TAMPA, Fla. – Italian-based B-van builder Wingamm unveiled its eye-catching Oasi 540.1 Wednesday during the Florida RV SuperShow.
What sets the Wingamm USA apart among other things is its dual-layer, one-piece fiberglass monocoque shell, which, the company reports, is completely impervious to water intrusion.
Part of the big news for Wingamm, which has been in the U.S. market for three years now, includes the fact that it’s now available here on a Dodge ProMaster 3500 van showcased at the Tampa Show for an MSRP of $185,000.
Previous versions – as well as all current European models – have been built on the Fiat Ducato chassis. (Both Fiat and Chrysler/Dodge are subsidiaries of global automotive giant Stellantis.)
The front-drive chassis is powered by the Chrysler Pentastar 2.6-litre V6 gas engine. The shell is manufactured in Verona, Italy, and shipped to the U.S. for final assembly.
The diminutive Oasi is 17 feet, 10 inches long and 7 feet, 5 inches tall. The interior appears roomy for the size of the unit with a pull-down bunk in the front, a bath in back and a mid-coach dinette. The design allows for a fairly roomy exterior storage bin in the rear – a relatively unusual Class B feature.
Flooring is two-inch dual layer with polyurethane insulation and warmed with Truma Combi-heated air.
Just as noteworthy, according to Tony Diamond, Wingamm director and CEO, is the company’s new approach to sales here in the States. Wingamm currently has two dealerships in the U.S. – in Salt Lake City and Nashville – plus service centers in Dallas and St. Louis. And more dealerships and service centers, located in city centers, are to be added as market share grows
“We believe we’re starting with motorhomes that are best-in-class and we wanted to extend that to our sales model and dealership network,” Diamond said. “Most dealerships are not in the city center. They’re 30 minutes to an hour outside of city center, so they’re not convenient to get to. And once you get there, you are met by a commission salesperson, which is a process that we believe nobody enjoys.”
He also said the current dealership model involves different models and brands whereas Wingamm offers franchise dealerships with expert staff.
“Once you get there, you’re are immersed in the Wingamm and you’re greeted by a customer specialist, not a commissioned sales person,” he told RVB. “Our display areas are being patterned after Apple stores; we offer an elegant, modern, sophisticated experience at our dealerships.”
In a move taking a page out of the Tesla marketing model, Wingamm also plans to have displays in high-end shopping malls across the U.S.
“That is being done for a number of reasons,” Diamond said. “First, again, it’s about convenience. So these are in city centers, and then it’s also about creating a pleasant experience as opposed to being outside, which is how most stores are. You’re now inside. You can shop. You can have lunch and see a Wingamm, all in the same place and it’s five minutes from your house.”
Diamond also believes there is a much larger, untapped addressable market for the Oasi 540.
“We hope to capture that market,” he said. “We want people who currently drive large SUVs, but all of their daily needs are not being met by those large SUVs. We believe there are a lot of daily pain points that that can’t be solved in a Range Rover, but can be solved in a Wingamm.
“Let’s say you’re a family of four,” he added. “Saturday morning, you’ve got one kid’s soccer game, then another kid’s softball game, and you got grandma’s house at the end of the day, right? So today, it’s hop in the SUV. With a Wingamm, you can, while one kid’s playing soccer, the other kid’s napping. While one kid’s playing softball, the other kid’s doing their homework, and everyone can shower and change and head to grandma’s without ever having to go home.”
Both units on display at Tampa were sold with other potential customers placed on a wait list.
TAMPA, Fla. – Upbeat would probably be the best way to describe the mood Thursday during the Florida RV SuperShow at the Florida State Fairgrounds east of Tampa – one of the nation’s most significant retail RV consumer venues.
While chilly temperatures in the 50s and 60s may have dulled the street-level enthusiasm to an extent among OEMs, suppliers, consumers and social media influencers, most everyone on hand at the show seemed eager to poke around the hundreds of new units on display and get a good look at some of the latest gadgets the industry has to offer.
Dave Kelly, executive director of the Florida RV Trade Association, which organizes the event, reported that 13,100 consumers walked through the turnstiles on Thursday, down from 2024’s Thursday attendance of 15,915.
