Jackery Showcases New Solar Panel for RVs at CES 2025

LONDON – Jackery, a global leader in portable power and renewable energy solutions, is starting the new year strong with three groundbreaking product innovations. From Jan- 7-10, the company will showcase its latest portfolio for outdoor enthusiasts and modern households at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, located at Booth No. 9815 in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).

SolarSaga 100 Prime: High-Efficiency Solar Panel for RVs and Yachts

The SolarSaga 100 Prime is Jackery’s newest innovation in mobile solar panels, specifically designed for installation on motorhome roofs and yachts. Its bifacial modules, built with rear-contacted IBC cells, provide a superior energy yield and deliver up to 20% more power than comparable models, even in low-light conditions. With an efficiency exceeding 25%, the SolarSaga 100 Prime is a reliable energy solution for various outdoor adventures.

Crafted from high-quality materials and designed to operate in extreme conditions, the panel boasts IP68 waterproof certification and performs reliably in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C. Measuring 986 x 552 x 29 mm, it is lightweight and designed to minimize wind noise, making it ideal for mobile installations.

Explorer 5000 Plus: Cascadable Home Storage System with up to 60 kWh

The Explorer 5000 Plus is Jackery’s most advanced modular storage system to date, featuring an integrated inverter and designed for off-grid home power supply with portability in mind. Starting with a base capacity of 5 kWh, it can scale up to 60 kWh using additional battery packs, making it a flexible and powerful energy solution for households. With an input power of 1,800 watts, the system can connect to up to six foldable SolarSaga 200 panels or two of Jackery’s new high-efficiency SolarSaga 500X panels, which feature a compact, triple-folding design.

Designed as a versatile extension to home solar systems, the Explorer 5000 Plus is compatible with standard MC4 connections, from standalone solar modules to full-scale roof installations. For seamless integration into home power networks, the system can be paired with the optional Jackery Smart Transfer Switch (STS), enabling it to handle up to 4,000 watts of input power. It delivers a staggering 7,200 watts of output power, supports UPS functionality for uninterrupted emergency power, and offers ultra-fast charging options. The system can be fully charged in just 3.5 hours via the power grid or as fast as 102 minutes with hybrid charging through the STS.

The Explorer 5000 Plus is also equipped with app-based controls, allowing users to monitor and optimize their energy usage in real time. Built with robust LiFePO4 batteries, the system meets the highest safety standards, weighs 61 kilograms, and comes with castor wheels for easy mobility. The retail price of the E5000 Plus is $3,499 in the US.

Jackery Solar Roof: First Curved XBC Solar Roof Tiles

Jackery’s XBC solar roof tiles are a game-changer in renewable energy, combining high efficiency with architectural elegance. Featuring a unique 150° curved “smile” design and ultra-thin crystalline silicon solar cells just 0.13 mm thick, the tiles achieve an efficiency of over 25%, generating up to 170 watts per square meter.

Available in classic roof tile colors—obsidian black and terracotta—the XBC tiles blend seamlessly with traditional roofing styles, making them an aesthetically pleasing solution for private homes, commercial buildings, and architecturally ambitious projects. With compatibility for over 90% of mounting systems, the tiles are quick and easy to install, redefining how solar technology integrates into everyday life by balancing energy performance with visual appeal.

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Timothy Morgan New Chief Revenue Officer at Rossmönster

LONGMONT, Colo. – Rossmönster, the leader in purpose-built adventure vehicles, announced the appointment of Timothy Morgan as chief revenue officer.

Timothy Morgan

Morgan brings to Rossmönster over two decades of experience in the RV industry, having honed his skills in sales, business development and strategic leadership. Morgan’s naming as CRO marks a significant milestone in Rossmönster’s journey toward continued growth and innovation, the release stated.

Morgan’s introduction to the RV world began at the age of 13, washing RVs at the dealership where his grandfather served as a service manager and his father as sales manager. By 18, he had transitioned into sales at Giant RV, where he developed a deep understanding of customer needs and market dynamics. His career progressed rapidly, taking on the role of national sales representative at Roadtrek, and most recently, serving a successful five-year tenure at Storyteller Overland. During his time there, he was instrumental in driving revenue growth and fostering industry partnerships.

