Plans for Bigger RVs Launch Industry Squabble

Earlier this month we posted an item on the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association’s (RVIA) talk of "upping" the allowable size of towable RVs. Currently, towables are kept down to 320 square feet of floor space, and fifth wheels to 400, lest they want to be considered "manufactured homes." But in February the RVIA floated a trial balloon of interest, suggesting it would like to explore ‘upsizing’ both classes. Call them "Mc-Rec Vs"?

Reaction in the industry has been swift. The Recreation Park Trailer Industry Association (RPTIA), who represents "park model" manufacturers, would like to take the air out the tires on RVIA’s plans. In an industry magazine article published by RV Business, RPTIA’s executive director Bill Garpow fired the first salvo: ""My executive committee has indicated that we probably will do everything we possibly can to stop this. "We don't think this is in our best interest or in the industry's best interest."

Other factors come into play. Federal law changes would be required to "up" the size of fifth wheel trailers. Other industry standards, like the National Fire Protection Association requirements would also need to be tinkered with, and yet these can’t be altered until at least 2011. Want a bigger RV before then? Consider modifying a semi-trailer.