Month: April 2025

HENDERSON, Nev. – The Priority RV Network (PRVN) completed another successful annual conference at the M Resort & Casino in Henderson, Nev., with the final day’s activities highlighted by one of its founders retiring from the board of directors.

Mark Bretz, owner of Bretz RV & Marine in Montana and Idaho, was one of the founding members of REDEX, which later became known as PRVN. For his service and dedication to the growth and success of America’s largest independent owned dealer network. 

After a vote by PRVN dealer stockholders, Brandon Bretz was voted in as the next board member. 

In addition, Giant Recreation World was named as the 2024 “top performer” for their partner participation. 

PRVN Executive Director Nicole Schantz said, “recognition is key. There is always a little fun in some friendly competition within our group. Larry, Joe and Dan should be proud of their accomplishments and definitely deserve this award! I hope other dealers and some of our new dealers wil look to them for guidance on how to best utilize our programs.”

The post Bretz, Giant Recreation World Lauded by Priority RV Network first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

RICHMOND, B.C. – The RV Dealers Association of Canada has released the following “critical update” regarding the Government of Canada’s recently imposed counter-tariffs on U.S.-made Recreation Vehicles, which took effect on April 9, 2025.

“We are actively advocating on your behalf,” said Eleonore Hamm, president of the RVDA of Canada. “It is crucial to determine if your business number is included in the schedule of the Remission Order. Regardless, your individual resubmission of a broader remission request, based on the criteria outlined earlier, remains vital. If you need guidance on the remission request process or support with your submission, reach out to the RVDA of Canada without delay.”

The counter tariffs imposed – set at 25 percent – apply to non-CUSMA-compliant U.S.-made vehicles and the non-Canadian/non-Mexican content of CUSMA-compliant U.S.-made vehicles originating from the U.S.

IMPACT ON YOUR BUSINESS: This new tariff structure will have a direct and significant impact on your business. We anticipate substantial increases in costs, disruptions to existing supply chains, and a considerable reduction in the affordability of RVs for Canadian consumers. As approximately 95 percent of RVs sold in Canada are sourced from the U.S., these tariffs present a serious threat to the viability of dealerships across the country. Importantly, there are no ownership exemptions, meaning all RV dealerships will be affected.  

ACTION REQUIRED: Resubmit Your Remission Request

The Government of Canada has a process called tariff remission, which can provide relief from paying or a refund of these tariffs. Here’s what you need to know:   Framework in Place: The government has outlined how it will review remission requests for tariffs on U.S. goods, effective March 4, 2025. Potential Relief: Remission can either waive the tariff payment or refund tariffs already paid under specific conditions. Future Tariffs: This process would also apply to any future tariffs on other goods, with details to follow.

GROUNDS FOR REMISSION CONSIDERATION: (for tariffs effective March 4, 2025):   The government will consider remission requests in the following key situations: No Domestic/Non-U.S. Alternatives: When essential parts or goods cannot be sourced within Canada (nationally or regionally) or from countries other than the U.S. Severe Economic Harm: Other exceptional circumstances, reviewed case-by-case, that could significantly damage the Canadian economy.

WHY RESUBMITTING IS CRUCIAL  (Tariffs Now in Effect – April 9, 2025)

If you previously submitted a remission request, please resubmit it immediately. This ensures your application is considered under the current tariff implementation and the government’s outlined framework. A 25 percent price hike on motorized RV imports could make them unaffordable for both you and your customers.

How to Submit Your Remission Request

 RVDA of Canada has provided a remission request template to streamline your submission. Ensure you:

• Document economic impact on your business, including increased costs and projected losses.
• Highlight Canadian supply limitations, demonstrating an inability to source equivalent domestic products.
• Provide details on pre-existing contracts signed before tariff announcements that remain unfulfilled.
• Address consumer impact, explaining how higher prices will deter RV purchases and affect affordability.

Click here to download the remission request template 

Key Considerations for Your Submission:

• Economic Impact – Outline how the 25 percent tariff will negatively affect business viability.
• Pre-existing Contracts – Provide proof of agreements signed before the tariff announcement.
• In-Transit Exceptions – Goods already en route to Canada before April 2 may qualify for an exemption. Documentation (e.g., bill of lading, cargo control documents) is required.
• Sufferance Warehouse Goods – RVs in a sufferance warehouse before April 2 may be exempt but must be moved within 30 days.

