2024. Through the Kindlund family’s endowment, the RV Learning Center has awarded $82,500 in scholarships to 33 students since its inception in 2000.
Dealers are encouraged to tell their employees about this unique opportunity. A primary factor for awarding the scholarship is an applicant’s background in RV industry employment or a desire to work in the RV industry after college.
Posters publicizing the scholarship are available as a free download from the center. To obtain an application, poster, or more information, click here.
Applicants must:
Have a 2.8 or better cumulative grade point average and a 1040 minimum SAT score; a minimum ACT composite score of 22 is also acceptable.
Be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior in an accredited four-year college or university.
Provide a 500-word essay on their goals and objectives for college and career.
Submit a copy of their Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) form, which is completed online at the government’s FAFSA website. (For help on how to complete a FAFSA form, watch this video).
Demonstrate the ability and willingness to fund a portion of their educational expenses on their own.
Submit a fully completed application with supporting documentation.
All materials noted above must be received by the center no later than July 11.
For more information on the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, go to www.rvlearningcenter.com, send an email to [email protected], or fax to (703) 591-0734. The center is a tax-exempt organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions may be tax deductible as charitable donations.
LONSDALE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA – REDARC, an industry leader in rugged mobile power solutions and towing for over 45 years, announces its Van Power Solutions. By offering pre-bundled kits tailored to specific power needs, REDARC ensures seamless compatibility and optimal efficiency, ensuring each adventurer receives a comprehensive, reliable solution suited to their unique needs, according to a release. This new line of power management kits is designed to cater to every type of van life, from weekend escapes to full-time off-grid living, making them ideal for everyone — from DIY enthusiasts to professional van builders and manufacturers seeking the best 12V system on the market.
The Van Weekend Ready Kit: Ideal for van life enthusiasts seeking frequent, short escapes to their favorite spots without depending on shore power, this kit is built around 150Ah of battery. It supports crucial accessories such as lights, a refrigerator, and mobile devices while also allowing you to monitor battery levels conveniently via a smartphone app. Included in the kit is a 1000W inverter, perfect for running smaller home appliances like laptops or cooking appliances. The simplified setup ensures quick and hassle-free installation, making it perfect for adventurers who want to hit the road without delays.
The Van Touring Ready Kit: Perfect for explorers seeking extended adventures, this mobile power solution keeps you powered across rugged terrains, coastal drives, and remote campsites for up to a week. With versatile charging options—solar, DC, and AC—it adds the ability to charge from shore power at home or modern campsites. The kit is built around 300Ah of battery and includes a 75A charger for fast recharging, complemented by smartphone monitoring to stay informed about your power levels. This comprehensive solution eliminates the stress of running out of power in the middle of an adventure.
The Van Expedition Ready Kit: The Expedition Ready Kit is crafted for adventurers who aim to explore without limits. Built around a robust 300Ah-600Ah battery bank complemented by a super-fast 100Ah charger that can be charged via solar, DC, or AC. This kit ensures you can stay powered during extended off-grid adventures lasting weeks. Equipped with a 3000W inverter, it supports high-demand appliances, allowing for a home-like experience in the wilderness. The advanced integration of components reduces wiring complexity, making this kit more efficient and reliable than competing products.
“Building on the success of our Overlanding Power Solutions, REDARC is now bringing the same level of simplification and support to Van Power,” said Peter Favilla, Global President of REDARC. “REDARC is committed to simplifying power management for our customers by integrating user-friendly technology with robust online resources and exceptional support, enhancing the overall experience.”
Each kit includes tailored recommendations for complementary products, including solar panels, batteries, and RedVision Display options, enabling users to easily construct a comprehensive and robust system for seamless off-grid adventures. REDARC’s charge-back feature ensures no more flat batteries, while its simplified wiring and pre-configured solutions save time and effort during installation. The inclusion of detailed wiring diagrams and access to professional auto electricians and engineers underscores REDARC’s commitment to customer safety and satisfaction.
With REDARC, you’re not just buying power; you’re investing in the freedom to explore without limits. REDARC’s Van Power Solutions offer a truly unique value proposition: the elimination of power anxiety, unparalleled ease of use, and the industry’s best support network. Whether you’re powering a weekend trip, a remote work setup, or a long-term adventure, REDARC delivers a reliable and worry-free experience.
Explore REDARC’s Van Solutions to find the perfect kit for your needs by visiting www.redarcelectronics.com/van-power-solutions
About REDARC
For over 45 years, REDARC has been a trusted name in power management and towing solutions, allowing adventurers to bring the comforts of modern living to the most remote locations. With products engineered, tested, and manufactured in Australia, REDARC delivers power systems that charge and manage batteries through vehicle, solar, or utility power. These systems power everything from essential safety equipment to household appliances, making outdoor adventures safer, longer, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re camping, overlanding, or touring, REDARC ensures that you have the power to enjoy your outdoor experience with confidence.
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. – Winnebago Industries Inc. (NYSE: WGO), a leading manufacturer of outdoor recreation products, announced today (Feb. 14) that Steve Speich will be joining the organization as senior vice president, enterprise operations, effective March 3.
