More than 800 new recreational vehicles built by 40 manufacturers have filled Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., as part of the 59th annual California RV Show.
The show, which opened Friday (Oct. 14) and runs until Oct. 23, gives visitors a chance to see the latest recreational vehicles on the market, said Jeanne Sleeper, spokeswoman for the Pomona event.
“This is the largest RV show in the West and the only RV show put on by the RV manufacturers,” Tom Gaither, director of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) Western Show, said in a statement.
“It is the one place where consumers can see all the new 2012 models from manufacturers across America and Canada,” Gaither said.
The show offers something for just about everyone, the San Bernardino County Sun reported.
Those thinking about purchasing a new vehicle can drive their RV to the show, have it appraised and then speak with dealers about acquiring a new one, said Sleeper.
Several credit unions and banks that offer RV loans have representatives available to talk and arrange financing for a new vehicle, she said.
“You could literally do the whole deal in one stop,” Sleeper said.
Sixteen local dealers have provided the RVs along with 150 vehicles that are available for test drives.
The tests include driving the vehicles on local streets, Sleeper said.
Those toying with the idea of purchasing a recreational vehicle can visit the show and see what type and size of RV would best meet their needs or attend workshops related to the ins and outs of maintaining them, she said.
Visitors will find RVs ranging in price from $10,000 for a small trailer to vehicles with large living spaces for $625,000, Sleeper said.
But there is also a great deal in between.
“The vast majority (of RVs) are things that are affordable,” Sleeper said.
Interest in recreational vehicles is on the rise after a drop that came at about the same time the economy went south, Sleeper said.
Some of the interest is linked to people finding they can use their RV for a long weekend trip to the beach or the mountains and for longer vacation trips to spots such as the Grand Canyon, she said.
Such family trips can be more economical using an RV and cutting out hotels and air travel, she said.
The 59th annual California RV Show is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults, which includes a wristband good for free admission for the remainder of this year’s show. Children and teens under 17 are admitted for free if accompanied by an adult. Parking for automobiles is $9 but those traveling in their RV can park for free.
Additional information on the event along with information on admission discounts, seminars and other show activities is available by going to carvshow.com.
