Sunday, December 07, 2008

Fleetwood's Cash Concerns Overshadow Hyped Hybrid RV



Fleetwood Enterprises Inc. (FLE-$0.25) unveiled its first-ever hybrid motor home at the annual National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Ky., last week. The Fleetwood Hybrid features increased fuel economy, getting up to 12 miles to the gallon, about 42 percent more than its conventional recreational vehicles. Despite its "green appeal," Fleetwood said it had no plans at this time to manufacture the concept hybrid—likely due to weakening demand for motor homes and cash flow problems endemic to Fleetwood…. continue reading….

…. Decision to delay the introduction of its hybrid vehicle probably was influenced by continued discounting by dealers (to move inventory of their lots) and turmoil in the credit markets. Heather Everett, a Fleetwood spokeswoman,
told the Press-Enterprise a hybrid RV would likely cost $40,000 to $45,000 more than a conventional RV. A few gallons of diesel saved per mile does little to offset the higher cost—coupled with lenders tightening credit terms, including higher down payments….

Editor David J Phillips does not hold a financial interest in any stocks mentioned in this article. The 10Q Detective has a Full Disclosure Policy.

1 comment:

  1. The New York Times recently posted an article featuring current RV owners who have outfitted their RVs with more eco-friendly technologies. The RV Industry as a whole has a long way to go (as you pointed out), but it's the little things each RVer can do now that can help the environment & force changes to become more commonplace. To learn more, please visit www.wonderexplorebelieve.net

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