 Understanding the 25% Surtax on U.S. Vehicles

 As of April 9, 2025, all new and used motor vehicles imported into Canada from the U.S. are subject to a 25 percent surtax under the United States Surtax Order (Motor Vehicles 2025). This surtax is calculated based on the value of the vehicle when it crosses the border. This value is determined using standard customs rules.   What Vehicles are Included?   This surtax applies to a wide range of motor vehicles, including: Both new and used vehicles Vehicles with electric motors Vehicles with gasoline or diesel engines   The official list of all goods subject to this surtax can be found in Schedules 1 and 2 of the United States Surtax Order (Motor Vehicles 2025).   IMPORTANT NOTE: This 25 percent surtax is in addition to any other regular import duties that might apply.

United States Surtax Remission Order (Motor Vehicles 2025)

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has issued Customs Notice 25-17 regarding the United States Surtax Remission Order (Motor Vehicles 2025). This Remission Order aims to lessen the negative impacts of the surtaxes on Canadian motor vehicle companies in exceptional situations.

Key points about the Surtax Remission Order:

• Purpose: To provide relief from surtaxes paid or payable under the United States Surtax Order (Motor Vehicles 2025) on eligible goods.
• Effective Date: The Remission Order took effect on April 9, 2025, the same day the 25 percent surtax on U.S.-origin motor vehicles was implemented.
• Specific Importers: Remission is being granted to importers with specific business numbers listed in the schedule of the Remission Order, up to a maximum quantity of vehicles also specified in the schedule. This applies to tariff items listed in Schedule 1 of the Surtax Order. Excludes Personal Importations: This Remission Order does not apply to vehicles imported for personal use. CBSA Administration: The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is responsible for administering this Remission Order.

CARM Procedures & Financial Impact on Dealers

Under the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system, Canadian RV dealers will be required to pay the 25 percent countermeasure tariff at the time of importation, similar to a tax. The amount will be calculated based on the vehicle’s value, converted into Canadian dollars.

This process will be managed through the CARM Client Portal, now the central system for handling all duties, tariffs, and tax payments on imported goods for Canadian businesses. (Currently, Canadian RV dealers also pay HST/GST through this system.)  While the wholesale cost of an RV is typically financed through floorplan arrangements with lenders, this 25 percent tariff is unlikely to be covered by those financing agreements. Instead, dealers will be required to pay it out of their own cash flow, placing a significant financial strain on their operations.

The increased costs could severely disrupt dealership operations, particularly during peak inventory periods. Additionally, if the tariffs are later removed, dealers may be left with inventory that is difficult to sell at a competitive price, further impacting profitability. Although industry associations have raised concerns with the Canadian government, no mechanism has been confirmed that would allow dealers to recover the 25 percent tariff if or when the countermeasures are lifted.

Both Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association (CRVA) and the RVDA of Canada have received strong indications that many dealers may delay or cancel orders of U.S.-built RVs until the tariff is removed. This would have significant economic and financial consequences for both Canadian and U.S. manufacturers and suppliers. 

The post RVDA Canada Gives Update on Counter Tariffs on U.S. RVs first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

ELKHART, Ind. – A crew from CBS News was in the RV Capitol of the World this morning (April 18) to film a segment on how the RV industry is faring given the current economic climate.

Houston-based CBS Correspondent Janet Shamlian interviewed Mary Pouliot, the chair of the RV Industry Association (RVIA) and Executive Vice President of the Americas for Thetford, at the RV/MH Hall of Fame. Following that, Shamlian and her crew traveled to the corporate headquarters of Lippert Components Inc., where she interviewed CEO Jason Lippert.

Shamlian questioned Pouiliot and Lippert about whether lackluster consumer confidence was a concern for the industry and how much the tariff-fueled trade war was impacting the industry. Both Pouiliot and Lippert spoke how the RV industry is typically a bellwether for the greater economy and everyone is simply looking for some degree of certainty regarding the tariffs. They mentioned the long-term sustained growth of the RV lifestyle, and how camping and RVing has long been a popular vacation option for Amercians as it is affordable, family-oriented and an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

“It was a good experience,” Pouliot said of the CBS interviews, both of which were arranged by RVIA. “It gave us an opportunity to talk about the industry and our sustained growth. Yes, there are concerns, but the RV industry has always weathered the storm.”

Producers said the segment is expected to be broadcast as early as next week, potentially as an “Eye on America” feature.