“We haven’t counted exactly, but I think it’s our 14th Tampa Show,” said Mike Wendland, a co-creator with his wife Jennifer of the “RV Lifestyle” newsletter and YouTube channel. “The show seems a little slower, not quite as exciting as it usually is. But I think that’s just a reflection of the weather.”
In fact, the good news, according to Wendland, a respected voice within the industry’s consumer ranks, has to do with the general retail mood he sensed in Tampa.
“I think there’s a buying atmosphere here more than I’ve sensed before,” he continued. “I know that in one of the displays – I went in early yesterday (Wednesday), opening day — there were three or four people who were writing deals in the first 20 minutes. I think people do a lot more research than they’ve ever done before and know what they want. Everybody I’ve talked to who’s either a dealer or a manufacturer seems to be thinking this is looking better for 2025 than they thought it would be, frankly. I think they really are saying, ‘Well, maybe we’re going to turn around a little bit.’”
Kyle Kwasny, president of THOR Industries Inc. brands Heartland, Cruiser and DRV, confirmed Wendland’s assessment.
“The traffic’s been really good. I mean, I think that the response for Wednesday was really solid,” he said “We had a lot of activity yesterday afternoon on display. The weather’s a little tough, but I think for the most part, everyone’s pretty optimistic about the industry, about where we’re going. And I feel pretty good, honestly.”
He also believes consumer sentiment is pretty good “I think if you look at what this lifestyle provides, it’s still affordable, it’s still family-oriented,” said Quasny. “I think there’s a lot of interest among people that have done it and want to do it, and I think the industry’s really healthy.”
Curiously, he added, consumer interest in his product lineup is coming at both ends of the price spectrum.
“Our entry-level business has been really robust because of affordability,” Quasny added, “and then I think there’s been a lot of activity in the higher-end segments, probably more so than we’ve seen in the last couple years. I think it’s based on demographics, as people are simply retiring. And then I think there’s been a lot of those folks that have a lot of equity in their homes and are in a pretty good financial position to take advantage of buying a big fifth-wheel or big motorhome that they’ve dreamed about it for a long time.”
Spirits were high in the supplier building as well. For instance, Lippert Components Inc. Chief Marketing Officer Jarrod Lippert reported good traffic and eager consumers at his company’s booth in Supplier Building A.
“Inside our booth I can say there’s a lot of interest for some of the things we’re showing right now,” he said. “And people are definitely here to buy accessories and parts. I’m hearing a 50/50 both, ‘I’m shopping for a new RV and looking for stuff of yours that’s on it that’s cool and new and exciting.’ And then I hear a lot of, ‘I’m just looking to upgrade the one I have.’ So a little bit of both. So it’s a lot of interest in our Chill Cube air conditioner though, and a lot of interest in our suspension system that we’re showing.”
He also said his staff was driving consumers to OEMs who are using Lippert products. “We’re telling them, ‘Hey, if you like the suspension system, go see this guy or that guy, and they’ve got it on units out there.’”
And while traffic was decent, Lippert said that consumers were not averse to spending. “For example,” he continued, “we’re selling our ATK Chill Cube air conditioner right now. That’s the featured product here. And when I tell people the price ($925.00), they don’t even bat an eye. And they’re like, ‘Okay, we’re going to go buy it.’”
He added that Lippert was selling a significant amount of furniture as well. “People are here to spend money, for sure,” he said.
“It’s been such an incredible show, constant traffic,” said Lisa Schoder, Camco’s chief marketing officer. “We’re really excited about just engaging with consumers. Just having this opportunity for that face-to-face contact is so critically important for a marketer. … I’m getting information right from the people who are in the lifestyle and living it every day, because that’s the best source of information for consumer insights.”
Traffic was constant, moreover, despite cloudy skies.
“We’re giving away free product samples of our TST Pro, (toilet treatment), which has been an incredible engagement opportunity,” noted Schoder, “and people are excited to try a new product. So, we’ve been really pleased with how everything has been going.”
At the Dragonfly Energy booth, Wade Seaburg, chief revenue officer, also report good traffic and tons of interest in his company’s industry leading Battle Born lithium batteries.