In recognition of his contributions to the RV industry, Morgan was honored as one of RV Associates’ “40 Under 40,” a testament to his leadership and vision. His rich industry experience, combined with his passion for adventure vehicles, makes him an invaluable addition to the Rossmönster team.

“We are excited to have Morgan join our leadership team,” said Luke Farny, CEO of Rossmönster. “His deep roots in the RV industry, proven track record in revenue generation, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our mission to deliver unparalleled adventure experiences to our customers.”

As chief revenue officer, Morgan will oversee all aspects of revenue generation, including sales strategy, business development, and customer relations. His focus will be on expanding Rossmönster’s market, dealer presence, and enhancing the customer journey through innovative solutions.

To learn more about Rossmönster’s storied history and a more detailed look at its line of adventure trucks and vans, please visit rossmonster.com.

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EQ Logistics Ups Warehouse Capacity by 50,000 Square Feet

ELKHART, Ind. – EQ Logistics announced the expansion of its warehouse capacity with an additional 50,000 square feet of ambient food grade storage space. This significant enhancement underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive and flexible storage solutions to our valued customers.

The new expansion of ambient food grade storage space is designed to accommodate a wide range of products, ensuring that we can meet the diverse needs of our clients. This expansion allows us to offer even more efficient and reliable services, reinforcing our position as a leader in the warehousing and logistics industry.

“We are excited to offer this new storage capacity to our customers,” said Jason Loose, COO at EQ United, EQ Logistics parent company. “This expansion is a testament to our dedication to continuous improvement and our mission to provide the best possible service. We are committed to supporting our customers’ growth and success by offering everything we possibly can.”

The additional warehouse space is now fully operational and ready to serve our customers’ storage needs. We invite our clients and partners to take advantage of this new capacity and experience the enhanced service and quality that EQ Logistics is known for.

For more information about our services, please visit our website or contact our customer service team.

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National Powersports Auctions Releases Pre-Owned Report

LAKERLAND, Fla. – “We are optimistic about a resurgence in the pre-owned RV market,” notes a press release from National Powersport Auctions (NPA).

The company announced more monthly live auctions, now totaling 15, and a new Kansas City location grand opening on March 19 to accommodate the increased volume and better serve our members. In 2025, dealers and rental businesses will have even more opportunities to buy and sell, resulting in faster inventory turnover that maximizes profits. Be sure to mark your calendars for the upcoming live auctions listed in the 2025 Live Auction Calendar.

Established in 1990 by dealers for dealers, NPA is a proven and trusted resource for retail and rental businesses. For decades, companies have strategically managed inventory through NPA’s live and simulcast auctions. At NPA, businesses can clear out less desirable or aged inventory and find quality pre-owned RVs and campers in demand for price-conscious consumers.

NPA Members enjoy 24/7 access to nationwide buying and selling platforms. To prepare for the upcoming inventory management road ahead, businesses can register online or reach out to the NPA Dealer Registration department at 888.292.5339, ext. 923301, or email at [email protected].

“We are pumped up about 2025. This January, NPA has hundreds of pre-owned RVs and campers available, including some highly sought-after units from M&T Bank in our Atlanta and Sacramento locations. Explore the diverse selection on the NPA RV webpage to find affordable additions to your inventory that meet your customer’s needs. In addition to the ability to purchase RVs, another benefit of being an NPA member is access to complete vehicle details and reports. Happy New Year!” the release concluded.

JANUARY 2025 AUCTIONS

  • 1/10 NPA Atlanta
  • 1/10 NPA San Diego
  • 1/15 NPA Cincinnati
  • 1/16 NPA Lakeland
  • 1/16 NPA Sacramento
  • 1/17 NPA Dallas
  • 1/22 NPA Philadelphia
  • 1/23 NPA Portland*
  • 1/24 NPA Atlanta
  • 1/24 NPA San Diego
  • 1/29 NPA Cincinnati
  • 1/30 NPA Lakeland
  • 1/30 NPA Denver
  • 1/31 NPA Dallas

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KZ RV Launches ‘Black Pearl’ Full Body Paint on Durango

SHIPSHEWANA, Ind. – KZ Recreational Vehicles, a leader in the recreational vehicle industry, is pleased to announce the launch of the “Black Pearl” full-body paint option for its flagship Durango Gold fifth wheel.

