Designer Brings Balance Of New Technology & Space Saving Structure To Envision A Trailer For The Future
Throughout the years, the RV market has produced a myriad of traditionally designed caravans perfectly capable of completing their intended task of camping. Most are well-equipped units that facilitate a lifestyle of creating memories and bringing families closer together. But, as the demographic of RV users evolves and the interest in a ‘glamping’ style camping experience rises, a door is quietly creeping open for innovating entrepreneurs willing to listen to the market by imploring new technology and innovative designs. Bill Davis, an entrepreneur and design engineer, has swung the door wide open with TripBuddyâ„¢, a reconfiguration of the traditional caravan that utilizes advanced technology and a modern aesthetic twist.
Previously, Bill had spent 15 years designing military grade companion trailers for use in wartime measures. After selling his business he, “wanted to do something a bit more wholesome.” “I wanted to put to use the technology of how to tow something properly and how to tow something over rough terrain,” explains Bill, “I’ve owned quite a few [RVs] but never felt they were designed properly.”
Throughout his life, Bill has created many cherished camping experiences, but not everyone in the Davis household craves those same outdoor endeavors. “My family didn’t like to do the outdoor stuff,” and were already jaded by presumptions of “ghastly white boxes, people of a certain age and horrible dreary camp sites,” recalls Davis. So with his design background and a challenge issued by his family to create a desirable new style of camper, Bill took on the task of redesigning an RV from the ground up.
Initially, Bill envisioned a type of unit that could be easily towed by an economical car, had an aerodynamic quality, and was able to accommodate large items like motorcycles and watercrafts. The first step was designing a custom stainless steel platform chassis as a foundation for TripBuddy. The twin axle system provides stability and load carrying capacity of up to a half a ton on the inside of the unit along with a roof rack that adds additional hauling capabilities. It also combines flush windows with a triple seal and monocoque design usually associated with airplanes. This means the entire structure is a single-piece, glass reinforced plastic body molded together with no external joints virtually eliminating the possibility of leaks.
The layout of TripBuddy is one of the key design features setting it apart from a traditional RV. Whereas conventional RVs have a small side door entrance, TripBuddy’s entire rear opens up in a way similar to a hatchback style door and doubles as an awning and main entrance point. It’s also handicap accessible and pup tents can be added to the three exterior sides of the awning for additional living and sleeping space. When users are ready to pack up, they simply zip up the exterior and shut the door.
This caravan also pulls inspiration from the automotive and yachting industries. “I’ve always been in love with the old Volkswagen bus and wanted to pay a bit of homage to it, so I worked with a top automotive stylist on the outside shape and design [which] has become quite dateless.” Inside TripBuddy, Davis incorporated luxury yachting technology making it a virtual wet room and completely waterproof interior. He used materials such as genuine teak flooring and leather-trimmed seats that “can be easily cleaned and are nice for both cargo and people.”
TripBuddy also includes all of the standard features expected in an RV. The leather seats are easily deployed into a sturdy full size bed and a compact shower and toilet compartment are conveniently tucked away behind a sliding door. The kitchen is made of smooth, wipe down reinforced plastic and stainless steel appliances. There is also a state-of-the-art sound system with remotely controlled, economical LED interior lighting.
Since each TripBuddy is handmade to order, it’s customizable to meet individual requests for every demographic. When Davis first started out, he assumed he’d be selling to a predominately young audience who enjoyed the outdoor lifestyle. But, to his surprise, “[The market] wasn’t quite defined like that.” Davis told The Buzz he’s had people from 25 to 80 who have purchased one of his caravans. “These are people who have bought [TripBuddy] because it’s a lifestyle product and the demographics are ageless. It doesn’t matter how old [or young] they are. [They’re] young spirited and young at heart.”
The unique structure and glossy finish of TripBuddy are enough to catch the eye and cause consumers to take notice. As new technology surfaces and consumer styles change, some RV manufacturers will adapt, others will fall behind and some inventive designers like Bill Davis will continue to break molds.
Jannie Schaffer
A graduate of the Fashion Institute Of Technology in New York City with a degree in Interactive Marketing, Jannie has worked both for FOX and ASA Electronics. She enjoys traveling and whitewater rafting.
Trip Buddy
Founded by engineer and entrepreneur Bill Davis; Tripbuddyâ„¢, a trailer manufacturer, was inspired by Bill’s desire for an adventurous, outdoor holiday.