“We’ve had really good traffic,” he said. “I just got in today, and it seems really good. I even went out and visited a few of our OEMs, and traffic seemed good out there and they seemed upbeat about the show. So, yeah, every one of our techs that’s in the booth has been occupied the entire time.”
And he believes an RV industry market upswing may be in the cards for 2025.
“I think I saw one headline that said ‘Cautiously Optimistic,’ said Seaburg. “I think that’s pretty accurate. Everybody’s figuring out what this new normal from the demand side is going to be within the RV industry. Units are changing, but the fact of the matter is, people still want to go and camp and enjoy nature and the outdoors. So, I think the health of the industry is very strong. It’s just how much volume is going to return, and is it going to be consistent?”
Sara Dover, brand manager for RV for supplier Dometic’s Land Vehicle American division, was overseeing a booth in the General RV parts area as well as an education display in Building A for Dometic, which is currently celebrating its 100th year in business.
“We’ve had a lot of traffic in both spaces,” she said. “I think the general space is up a lot from last year, so that’s great. We have our traditional RV stuff, obviously like toilets and AC’s, but then we have our Dometic GO furniture. We have our new soft-sided coolers here as well. We always have the Juggernaut CFXs, the power coolers. Those always do really well.
“And then we have our partners with Valtera, which is now getting ready to be called Dometic Sanitation. They’re here as well as our partners at Go Power or Mobile Power Solutions. We’re kind of in the middle of transitioning names for Valtera and Go Power.
At the other booth, new displays were built, “to really give more of an educational relevance to some of our products, and so that booth focuses a lot on stuff that’s coming. We’ve got new FreshJet VII AC. We’ve got a really cool sound dome over there so people can see how quiet the AC is. That’s the struggle with ACs. That one over there is super low profile. It’s only eight inches tall. It’s the most powerful. At only 48 decibels, it’s one of the quietest on the market.”
That booth also was showing Dometic’s water heater which offers “less weight and less wait,” she said.
A new, feature-rich roof fan’s scheduled to debut in the summer, offering a port feature which allows users to connect solar panels, Wi-Fi or other accessories on the roof. “It’s got dual arms,” added Dover, “so it’s going to be stronger in the wind. It’ll have a hood on so you can drive in the rain and you won’t get any water in. That fan is going to be a game changer for the market.”
TAMPA, Fla. – Outside Van, a leader in Class-B Adventure Vans, announced its latest model van: Overnight. Designed with outdoor group adventuring in mind, Overnight accommodates up to a group of 4 adults and is the ideal rig to bring the whole crew on your next overlanding or vanlife adventure, according to a company release.
Overnight is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144 AWD Chassis, and features the FoldAway Murphy Bed System, a centralized smart touchscreen control center that
controls all the systems of the van, and an expansive Pop-Top Sleeping area which can be accessed from both the interior and exterior of the van.
Overnight complements Outside Van’s other group adventure vehicle offerings including their larger van Approach, by utilizing a roof-top based secondary sleeping area. This enabled Outside Van to use the smaller, nimbler 144 Chassis that many Adventure Vans are based and is the perfect solution for groups or families who want a van that can accommodate the whole squad while still being able to park in a standard parking space.
In addition, Overnight is completely decked out with a modern lithium-based power system, central heating, and a luxurious dedicated kitchen galley.
Overnight had its public debut Jan. 15 at the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa, Fla., and will be available nationwide at the end of the quarter through a network of select dealerships.
For more information on Overnight as it becomes available, please visit: https://outsidevan.com/
TireMinder, a leading name in RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and a division of Valterra Products and a subsidiary of Dometic, announced the launch of its Android Auto compatibility. This new feature, combined with existing Apple CarPlay integration, makes it easier than ever for RVers to monitor their travel trailer and fifth-wheel tires directly from the dashboard and infotainment center, according to a release.
With the latest app update, TireMinder delivers real-time tire data and AI-powered voice alerts to notify drivers immediately if an issue arises. This cutting-edge technology ensures peace of mind for RVers, providing instant feedback on tire pressure, temperature and other critical metrics right at their fingertips.
Whether traveling cross country or taking a weekend getaway, users can enjoy a safer, more connected driving experience.
