Workers began walking picket lines early Tuesday, picketing near ports all along the East Coast. Workers outside the Port of Philadelphia walked in a circle and chanted, “No work without a fair contract.”
A lengthy shutdown could raise prices on goods around the country and potentially cause shortages and price increases at big and small retailers alike as the holiday shopping season — along with a tight presidential election — approaches.
Which ports are affected?
While any port can handle any type of goods, some ports are specialized to handle goods for a particular industry. The ports affected by the shutdown include Baltimore and Brunswick, Georgia, the top two busiest auto ports; Philadelphia, which gives priority to fruits and vegetables; and New Orleans, which handles coffee, mainly from South America and Southeast Asia, various chemicals from Mexico and North Europe, and wood products such as plywood from Asia and South America.
Other major ports affected include Boston; New York/New Jersey; Norfolk, Virginia; Wilmington, North Carolina; Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; Tampa, Florida; Mobile, Alabama; and Houston.
How will this affect consumers?
The strike could last weeks — or months. If the strike is resolved within a few weeks, consumers probably wouldn’t notice any major shortages of retail goods. But a strike that persists for more than a month would likely cause a shortage of some consumer products, although most holiday retail goods have already arrived from overseas. Shoppers could see higher prices on a vast array of goods, from fruit and vegetables to cars.
RENO, Nev. – AEONrv, a leading innovator in the overlanding and recreational vehicle industry, today announced the launch of its updated 2024 model year built on the 2024 Ford Transit AWD 156-inch wheelbase cutaway chassis. This model delivers enhanced comfort, a modern design, and innovative features, further solidifying AEONrv as an excellent choice for outdoor adventurers.
“The 2024 model represents an exciting update for AEONrv. We’ve listened to customer feedback and improved our offering to deliver our most highly innovative, reliable, and capable RV model yet,” said Jim Ritchie, CEO and Co-Founder of AEONrv. “Our mission remains focused on continually enhancing the off-road and off-grid adventuring experience for our customers.”
Key Features of the 2024 AEONrv
Nova Kool RFU6406 D Refrigerator: A new dual compressor/thermostat fridge with a 28% larger capacity and a pull-out freezer, providing better cooling and precise temperature control for both the fridge and freezer compartments.
Tern Overland Black Flat Windows: The new sleek, modern window design enhances both the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal and overall durability.
Ford Transit 2024 AWD 156″ WB: Built on the latest platform from Ford, offering greater stability, power, and efficiency for off-road adventures.
20+ Additional Refinements: The 2024 model includes over 20 enhancements aimed at improving the driving and living experience, delivering excellent comfort and performance.
Launch of Mobile Support Program
To further enhance customer experience, AEONrv is introducing a new nationwide mobile support program. Customers can now schedule service appointments across the U.S. via email at [email protected]. AEONrv’s dedicated support team will strive to reach customers within 2-4 weeks, with a targeted maximum wait time of 6 weeks. Additionally, immediate phone and email support are available, as well as in-person assistance at the AEONrv factory in Reno, NV. This new program underscores AEONrv’s commitment to ensuring customers receive timely, top-tier service wherever they are located.
Continued Growth and Expansion
AEONrv plans to double its manufacturing space from 35,000 sq. ft. to 70,000 sq. ft. to support demand for the new 2024 model year and follow-on 2025 model year next year. To help support this growth—and provide individuals an opportunity to become part-owners of AEONrv for as little as $100—AEONrv launched an equity crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder last month, where it has successfully raised over $500K to date. This funding will fuel future innovations, operational expansion, and customer experience improvements.
Meet AEONrv at Overland Expo East
AEONrv will be attending Overland Expo East, from Oct. 4-6, 2024, in Arlington, VA (Booth T19). While the 2024 AEONrv model will not be on display, the AEONrv team will be available to answer questions and provide guided tours of a previous model year. AEONrv invites all overlanding enthusiasts to visit and learn more about how AEONrv is shaping the future of off-road adventures.
About AEONrv
At AEONrv, our mission is to build and deliver the most innovative RVs and exceptional customer experience using the latest advancements in modern and green technology. AEONrv is the first true all-season, electric cabin, off-road capable, high-tech and modern recreational vehicle. The company
was launched in Oct 2021 by two Silicon Valley executives and avid outdoorsmen with nearly 60 years of combined technology and innovation experience. For more information, visit us at aeonrv.com.
