RVDA Board Approves Revised Position Paper on New Model Introduction

The RV Dealers Association (RVDA) has revised its position paper on the issue of new model introduction, in line with the RV Industry Association’s (RVIA) approved voluntary best practice. 

The RVDA Board of Directors, following its March 8 meeting, reaffirmed its long-standing position on new model introduction and recommends that RV manufacturers follow the RVIA’s voluntary recommended best practice of making annual model year and major product design changes between July 1 to August 31 each year.

According to Nathan Hart, chairman of the RVDA Board of Directors, “This is a challenging year for dealers and manufacturers. The RVDA Board of Directors agrees it is imperative to restate its position on the importance of consistency in model year changeover, which enhances the buying experience for consumers and reduces confusion in the marketplace.”

“This revised position strongly supports RVIA’s voluntary best practice on model year and major product design changes that was approved in 2020 and reaffirmed in February 2023,” he added.

The RVDA has emphasized the importance of consistency in model year changeovers for the consumer’s benefit. 

Following the association’s March 8 meeting, the position approved by the board notes that model year changeovers outside the recommended timeframe can create consumer confusion in the marketplace, create uncertainty in the RV financing process, cause inventory planning problems for both dealers and manufacturers, and challenge the credibility of the RV industry.

The RVDA also commended RVIA member manufacturers for their efforts in developing this voluntary recommended best practice.

While the RVDA’s position is voluntary, it can help to create a more reliable and standardized buying experience for consumers. 

The RV industry is highly competitive, with a wide range of manufacturers and models available. Therefore, having consistent model year changeovers can make it easier for consumers to compare and make informed decisions when purchasing an RV.

The RV industry has seen strong growth over the last few years, with more and more people choosing to travel in RVs for leisure and other purposes. As a result, it is essential that the industry works together to provide a consistent and reliable buying experience for consumers. 

The RVDA’s decision to align with the RVIA’s recommended best practice is a step towards achieving this goal.

It is worth noting that the RVDA’s decision to release a new position paper on new model introduction is timely, given the current market conditions. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the RV industry, with many manufacturers and dealers struggling to keep up with demand. Therefore, having a consistent approach to new model introduction can help to ease some of the pressure and ensure a smoother buying process for consumers.