Both the Android and iOS apps now include a built-in demo mode designed to show how the alerts work without connecting to a TPMS device. This allows customers to view how the app will function prior to purchasing a TireMinder system. The app is free to download, ensuring a seamless onboarding experience for new users and highlighting the app’s capabilities.
In addition to this major update, TireMinder announced its recent recognition as the winner of the 2024 Wild Sam magazine’s Readers Choice Gold Award. In the TPMS category, this prestigious accolade underscores TireMinders commitment to excellence and its unwavering dedication to providing RVs with the best tool for tire safety.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce Android Auto compatibility to the TireMinder family,” said Michael Elli, senior product development engineer at TireMinder. “Our mission has always been to enhance the safety and convenience of RV travel, and this update represents a significant step forward. Paired with Apple CarPlay integration and our award-winning TPMS technology, RVs now have unparalleled access to tire monitoring tools.”
Key features of the TireMinder app:
Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay compatibility – View tire data directly on your dashboard.
Real-time alerts – AI-powered voice notifications for immediate awareness of tire issues.
Built-in demo mode – Explore app functionality and see how alerts work without connecting to a device.
Seamless integration – Easily sync with TireMinder’s trusted TPMS devices for accurate up-to-date readings.
As RV travel continues to grow in popularity, TireMinder remains dedicated to providing innovative solutions that keep adventurers safe and informed. The addition of Android Auto compatibility further solidifies TireMinder’s position as a leader in RV tire safety technology.
The updated TireMinder app is available now for download on Google Play and the Apple App store.
For more information about tire minder products and updates, visit www.tireminder.com.
ELKHART, Ind. – RV Mobile Power LLC (RVMP), an industry leader in RV power generation and mobile security systems, announces the consolidation of multiple operating locations into a larger, state-of-the-art facility located at 54722 Chelsea, Elkhart, Ind., 45616. This strategic move combines RVMP’s primary operating divisions, Flex Power and Flex Security, into a single 118,530-square-foot facility, according to the company release.
RVMP’s consolidation fosters collaboration and innovation across all departments, while enhancing RVMP’s commitment to delivering high-quality, industry disrupting products at customer-friendly pricing.
“This consolidation represents the next phase in RVMP’s trajectory — our over 300% annual growth demands this move so we can continue honoring all commitments to our customers and teams,” said CEO Jimmy Conroy II. “We are so proud of our hardworking team members who leave it all on the field day in and day out. Our growth is only possible because RVMP keeps its word and insists upon following the Golden Rule in all dealings.”
Expansion of Flex Power and Introduction of New Industry Leading Products
The RVMP Flex Power division continues expanding its product line with proprietary and industry leading installed power generators. The expansion includes the Flex Power® 2800e, 4000e, 5500e, and 7000e electronically fuel injected (EFI) dual-fuel (LP and gasoline) generators for 2024-2025, CARB 50-state compliance, and the all-new miniature-line of substantially smaller models coming in Spring of 2025.
“Our new line of Flex Power Mini generators will once again reset the industry OEM expectations for size, quality, performance, and price — just like we did when we launched the original Flex Power 4000i in 2019,” said Brian Carmichael, Group President of RVMP Flex Power. “The Mini line is going to be a game changer, as the small but mighty units challenge the conventional wisdom of what it takes to power recreational vehicles with onboard generators.”
RVMP sales professionals will personally visit industry executives over the coming weeks to educate and provide prototypes of the Flex Power Mini 2800im, 2800em, 4000im, 4000em, 5500em, and 7000em.
Growth of Flex Security
The RVMP Flex Security division developed multiple new models in 2024, aimed at enhancing commercial and municipal security. These initiatives underscore RVMP’s dedication to proactive crime prevention and community safety. This new RVMP facility supports a specialized team in assembling the Flex Security Alpha, Flex Security Bravo, Flex Security Pogo, and Flex Security Alpha OMNI.
“Flex Security’s accomplishment in pioneering the integration of advanced security hardware with cutting edge AI data and video management positions Flex Security for exceptional growth in these emerging markets,” says Kevin Mack, General Manager of Flex Security. “We continue advancing the state of the art in the mobile security industry, and our expanding capabilities ensure safer marketplaces, communities, and businesses.”