FAIRFAX, Va. – Uncover the top five myths about artificial intelligence and discover its transformative potential for your dealership at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Learn how AI can streamline operations, boost sales, and enhance customer experiences, while exploring practical strategies that positively impact your bottom line.
“Demystifying AI” will begin at 3:15 p.m. on Nov. 13, delivered by Richard Latman, CEO of TheCRM, as part of the business innovation education track.
Latman brings 27 years of expertise in pioneering AI-driven tech solutions tailored for the automotive and RV industries. Latman has testified before committees in the House and Senate and has keynoted at Amazon on AI, privacy, and safeguards. He has also presented to boards at OpenAI and Anthropic, discussing AI privacy, compliance, and regulations.
Learning objectives for this session:
Uncover AI Myths vs. Facts: Clarify common misconceptions about AI to distinguish myths from facts, empowering you to make informed decisions about integrating AI into your dealership operations. This session will be of particular interest to dealers who have been facing conditions such as inflation, high interest rates, and high gas prices as they conduct business.
Explore High-Impact AI Applications: Discover AI solutions tailored specifically for RV dealerships and unlock powerful strategies to maximize sales, elevate customer experiences, and optimize operational excellence.
Gain Expert Insights & An Actionable Plan: Walk away with a clear and actionable plan for evaluating, selecting, and implementing AI tools within your dealership. Equip yourself with the knowledge and resources needed to solidify your position as an industry leader and drive sustained success in the RV market.
About the RV Dealers Convention/Expo
The convention allows North America’s top dealership personnel to forge valuable connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential business partners in the Expo. Dealership professionals can expand their network and gain insights from the best in the RV industry.
The dealer-organized RVDA Convention will provide an in-depth look into the current sales landscape. Attendees will have access to valuable resources to optimize all departments within a dealership, including fixed operations.
To register for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo click here. Regular updates will be posted on the convention website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
The event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.
Companies interested in partnership or sponsorship opportunities can contact Julie Newhouse at (703) 364-5518 or email [email protected].
EDITOR’S NOTE: THOR Industries, during last week’s Elkhart RV Open House, unveiled the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome, the THOR Test Vehicle. The vehicle is built on an electric vehicle (EV) platform developed by EV manufacturer Harbinger. THOR and Harbinger collaborated to integrate a low-emissions gasoline range extender that can recharge the electric battery system, delivering an estimated 500 miles of range. RVs utilizing the hybrid platform will be commercially available in 2025 from the THOR family of companies and are expected to qualify as a Near-Zero Emission Vehicle (NZEV) under the Advanced Clean Truck legislation, adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Among those taking test drives of the prototype were several journalists from mainstream media outfits such as Motor Trend Car and Driver and Forbes. What follows is a selection of that coverage.
Thor’s Hybrid-Electric RV Is a House on Wheels That Drives Like a Car
(Motor Trend) No one buys an RV for the driving experience. You own a house on wheels so you can visit the world’s wildest places and sleep in civilized bliss. So you can spatchcock a chicken while camping. So you can take a washing machine with you on vacation.
RV travel is about the destination, not the journey of steering a 35-foot box through traffic, which explains why the chassis and powertrains underpinning today’s RVs have hardly changed in the past 40 years even as cars have become computerized and electrified marvels. “Modern” motorhomes are noisy, clumsy machines with the body control of a one-year-old who missed his nap and acceleration that feels like it could be measured in minutes, not seconds.
That’s about to change with arrival of the first plug-in hybrid motorhome. Next year, RV manufacturer Thor Industries and commercial EV startup Harbinger plan to launch a production Class A motorhome driven by an electric motor drawing power from nearly one ton of lithium-ion batteries and a gas-burning four-cylinder spinning a generator. That powertrain is packaged in a medium-duty chassis that Harbinger designed from a clean sheet, which gave engineers the opportunity to rethink the steering, suspension, and brakes, too. Having driven the prototype pictured here, it’s hard to overstate the transformative effect of all this. Harbinger and Thor have created an RV that’s almost car-like in how it drives.
Thor electric RV concept packs a 140 kWh battery and 500 mile range
(Elektrek) The latest electric RV concept from Thor is a Class A motorhome with big batteries, electric drive, and a range-extending generator. Will this PHERV (?) make it to production?
