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New green trailers are completely recyclable

The recreational vehicle industry is moving towards a greener, more sustainable future and one manufacturer hopes to steer the way with a new generation of innovative and eco-friendly travel trailers and fifth wheels that are as healthy for their owners as they are for the environment.

The Evergreen Ever-Lite, dubbed the "world's first eco-friendly composite travel trailer," is constructed with virtually no wood, thereby creating a longer lasting, lighter weight product that is easier to tow and more efficient than many other models.

Designed for a camper who wants the amenities of a full-featured trailer wrapped up in an aerodynamic lightweight package, the Ever-Lite travel trailers are manufactured using the company’s proprietary ComposiTek construction process making them completely recyclable.

The Ever-Lite, along with a host of other fuel-efficient recreational vehicles and lighter-than-before-seen towables, will be featured at the 2009 Snowbird RV Show & Sale, on now through Sunday at TRADEX Trade and Exhibition Centre in Abbotsford.

"We're pleased to be able to offer the Evergreen Ever-Lite to customers looking for a more sustainable way to enjoy all that the RV lifestyle has to offer," says Alex Loosdrecht, General Manager of Fraserway RV Dealerships. "This model is the first true indication that the industry is moving towards a greener future and we’re proud to be at the forefront of this trend."

Other green technology showcased at the Snowbird RV Show & Sale includes solar-powered systems by Carmanah Technologies Corporation. U.S. statistics show that 18 per cent of RV owners are already using solar panels, and with new innovations including a compact solar-charging kit designed specially for RVs, owners have a chance to make more sustainable choices while benefiting from the freedom to run lights, water pumps, refrigerators and other 12-volt loads via the power of the sun.

New to the 180,00-square-foot showroom at this year’s show is the r•pod by Forest River, a first-of-its kind travel trailer that can be towed by almost any SUV, crossover or minivan – thereby providing a more fuel-efficient way to travel than in a traditional RV.

Other fuel efficient highlights at this year's show include the lightweight Freedom II Serenity by Leisure Travel that features a Mercedez Benz 3.0-l V-6 turbodiesel engine coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission to deliver fuel economy in the 22-mpg range — while comfortably accommodating up to four people.

The show runs through Sunday, opening daily at 10 a.m., closing at 9 p.m. today and Saturday and 5 p.m. on the final day. Admission: $8/$6/$5 (children 12 and under free) – Net proceeds to charity. www.rvshowsbc.ca