The post CBS News Interviews Pouliot, Lippert on State of RV Industry first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

OXFORD, N.C. – Dill Air Controls, a leading manufacturing company based in Oxford, N.C., has taken a significant step toward sustainability by installing solar panels at its US manufacturing plant. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to energy efficiency and strengthening growth of domestic manufacturing, according to a release.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance operational efficiency and environmental responsibility, Dill Air Controls expects the solar panel installation to cover the majority of its energy needs in the coming years. This investment ensures a more sustainable future while reinforcing the company’s dedication to American manufacturing.

“This was a logical decision for us,” said Brian Rigney, President of Dill Air Controls. “Investing in solar energy allows us to control long-term energy costs while reducing our carbon footprint. Just as important, it solidifies our commitment to manufacturing our products in the United States.”

With this initiative, Dill Air Controls continues to set the standard for responsible business practices while delivering high-quality products to its customers.

About Dill Air Controls

Dill Air Controls is a leading manufacturer of fluid control valves, tire valve hardware, and inflation products, serving the automotive, industrial, and commercial markets. With a proud history of American manufacturing, Dill Air Controls continues to innovate while staying true to its core values of quality, reliability, and sustainability.

The post Dill Air Controls Invests in Solar for Manufacturing Facility first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LOS ANGELES – Azure Printed Homes, a pioneer in sustainable 3D-printed modular and prefab housing, is completing three years of business and its third round of funding on April 30, according to a press release.

The company was founded in March 2022 as an outgrowth of Azure Construction in California and has raised $6 million so far (including $1.3 million in venture capital) and has $35 million in pre-orders. The company’s current crowdfund campaign will end on April 30, with the share price discount ending on April 26 (full information on the investment is available here.)

The company’s primary factory location, which is currently expanding, is based in Los Angeles, with a Denver, Colo., factory slated to open during 2025.

Says Azure Cofounder Gene Eidelman, “We are a U.S. manufacturer that is immune to tariffs and are scaling as fast as possible to address the current needs. Additionally, we are the only modular manufacturer based in L.A., which is making us an ideal resource to assist in rebuilding at scale following the recent LA Fires.”

The company has completed more than 100 homes so far using technology that is 70% faster and 30% less expensive than traditional construction, Eidelman said.

In addition to primary homes, ADUs, studios and tiny homes, the company is increasingly prevalent in developments of transitional housing to address the growing problem of homelessness. Outdoor hospitality and Glamping resorts are other common buyers of Azure homes. Azure is the manufacturer of choice of units for glamping resorts in multiple states including California, Georgia, Arkansas, Tennessee and Texas.

By 2030, the company intends to scale to be manufacturing 2,500 homes/year.

Azure Printed Homes revolutionizes the construction industry with 3D printing technology that transforms recycled materials into high-quality, energy-efficient housing. Built 70% faster and 30% more cost-effectively than traditional methods, Azure’s product line includes primary homes, tiny homes, ADUs, and transitional housing designed to tackle housing shortages worldwide. For more information on investment visit https://invest.azureprintedhomes.com.

The post Azure Printed Homes Hit Milestones, Scaling Production first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

LAS VEGAS – BLUETTI, a leader in portable power and energy storage, today announced the pre-launch of its versatile Apex 300 Energy Storage System (ESS). Designed for robust standalone use with a simple plug-and-play setup and low initial investment, the Apex 300 unlocks its full potential through an expandable ecosystem that scales for emergency backup, whole-home backup, and off-grid living.

From now through May 7, early adopters can unlock exclusive perks through BLUETTI’s pre-launch program — before the official Indiegogo debut at 8 a.m. PDT on May 8.

Start Simple, Compact, and Powerful

The Apex 300 stores 2,764.8Wh of capacity in a compact package with 40% higher energy density in its class. Despite its compact size, it delivers 3,840W and dual 120V/240V output on a single unit, to power 99% household appliances from fridges to high-power tools, pool pumps, and clothes dryers.

As the world’s first portable power station with 50A/12,000W bypass capability, the Apex 300 alone is fully capable of running an entire house or charging a Tesla EV. The true 0ms Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) ensures seamless power for critical systems like lighting, NAS storage and more during blackouts. The ultra-low 20W AC idle drain places it among the most efficient systems in its class—extending refrigerator runtime by up to 24 hours, prolonging AC standby by 2.5 times, and increasing CPAP usage by 2.5 times.