RVMP founded in 2018 is pioneering innovative power solutions for recreational vehicles, residential home standby generators, and the mobile security industries. RVMP is headquartered in Columbus, OH, and is one of the fastest growing private companies in Ohio and Indiana. RVMP has developed dozens of proprietary technologies and continues striving to be a leader in practical problem solving through the deployment of intellectual property. RVMP is built upon a culture of following the Golden Rule. RVMP is actively seeking new professionals to join the team.
BOCA RATON , Fla. – Elevation Transport Services announced its expansion into the specialized field of Travel Trailer and RV transport. Under the leadership of CEO Jay Mays, according to a release, the company continues to “raise the bar by broadening its service offerings to meet the growing demands of customers needing safe and efficient transportation solutions for a wide range of vehicles and equipment,” including RVs, cars, trucks, boats, and heavy equipment.
According to the release, for years Elevation Transport Services has built a “trusted reputation” in the transportation industry, providing “top-notch services” for local, regional, and national delivery of vehicles and heavy equipment. With this latest expansion into the Travel Trailer and RV transport market, Elevation Transport Services is now positioned to meet even more of its clients’ evolving needs, offering a full spectrum of transportation services that are reliable, flexible, and comprehensive.
As part of this expansion, Elevation Transport Services has introduced a new in-house carrier specifically designed for the transportation of RVs. The newly acquired carrier is equipped with the necessary features to handle these larger vehicles securely. The company’s team of highly trained and experienced drivers is well-versed in the unique challenges associated with transporting RVs and travel trailers, ensuring that these vehicles are moved with care and attention.
CEO Jay Mays emphasized that the expansion allows the company to serve a wider range of transportation needs, including both local and long-distance transport of RVs.
“As we continue to grow, our goal is to provide our customers with a single reliable transportation solution for all their needs,” said Mays. “We are committed to ensuring that all vehicles and equipment are transported safely, efficiently, and on time.”
With this expansion, Elevation Transport Services is now able to serve customers not just in Florida but across the United States. Whether the job requires local transport within a state or long-distance shipping to another part of the country, the company has the necessary expertise and resources to get the job done on time. The company’s broad national reach also allows it to offer competitive pricing and flexible solutions to meet customers’ diverse needs.
The Elevation Transport Services team works hard to ensure that every aspect of the transportation process runs smoothly. From the moment customers contact the company, they can expect friendly, professional service. The team assists customers in navigating their transportation needs, offering guidance on the best routes, scheduling, and pricing options. Elevation Transport Services prides itself on clear communication, transparency, and no hidden fees, ensuring a smooth experience for every client.
FAIRFAX, Va. – RV dealers looking to leverage the power of the industry’s national advertising and promotion campaign at the local level can now sign up for the 2025 Go RVing Dealer program through the RV Dealers Association (RVDA).
Through the industry portal section of the Go RVing website at GoRVing.com, dealers can download royalty-free photos, visuals, artwork for dealer websites, digital promotions, and other marketing needs.
A Google Analytics dashboard provides high-level information about user behavior on the site. Industry personnel can see the most popular pages, search terms driving site traffic, and from where traffic is coming.
Leads generated through the Go RVing website also are available for download to those who sign up for the tie-in program. These targeted leads provide information on potential RVers near participating dealerships.
The cost to sign up for the optional Go RVing Dealer program is $250. To sign up, visit www.rvda.org, email Chuck Boyd at [email protected], or call (703) 591-7130 x113.
Former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum is due before a Senate committee Thursday as lawmakers consider the Republican’s nomination to be chief steward of U.S. public lands and waters, according to an Associated Press report.
President-elect Donald Trump in November tapped Burgum to be interior secretary and to lead the new National Energy Council, which is charged with promoting oil, gas and other energy development.
The Interior Department oversees a half-billion acres of federal land and vast areas offshore. Combined those areas produce about one-quarter of U.S. oil, or more than 1 billion barrels of crude annually, making them a flashpoint in the debate over how to address climate change.
