Are you new to the RV lifestyle? Not sure what the difference is between a fifth wheel and a conventional trailer? Start here! In this article, we explain the different types of RVs available.
Before starting your RV search, it’s time to brush up on your RV vocabulary! Learn the meanings of common RV terms frequently used on forums and blogs.
For 60 years, General RV Center has helped countless families make RV memories. Now, General RV is dedicated to helping families make more than memories and come home with a story. General RV has launched a new brand campaign to help solidify the family-owned company as the premiere RV dealer in the country. The campaign will highlight fun and inspirational stories of camping and RV journeys from customers past, present or future.
The first TV commercial for the new brand campaign is now live in various television markets and on several social media and digital platforms. You can also see it right here, or in the view box above.
New research from Kampgrounds of America shows the number of RVing households in North America expanded by more than 3.5 million from 2019-2021, which equates to an increase of 62 percent during that time period. In addition, an RVIA survey shows that RVers are getting younger, with millennials making up 65 percent of all new RV buyers, and the average buyer is 33 years old.
Come Home With A Story Contest
Customers are being encouraged to share their camping stories (in 250 words or less) and photos with General RV for a chance to win one of three drawings for a $1,000 General RV gift card. Those who submit their camping stories on the General RV brand campaign’s dedicated webpage will be automatically entered to win. Customers can also share their stories on social media using the hashtag’s #GeneralRV and #ComeHomeWithAStory.
Elements of the brand campaign have been in use at RV shows across the U.S. in late 2022 and early 2023. The imagery and text capture moments where camping and RV memories are born. However, the brand campaign reflects that these moments often become more than memories, but stories shared for generations. That’s where General RV comes in.
General RV’s Commitment to Creating Lasting Memories
“Come Home With A Story is designed to celebrate campers of all ages who embrace adventure and return with lasting memories and inspirational stories,” said Alicia Gewinner, Director of Marketing at General RV. “It’s through the brand campaign that we aspire to create positive connections to the RV lifestyle for all RV owners and first-time purchasers.”
As the RV demographic continues to change, the path to purchase is also shifting. Research shows a buyer’s journey starts with a spark – something that connects and draws a customer to the RV lifestyle. A qualitative study published by GO RVing found that a positive RV camping experience is a strong indicator of whether or not a customer will buy a new RV from a dealership today. More than 25 percent of current and emerging campers cite positive camping experiences – whether during childhood or during the last five years – as positive influences on their path to purchase.
“We created this campaign to celebrate camping stories and to inspire,” Gewinner said. “We want to create a spark and show campers that every trip they take – big or small – you always come home with a story.”
REV Recreation Group has reached a new milestone with its Fleetwood RV Bounder Class A RV and they are celebrating the achievement with General RV. In March, the Bounder Class A became the 40,000th RV ever produced by REV Recreation Group and rolled off the manufacturing line to pomp and circumstance. This Bounder is making its way to General RV’s flagship location in Wixom, Mich., for an official private celebration on Monday, April 10. General RV will be the exclusive dealer for this unique Bounder Class A motorhome.
Solar power has been a popular topic among RVers for years. Solar panels atop an RV allows you the opportunity to disconnect from RV electric hookups and enjoy the autonomy to go wherever you want while still getting power.
Getting power from the Sun is clean, quiet and more affordable. Adding RV solar or solar power to any mobile living space not only increases your quality of life but also puts money back in your wallet. In an effort to encourage Americans to use solar power, the U.S. government offers tax credits for solar systems. This tax credit can be claimed by owners who are looking to install solar soon or installed it within the past five years.
What is the federal solar tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of income tax you would otherwise owe. The Residential Clean Energy Credit can be claimed on federal income taxes. Once claimed, it can cover a percentage of the cost of a solar system that was installed during the tax year. It started in 2017 and lasts until 2034.
There are no income limits on the solar tax credit, so all individual taxpayers are eligible to claim the credit on qualifying solar energy equipment investments made to their homes within the United States.
What is covered under the federal solar tax credit?
The equipment covered by the Residential Clean Energy Credit includes:
Solar-powered equipment that generates electricity or heats water
Solar power storage equipment that has a capacity of at least 3 kilowatt hours
Qualifying installation and labor costs
The tax credit does not apply for systems that are leased; you must own the system.
How do I qualify for the solar tax credit?
Any “dwelling unit” qualifies for the tax credit. Meaning things like RVs, boats, vacation homes and more qualify. A qualifying residence is any U.S. residence that is lived in at least 14 days a year. Additionally, RV owners will need to meet the following criteria:
Your solar equipment needs to be installed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2034.
