Wish List to design better RVs

magnusfide wrote:
We haven't done this in awhile: a thread about our wish list for improvements in RV design in the hopes manufacturers will take notice and make a more practical and reliable RV. One suggestion from the past has begun to be offered - the hot water on demand water heater.

To get the ideas flowing, here's mine:
- More durable roofing: also stop cutting holes in the roof for AC units which make opportunities for leaking as the RV ages and makes the unit taller for air drag. Install them in the sides and use the floor ducting.
- Kitchen: two burner stoves as standard for more counter space. These are showing up more but it's not universal... yet:B
- Storage: modular closets/cabinets options. Think IKEA and let the customers create the configuration that suits them eg floor to ceiling tall or multiple short closets and everywhere in-between. This could be done easily with a designated wardrobe space in the floorplan. With twin beds the logical place is in between. :w
- Rear window: eliminate it. It's cold in winter and hot in summer, usually right over our heads in the bed. There's enough light in the bedroom which is for sleeping AND it can't be used for backing anyway.
-Fuel mileage: we're seeing improvements, thankfully but the class Cs need a fuel efficient gasoline option vs the diesels being used.

Any others?

I'm trying to understand how side mounting the AC unit will improve anything. Won't drag be the same no matter where it is mounted? And wouldn't side mounting make the RV wider with many more opportunities to knock it off in turns? We will never get rid of roof mounted antennas, vents or skylights so what is the point of moving the AC unit? I really like the more durable roofing idea. How about one single sheet of aluminum that laps over the sides by several inches? That would solve 99% of all problems. Also put more arch in the roof to allow water to run off more efficiently. There is never enough storage and I believe you are correct that the issue could be solved with better planning and letting customers opt in for some kind of modular design, if they are buying new from a dealer or factory. Unfortunately, mileage will probably never improve significantly since it is a function of weight, drag and power needed to move the unit.
RichH