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. They are a classic example of the vintage-modern aesthetic. Airstream has a reputation for the distinctive silver bullet finish.
The brand was started in Culver City, California in 1930s. It was originally a small trailer-based business. Airstream moved to Jackson Center (Ohio) in 1952 as the business grew. Airstream expanded its trailer line with the Argosy brand in the early 1970s. Airstream introduced class A motorhomes in 1990. They were originally available in 7.6 m and 8.5m versions. In 2006, Airstream discontinued manufacturing Class A motorhomes.
Airstreams made from aircraft quality aluminum alloy. They are lighter than fiberglass and easier to tow. They are also durable and will hold up to all types of weather. But they can be expensive. For this reason, Airstream does not produce cheap, stripped-down trailers. Airstream's goal is to appeal to the middle class.
They are constructed with a steel frame. The interior shell is made of aluminum. The shell is insulated, and then riveted to its frame. This guarantees a leak-free cabin. The riveting is a laborious process. Airstream prides itself in using American labor when making these products. To create the most beautiful Airstreams, they use only high-quality materials.
Before Airstream started manufacturing trailers, there were dozens more companies who made camping trailers. Many of these companies were unable to continue after the Great Depression and World War II. In 1937, there were only about 400 trailer manufacturers in the United States. The surge in popularity of camping trailers was due to travelers' pent-up demand.
Wally Byam was raised in Baker City 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 trailers were easy to transport and had a stove, fridge, and an ice chest. He was a prolific thinker, having learned a lot from his work with airplanes.
Airstream built a second factory after moving to Jackson Center in Ohio. It was a great location. It was easy to get to the highway and the factory was near the Ohio River, which was a popular spot 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. The newer products are made of solid-wood cabinets with Kohler faucets in the bathroom and a hot/cold shower. It also sells marine-grade flooring and adjustable lighting. The company is also looking at adding connected technology to its product range.
The company's eStream concept is a battery-electric camping vehicle. This electric vehicle looks like an exciting, modern take on the traditional Airstream. The company intends to add more products in future.