Scale Smart for Diverse Needs

What sets the Apex 300 apart is its smart ecosystem—easily expandable in output, capacity, and versatility through its ecosystem accessories, including:

• B300, B300S, B300K Expansion Battery – Adds more energy storage.
• SolarX 4K Charge Controller – 500V/4,000W PV voltage regulator for high-voltage solar arrays.
• AT1 Smart Distribution Box – Automates energy management for homes.
• Hub A1 Parallel Box – Expands storage and power output in a parallel system.
• Hub D1 DC Power Hub – Provides 700W DC output with a 12V/50A Anderson port.
• S1 Smart Plug – Optimizes energy use for appliances.
• Car DC to DC Alternator Charger 1– Offers 560W charging power from vehicles’ alternators.

Smart Backup Power for Modern Homes

Whether for emergency backup or whole-home backup, the Apex 300 grows with users’ needs. It scales up to three units and 18 B300K batteries, tripling the power up to 11,520W output and 58,000Wh capacity, enough to keep a home running for an entire week.

The Apex 300 also helps homeowners create a fully automatic whole-home backup system with up to 30,720W solar input, by pairing with BLUETTI’s smart ecosystem—including the AT1 Smart Distribution Box, Hub A1 Parallel Box, and up to three SolarX 4K Charge Controllers.

Seamlessly integrating with existing rooftop solar inverter systems, this home battery backup allows users to manage loads, set power priorities, and activate smart modes like Extreme Weather Alerts via the BLUETTI App. With the AT1 and the S1 smart plugs, homeowners can intelligently manage solar energy, grid electricity, auto-start a gas generator, and appliances through the app.

Reliable Power for RV and Off-Grid Living

The Apex 300 caters to an off-grid lifestyle as well. It has four standard AC outlets to power A/Cs, microwaves, coffee makers, and other outdoor essential appliances. With integrated NEMA TT-30R and NEMA 14-50R ports, it also works as mobile shore power to directly charge all RVs. 

To charge phones, laptops, and other DC devices, RVers can pair it with the 700W Hub D1, a clip-on mountable DC power hub with seven outlets, including two 100W USB-C, two 15W USB-A, two DC5521, and a 12V/50A Anderson port for safer and easy-to-use DIY setup.

Recharging off the grid is just as effortless. Users can refuel it via EV chargers, gas generators, solar panels, or vehicles via the Car DC to DC Alternator Charger 1, which captures unused engine power to provide up to 560W of fast, on-the-go recharging.

Longer Lifespan and Bigger Return

• Fastest Payback in 2 Years
  Paired with the SolarX 4K—the world’s first 500V/4,000W PV voltage regulator designed for portable power stations—the system pays for itself in just 2 years. This ensures long-term savings for those powering off-grid cabins or integrating solar into their homes.
  
  
• 17 Years of Reliable Use
  Built on the proven success of the Elite 200 V2 Solar Generator, the Apex 300 takes durability and safety to the next level with 2nd-gen automotive-grade LiFePO₄ cells. Engineered to deliver up to 17 years of dependable service, it’s the ideal power solution for homes, RV living, and demanding off-grid environments.
  
  
• Maximum Value, Minimal Footprint
  With hot-swappable batteries and 40% higher energy density, the Apex 300 delivers full power in a compact form, seamlessly switching between scenarios. This allows users a simple unplug-and-go experience for outdoor use, all while maintaining uninterrupted household power.

Be the First to Experience Apex 300

The Apex 300 Pre-Launch exclusive access opens from April 16th to May 7th. Early supporters can secure priority shipping, supplementary gifts, and exclusive benefits with a $10 deposit— recognizing the trust and enthusiasm that help bring new energy solutions to life.

BLUETTI is inviting everyone to join the Apex 300 Global Community and experience the future of portable, scalable energy firsthand. The official Indiegogo launch of the Apex 300 will start at 8:00 AM PDT on May 8th.

About BLUETTI

As a technology pioneer in clean energy, BLUETTI provides affordable clean energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting An African Family) program, BLUETTI aims to power 1 million African families in off-grid areas. Focusing on innovation and customer needs, BLUETTI has become a trusted industry leader in over 110 countries and regions.

The post BLUETTI Apex 300 Pre-Launch: Next-Gen Versatile Energy first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

PITTSBURGH – “I wanted to create a simple way to apply an effective sunshade over a parked RV,” said an inventor, from Estancia, N.M., “so I invented the R V SHADE. My design would protect and preserve the rooftop, and it could increase cooling comfort for the occupants of the motor home.”

