The RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) Model Year Task Force has reaffirmed its recommendation that RV manufacturers implement model year and major product design changes between June 1 and June 30, maintaining the voluntary best practice period for the 2027 model year.
The guidance mirrors the recommendation set for the 2026 model year and continues the industry’s coordinated effort to improve the RV buying and ownership experience through standardization.
The voluntary model year changeover timeframe was first introduced in 2020. It was developed to address widespread confusion among consumers regarding the timing of model year rollouts and the associated features and updates.
By encouraging RV makers to align changes with this designated period, the initiative helps clarify distinctions between model years, which can support more transparent pricing and valuation processes for both new and used RVs.
This clarity has proven valuable during trade-in transactions, where consumers often face uncertainty in assessing the value of their current RVs relative to new offerings on the market.
“The adoption of this best practice is entirely voluntary and encourages RV manufacturers to exercise their individual, independent discretion in deciding whether to adopt the recommendation,” the association indicates in a News and Insights report of RVIA.
Dealerships have also seen operational benefits from the adoption of the recommended timeframe, including improved inventory management and communication with customers regarding model year specifications.
For component part suppliers, the model year standardization has enabled more efficient production planning and stock management, supporting manufacturers with better-timed delivery of updated components.
RV manufacturers also benefit from enhanced coordination with supplier networks and are better positioned to ensure dealer service centers have appropriate parts available for consumer repairs.
With offices in the Washington, D.C., area and Elkhart, Indiana, RVIA serves as the leading trade voice for the $140 billion RV industry.
Representing more than 500 manufacturers, component suppliers, and aftermarket providers, the association’s membership accounts for 98% of all RVs produced in the United States and approximately 60% of those manufactured globally.
RVIA works to unify the diverse segments of the RV industry. In collaboration with its members, the association promotes policies, standards, and initiatives that support industry growth and foster innovation across the broader outdoor recreation market.