The solar equipment is new or being used for the first time. It should be installed for the first time on your RV to claim the credit.
The solar system must be purchased with cash or through some form of financing that isn’t a lease or an agreement to pay a solar company for electricity generated by the system.
The solar equipment must be located at a residence within the United States.
Filing requirements for the solar tax credit
To claim the credit, you will need to file IRS Form 5695 as part of your tax return. Calculate the credit on Part I of the form, and then enter the result on your 1040.
If in 2022 you end up with a bigger credit than you have income tax due — a $3,000 credit on a $2,500 tax bill, for instance—you cannot use the credit to get money back from the IRS. Instead, you can carry the unused portion of the credit over to the following tax year. In this example, the $500 of credit that is greater than your tax bill ($3,000 – $2,500) can be carried over to the following year.
If you failed to claim the credit in a previous year, you can file an amended return to claim the credit now.
The residential solar tax credit has been extended through 2034 and expanded in value, so now might be a great time to add solar energy to your home.
What are the residential solar tax credit amounts?
The Residential Clean Energy Credit will cover up to 30% of the total qualifying cost, depending on the year the equipment is installed and placed in service:
30% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2017 through 2019
26% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2020 through 2021
30% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2022 through 2032
26% for equipment placed in service in 2033
22% for equipment placed in service in 2034
Take advantage of the solar system savings today!
The tax credit is a win-win for RV owners because it helps lower out-of-pocket costs and an RV owner’s overall carbon emissions. A solar panel setup is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly and convenient way to use electricity on the goal. Most systems generally require little to no maintenance and provides a dependable source of electricity.
With RV show season still in full swing, thousands of consumers are doing their research to find the perfect RV. Right now may be the perfect time to buy. Manufacturers are offering limited-time savings on a handful of RVs this spring that could save buyers thousands on their RV. General RV is working with three top RV manufacturers to save on a variety of makes and models. It isn’t just for 2023 models – there are options for RVs from 2021-2024. Take a look at all the models you could save on in this rebate round up!
American Coach is offering the largest rebate of the season. Right now, the manufacturer is offering $25,000 off qualifying 2022 and 2023 models. On top of those savings, military and first responders can get an extra $5,000. American Coach RVs are manufactured following rigid construction standards. They also include top-of-the-line components and the latest technology, securing American Coach as a premier luxury motor coach manufacturer. All vehicles delivered before June 30, 2023 can take advantage of this rebate. The American Tradition, American Dream and American Eagle are all eligible for instant savings. Look at everything these American Coach models have to offer.
American Tradition
The American Tradition gives you the power to tackle every road worry-free no matter the conditions. Owners can enjoy a little extra oomph in this Class A diesel thanks to the 450 horsepower Cummins ISX Turbocharged engine. This line has a 15,000-pound towing capacity. While on the road, the supplemental BrakeSync braking system allows for smoother stops and slow-downs. You can also enjoy stress-free travel with the RoadWatch Safety System that includes collision mitigation, adaptive cruise and stability controls.
Inside is like stepping into a five-star hotel room. Campers can get ready for their next adventure in a stunning bathroom. Enjoy the spacious side-by-side sinks or wash up underneath the shower skylight. Stretch out on the sofa sleeper that turns into a full-sized mattress or enjoy a luxurious nap on the Encore Series King memory foam mattress. Small additions like hardwood doors and drawers, porcelain tile flooring and solid-wood valances elevate the living space making you feel at home.
American Dream
Like the American Tradition, the American Dream features similar safety and automotive grade features. Drivers can rule the road with a Cummins ISX Turbocharged engine that has between 450-605 Horsepower and has 15,000 to 20,000-pound towing capacity, depending on the make. The enhanced safety features also ensure you make it to your destination with the help of adaptive cruise. The American Dream also houses one of the best driver-assistance systems on the market – the integrated Mobileye.
This Class A diesel line is decked out with everything you need to travel in style. With a variety of floor plans and décor options, there is something for everyone. Models include many residential luxuries including a 80-inch loveseat and 90-inch queen mattress. Stay stocked with a residential refrigerator with an included icemaker and those over 21 can enjoy a wine chiller built into the kitchen island. The king-sized primary suite provides ample storage with an overhead cab and a massive wardrobe.