This marks the first time in KZ RV’s history that a full-body paint unit has been offered, setting a new benchmark for innovation and luxury in the company’s lineup.

KZ Recreational Vehicles collaborated with Apex Graphics on the design and Carrera Custom Painting, a Patrick Company on painting of these units, ensuring a level of quality and uniqueness.

The full-body paint option represents a direct response to feedback from dealers and consumers. According to Brent Froman, General Manager of KZ RV Durango Gold, “We made this decision based on input from our owners’ rally, trade shows, and general customer feedback. Consumers consistently expressed interest in a full-body painted unit, understanding that such an enhancement elevates the Durango Gold into a distinct category.

Availability and pricing of the Durango Gold Black Pearl full-body paint option is now available through authorized KZ RV dealerships nationwide. For additional information regarding pricing or dealership locations, please visit www.kz-rv.com or contact your local dealer.

The Durango Gold Black Pearl option is backed by KZ RV’s TRUE 2-Year Hitch-to-Bumper Warranty, which provides double the industry standard coverage. This comprehensive warranty reflects KZ RV’s commitment to delivering exceptional quality and peace of mind to its customers.

The Durango Gold Black Pearl full body paint will make its debut at the Ultimate RV Show in Denver, Jan. 8th – 11th, 2025 and the Florida RV Super Show in Tampa, January 15th – 19th, 2025.

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RVIA Announces Panelists for 2025 Leadership Conference

FAIRVAX, Va. – The RV Industry Association is gearing up for its highly anticipated 2025 Leadership Conference, and excitement is building as the lineup for its Industry Leadership Panel has been revealed. This dynamic session, scheduled for Wednesday, March 5th, promises to deliver invaluable insights from some of the most influential figures in the RV industry.

Moderated by RV Industry Association President and CEO Craig Kirby, the panel boasts an impressive roster of speakers:

  • Doug Gaeddert, Co-CEO of Forest River: A titan in the RV manufacturing world, Gaeddert brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
  • April Klein-Carroll, Vice President of Customer Support Services at Lippert: Klein-Carroll is a leading voice in customer satisfaction and a driving force behind Lippert’s commitment to excellence.
  • Jarrod McGhee, CEO (and Mayor!) of Fun Town RV: McGhee’s innovative approach to RV sales and his unique perspective as a community leader make him an industry standout.

This is your chance to hear from the best and brightest! The Leadership Conference, held from Tuesday, March 4th, through Thursday, March 6th, in Phoenix, AZ, is a must-attend event for top-tier executive management and next-generation leaders looking to shape the future of the RV industry.

Beyond the panel discussions, the conference offers:

  • Engaging keynote addresses from industry visionaries.
  • High-impact networking opportunities to connect with peers and mentors.
  • Leadership development sessions designed to cultivate the skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic market.

Don’t miss this opportunity to ignite your leadership potential and gain a competitive edge.

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Forest River’s No Boundaries Brand Embarks on Epic TV Journey

ELKHART, Ind. – No Boundaries travel trailers are set to embark on an epic adventure through the Last Frontier with Off-Road Travel TV. Known for their adventure-style towable RVs, No Boundaries pushes the limits with Off-Road Travel TV as they make their way along the West Coast.

Viewers can experience this 8,500-mile adventure from Southern California, through Canada and Alaska on MAVTV. There’s no shortage of adrenaline as Off-Road Travel TV crews complete their “Glaciers to Geysers Trek: A Tale of Fire and Ice.” See the team pan for gold, tackle the most popular mountain bike trails in North America, and hitch a ride on a helicopter to go dogsledding on an isolated glacier, all while towing their No Boundaries 16.6!

“Off-Road Travel TV aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire and empower outdoor enthusiasts,” said Forest River Group General Manager Kevin McArt. “No Boundaries models are designed for those who seek adventure while providing the comfort and functionality that is needed, and we’re proud to showcase this through the lens of such an esteemed program”.

The modified No Boundaries 16.6 Travel Trailer, towed behind a custom Ford Bronco Raptor, will visit half a dozen state and national parks across 13 episodes. Each episode will feature three separate segments and will include tech tips. Off-Road Travel TV was built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts and promises viewers incredible scenery, helpful tips and tricks, and a glimpse into No Boundaries’ 16.6 Travel Trailer.

