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Starting out this year like it ended last year, total RV shipments were at a lofty 26,800 units, 21.8% greater than last month and up 20.2% over a very good January 1999. In fact this January total was at its highest level in more than 22 years and the third best January total ever, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. The Index of Consumer Sentiment surged to 112.0 i the January survey, according to the University of Michigan's Survey Research Center. January's increase was the highest level recorded in the 50-year history of the surveys. "The majority of consumers anticipate further interest rate increases but believe that these increases will have a rather benign impact on overall economic conditions," reported Dr. Richard Curtin, director of the survey. "That is, with the exception of the housing market." Importantly, these wholesale shipment gains have been shadowed by an equally favorable retail sales activity as seen in surveys of manufacturers. All vehicle categories measured are above the same retail level as this time last year and follow closely the outstanding performance of wholesale shipments. This confirms that retail inventory turns have improved and that increased wholesale shipment totals have not increased dealer stocks. Towable RVs Shipments of all towable RVs were at 20,700 in January, up more that 25% over last month and up 21.1% over this same month last year. Conventional travel trailers improved nearly a third over last January, rising to 10,300 units, their best first-month total since 1973. Fifth-wheel trailers also did well, as did truck campers. Only folding camping trailers trailed January totals from last year. Motorhomes Shipments to retailers of all motorhomes were surprisingly strong, given recent chassis availability concerns. Shipments of all type A conventional motorhomes grew 15.4% over this same month last year to 4,500 units. This was the best-ever January total for type A motorhomes as more than 82% produced had a slideout room. Both type B and type C motorhomes also performed well in January but at much lower volumes. Conversion Vehicles Shipments to retailers of all conversion vehicles were off 15.7% in January, falling to 9,100 units. Van conversions were hard hit, dropping 16.7% as there were 800 fewer van converted this January than January, one year ago. Pickup truck conversions and sport utility conversions were also lower but on much smaller totals. RVIA . Click Here For
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