Visually similar to Thor’s existing Vegas Class A motorhome and co-developed by Thor and commercial EV manufacturer Harbinger, this “world’s first hybrid RV” combines a gas-powered range extender that can generate electric power to feed the RV’s huge, 140 kWh battery packs. The batteries then send power to Harbinger’s eAxle (a proprietary electric axle that combines a motor, inverter, and gearbox into a single unit) at the back of the RV’s ladder-style frame. Along with the range-extender, the batteries should be good to deliver, “an estimated 500 miles of range.”
THOR hybrid vehicle launches RV industry into EV world
(WVPE) Last week at the 2024 Elkhart RV Dealer Open House, Thor Industries unveiled a new vehicle: the first hybrid class A motorhome. Thor collaborated with Harbinger Motors to develop the test vehicle that debuted at the three-day event.
Despite early concerns that electric motors might struggle with larger vehicles like RVs, Thor’s test vehicle boasts an estimated 500-mile range. It runs on an electric motor and battery system, recharged by a low-emissions gasoline range extender. Solar panels on the motorhome’s roof also provide additional charge.
Thor operates many subsidiaries, including Airstream, Heartland RV, Jayco, Dutchmen, and Keystone RV. The company has yet to determine which subsidiary will offer the hybrid vehicle, but according to a release from Thor, RVs with the hybrid chassis will become commercially available in 2025.
This Plug-In-Hybrid RV Will Offer 500 Miles of Anxiety-Free Range
(Car and Driver) An electric RV without the range to get you out of your current ZIP code is a bit like an umbrella peppered with holes. There’s not much point. But, with the increasing push toward electrification throughout the entire automotive industry, RV manufacturers are looking for ways to join in. Airstream parent company Thor Industries is offering up a new plug-in-hybrid motorhome that should get you much farther afield than the next county.
The Thor Test Vehicle (very creative name) is a partnership between Thor and the EV manufacturer Harbinger. The brand describes the Test Vehicle as the world’s first hybrid Class A motorhome. The camper features a 140.0-kWh battery pack with an 800-volt system that allows for DC fast-charging. The standard range is around 150 miles, though that number jumps up to roughly 500 thanks to a small internal-combustion range extender.
THOR, Harbinger Unveil Hybrid Class A RV With 150 Mile EV-Only Range
(Forbes) One of the joys of vacationing in a recreational vehicle is saving big money on the cost of lodging, but that’s partially offset by how much fuel they guzzle. Starting next year, however, RV enthusiasts will have a choice that greatly improves how far they can travel on a tank of gas, while also giving them the option of cruising without using any.
Leading RV manufacturer THOR Industries and electric vehicle company Harbinger took the wraps off the world’s first hybrid class A RV on Monday. Class A RVs look like buses and are built on commercial truck or bus chassis.
MIDDLEBURY, Ind. – Pushing the boundaries of innovation, Grand Design RV officials are proud to unveil the Momentum LiftSuite, a revolutionary feature exclusive to the Momentum Toy Hauler product line. This technology transforms the traditional garage space into a versatile, multi-use suite, blending rugged functionality with high-end luxury to create a space that’s as adventurous as you are.
The LiftSuite system effortlessly elevates the garage far beyond its traditional role, transforming it into a multi-functional, suite-like living space that adapts to any adventure. Whether you’re hauling toys, setting up a mobile office, or creating a bedroom on the go, the LiftSuite redefines what it means to live—and play—on your own terms.
“It’s not just a garage anymore—it’s a suite on wheels,” said Chase Booth, Product Manager for Momentum. “Whether you’re storing your toys or turning it into an office or bedroom, the LiftSuite offers adaptability that no other product can match.”
Introducing the Garage that Plays as Hard as You Do
At the heart of the LiftSuite system is the P2K Bed lift system, an industry-exclusive feature that gives owners complete control over how they use their garage space. With an exclusivity on the system, the Momentum product line will lead the industry in garage versatility. The bed lift allows owners to quickly adjust the height of the bed, stopping at any level to create the perfect setup. Below, 40”-70” bench seats convert seamlessly into a desk, bed, or bar configuration, or collapse flush with the wall to maximize space for storing larger toys.