VAIL, Colo. – Harvest Hosts, a leading membership program for RVers that offers unique camping experiences at farms, wineries, attractions, and other unique locations — and the new owners of Escapees RV Club — announced the addition of Chris Smith, former CEO of the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), as the new leader of Escapees RV Club. With a legacy spanning over 47 years, the Escapees RV Club is poised for an exciting new chapter under Smith’s leadership, continuing its commitment to empowering RV enthusiasts with unparalleled community, benefits, and experiences.
Smith brings a wealth of experience and success from his tenure at FMCA – which recently was renamed the Family RVing Association (FRVA) – where he spearheaded transformative growth, elevated member benefits, and expanded the club’s community-focused programs, solidifying FMCA as a premier organization for RV owners. His proven ability to innovate and connect with the RVing community aligns perfectly with Escapees’ mission of creating a supportive, inclusive, and enriching environment for RVers.
Chris Smith
In 2019, Smith was a recipient of the RVIA’s “40 Under 40” leadership award, recognizing his impact on the RV community. While at FMCA, Smith played a key role in broadening FMCA’s membership base to include all RV owners and RV intending owners, and he continued to add valuable benefits for members. Under his direction, FMCA provided information, programs, and social opportunities that kept RVers actively engaged in the RV lifestyle.
“As a long-time admirer of Escapees RV Club, I am honored to join the team and build upon its incredible legacy,” said Smith. “Under Harvest Hosts’ leadership, we have a unique opportunity to expand the club’s reach, further enrich the member experiences, and continue fostering a sense of belonging that has defined Escapees for nearly five decades.”
Harvest Hosts acquired Escapees RV Club in July 2024, marking a new chapter for the beloved organization. Founded by the Peterson family in 1978, Escapees has been a pioneer in the RV industry, offering a tight-knit community—including the popular Xscapers community, Chapters, and Birds-of-a-Feather groups—along with innovative resources and memorable events. Harvest Hosts remains deeply committed to honoring the Peterson family’s vision while investing in the club’s future.
“Escapees RV Club has always been about community, connection, and adventure,” said Joel Holland, CEO of Harvest Hosts. “Chris Smith is the perfect leader to uphold these values while charting a course for growth and innovation. His success at FMCA speaks for itself, and we are thrilled to have him join our mission to dominate the RV industry by delivering unparalleled value to RVers everywhere.”
Under Harvest Hosts, Escapees RV Club is set to expand its offerings, including enhanced member benefits, exciting new community features, and innovative technologies to support RVers in their journeys. The addition of Chris Smith underscores Harvest Hosts’ commitment to preserving the spirit of Escapees while driving forward its evolution to meet the needs of the modern RVer.
About Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts, the largest private RV camping network in North America, provides a complete network of offerings to streamline the road travel and camping experience. Its collection of companies includes Boondockers Welcome, a community of RVers allowing guests to stay overnight on their property for free; Escapees RV Club, one of the largest and most established RV membership organizations, offering resources, education, and community for all RVers; CampScanner, an alert service to book sold-out campgrounds; and Brit Stops, a membership connecting motorhome tourists in the UK and Ireland with small businesses for overnight stays.
The company’s mission is to advance the technology and accessibility of the RVing and campground industry, making traveling while supporting national parks, local small businesses, and communities easier than ever.
On Thursday, Feb. 6, Go RVing is hosting an RV Industry Association (RVIA) members-only event in the Crystal Ballroom at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart, Ind., to take a deep dive into the all-new Go RVing RV Owner Demographic Profile. This in-depth research provides critical data and actionable strategies for RV businesses seeking to thrive in today’s dynamic market.
What You’ll Discover:
The Changing Face of RVing: Get the latest on demographic trends shaping the industry, including insights into the hearts and minds of first-time and seasoned RVers.
Drive Engagement & Conversions: Learn how Go RVing is turning data into dynamic campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences across various marketing channels.
Supercharge Your Success: Walk away with actionable strategies for RV companies to apply this research directly to their businesses, boosting sales and building lasting customer relationships.
Join Go RVing’s Jeremy Greene, Vice President of Marketing, and Monika Geraci, Senior Director of Public Relations & Communications, as well as Ipsos Vice President Tim Reimer for an in-depth look at this pivotal research. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the evolving RV market!