The Airstream travel trailer is one of the most iconic brands in the American auto industry. These unique vehicles were created to inspire wanderlust and a desire for exploration. These vehicles are an example of the classic, modern aesthetic. Airstream has a reputation for the distinctive silver bullet finish.
The brand was created in Culver city, California, in the 1930s. Airstream began as a small trailer business. Airstream relocated to Jackson Center, Ohio in 1952 after the company grew. In the 1970s, Airstream added the Argosy name to its range of trailers. Airstream introduced the Class A motorhome in the 1990s. They were available in sizes 7.6 and 8.5 m. In 2006, Airstream discontinued manufacturing Class A motorhomes.
Airstreams are made out of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy. They can be easily tow and offer a lighter alternative to fiberglass. They are also durable and will hold up to all types of weather. However, they are expensive. For this reason, Airstream does not produce cheap, stripped-down trailers. Airstream targets the middle-class.
They are constructed from a steel frame, and the interior shell is aluminum. The shell is insulated and riveted onto the frame. This guarantees a leak-free cabin. Riveting is a tedious process. Airstream prides itself in using American labor when making these products. The Airstream team uses high-quality materials, labor, and skilled craftsmen to make the most elegant Airstreams.
Before Airstream started manufacturing trailers, there were dozens more companies who made camping trailers. Many of these companies lost their ability to survive the Great Depression and World War II. 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, who was born in Baker City (Oregon) and attended Stanford University, is a Stanford University alumnus. He graduated from Stanford University and worked for Lockheed Aircraft before becoming an advertising executive. When he reopened the company in 1947, he created new travel trailers. These trailers could be easily towed and came with a stove and refrigerator. From his experience with planes, he had many ideas.
Airstream established a second factory in Jackson Center, Ohio after it moved to the area. It was a great location. It was easy to access the highway, and the factory was close to the Ohio River, which is a popular location for camping and recreation.
Airstream now offers an entire line of Interstate touring coach, ranging from the entry-level Interstate Nineteen to the more luxurious Interstate Sixty-Eight. Airstream's latest products have solid-wood cabinets and Kohler faucets for bathrooms. It also sells marine-grade flooring and adjustable lighting. The company is also working to integrate connected technology into its product lines.
The company's eStream concept is a battery-electric camping vehicle. This electric vehicle looks like a modern, exciting take on the Airstream. The company plans to offer more products in the near future.