The invention provides rooftop coverage and protection against intense sunlight for a parked recreational vehicle. In doing so, it prevents the RV rooftop from being subjected to intense sunlight, rain, hail, and other elements when parked. It also offers improved cooling and push button operation. The invention features a protective and weatherproof design that is easy to use so it is ideal for RV owners and users. Additionally, a prototype model and technical drawings are available upon request.

The original design was submitted to the National sales office of InventHelp. It is currently available for licensing or sale to manufacturers or marketers. For more information, write Dept. 23-ASP-453, InventHelp, 100 Beecham Drive, Suite 110, Pittsburgh, PA 15205-9801, or call (412) 288-1300 ext. 1368. Learn more about InventHelp’s Invention Submission Services at http://www.InventHelp.com.

The post InventHelp Inventor Develops Sunshade for RV Rooftops first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

Geneva Long, founder and CEO fo Bowlus RV and recently elected to the RV Industry Association Board of Directors, discusses the “pricing trick of MSRP inflation.”

The post OEM Showcase: Bowlus’ Geneva Long on MSRP Inflation first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Cortes Campers LLC, today (April 17) announced the release of the Cortes 18 RV travel trailer with two interior floorplans and featuring a licensed integrated composite chassis. The Cortes 18 lightweight design offers strength and weight reduction for increased towing capabilities.

The newly integrated composite chassis offers superior strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring maximum durability while significantly reducing the overall dry weight of the Cortes 18 by 600-800 pounds over its previous Cortes 17 model.

“At Cortes Campers, we are focused on innovation and delivering the highest quality products to our customers,” said Taylor Bennington, VP of Sales and Operations at Cortes Campers. “With the introduction of the Cortes 18, we have made major advancements by integrating a composite frame directly into the RV body, which will be a game-changer for the RV industry. This positions Cortes Campers at the forefront of a new era in lightweight travel trailer construction.”

About Cortes Campers, LLC

Cortes Campers is a revolutionary designer and marketer of state-of-the-art recreational vehicles, utilizing the highest quality marine and composite materials to create lighter, stronger, and more durable RV travel trailers. The company’s latest innovation includes an integrated composite frame. For additional information: cortescampers.com

The post Video: Cortes 18 Features Integrated Composite Chassis first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.

FARIFAX, Va. – Go RVing is committed to keeping the RV industry up-to-date on impactful trends and insights, according to a report on the RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) News and Insights web page.

• One trend to watch is livestreaming.

Live streaming has revolutionized how we consume content, and it’s not going away anytime soon! In fact, the global live-streaming market will reach $3.21 billion by 2027. 

• Live streaming is when the streamed video is sent over the Internet in real time, without first being recorded and stored. Today, TV broadcasts, video game streams, and social media videos can all be live-streamed.

Particularly on social media, live streaming platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, Facebook Live, and TikTok have slowly carved out their niches in the market for real-time content.

One of live streaming’s greatest strengths is its ability to bring together communities around shared interests, allowing people with specific niche hobbies, needs, or passions to connect with like-minded individuals. 

• The internet has always fostered these niche markets, but live streaming takes it a step further by offering real-time conversation, creating a more immersive and personal connection.
• This connection and sense of community is a powerful driver of commerce. Since streaming builds trust so rapidly and organically, it is easier to monetize streams through product placements, services, and experiences specifically tailored to their viewers’ needs. 

And it’s not just individuals who benefit. Businesses, big and small, are harnessing the potential of live streaming to connect with their audience in ways never before possible. Live streaming allows companies to showcase their authentic selves and build stronger customer relationships.

By continuing to strategically use livestreaming, the RV industry can forge stronger connections with its audience, showcase the RV lifestyle, educate potential buyers, and ultimately drive sales and brand loyalty in an engaging and interactive way. (Want to get started? Here’s five quick tips.)

Examples of how the RV industry can continue to use livestreaming to engage with audiences include:

• Product showcases and virtual tours: This can involve new model reveals, RV walkthroughs, dealership tours, or manufacturer tours.
• Educational content and Q&A sessions: This could entail “ask the expert” live sessions with RVTI-certified technicians, how-to workshops, or trip planning sessions with seasoned RVers.
• Engaging with the RV community: Examples include live Q&A with RV influencers, virtual RV rallies/meetups, live interviews with current RV owners, or live polls and quizzes.
• Marketing and promotions: This may include live sales events, product launch livestreams, contests, or giveaways.
• Real-time event coverage: This could encompass livestreams from RV shows, events, or campgrounds.

The post One of Go RVing’s Current Trends to Know is Livestreaming first appeared on RVBusiness - Breaking RV Industry News.