Speich joins Winnebago Industries after more than two decades as a manufacturing leader at John Deere and brings significant operations leadership experience to the role. Speich most recently served as global director of manufacturing for Deere’s Intelligent Solutions group, with ownership of end-to-end factory operations, inclusive of manufacturing and supply chain responsibilities. Immediately prior to this position, Speich served in two other global director roles, overseeing supply chain management globally in Deere’s fastest growing business segment, as well as facility engineering and factory automation initiatives across sixty global sites.
“After an extensive search to find Winnebago Industries’ next operations leader, we are excited to welcome Steve, an experienced and highly accomplished manufacturing leader, to our executive leadership team,” said Winnebago Industries President and CEO Michael Happe. “With a reputation for delivering exceptional business results, he will bring a wealth of knowledge, innovative strategies and a strong commitment to operational excellence that will drive our company forward and enhance our competitive edge in the industry.”
In his new leadership role, Speich will oversee Winnebago Industries’ manufacturing capabilities, strategic sourcing program, business excellence initiatives, product quality management, and employee health, safety, and security efforts, partnering deeply with the company’s various business units to drive industry-best performance and synergy across the enterprise.
“I am excited to join the Winnebago Industries team and contribute to the company’s legacy of innovation and excellence,” said Steve Speich, incoming senior vice president, enterprise operations. “I look forward to working with the talented teams to drive growth, enhance operational efficiencies and deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders.”
Speich’s appointment follows the transition of Chris West, former senior vice president of enterprise operations, who was recently named president of the company’s Winnebago-branded motorhome business.
About Winnebago Industries
Winnebago Industries, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of premium outdoor recreation products committed to elevating every moment outdoors. With a focus on purposeful innovation and exceptional experiences for its customers, the company boasts a diverse and expansive portfolio of high-quality RV and marine recreation products under the Grand Design RV, Newmar, Winnebago, Barletta and Chris-Craft brands, as well as advanced lithium power solutions under the Lithionics brand. Winnebago Industries operates across multiple facilities in Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota and Florida, and is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol WGO. For more information, visit www.winnebagoind.com.
MDC USA Campers and Caravans announced that the complete OFF-GRID EXTREME range, six models spanning from 12-foot to 19-foot models, is now available in the United States. Designed to conquer the harshest terrains while offering uncompromising comfort, this lineup features the latest advancements in off-grid power, extreme weather resilience, and cutting-edge design, according to a release.
Built to empower adventurers to explore without limits, MDC’s OFF-GRID EXTREME models are engineered to thrive in the wild while delivering the comforts of home. Whether traversing remote landscapes, embracing life on the road, or chasing the next adventure, these travel trailers provide the rugged durability to “Escape with confidence,” the release continued.
Each model boasts a cutting-edge Renogy power ecosystem, ensuring a seamless energy supply with lithium battery capacities from 400Ah to 800Ah and a Renogy 3000W pure sine wave inverter supported by ample solar capabilities expandable by 600W. Inside, the sleek, contemporary design is complemented by premium appliances capable to run off-grid from Truma and Thetford, while the X-TRACK independent suspension system conquers the toughest trails with ease. With a comprehensive cold-weather package, MDC guarantees year- round adventure without compromise, allowing travelers to stay off-grid longer and explore further.
The latest additions to MDC USA’s OFF-GRID EXTREME range – XT17HRT FAMILY, XT16HR ISLAND, XT16HR EAST WEST, and XT15-4E (from left to right) – joining the XT12HR and XT19HRT in redefining off-grid adventure. (Pre-production visualizations shown)
XT15-4E OFF-GRID EXTREME Floorplan
XT15-4E – A Hybrid Built for Families Who Roam
For families who want a compact yet spacious hybrid, the XT15-4E delivers. Featuring a wet bath for added convenience, this model ensures comfort and practicality on extended adventures. Sleeping up to four people, this innovative hybrid model combines an electric lift pop-top roof with a high- capacity electrical system featuring 745W of rooftop solar capacity and 400Ah lithium battery power. The Truma Aventa Air Conditioner and VarioHeat Furnace can run off-grid ensure year-round comfort, while dual-pane windows and heated water tanks provide all-season reliability. Inside, the sleek, modern interior with timber-style finishes and black mate faucets offers a stylish retreat after a long day of adventure.
XT16HR EAST WEST OFF-GRID EXTREME Pre-Production Visualization
XT16HR EAST WEST & XT16HR ISLAND – The 16ft Powerhouses
Available in two configurations, the XT16HR EAST WEST and XT16HR ISLAND are built for couples with a guest who demand off-road capability and comfort, with a range of premium amenities to enhance the journey. The XT16HR EAST WEST layout features a space-saving bed orientation, while the XT16HR ISLAND model boasts a center- positioned bed for ease of access. Each configuration includes a bathroom featuring a separate toilet and shower, an internal refrigerator and microwave, as well as internal and external kitchens, providing convenience wherever the journey leads. A robust off-grid power system with Renogy 800Ah lithium battery capacity topped up with 700W of rooftop solar capacity, ensuring seamless energy management and long-term self-sufficiency on the road. The Truma heating and cooling system and enhanced cold weather capabilities make these models true cold weather warriors.
