Recreational vehicle manufacturers are offering all-new motorhome models based on Ford Transit – America’s best-selling commercial van.
The newest Transit RV is the Winnebago Fuse, a Class C motorhome built on the new Ford Transit cutaway chassis. It is the latest in a growing number of Transit-based options for active families.
“Many of these customers are interested in outdoor adventures like kayaking, mountain biking, snowboarding and such — more national park than RV park,” explains Yaro Hetman, Ford brand manager for Transit, Transit Connect and E-Series. “Sales of smaller Class C motorhomes have been on the rise for the last few years as younger, more active buyers enter the market.”
Class C motorhomes include vehicle frame, suspension, powertrain and cab, with the living area accessible behind the driver’s compartment. The all-new Ford Transit cutaway offers customers additional options for lighter-weight chassis in Class C motorhomes – a segment where Ford is already a popular choice. Ford E-Series cutaway is the top-selling chassis in this market.
“Outdoor adventure-seeking RV customers want compact, maneuverable motorhomes that can comfortably carry their families and gear from one adventure to another,” Hetman says. “Transit’s efficiency, comfortable ride and affordability make it a great choice as a motorhome for these outdoor enthusiasts.”
Winnebago Fuse goes on sale in January, offered in two configurations – one with a rear bedroom slide-out featuring a queen-size bed, and another with a front slide-out, two twin beds and a rear bath. Each is available with the Ford Power Stroke® 3.2-liter five-cylinder diesel.
Other manufacturers building motorhomes on the new Transit platform include Thor Motor Coach and Coachmen RV, a division of Forest River, Inc.
Transit also gives customers additional choices for Class B motorhomes.
Commonly called camper vans, Class B motorhomes are built using OEM vans or panel trucks. Class B motorhomes drive like vans, and retail for between $60,000 and $130,000, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.
The Ford Transit’s choice of three roof heights, two wheelbases and three powertrains gives customers the ability to customize their camper van cost-effectively, as choosing the high-roof Transit model eliminates the need to raise the roof or drop the floor of a traditional van.
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