Off-Road Travel TV is renowned for taking viewers on exhilarating journeys, exploring remote landscapes, and providing in-depth reviews of top-tier vehicles and equipment, including the No Boundaries 16.6 Travel Trailer. Forest River is thrilled to announce this partnership as it underscores our dedication to innovation, quality, and the spirit of adventure. Be sure to tune in January 12, at 9:30am ET on MA VTV and visit https://www.offroadtraveltv.com/ for more information.

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Thor Motor Coach to Display New Class A Motorhomes at Tampa

ELKHART, Ind. – Thor Motor Coach is gearing up to unveil its newest Class A motorhomes Jan. 15 to 19 at the highly anticipated 2025 Florida RV SuperShow at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Fla., according to a press release

Showgoers can tour Thor Motor Coach motorhomes firsthand in the Midway area starting at 9 a.m. every day.

“Thor Motor Coach is going all out with an incredible display of over 70 units at the Tampa RV Show, ranging from camper vans and Class C RVs to luxurious Class A models and diesel motorhomes,” the release stated.

Highlights include the spacious spacious Windsport models.

“Take your family on an amazing road trip with the new 29L, 35G, 35J, and 35R floor plans. Built on a Ford® F-53 chassis, these Windsport Class A RVs feature a King-sized bed, a Dream Dinette, and a drop-down overhead bunk, which can all be used as extra sleeping areas. Relax, no matter where you go, knowing you don’t have to sacrifice space or comfort during your adventures,” according to the release.

“If you’re searching for a motorhome with more room to accommodate guests, the new Windsport® models are the perfect solution. The 35G, 35J, and 35R floor plans include a sofa bed, while the 29L model has a jack-knife sofa. If you like couches with footrests, pick the optional theater seats in the 29L layout instead of the standard jack-knife sofa, or choose the 35R floor plan, which comes with theater seats and a sofa bed,” the company stated.

“For those with large families, consider the 35J model with bunk beds. If bigger living areas are a priority, the 35R and 35G floor plans might be best. The 35R is exactly 36 feet long and has the most seating areas for passengers, while the 35G is the longest in this new lineup at 36 feet and 11 inches and features a rear shower and cozy electric fireplace. Both the 35R and 35G also have a spacious private bedroom with two closets—one closet is prepped for a stackable washer and dryer,” the release stated.

“Cooking is a breeze with the residential refrigerator, microwave oven, and large stainless-steel single-bowl sink in these Windsport® floor plans. Plus, the 29L, 35G, and 35J models include a pantry, perfect for storing snacks for your travels. For those who prefer to cook outdoors, the 29L and 35J models have an outside kitchen with a two-burner pull-out griddle. All new Windsport® layouts also have a power patio awning with LED lights and a 32-inch TV with a Bluetooth® sound bar and radio to camp in style,” according to the release

To purchase tickets and learn more, visit www.frvta.org/show/florida-rv-supershow/.

Information about Thor Motor Coach models can also be found on the company’s social media channels or by visiting www.thormotorcoach.com/motorhomes.

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Black Book: Wholesale RV Values Mixed as Weather Stays Cold

Black Book, which publishes a family of vehicle appraisal guides, has released the Black Book RV market commentary for December.

“The average values for Motorhomes and Towables sold at auction were mixed last month once again, but in the opposite direction of the prior month, with Towables dropping and Motorhomes increasing in value, although they were still below their level from two months ago.  We expect RV values to conform to their usual winter patterns before beginning to rise when Spring gets closer,” according to Eric Lawrence, principal automotive analyst, specialty vehicles.

“Taking a closer look at the markets, we see that the average selling price for Motorhomes was $62,412, which is up $8,169 (15.1%) from the previous month.  Towables came in at $18,286, down $776 (4.1%) from last month.  One year ago the average motorhome sold for $53,896 and the average towable brought $18,294,” Lawrence added.

Auction volume was up: motorhomes increased 4.6% while towables rose 8.4%. 

The average age of motorhomes was nine years old (2016) and towables was five (2020).

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Continued Uncertainty Keeping Dealerships from Breaking Out

TAMPA, Fla. – Performance Brokerage Services set a record with 94 transactions in 2024 helping dealers find buyers for their businesses.

