THOR, Harbinger Earn 2025 World Changing Ideas Award

ELKHART, Ind. and GARDEN GROVE, Calif. — THOR Industries (NYSE: THO) and Harbinger, a leading medium-duty electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturer, announced that they have been named winners of Fast Company’s 2025 World Changing Ideas Awards for their Hybrid RV. This annual recognition honors bold and transformative efforts that tackle the world’s most pressing issues—from fresh sustainability initiatives and cutting-edge AI developments to ambitious pursuits of social equity that are helping mold the world.

THOR Industries collaborated with Harbinger to create the world’s first hybrid electric Class A motorhome, combining Harbinger’s advanced electric vehicle (EV) chassis with a low-emissions gasoline range extender that can recharge the electric batteries. The vehicle, which is designed specifically for RV use, is capable of delivering an estimated 500 miles of range, including 150 all-electric miles. This innovative platform simplifies vehicle operation and supports flexible charging, including grid integration, as well as solar power and off-grid capabilities, while elevating the on the road experience with added range and driving comfort. Together, the companies have set a new standard for simple, sustainable, long-range RV travel while solidifying the THOR Family of Companies’ innovation leadership.

Todd Woelfer

“We’re honored that THOR Industries and Harbinger have received Fast Company’s 2025 World Changing Ideas Award for the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome. This achievement underscores the collective commitment and partnership between THOR and Harbinger that is dedicated to pioneering an electrified RV ecosystem—from innovative chassis technology to enhanced design and comfort. It’s a milestone that reflects our shared vision of delivering an RV experience that meets the needs of today’s owners and inspires tomorrow’s travelers,” shared Todd Woelfer, chief operating officer at THOR Industries.

“We committed to investment in long term innovation to drive competitive advantage.  Our work to innovate with Harbinger is a great example of the strategic advantage that investment drives for THOR,” Todd Woelfer said.

This year’s awards, featured on fastcompany.com, showcase 50 winners across 12 categories and 50 additional winners across industries, for a total of 100 outstanding projects. A panel of Fast Company editors and reporters selected the winners from a pool of more than 1,500 entries and judged applications based on their impact, sustainability, design, creativity, scalability, and ability to improve society.

“This recognition validates the work we’re doing with THOR to help lead the RV industry forward,” said John Harris, co-founder and CEO, Harbinger. “By building a plug-in hybrid specifically for RVs, we are giving customers peace of mind for long-distance travel while also enabling fully electric operation whenever possible. THOR and their visionary team share our belief in a future defined by cleaner, more sustainable transportation. Together, we have proven what is possible when cutting-edge innovation meets real-world needs.”

“The World Changing Ideas Awards have always been about showcasing the art of the possible,” says Fast Company Editor-in-Chief Brendan Vaughan. “We’re proud to recognize the organizations and leaders that are making meaningful progress on the biggest issues of our time.”

About THOR Industries

THOR Industries is the sole owner of operating companies which, combined, represent the world’s largest RV manufacturer. For more information on the Company and its products, please visit https://www.thorindustries.com/.

About Harbinger

Harbinger is an American commercial electric vehicle (EV) company on a mission to transform an industry starving for innovation. Harbinger’s best-in-class team of EV, battery, and drivetrain experts have pooled their deep experience to support the growing demand for medium-duty EVs. Leveraging a foundation of proprietary, in-house developed vehicle technologies designed specifically for commercial and specialty vehicles, Harbinger is bringing a first-of-its-kind EV platform to market, priced at acquisition parity to traditional diesel vehicles. Harbinger: Familiar Form, Revolutionary Foundation.

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THOR, Harbinger Earn 2025 World Changing Ideas Award

ELKHART, Ind. and GARDEN GROVE, Calif. — THOR Industries (NYSE: THO) and Harbinger, a leading medium-duty electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturer, announced that they have been named winners of Fast Company’s 2025 World Changing Ideas Awards for their Hybrid RV. This annual recognition honors bold and transformative efforts that tackle the world’s most pressing issues—from fresh sustainability initiatives and cutting-edge AI developments to ambitious pursuits of social equity that are helping mold the world.