Key features of the LiftSuite system include:
One-Track System: Unlike traditional two-track systems, the LiftSuite uses a single track, leaving ample wall space for large windows, allowing natural light to flood in. Paired with hardwood casing, the windows enhance the suite-like feel of the space, transforming it from a dark, utilitarian area into a bright, welcoming living space.
Independent Operation: The bed lift operates separately from the bench seating, giving owners the freedom to use the space beneath the bed even while the bed is in use. This also allows for can lighting integration underneath the bed, providing a more residential feel to the garage space.
Transformative Versatility: The lower benches convert effortlessly into a bar, desk, or bed, allowing owners to tailor the space to their needs. Magnets hold cushions in place, and the benches fold up to open ample room for storing toys, creating a social area, or simply lounging.
“Our LiftSuite system isn’t just a feature—it’s a complete reimagining of what a toy hauler can be,” said Booth. “We’ve designed it to give our owners unmatched versatility. It’s not about choosing between utility and comfort anymore—you get both, without compromise. Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend thrill or living full-time on the go, the space adapts to your life effortlessly. Our goal is to deliver something no one else can—functional, comfortable, and designed for our owners’ real lives.”
Exclusive to Grand Design, the LiftSuite system positions Momentum as the leading toy hauler for those who demand versatility without sacrificing luxury.
For more information about the Momentum product line and to explore the full range of Grand Design RV models, visit www.GrandDesignRV.com.
President & CEO Anthony Wollschlager and CRO Paul Craven of Airxcel join Rick Kessler and Sherm Goldenberg of RVBusiness to provide a preview of their company’s 2024 Product Showcase in this Capitol Talk episode. The event is Oct. 16-17 at the Peter Orthwein Pavilion at the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum. The RVBusiness Capitol Talk video series is sponsored by Airxcel Inc.
Airxcel Announces 2024 OEM Product Showcase
WICHITA, Kan. – Airxcel Inc. will host its 11th annual OEM New Product Showcase, featuring new products and innovations from its portfolio of brands, Oct. 16-17 at the RV/MH Hall of Fame – Orthwein Pavilion, located at 21565 Executive Parkway in Elkhart, Ind., according to a release.
This exclusive event, open only to invited RV industry OEMs and professionals, promises to unveil groundbreaking new products alongside the latest enhancements to Airxcel’s legacy offerings. During this two-day event, attendees will have the unique opportunity to explore the latest innovations from all 16 Airxcel brands. This showcase is designed to equip RV builders and industry insiders with advanced solutions that enhance comfort, efficiency, and performance in RV design and manufacturing.
“Airxcel is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the RV industry,” said Anthony Wollschlager, president and CEO of Airxcel. “Our upcoming Product Showcase in Elkhart is an incredible platform for us to demonstrate our latest advancements and strengthen our partnerships within the industry. This event will allow us to highlight our commitment to quality and our continuous pursuit of excellence, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of technological developments in the RV sector.”
Airxcel’s Product Showcase is by invitation only. To check if your name is on the invited guest list or to request an invitation, please complete the inquiry form at https://campaigns.airxcel.com/2024-oem-showcase/rsvp/pr.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. –Blue Compass RV, a leading retailer of recreational vehicles with over 100 locations across the United States, announced the acquisition of Patriot RV in Lexington, Kentucky market. The store has been rebranded to Blue Compass RV and boasts a state-of-the-art facility in an ideal location right on I-75.
Jon Ferrando
“We are excited to continue our growth with this acquisition in the Lexington, Kentucky market,” said Jon Ferrando, Founder, President and CEO of Blue Compass RV. “This is an excellent dealership facility in an attractive retail location right on I-75 in Georgetown. The store has an exceptional RV product lineup. With this new location and brand mix, we are better positioned than ever to offer our customers in the Lexington market an exceptional sales, service and ownership experience.”
With this acquisition, Blue Compass RV reinforces its commitment to providing the highest quality products and services to our customers. Blue Compass RV is proud to offer a strong product lineup from the new Lexington location featuring industry-leading new RV brands such as Grand Design, Forest River Flagstaff, Aurora and Cherokee, along with leading motor home brands Jayco Motors, Fleetwood, Tiffin, Entegra and Thor Motor Coach.
