More New Green RV Features to Watch For
Posted by RV Pro on Jan 22, 2010RVs are going green. Consumers are scaling back on their expenses but not their lifestyle. RV buers want comfortable spaces and great features tied up in an energy-efficient, fuel-efficient package that’s cheap to operate – and RV manufacturers are working hard to deliver. In the last week we’ve talked about new energy-saving construction techniques and materials, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. New technology and innovative ideas are finding their way into mainstream RV design and construction. Here are some of the new green RV features to watch for:
> LED lights are being featured in both exterior and interior lighting applications. LED lights consume just one-quarter of the electricity required by conventional lighting, and lamps last more than 10 times as long.
> Fuel cell technology manufactured in Germany is getting a test run in the U.S. Light-weight, compact fuel cells have the potential to replace generators as an RV energy source.
> Energy Star appliances are becoming standard.
> Light-weight composites and sustainable materials like bamboo are being used in the construction of counters, cabinets and flooring.
> Light-weight aluminum frame/foam cushion furniture and beds are being created especially for RV use.
> Double-pane, tinted acrylic windows with integrated roller blinds keep RVs cooler on hot, sunny days.
> Integrated solar energy roofs will eventually replace mounted solar panels.
> Retractable wind turbines that can be raised onsite and lowered during travel will provide an additional RV energy source.