THOR Industries collaborated with Harbinger to create the world’s first hybrid electric Class A motorhome, combining Harbinger’s advanced electric vehicle (EV) chassis with a low-emissions gasoline range extender that can recharge the electric batteries. The vehicle, which is designed specifically for RV use, is capable of delivering an estimated 500 miles of range, including 150 all-electric miles. This innovative platform simplifies vehicle operation and supports flexible charging, including grid integration, as well as solar power and off-grid capabilities, while elevating the on the road experience with added range and driving comfort. Together, the companies have set a new standard for simple, sustainable, long-range RV travel while solidifying the THOR Family of Companies’ innovation leadership.

Todd Woelfer

“We’re honored that THOR Industries and Harbinger have received Fast Company’s 2025 World Changing Ideas Award for the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome. This achievement underscores the collective commitment and partnership between THOR and Harbinger that is dedicated to pioneering an electrified RV ecosystem—from innovative chassis technology to enhanced design and comfort. It’s a milestone that reflects our shared vision of delivering an RV experience that meets the needs of today’s owners and inspires tomorrow’s travelers,” shared Todd Woelfer, chief operating officer at THOR Industries.

“We committed to investment in long term innovation to drive competitive advantage.  Our work to innovate with Harbinger is a great example of the strategic advantage that investment drives for THOR,” Todd Woelfer said.

This year’s awards, featured on fastcompany.com, showcase 50 winners across 12 categories and 50 additional winners across industries, for a total of 100 outstanding projects. A panel of Fast Company editors and reporters selected the winners from a pool of more than 1,500 entries and judged applications based on their impact, sustainability, design, creativity, scalability, and ability to improve society.

“This recognition validates the work we’re doing with THOR to help lead the RV industry forward,” said John Harris, co-founder and CEO, Harbinger. “By building a plug-in hybrid specifically for RVs, we are giving customers peace of mind for long-distance travel while also enabling fully electric operation whenever possible. THOR and their visionary team share our belief in a future defined by cleaner, more sustainable transportation. Together, we have proven what is possible when cutting-edge innovation meets real-world needs.”

“The World Changing Ideas Awards have always been about showcasing the art of the possible,” says Fast Company Editor-in-Chief Brendan Vaughan. “We’re proud to recognize the organizations and leaders that are making meaningful progress on the biggest issues of our time.”

About THOR Industries

THOR Industries is the sole owner of operating companies which, combined, represent the world’s largest RV manufacturer. For more information on the Company and its products, please visit https://www.thorindustries.com/.

About Harbinger

Harbinger is an American commercial electric vehicle (EV) company on a mission to transform an industry starving for innovation. Harbinger’s best-in-class team of EV, battery, and drivetrain experts have pooled their deep experience to support the growing demand for medium-duty EVs. Leveraging a foundation of proprietary, in-house developed vehicle technologies designed specifically for commercial and specialty vehicles, Harbinger is bringing a first-of-its-kind EV platform to market, priced at acquisition parity to traditional diesel vehicles. Harbinger: Familiar Form, Revolutionary Foundation.

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Headrest Safe Company LLC Introduces Compact Model

HOMEWOOD, Ala. – The Headrest Safe Company, LLC, innovators of the ultimate discreet vehicle safe storage system, is pleased to announce the new Compact Headrest Safe, according to a release.

The Compact is ideal for customers looking for a smaller profile than our Vulcan or Slide. With a symmetrical profile, this model works great in sedans and luxury vehicles. The Compact comes with a new hotel style lock. A simple keypad entry to open and close the safe door, just like those used in hotels. Even with the smaller profile, the Compact still accommodates a full-size pistol.

“When it comes to carrying your valuables or firearms in your vehicle, most people think they have to choose between safety and convenience,” said Louis Tuck, COO/CFO, The Headrest Safe Company LLC. “With The Headrest Safe™ products, you can have the best of both worlds: peace of mind that it’s secure plus easy access.”

The Headrest Safe vehicle is the first “Hidden in plain sight” vehicle storage security system.

Users can now transport a firearm, cash, medications, and more with in a vehicle and relax knowing it will stay out of the hands of kids, valets, or intruders. Keep them safe with The Headrest Safe. The Headrest Safe Company uses the best quality materials, so users can count on the safe being tough. With three ways to open your safe (thumbprint, key, and code), users have easy access to valuables.