Blue Compass first entered the Lexington market with the acquisition of the 12-store Family RV Group in March 2021, and is excited to operate from the new location on I-75.
AboutBlue Compass RV
Blue Compass RV is the fastest growing RV retail company in the United States over the past six years, with over 100 locations in 33 states. The Blue Compass RV stores across America offer an incredible selection of new and used RVs, including the best lineup of premium new brands. Our mission is to provide an exceptional sales, service, and RV ownership experience for our customers. With over 1,000 service bays across the country, Blue Compass can service our customers wherever their travels may take them.
Blue Compass RV has been named the No. 1 Airstream dealer in the world for five consecutive years, with a record-setting nine Airstream stores achieving the prestigious “Five Rivet” status. Blue Compass RV’s flagship Motor Home Specialist store has been the leading motorhome dealer in the U.S. for 11 consecutive years.
Led by Jon Ferrando and an experienced leadership team, Blue Compass has grown exponentially since its founding in 2018, for which it was named to the 2023 and 2024 Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list, as well as South Florida Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Private Companies list for three consecutive years. Prior to launching Blue Compass RV, Jon Ferrando was instrumental in building America’s largest automotive retailer from start-up to over $20 billion in revenue.
From Keystone RV: From special features that help owners tow with confidence, innovation and testing, a huge range of floorplans to fit any need, proven longevity and durability, and so much more, there’s a reason that Cougar is a household RV name. The Cougar team is here to answer the question: Why Cougar?
MIDDLEBURY, Ind. – Firefly Integrations’ technician training program continues in October in Baton Rouge, La., Fredericksburg, Va., Columbia, Tenn., and Greensboro, N.C. The training sessions are available in four-hour sessions.
The focus of each session is to give technicians a heightened understanding of RV-C and CAN bus technology as well as strengthen their ability to distinguish between operational, technical, and software issues.
The training sessions involve hands-on experience with Firefly’s Multiplex system and technical discussion that should greatly diminish the time technicians spend troubleshooting and diagnosing issues, the company says.
Each attending technician will earn a certificate for RV Technical Institute (RVTI) credit hours. Technicians need only attend one session for the information needed and the certificate.
California’s passage of Assembly Bill 1755, signed by the governor on Sept. 29, 2024, marks a significant step forward in streamlining consumer warranty claims, bringing much-needed relief to both consumers and the RV industry, according to a communication from the RV Industry Association (RVIA).
This legislation, backed by major players such as Consumer Attorneys of California, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis and supported by the California Judges Association, the RV Industry Association, and the California Defense Council, aims to expedite the resolution of warranty disputes and get consumers, including RVers, back on the road faster.
Craig Kirby
“With California’s RV industry generating a staggering $11 billion in economic output and supporting over 51,000 jobs, the swift resolution of warranty issues is critical,” said RVIA President & CEO Craig Kirby. “AB 1755 is a crucial step towards ensuring the continued growth and success of the RV industry, while simultaneously protecting the rights of California consumers.”
The intent of this legislation is twofold. First, to allow consumers to obtain relief faster – whether through restitution or a replacement vehicle to get back on the road faster and secondly, to reduce the burden on the California judicial system. It accomplishes this by:
Creating a pre-dispute notice requirement, which ensures the consumer notifies the correct contacts at the manufacturer via the pre-dispute notice. Oftentimes, the consumer’s problem can be solved just by talking to the right person.
Incentivizing consumers and manufacturers to more quickly resolve claims by permitting consumers to obtain civil penalties if they comply with this requirement, while penalizing manufacturers with the possibility of civil penalties if they do not comply with this requirement.
Creating an early mandatory mediation process that puts the manufacturer and consumer together earlier on in the process as we know that the more touch points that the consumer has with the right contact at the manufacturer, the more likely a resolution can be reached. Early mandatory mediation also allows for cases to be settled earlier, which reduces the burden on a judge’s docket.
Streamlining document production for both sides to hopefully reduce the number and cost of discovery battles.
Streamlining the civil procedural process of consumer warranty claims, which is currently rather drawn out, thus reducing the burden on the judicial system. RV manufacturers value the relationships they have with consumers and want to make sure that our customers have a positive experience throughout their RV journey. The RV industry has long sought improvements to the civil procedural process in California and this is a significant step that will better protect consumers and get RVers back on the road more quickly.