American Eagle
The American Eagle series is called the “blueprint for all other coach models.” The third Class A diesel from American Coach raises the bar for luxury motorhomes. This RV will turn heads at the campground. It packs a punch with a Cummins ISX15 605 horsepower engine and an Allison 4000 Series six-speed transmission. This line also continues to push the limits of what a Class A can do with 20,000-pound towing capacity. The driver and passenger can enjoy their journey in comfort with seats that are both heat and air-cooled.
The American Eagle soars above the competition to create a truly premium travel experience. Small upgrades like quartz countertops, high-end appliances and elegant flooring make this RV feel like a resort on wheels. It is also incredibly easy to monitor everything inside your RV thanks to a multiplex electric control system that you can control from your smartphone.
Newmar is another manufacturer making a savings splash this spring. The luxury RV maker is offering rebates on five different models ranging from 2021-2023 makes. Buyers can save anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 as long as they buy before September, 2023. Newmar is known for its well-made, thoughtfully designed RVs created with owners and families in mind. Included in this limited-time offer is the Bay Star, Bay Star Sport, Kountry Star, Ventana and New Aire.
Newmar Bay Star & Bay Star Sport
The Bay Star & Bay Star Sport are two of Newmar’s most popular coaches. Both sit at different price points but they share a number of exterior amenities. The Bay Star series are built on a Ford F-Series Class A motorhome chassis that houses a 350 horsepower engine. The exterior shines thanks to a full-paint masterpiece finish with clear coat finish. The front cap is incredibly durable thanks to diamond shield protection. Once parked, set up camp with ease thanks to smart hydraulic leveling jacks that come with a Bluetooth compatible touch pad.
Inside features slightly differ between the Bay Star and the more affordable Bay Star Sport. Both models feature a luxurious interior with calypso glazed maple designer cabinet doors, drawers with full extensions and solid surface countertops throughout. The bedroom and living area include LED TVs, a 180-watt JBL sound system and many top-of-the-line appliances. The Bay Star Sport includes the same top tier appliances but in a smaller price point to save you some cash. Whether you pick the Bay Star classic or the more affordable version, you will instantly get $5,000 off with the Newmar rebate.
Newmar Kountry Star
Cross-country road trips are made easier when you are riding in the Kountry Star. This Class A diesel coach is built on a Freightliner XCR Chassis with 360Hp Cummins ISB engine. Never worry about where the gas pump is because the recessed fuel fills allow you to fill up from either side of the vehicle. You will always be able to enjoy the perfect temperature with two 15M Penguine Heat Pump air conditioners and a propane furnace with ducted heat.
You might wonder if you are on a cloud when you take a seat in the Kountry Star. The cockpit uses Ultralux front seats with six-way power. In addition, the driver can enjoy a massage while on the road with a vibrating seat. When you’re parked, you can sprawl on the Ultralux sofa or enjoy a snack at the dinette with a power adjustable table and bench seat. The kitchen is perfect for chefs with a three-burner cooktop, 30-inch stainless steel microwave, and a 10 cubic foot stainless steel refrigerator. Save even more on this model with a $15,000 instant rebate when you buy.
Newmar Ventana
The Ventana is one of the most adaptable coaches Newmar offers. It is easy to make this vehicle yours. This line has 11 different floor plans, four different lengths and two different chassis. Gel-coated fiberglass sidewalls, front and end caps, aluminum-frame sidewalls and roof construction are standard on all makes. Enjoy a smooth ride with Comfort Drive steering, back-up alarms and the Mobileye Tracking system.
Every version of this Class A diesel includes Villa Comfort Fit Furniture. You will be able to enjoy maximum comfort whether you choose a model with a jack-knife sofa or theater seats. Every floorplan includes plush pillow top mattresses in the primary suite. Ventana has top of the line appliances in every unit. You’ll be able to entertain for hours with the Samsung LED 4K TV and two sound systems. If you secure your purchase before September 30, you can save an additional $15,000.
Newmar New Aire
The last Newmar vehicle eligible for rebates is the New Aire. The compact Class A diesel may be small in stature, but it is large in luxury amenities. The New Aire is packed with features and options to make the most of the outdoors. The latest models come standard with Nav-N-Go navigation that makes the best route according to your coach’s dimensions. Loading and unloading is made easy thanks to power baggage door locks and a keyless entry door.
