The Winnebago Revel demonstrates how RV manufacturers have changed with the times.
Most people picture Winnebago as huge motorhomes speeding down highways. These iconic designs are what Winnebago is best known for, despite being 64 years old. Although the 500,000th Winnie is just being built, it’s not a big motorhome with wavy lines. This rugged Revel 4×4 camper van is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
To much fanfare, the Revel was recently launched from Winnebago’s Iowa facility. According to the RV manufacturer, it is the first to reach this milestone in the industry. To celebrate, all operations were stopped so that employees could enjoy the celebration.
Huw Bower (President of Winnebago) stated that Winnebago was a pioneer in the RV market, having produced its first vehicles over 60 years ago. The 500,000th motorhome is more than just a testament to the longevity of the market. It is a milestone that Winnebago has helped to make possible over the years, and it means millions of unforgettable experiences for our 2,700 employees. Every day, our team members strive for excellence and are motivated by the desire to bring joy to others. Without their unwavering dedication, this milestone would not have been possible.
Winnebago’s Revel is a small part of its history. The Class B Sprinter-based RV, which was launched four years ago on Sprinter’s basis, is a symbol of the times. It has four-wheel drive and more ground clearance to leave roads and traditional campsites. It’s available in a single floorplan and can sleep two people. The rear of the RV converts to a living area with a power lift bed. The middle of the room has a full bathroom with a cassette toilet and shower, as well as a small kitchen with a stainless-steel sink and refrigerator. It can hold 21 gallons of freshwater and a 21-gallon gray water capacity.
Two 124-amp-hour lithium battery packs provide power. They can be charged using solar, an alternator on the engine or shore power. The package includes a 2,000-watt inverter and is packaged in a four season van with heating/air conditioning systems.
These features do come at a price, however. Winnebago must be doing something right with the Revel, which starts at just under $200,000 The manufacturer claims that the Revel has been built more than 500,000 units and is the category leader in rugged, off-road campers.