Once installed, The Compact Headrest Safe locks in place so only the owner can remove it. The fabric coverings that are used look and feel like real leather. Concerned about matching an interior? “Click here” for a sample swatch.

With its universal design, the Compact Headrest Safe will fit in virtually all vehicles with a 2-prong post headrest pattern and can easily be installed. The quick access biometric lock reader and keypad provide rapid access to whatever is securely stored away. Never worry about taking valuables along again. Link to installation video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llmWnsBTZqU&t=20s

The Compact Headrest Safe was designed to be on the passenger side, so the driver has direct access to the safe from the driver’s seat. The Compact Headrest Safe bundle offers a matching driver side companion headrest to match identically to The Compact Headrest Safe. Link to product in use video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlsaUSS9HqI

Key features of The Compact Headrest Safe include:

  • Quick and easy installation
  • Universal fit to most two-post headrest systems
  • Steel hotel safe style lock
  • Locks into seat to prevent theft
  • Heavy duty 20-gauge steel safe
  • 16-gauge steel safe door
  • All automotive grade components
  • Safety tested to FMVSS 202a standards
  • Available in black leatherette (other options coming soon)
  • Installs on the passenger seat for easy access by the driver
  • Exterior dimensions 8″H x 5.5″ W x 10.75″ L
  • Interior dimensions 5.5″ H x 3.5″ W x 7.5″ L
  • Holds a full-size pistol
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

MSRP: $299

For more information about The Compact Headrest Safe and all their products, please visit: www.theheadrestsafe.com

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Economists See Emerging Signs of Inflation from Tariffs

WASHINGTON — Inflation rose last month to its highest level since February as President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs push up the cost of a range of goods, including furniture, clothing, and large appliances, according to an Associated Press report.

Consumer prices rose 2.7% in June from a year earlier, the Labor Department said Tuesday, up from an annual increase of 2.4% in May. On a monthly basis, prices climbed 0.3% from May to June, after rising just 0.1% the previous month.

Worsening inflation poses a political challenge for President Donald Trump, who promised during last year’s presidential campaign to immediately lower costs. The sharp inflation spike after the pandemic was the worst in four decades and soured most Americans on former president Joe Biden’s handling of the economy. Higher inflation will also likely heighten the Federal Reserve’s reluctance to cut its short-term interest rate, as Trump is loudly demanding.

Click here to read the full Associated Press report.



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Black Camping Initiative Falls Prey to Indiana DEI Cutbacks

Editor’s Note: The following information was excerpted from an article by The Indiana Capital Chronicle a free news source covering various aspects of politics and policy in Indiana, including the economy, elections, healthcare, the environment, and education.

Grants to reduce racial health inequities.

Scholarships for Black and Hispanic students.

Racial bias training.

A camping initiative for Black Hoosiers.

All are programs that have been abolished and even erased from their respective agency websites following an executive order by Gov. Mike Braun. The directive forced agencies to replace “diversity, equity and inclusion,” or DEI, throughout state government policies and programming with “merit, excellence and innovation,” according to a report by IndianaCapitalChronicle.

The January executive order gave agencies until July 1 to complete a review and identify DEI in their policies, which Braun released late Wednesday afternoon. In total, 350 DEI initiatives were identified and detailed across more than 3,800 pages of information.

One of Braun’s directives, the article notes, prompted the Department of Natural Resources to purge campfire-emblazoned flags and other merchandise from state facilities, strip stickers from state-owned vehicles and scrub trainings from its human resources platform. 

That’s because the campfire, dubbed a “unity blaze,” is the logo for North Carolina-based Black Folks Camp Too. Founder Earl B. Hunter Jr. launched the company to combat “generational fears” — like of lynchings — that Black people may hold of the outdoors, ABC 11 reported

Black Folks Camp Too offers training on “how to create a more inclusive outdoor experience for all,” according to a joint news release with DNR. 

The duo entered into a yearlong agreement in 2023 for $17,500 and renewed it in 2024 for $62,666, but under Braun’s executive order, DNR backed out two months early. The agency paid a final bill of $56,698, per the report.

Click here to read the complete article at IndianaCapitalChronicle.com.