The interior is perfect for both hot, sunny days and cold, rainy nights thanks to the two 15M Penguin Heat Pump air conditioners and the Chinook dual loop heat with continuous hot water. Both driver and passenger can ride in comfort with the six-way power-lumbar, reclining, heated front seats. The interior feels massive thanks to designer feature ceiling, and the bedroom feels even bigger with a cathedral ceiling. But there is more than what meets the eye in the New Aire. Look closely and you can find a hidden wastebasket, hidden shoe storage, and a safe kept out of sight in the bedroom wardrobe. Newmar is offering $15,000 off when you purchase before April 15, 2023.
Thor is the another manufacturer offering massive savings. The industry-leading manufacturer is offering a $10,000 rebate on a Class A and select B vans. Thor is known for cutting-edge innovations. The manufacturer offers a wide range of styles, sizes, floor plans and features. Thor delivers coaches that fit every lifestyle and budget. Offers on the Outlaw Class A, the Sanctuary B Van, and the Tranquility B Van last until July 31, 2023.
Thor Outlaw
All 2023 and 2024 Thor Outlaws are eligible for the $10,000 rebate. The Class A gas toy hauler is perfect for fun and adventure. The Outlaw is built on top of a Ford F-53 Chassis. It boosts 335 horsepower engine and has a 8,000-pound towing capacity. Never worry about power thanks to a 100-watt solar charging system with power controller that connects to four auxiliary house batteries. You have plenty of space for all your toys in the massive 8-foot by 10-foot-two-inch garage. Loading and unloading your toys is quick and easy with the help of the Drop-Down Zero-G ramp door. Once the toys have been unloaded, the space can be transformed into a relaxing patio deck.
There is plenty of space in the Outlaw. The Class A toy hauler can sleep eight. It has a drop-down overhead bunk above the cockpit, a dream dinette, a tilt-a-view inclining king bed, and more. The chef will have everything they need in this Outlaw kitchen. Prepare your meal on the two-burner gas range or the single induction cooktop. You’ll have plenty of space to store leftovers in the residential refrigerator. Inside the Outlaw toy hauler, immediately notice the easy-to-clean residential vinyl flooring. Feel relieved, knowing that clean up won’t take away from your outdoor adventures.
Thor Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is built on the Mercedes Sprinter 4×2 (RWD) chassis. You can depend on your Class B to get you there safely, regardless of the weather conditions. The keyless entry feature is not only convenient but also keeps you and your fellow travel companions safe. The Re(Li)able Power Pack Electrical system ensures you have power no matter where you are. This single battery setup offers 5,500 watts or 400 amp-hours of power. Sanctuary also comes with a 3,000-watt pure sine inverter with a 160 amp, 12-volt battery charger as well as a 170 amp high output alternator. On the roof, you’ll find the 190-watt solar panel, which will keep the batteries charged.
Full-time RVers and weekend warriors alike will appreciate the versatile floor plans available. Living in a van feels luxurious with the modern look of the TecnoForm Euro-style cabinetry. Easy-to-clean linoleum flooring is perfect for those who wish to spend time outdoors without bringing the dirt indoors. Entertainment is ready to go with Winegard ConnecT. Stream without ease on your Sanctuary’s 24-inch TV in the living room, which is cable TV-ready and satellite-ready.
Thor Tranquility
The Tranquility also rides on the Mercedes Sprinter 4×2 (RWD) chassis. For your safety, Tranquility comes with hands-free control of the audio right on the tilt and telescoping steering wheel. You can keep a close eye on your towable connected to the hitch because your multimedia dash doubles as a backup monitor. With multiple full-body paint options, you will find a modern exterior color that fits your tastes.
You’ll enjoy the money-saving benefits of having your own kitchen while on the road. Tranquility comes with a fully equipped kitchen. Take advantage of the dual-burner gas cooktop, the solid surface countertops and the stainless steel sink. When you are ready to unwind you can turn the rear bench into your bed. Enjoy the evening breeze with a rear magnetic screen that keeps out the bugs.
Take advantage of these RV rebates today!
General RV is dedicated to bringing the best price to our customers. These exclusive rebates won’t be here for long! Take advantage of these massive spring savings now before they end. Visit your local General RV dealer to find your perfect RV! RV experts can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs.
With RV show season still in full swing, thousands of consumers are doing their research to find the perfect RV. Right now may be the perfect time to buy. Manufacturers are offering limited-time savings on a handful of RVs this spring that could save buyers thousands on their RV. General RV is working with three top RV manufacturers to save on a variety of makes and models. It isn’t just for 2023 models – there are options for RVs from 2021-2024. Take a look at all the models you could save on in this rebate round up!
