Class B Motorhomes – An Evolving Class of Recreational Vehicles

Introduction

While recreational vehicles (Motorhomes ) have several strong markets, Canada is the most prominent. The country is the largest export destination for several manufacturers, according to the International Trade Association (ITA). 41% of all recreational transportation exports, which include class B motorhomes, are sent to Canada. The second-largest market for motorhomes is Belgium – a leading transshipment point for Europe. Other significant markets for Motorhomes are Australia, Mexico, Japan, China, and Brazil.

The U.S. to Spearhead Growth in North America, Producing Twice as Many Motorhomes as All Other Countries Combined

The U.S. is the largest producer of Motorhomes around the globe; the country produces more than twice as many Motorhomes as compared to the rest of the world combined. Currently, the domestic demand for class B motorhomes is on an upward trend, with an increasing number of customers reaching an age when they want to travel and camp more. According to the International Trade Association (ITA), historically, middle-income consumers aged between 55 and 64 years accounted for high rates of motorhomes  ownership; however, at present, customers aged between 35 and 54 are emerging as the largest buyers of motorhomes. An estimated 9 million households own Motorhomes in the U.S.

Europe to be the Second Largest Market for Class B motorhomes, Accounting for 25% of the global market  

Europe is pegged to be the second-largest Class B motorhomes  market. According to our analysis, in 2015, countries with the highest Class B motorhomes were Germany (4.5 thousand units), France (2.8 thousand units), Spain (0.7 thousand units), and the U.K. (1.8 thousand units). Additionally, Europe constitutes about 25% total share in the global market, thereby presenting lucrative opportunity backed by growing recreational trends and activities

Emerging Markets in Asia-Pacific to Offer Significant Opportunities for Key Motorhomes  Manufacturers

The growing middle-class population with an increasing disposable income across several countries, particularly emerging markets, offers tremendous opportunities for prominent motorhomes  manufacturing countries such as the U.S. Additionally, Asia-Pacific has been witnessing a considerable rise in the number of consumers interested in camping and the motorhome lifestyle, particularly in South Korea, Japan, and China. The region, thus, is expected to present strong growth opportunities for players in the class B motorhomes market.

South America to Offer Growth Opportunities for Motorhome Exporters in the Future

South American regions such as Colombia and Chile do not possess campgrounds for motorhomes; however, several local companies that sell Motorhomes are obseMotorhomes ed to be in partnerships with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) so that their vehicles are allowed in campgrounds. This is establishing a potentially favorable market for motorhome export countries in the long term.

The Middle East & Africa Region – A Small but Significant Shareholder

The Middle East, comprising Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Oman, and others, despite being a relatively small market for motorhomes, exhibits strong demand for high-end products on account of the evolving consumer preferences and tastes in the region.

Competitive Players

1. Erwin Hymer Group
2. Thor Industries
3. Forest River
4. Winnebago Industries
5. REV Group
6. Knaus Tabbert
7. Hobby Caravan
8. Dethleffs
9. Newmar
10. Coachmen RV
11. Tiffin Motorhomes
12. Gulf Stream Coach
13. Pleasure-Way Industries Ltd.
14. Roadtrek Motorhomes Inc.
15. Leisure Travel Vans

Recent Developments

• February 2024- Winnebago Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RVs), unveiled the "Winnebago Sustainable Series," a new line of environmentally friendly Class B motorhomes. This line incorporates advanced technologies and sustainable materials to reduce the environmental impact of RVing.
• December 2023- The Fleetwood Family of brands, renowned manufacturers in the recreational vehicle industry, is pleased to introduce the Fleetwood® Xcursion™ and Holiday Rambler® Xpedition™ Class B Motorhomes. These new Class B goods aim to establish a higher benchmark for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and offer outstanding adaptability to cater to the varied requirements of its consumers.

Segmentation

1. By Product
   1. Diesel-Powered Class B Motorhomes
   2. Gasoline-Powered Class B Motorhomes
2. By Applications
   1. Leisure Activities
   2. Business Activities
3. By End-User
   1. Fleet Owners
   2. Direct Owners