Independent Trailing Arm Suspension on the XT17HRT FAMILY OFF-GRID EXTREME
XT17HRT FAMILY – Built for Boundless Family Adventures
Designed with families in mind, the XT17HRT FAMILY delivers the perfect blend of comfort and capability for those who refuse to compromise on adventure. Offering sleeping space for five, its bunk bed layout ensures maximum efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The model’s Renogy 800Ah lithium battery capacity and 875W of rooftop solar capacity ensure a reliable power supply for extended off- grid stays, while a fully equipped wet bath and versatile internal and external kitchens with Thetford cooktops make life on the road effortless. Whether exploring rugged backcountry or setting up camp in remote locations, this travel trailer is ready to take families further, ensuring every journey is as memorable as the destination. Built to handle freezing temperatures, this model is equipped with advanced weatherproofing features, providing a warm and cozy environment for families venturing into the harshest climates.
The OFF-GRID EXTREME Lineup: A Model for Every Adventurer
With the addition of the XT15-4E, XT16HR EAST WEST, XT16HR ISLAND, and XT17HRT FAMILY, MDC’s OFF-GRID EXTREME range is now complete, joining the XT12HR and XT19HRT, which have already been introduced to the market and proven their capability.
“With a diverse lineup ranging from compact trailers for two to spacious family-friendly models, the OFF- GRID EXTREME range ensures there’s a travel trailer to match every adventurer’s needs,” said Vaughan Hindley, founder and president of MDC. “We’ve designed these trailers to empower people to explore further and stay off-grid for extended periods so they not only can ‘Escape with confidence’ but ‘Escape for longer.'”
Stay tuned for the upcoming official unveiling at the Utah RV Show from Thursday (Feb. 13) to Sunday (Feb. 16), where a number of OFF-GRID EXTREME models will be on display.
About MDC
Founded in Australia in 2005 by Vaughan Hindley, MDC has established itself as a leader in designing and manufacturing rugged, off-road-capable travel trailers and pop-up campers. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, MDC has produced over 40,000 units and offers more than 30 models, each designed to handle the toughest terrains.
In 2021, MDC expanded to the U.S. market, headquartered in Cypress, Calif., and quickly gained recognition for its durable and well-appointed overlanding models. As proud members of RVIA, RVDA, NATM, SEMA, and PWA, MDC USA remains committed to providing reliable, off-grid solutions for adventurers seeking freedom and confidence in their travels.
SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – Venture RV, a leading manufacturer of high-quality recreational vehicles, announced the completion of its 35,000th unit, marking a significant production milestone in the company’s growth and success. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and craftsmanship, according to a release from the KZ RV division.
Dave Boggs, general manager of Venture RV, shared his thoughts on the occasion, stating, “Building 35,000 Venture RV’s isn’t just about the numbers — it’s a testament to innovation, quality and the passion of everyone involved. The Venture team is proud of reaching this milestone and look forward to working with our dealer partners on new exciting products.”
This milestone reflects the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of every team member and partner that has contributed to Venture RV’s success over the years. The company’s commitment to excellence remains at the forefront of everything they do, ensuring they deliver products that exceed customer expectations and set new standards for the RV industry.
Dealer Perspectives on this Milestone
“This incredible milestone is a testament to the quality products, experienced team, andstrong values that define Venture RV. We’re proud to be your partner and appreciate the valued relationship we’ve built over the years,” said Jeff Redmond of Bucars RV.
“Finding new brands to sell during 2020 was easy, however finding brands that would endure beyond covid would prove far more difficult,” said said Jonathan Mayfield of Southern RV in Georgia. “After being approached by Dave Boggs, Chad Holtzinger and their team, we felt that the Venture RV line would be a suitable addition to our lineup, providing additional options for our customers since it had a different look and appeared to be of higher quality. What we didn’t realize was that Venture RV stands for much more.
“Over the last handful of years,” Mayfield continued, “Southern RV and our customers have been ecstatic with the level of quality, overall value, customer support, and the unique designs that Venture RV has to offer. Our Sales Team is very proud to present all products, from the lightweight Sonic and Stratus, to the luxurious SportTrek and SportTrek Touring Editions, and more recently with the SportTrek 5 Touring Edition and the Sienna line of traditional style travel trailers. Our Service and Warranty Teams know that Venture RV stands behind their product, with very few items to address during PDI but, when necessary, the customer service to support our staff and the end user.
“We’re excited to celebrate Venture RV and their 35,000th RV. We look forward to many more from this prestigious brand! Congratulations to the Venture RV team on the recent years and your steady growth as one of the leaders in our industry!” Mayfield said.
“Our long-standing partnership with Venture RV is proof of their consistent quality, reliability, and commitment to dealer and customer satisfaction. Their team understands our business needs and have been a proactive partner in helping us sell and grow with their products. Their team is a pleasure to work with and they are a true partner in every sense. We congratulate them on building their 35,000th RV!” said Karra Blair of Curtis Trailers in Oregon.
For more information about Venture RV and its award-winning product lines, visit www.venture-rv.com.
