The Airstream travel trailer is one of the most iconic brands in the American auto industry. These unique vehicles are designed to inspire wanderlust, and a desire to explore the world. They embody the timeless-modern aesthetic. Airstream is known for its silver bullet finish.
The brand was founded in the 1930s in Culver City, California. Airstream began as a small trailer business. Airstream began to grow and moved to Jackson Center in Ohio in 1952. In the early 1970s, it expanded its line of trailers with the Argosy brand. Airstream introduced the Class A motorhome in the 1990s. They were available in sizes 7.6 and 8.5 m. Airstream discontinued the production of Class-A motorhomes in 2006.
Airstreams are made out of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. They are lighter than fiberglass, and they are easier to transport. They are durable and can withstand any weather. However, they are expensive. Airstream does however not produce low-quality trailers. Airstream targets the middle-class.
The frames are made from steel and the shells are made of aluminum. The shell is insulated and riveted to the frame. This creates a leakproof cabin. The riveting is a laborious process. Airstream prides itself in using American labor when making these products. They only use high-quality labor and materials to create the most beautiful Airstreams.
In 1931, Airstream was the first to manufacture trailers. There were many other companies making camping trailers. But the Great Depression and World War II made it difficult for many of these companies to continue. In the United States, there were only around 400 trailer manufacturers at that time. The surge in popularity of camping trailers was due to travelers' pent-up demand.
Wally Byam was born in Baker City, Oregon and attended Stanford University. After graduating, he worked at Lockheed Aircraft and went on to become an advertising exec. When he reopened the company in 1947, he created new travel trailers. These were easily towable and included a stove, refrigerator, and ice chest. He was a prolific thinker, having learned a lot from his work with airplanes.
Airstream began a second plant in Jackson Center after they moved there. It was the perfect location. It was easy for people to get to it from the highway. Also, the factory was located near the Ohio River. This river is popular for recreation and camping.
Airstream now offers an entire line of Interstate touring coach, ranging from the entry-level Interstate Nineteen to the more luxurious Interstate Sixty-Eight. Newer Airstream products feature solid-wood cabinets, Kohler faucets and hot and cold showers. The company also sells marine-grade flooring, and adjustable reading lamps. The company also plans to include connected technology in its product line.
The company has just unveiled the eStream concept, a fully-electric camping trailer. This electric vehicle looks a modern take on the Airstream. The company plans on introducing more products in coming years.