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NHTSA Releases its Most Recent Installment of RV Recalls

Airstream, Inc. (Airstream) is recalling 244 2025 Interstate motorhomes. The Parametric Special Module (PSM) may fail to lock the controls, allowing the awning to be extended during transit. Dealers will correct the PSM pinning assignment, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 1, 2025. Owners may contact Airstream customer service at 1-877-596-6505 or 1-937-596-6111 ext. 7401 or 7411.

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling 850,318 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, 2021-2022 Lincoln Navigator, Mustang, F-150, and 2022 Expedition vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump may fail, which can result in an engine stall while driving. The remedy is under development. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 14, 2025. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 25S75.

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Campspot Set to Roll Back Prices to 1985 Rates on July 15

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — This summer, outdoor travel platform Campspot is helping travelers escape rising costs by turning back the clock, with no DeLorean required.

For one day only, on July 15, Campspot will offer a $40 “Retro Rebate” on qualified bookings made through its app, according to a release This limited-time offer drops the average current nightly campsite cost from $60 to just $20, the same rate Americans were paying back in 1985.

With affordability driving traveler decisions this summer, the Retro Rebate campaign is not only timely, but also brings to life two of Campspot’s top travel insights for 2025.

(Re)Creation Vacation – According to Campspot’s annual trend research, 72% of campers said a desire for simpler times would influence their 2025 travel planning. The 1980s ranked as the top decade travelers wish they could revisit, with unplugged experiences like campfire cooking, analog adventures, and family downtime leading the list.

Pop-Up Escapes – Today’s travelers are ditching expensive, long-haul vacations in favor of quick, local getaways this season. In Campspot’s 2025 summer survey, 76% of campers said they expect to spend under $500 on travel, and many are turning to short-notice trips as a way to stay flexible and cost-conscious.

“People want the freedom and fun of summer without the cost and complexity of it,” said Jeff Bettin, General Manager, Marketplace at Campspot. “The Retro Rebate is our way of letting travelers chase that 80s-style escape, both emotionally and financially.”

How It Works:

  • Book: Make a qualifying reservation through the Campspot app on July 15, with a minimum booking of $60.
  • Submit: Complete a short rebate form in the app after booking. Rebates are limited to the first 250 submissions on July 15.
  • Stay: Travel must take place between July 15 and August 15, 2025.
  • Get Paid: Receive a $40 Visa gift card after completing your stay.

The Retro Rebate is more than just a discount. It’s a one-day-only, nostalgia-fueled throwback to simpler summer escapes.

“Everyone’s looking for a break these days, in more ways than one, and many are longing for those carefree, nostalgic summers they used to have,” said Carolin Fuller, Director of Consumer Marketing at Campspot. “Although we can’t offer real time travel, we can bring prices from the past into today so people can enjoy the simple, memorable adventures that made their childhoods so special.”

To take advantage of this unique offer, download the Campspot app before July 15.

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Firefly Reservations, Hipcamp Launch Seamless Integration

Firefly Reservations, a leading reservation management platform built exclusively for campgrounds, RV parks and glamping resorts, has announced a new integration with Hipcamp, one of the world’s leading apps for finding and booking campsites. This partnership brings together two purpose-built tools for the outdoor hospitality industry; helping campground operators get discovered where today’s campers are already searching, according to a release.

Used by over 1,200 campgrounds across North America, Firefly now offers a simple, no-cost integration with Hipcamp that helps operators reach a far wider audience of campers. Once enabled, availability, pricing, and guest management data sync automatically between the two platforms, instantly connecting parks with Hipcamp’s community of over 7 million outdoor travelers. Campground owners retain full control of their listing and can customize it with photos, descriptions, and policies at any time.

“Hipcamp’s mission is to get more people outside, and I’m so excited for the opportunity to work with the amazing campground operators in the Firefly network to make that happen,” said Alyssa Ravasio, founder and CEO of Hipcamp. “Our partnership with Firefly makes it simple for these operators to reach the millions of campers who use Hipcamp, without any added work or extra listing fees.”

Firefly’s reservation platform, designed with the unique needs of campgrounds in mind, has been gaining rapid adoption among independent parks. With this new integration, Firefly further enhances its value to park operators by delivering a simple, direct path to increased visibility and booking volume.

“At Firefly, we’re dedicated to simplifying campground management and helping operators grow their businesses,” said Doug Kinney, president of Firefly. “The Hipcamp integration provides our parks with an effortless way to tap into a massive audience of regular campers, connecting them directly with the modern outdoor guest.”

