Airstream is one the most iconic brands in American automotive industry. These unique vehicles encourage wanderlust and a desire the explore the world. They represent the best of both vintage and modern design. Airstream has a reputation for the distinctive silver bullet finish.
The brand was established in Culver, California in the 1930s. It began as a small trailer operation. Airstream began to grow and moved to Jackson Center in Ohio in 1952. It introduced the Argosy brand to expand its trailer range in the 1970s. In the 1990s, Airstream introduced Class A motorhomes. They started as 7.6 and 8.5 m models. Airstream ended production of Class A motorhomes around 2006.
Airstreams made from aircraft quality aluminum alloy. They can be easily tow and offer a lighter alternative to fiberglass. They are strong and durable, so they can withstand most weather conditions. However, they are expensive. For this reason, Airstream does not produce cheap, stripped-down trailers. Airstream is a middle-class company.
They are constructed with a steel frame. The interior shell is made of aluminum. The shell is insulated and riveted to the frame. This creates a leakproof cabin. Riveting can be a time-consuming process. Airstream is proud to use American labor for these products. They only use high-quality labor and materials to create the most beautiful Airstreams.
Airstream's first production of trailers was in 1931. At the time, there were many companies manufacturing camping trailers. But the Great Depression and World War II made it difficult for many of these companies to continue. In 1937, there was only about 400 trailer makers in the United States. It was the pent-up demand of travelers that led to the boom in the camping trailer business.
Wally Byam was born in Baker City, Oregon and attended Stanford University. He graduated from Stanford University and worked for Lockheed Aircraft before becoming an advertising executive. He was the inventor of innovative travel trailers after he re-opened Lockheed Aircraft in 1947. These were lightweight and easily transportable, with a stove, refrigerator and ice chest. Many of his ideas came from his work in the aviation industry.
Airstream began a second plant in Jackson Center after they moved there. It was a perfect location. It was easy and convenient to get to the highway. Additionally, the factory was close by the Ohio River, a popular place for recreation and camping.
Airstream today offers a full range of Interstate touring coaches, starting at the entry-level Interstate Nineteen and ending at the luxurious Interstate Sixty-Eight. The company's latest products include solid-wood cabinets and Kohler faucets in the bathrooms. It also sells marine-grade flooring and adjustable lighting. The company is also planning to add connected technology products to its product lineup.
The company unveiled its eStream idea, a camping trailer that is powered by a battery. The electric vehicle is a modern and exciting version of the Airstream. The company plans on introducing more products in coming years.