But in recent months, those transactions have slowed and the values achieved have softened as well, according to Jesse Stopnitzky, director of Performance’s RV division.

“The financial statements that we review indicate 2024 may be even worse than 2023 in terms of profitability,” he said. “As such, we have a smaller buyer pool. Given the challenges surrounding the retail environment and the economy, many dealers are focusing on internal optimization as opposed to external growth.”

Stopnitzky, addressing an online audience during Wednesday’s State of the Buy-Sell Market webinar, said part of the holdup on any sort of recovery is a still looming sense of uncertainty.

Dealers realize the prices they benefited from during the pandemic are long gone and have found no sense in trying to predict or time the market to figure out the perfect time to sell.

National groups are still on the lookout for quality acquisitions that fit their long-term growth objectives. Performance is still conducting deals on what Stopnitzky calls “respectable levels” and regional groups are still looking for “tuck-in” deals that they can incorporate into their portfolios.

Although he said the company doesn’t typically deal in predictions, he expects a significant increase in buy-sell activity in the coming year.

Brad Stanek, a financial adviser with the Stanek-Haack Group at Morgan Stanley, urged dealers to take advantage of a better, but not outstanding, economy to grow.

“There should be some wind at our back as a small business owner. There should be some more friendlier tax policies, deregulation and maybe a few interest rate cuts are out there as well. Time will tell,” he said. “What I want you to keep in mind about the economy, at least in our opinion, it isn’t going to be there to bail out the dealership. You can’t expect that the economy alone is going to drive more buyers to your dealership and drive up your business in a remarkable way. It’s up to you to step in and take what is a reasonable but not great economy and turn that into a win through actions you take to grow your business and the value of the dealership. You control it, and I’ll take that any day of the week.”

Stopniztky cautioned dealers to have their team in place and to fully understand the value of their dealership before entering into any buy-sell discussions.

He said that over the past 30 years of history, the industry has not experienced the kind of uncertainty it has since just before the COVID outbreak up until now.

“Our evaluations help to determine which areas of the business underwent systemic and sustainable growth and which areas were attributable solely to COVID,” he said.

The third member of the panel, Raul Rodriguez, senior vice president of Blue Compass RV, told dealers his group is still looking to buy, but is being selective.

Blue Compass is one of the fastest growing dealership groups in the country.

“We’re very focused on quality and premium products,” said Rodriguez. “We’re very strategic in our process and how we think about acquisitions. It’s not just about adding dots across the country, it’s about adding businesses that fit from a market, brand, facilities, culture management perspective. It’s got to fit all of those criteria before we even get to a valuation discussion.”

Rodriguez said he could see Blue Compass doubling in size over the next three to five years on a prudent basis.

The dealership currently operates 100 stores in 33 states and Rodriguez said it has attempted to align itself with high-quality businesses that offer premium products.

Rodriguez also echoed Stanek’s take on the 2025 economic outlook.

“We don’t see a gargantuan leap coming this year, but we certainly expect some recovery,” he said. “I think that will lead to in general more transactions. But just having a realistic look at your sustainable earnings and when you will get there is a big part of the valuation discussion.”

Stanek urged dealers not to cut staff in order to secure a higher profit when selling their dealerships because less staff means less service and a decline in quality.

“You’ve got to make long-term decisions and act as if you were not going to sell even when you are committed to potentially going to market and selling,” he said.

Aged inventory arose as a major issue in deals that ended up not being consummated over the past year.

Stopnitky said in many cases potential buyers were not willing to take on the cost of the inventory.

“We strongly, daily, encourage clients to continue selling through their aged inventory, which everybody’s working on, and the unfavorable or used inventory,” he said. “This can become a serious point of contention between buyers and sellers. It can be a deal-breaker.”

Rodriguez said having a dealership’s “house in order”, including inventory and books and records, goes a long way toward clearing the way for a deal to be made.

“I can’t emphasize enough that if you don’t have your inventory in order there might not be a discount big enough to allow a transaction to work,” he said. “We’ve walked away from plenty where the focus of moving the level of aged inventory that was on hand was just too much of a distraction from running the business. I would say that as an industry we’re much, much better off than we were 12 to 18 months ago.”

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