The Walkinshaw Group, a well-established name in the Australian automotive industry, has been making significant strides in the caravan industry.
The group has been introducing engineering and styling changes across the New Age caravan, pop-top, and camper trailer range, including special models like the Limited Edition Walkinshaw camper. However, the transition from automotive to caravan industry has not been as smooth as expected.
The Walkinshaw Group’s reputation in Australia was established back in the 1990s and early 2000s with Holden Special Vehicles (HSV).
It now generates a significant part of its revenue by converting RAM and Chevrolet pick-ups to right-hand drive and collaborating with various automotive manufacturers on locally engineered ‘tough trucks’ like the Mitsubishi Triton Xtreme.
The group has a strong engineering team of around 100 engineers and 1500 employees, building these vehicles out in Clayton, Victoria, as reported by Caravan Camping Sales.
They are expected to become the largest employer in the automotive industry in Australia very soon. However, the transition of this engineering talent to caravans has been challenging due to the unique nature of the caravan industry.
The caravan industry differs significantly from the automotive industry in terms of suppliers, dealers, and the sales process. The technology transfer from cars to caravans has also been slower than anticipated.
Despite these challenges, the Walkinshaw Group is making progress in the caravan industry, especially with the MY24 range of Manta Ray and Road Owl caravan models.
The goal for New Age, as stated by the Walkinshaw and New Age Caravans’ boss, is to become the most aspirational caravan brand in Australia. They aim to make New Age Caravans the Mercedes-Benz of caravans – not hyper-expensive or unattainable for the majority of people, but a brand that people aspire to own.
The impact of the Walkinshaw Group’s entry into the caravan industry is significant for RV consumers and the industry. The group’s automotive expertise and strong engineering team can potentially elevate the quality and safety standards in the caravan industry.
Their aspiration to make New Age Caravans a leading brand can also drive competition and innovation in the industry.
The Walkinshaw Group’s efforts are already being recognized in the industry. Their new multi-brand retail facility in Melbourne’s north, which is the new home of New Age Melbourne, is a testament to their commitment to the caravan industry.
The Walkinshaw Group’s journey in the caravan industry is a testament to their adaptability and commitment to quality. Despite the challenges, they are making significant strides in the industry.
For more information, visit https://www.newagecaravans.com.au/.