Elkhart Open House Highlights

Each year in mid-September, RV dealers from all over North America descend on the small Indiana town of Elkhart to see what’s new in RVs – and to order the stock you’ll see on their lots in the new year. Elkhart and the surrounding area are unique to the RV business as the epicentre of new RV builds. Eight out of every ten new RVs get built in this region of Indiana. So, what better place for an open house? That’s why each manufacturer opens their factory to visitors and displays their latest and greatest RVs during the 3-day show. I have been following the events virtually this year and picked some highlights to share. Here is a sneak peek of what’s coming in 2025.

Thor Harbinger: the world’s first hybrid Class A platform

Developed in collaboration with Harbinger Motors, the hybrid chassis is powered by an electric motor and battery system recharged by a low-emissions gasoline range extender while being driven. Roof-top solar panels also feed the batteries. This clever system delivers an estimated 500 miles (800 km) of range, alleviating range anxiety. RVs built on this hybrid chassis will be commercially available in 2025 from the THOR family of companies.

Invisacook: countertop cooking

It’s not a completely new idea, but the space-saving nature of Invisacook is making serious inroads into RV kitchen design. More than one manufacturer is installing these or offering them as an option. Designed to enhance your overall counter space, it heats and cooks right through the countertop. When off, your counter is free to serve as prep space. The company says making the tough decision between functionality or an alluring design in your kitchen space is now a thing of the past.

27North: the venture van

Going off-road doesn’t mean you have to rough it, says 27North, an innovative expedition vehicle manufacturer dedicated to crafting adventure-ready vehicles that redefine exploration and luxurious comfort. Its products include adventure vans and expedition trucks. The company says its mission is to provide the highest-quality luxury expedition vehicles with exceptional customer service, allowing clients to create memories they want to return to again and again.

Trager 10ROK

The off-road craze continues, and Trager adds a small, tough overnighter to its product list, the – 10ROK, Built with a Norco stamped and huck-bolted, heavy-gauge steel, powder-coated mainframe. It comes with an EZ-Extend hitch jack. It rides on a Torsion-Flex 3,000-lb. independent suspension axle w/electric brakes & max-clearance design. Over-sized, all-terrain radial tires with alloy aluminum sport wheels are standard. It carries a powder-coated mounting platform for dual battery, propane tank & generator.

The Brinkley Model Z AIR Premium Travel Trailers

Brinkley continues to make news by moving into the travel trailer market with the Model Z. This Model Z AIR Premium Travel Trailer has an automotive exterior and a residential interior. Brinkley says this travel trailer offers a unique combination of style and comfort. The Z AIR provides features and amenities that will appeal to all camping enthusiasts with a fit and finish unmatched in its category. It also has a combination of high-end features the company says are unheard of on travel trailers – like newly styled windows, a massive pass-thru bay and a unique, contemporary residential interior.

Winnebago M-Series

The M-Series is another travel trailer offering from Winnebago. Aimed at the economy market, Winnebago says it’s a perfect blend of practicality and style for those who value simplicity, functionality, and comfort on their journeys—a budget-friendly, easy-to-tow travel trailer with all the essentials. It hitches easily to a small truck and puts exploring the great outdoors with all the comforts of home well within reach, starting at under 30K.

Grand Design Influence

This new fifth wheel from Grand Design is positioned between the entry-level Reflection and the luxury Solitude. If you’re looking for more room, the Influence has all the space of a Solitude – however, it’s a more affordable package. Its taller ceilings, more extensive cabinets, and a sweeping scenic window feel very upscale – with a price starting at around 90K. This 34′ 5″ body is 5″ wider than many coaches in its class. The widebody chassis allows more livable floor space with deeper slide rooms, expansive sofas in rear lounge models, and space-saving sliding pocket doors into the bathrooms.

Riverside RV – Retro

Riverside has built compact, lightweight travel trailers for several years with a retro look (inside and out). But this year, they have added a unique cab-over sleeper design to their lineup. Riverside says, “Our Retros aren’t remodels or restorations; they’re brand-new RVs intentionally designed with a vintage look.” Choose from eight power-punching colours or three neutral tones for your retro RV exterior. You can haul your Retro with a Small SUV, Jeep, Van, or ½ Ton.