Ford increases production of motorhomes and commercial chassis by 35 percent

Ford Motor Company announced it is boosting motorhome and commercial chassis production by 35 percent to meet demand for recreational vehicles.

At the same time, Ford is increasing production capacity of its 6.8-liter V10 engine that powers its motorhome chassis lineup. Sales of motor homes, which can exceed $150,000 each, are strong economic indicators, much like the relationship between truck sales and the housing market. Sales of Class A motorhomes rose 14 percent last year, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. Class A motorhomes are built on a stripped truck chassis. During the fourth quarter of 2012, sales jumped 43 percent.

“We’re pleased that while other chassis manufacturers have left this segment, Ford continues its commitment to the RV upfitter industry. We’re increasing our participation in this industry as motorhome customers return to the market,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service.

The Ford F-53 motorhome and F-59 commercial chassis are built by Ford’s partner at Detroit Chassis at its Detroit facility. The 6.8-liter V10 gasoline engine is built in Canada at Ford’s Windsor Engine Plant in Ontario. Ford supplies parts such as the frame rails, suspension, powertrain and steering components to Detroit Chassis for assembly into motorhome chassis for customers like Winnebago, Thor and Fleetwood.