This announcement comes at a time of strong momentum for both platforms. Hipcamp recently doubled its campsite inventory, with particular growth in its family-run campground and RV park offering. At the same time, Firefly continues to expand its footprint across North America, helping campground owners turn their vision for unique guest experiences into reality.

Firefly users can activate the Hipcamp integration today to start reaching more campers. Learn more at fireflyreservations.com/hipcamp-partnership or contact [email protected]

About Firefly Reservations

Firefly Reservations is a cloud-based reservation management system built by campground owners, for campground owners. Designed in close collaboration with park operators, Firefly offers flexible, easy-to-use tools that streamline operations, automate tasks, and enhance guest experiences. With features like integrated OTAs, interactive maps, automated payments, and integrated point-of-sale systems, Firefly empowers independent campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping resorts to efficiently manage their properties and focus on what matters most—providing exceptional hospitality.

About Hipcamp

Hipcamp is the #1 app to find and book campsites, from national parks to blueberry farms. Hipcamp unifies the world’s best camping options across peaceful private spots, iconic public lands and well-equipped campgrounds to create one app that has everywhere you want to camp. Hipcamp has grown into a community of over 7 million campers who use our app to explore all of their options in one place—tent sites, RV spots or glamping—and find the perfect site to match their camping style. Each year, Hipcamp helps millions of campers sleep happily under the stars, boosting local economies and biodiversity along the way. Investors include Benchmark, Andreessen Horowitz, and Bond Capital.

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FlexPath DXP Offers ‘VeriQual’ for Auto, RV & Powersports

CINCINNATI — FlexPath DXP, a fintech innovator transforming how dealers and lenders credit-prequalify customers, is accelerating its market expansion with VeriQual, following a fully subscribed funding round and key leadership additions.

With Kacy Daugherty now serving as Chief Operating Officer and additional new hires in place, the company is positioned for rapid growth. The funding round, backed by a strategic franchise dealer group, will fuel go-to-market efforts for VeriQual — a patent-pending identity verification and credit prequalification solution that works at the top of the sales funnel.

VeriQual is built for franchise and independent dealers across the automotive, RV, and powersports sectors, along with their supporting lenders and vendor networks. By verifying identity before a credit pull, VeriQual protects dealers from fraud, improves lead quality, and delivers clean, validated data — all with just a phone number.

“The industry is overdue for a smarter, fraud-resistant approach to prequalifying customers,” said Tarry Shebesta, co-founder and CEO of FlexPath DXP. “With our experienced leadership team and strong financial backing, FlexPath DXP is poised to become the first line of defense against identity fraud while unlocking higher conversion rates for dealers and lenders alike.”

Fraud prevention works best when layered. Like the Swiss cheese model used in cybersecurity and safety protocols, every layer has small gaps—but when stacked together, those gaps rarely align. VeriQual serves as the critical first layer in this defense strategy — catching fraudulent activity early, before it reaches deeper into the sales or funding process.

FlexPath DXP is currently onboarding strategic partners and clients nationwide and invites agencies, dealer groups, lenders, and solution providers to learn how VeriQual can easily be integrated into their workflows.

To learn more visit www.FlexPathDXP.com.

About FlexPath DXP, LLC

FlexPath DXP is a Digital Experience Platform, with deep roots in online sales and marketing, developing revolutionary fintech solutions that enable organizations to deliver personalized and targeted marketing, enhance customer experiences, and drive efficiencies and value for all parties involved. Its flagship product, VeriQual, is the first line of defense against fraud in credit prequalification.

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RVIA Releases ‘Sizzle Reel’ for ’25 Aftermarket Conference

From the RV Industry Association (RVIA): Join us in San Antonio for the 2025 Aftermarket Conference! During the conference, event suppliers and distributors meet in one-on-one “appointment sessions” to pitch new products while taking advantage of key networking opportunities. In addition to networking with colleagues with a proven track record in the industry, attendees will hear from thought-leaders on the state of the RV industry. This event is the perfect opportunity to develop strategies for expanding the market segment and discuss opportunities for future growth. The conference, focusing on supporting a great parts and accessory purchasing experience that will benefit supply chain members and the RV consumer, is open to all RV Industry Association members.

Click here to register for the conference.

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