RVs used to be thought of as gas-guzzlers. It’s a reputation that cost the RV industry sales during rising gas prices and the following recession. But now there’s a new face on the RV industry. As manufacturers and dealers are gearing their vehicles to a new eco-minded generation, their vehicles are seeing the benefits.
Within the next few years, solar panels hitting the market may take a significant drop in price thanks to UQAM researcher, Professor Benot Marsan. After twenty years of costly technology, a new panel is about to revolutionize the solar panel industry.
So what is platinum’s substitute? UQUAM’s Professor Benot Marsan’s research brought him to cobalt sulphide as a replacement for platinum. Cobalt sulphide is just as sturdy as platinum, but costs a lot less.
UQAM’s new design eliminates platinum and substitutes cobalt sulphide, creating a more cost efficient panel. The dark electrolytes that did not allow light to pass efficiently have also been replaced with a new liquid/gel that is see-through and breaks down less easily.
The new solar panels can’t be found at the corner store yet. But it may not be much longer. RV sales may be affected by this technology as RV dealers are always looking for ways to connect with a new range of potential customers. Solar panels show dealers are listening to the changing sentiments of American consumers.
Other technologies that have become almost standard in RVs are LED lights. Because they consume less energy than traditional light bulbs, they reduce cost of running them as well as being a little gentler on the earth. LED bulbs are available in various sizes with fixtures designed for RV enthusiasts.
If you want to go a step further than lighting, consider biodiesel. Biodiesel is essentially vegetable oil that can be picked up from any restaurant with a fryer. How does this help you? Biodiesel kits convert diesel engines so they can run off oil. RV owners can convert their vehicles with handy DIY kits, or the local garage can help you out. Once you’re set up, be sure you keep a little diesel on hand to get the engine going, but after that, it’s a simple switch that will start using biodiesel.
RV sales are picking up not only from the turnaround in the economy, but from the environmentally friendly options they are providing. People no longer look at RVs as gas-guzzlers, they now view them as an inexpensive, fun way to travel.
Learn more about RVs. Stop by Beaudry RV Company’s site where you can find out all about Motorhomes and what they can do for you.
Tags: automobile industry, automotive, business, lifestyle, motorhomes, new rvs, Outdoors, recreational vehicle, rv dealer, RV industry, rvs, travel and tourism, used rvs
