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TRUCK SALES OFFER AN RV BONUS |
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| In Canada truck sales have never been higher. A trend that is a boon to the Recreational Vehicle industry despite the fact that the majority of truck buyers intend to use their vehicles only as personal transportation. Common reasons given for these purchase decisions are: the room, cargo capacity, the on (and off) road feeling of confidence the truck inspires and for about 25% (according to a Ford survey) there is another reason ö towing ability. This is a great advantage for the folks that already own an RV and an added bonus for this pool of truck owners who have yet to try it. Over 50% of Canadian new vehicle sales fall into the recreational/passenger truck category, according to the manufacturers. In addition, SUVs and minivans are also gaining increasingly larger market shares. This shift puts the towable RV at the disposal of an ever increasing percentage of the population ö whether they intend to buy, borrow or rent. These vehicles generally tow well, offering confidence to owners who may have never towed before, thanks to a trait common to the design of these vehicles. Short rear overhang; exactly the opposite of most full-size cars. The closer a hitch can be placed to the rear axle, the more weight it can support and the more stable it is. In the case of pickup trucks they can also be outfitted with a ãfifth wheelä hitch. This type of hitch is attached (it is removable) to the truck bed, right over the axle. This is the best possible towing setup ö and so different from whatâs possible with cars. Even minivans work as good tow vehicles. These family haulers have short rear overhangs, long wheelbases, and sit low to the road. This combination makes for a stable ride and good weight distribution. For many minivan owners, who often find themselves in this type of vehicle because of their family space requirements, the prospect of being able to RV with the van is a real recreational cost savings. Manufacturers are well aware that more of their customers are towing than ever before, and that many more may be doing it in the future, so they are offering factory installed equipment to satisfy this market need. Almost all vehicles that fall in the truck/van/SUV category are available with towing packages ö even some cars. These packages may differ but in general they include a transmission cooler, heavier suspension, trailer wiring harness, heavy-duty battery and alternator. Standard side mirrors keep getting bigger, and particularly on pickups, pull-out extendible mirrors are also becoming common. Hitches are included and reflect the capability of the vehicle and needs of the purchaser. Weight ratings are designated by classes (Class I ö up to 2,000 lb. Class II ö up to 3,500 lb. Class III ö up to 5,000 lb. Class IV ö up to 10,000 lb) and the weight to consider is the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). For RVs this means the vehicle weight, fully loaded with gear, supplies and fluids. To find what the truck or van will haul ö refer to the owners manual. Often the addition of the factory tow package will increase the allowable limit. All these things add up to convenience, ease of towing and cost savings. For more information on the RV lifestyle call 1-888-Go RVing (467-8464) or log on to www.GoRVing.ca for a free brochure. |
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Go RVing Canada, 2175 Sheppard Ave. East, Suite 310, Toronto, ON M2J 1W8 |
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