The sales of motor homes are on the increase and the industry as a whole is expected to carry on growing throughout the next few years. Motor homes vary from one million pound luxury buses to more affordable smaller models. For this growth to continue however the industry will have to make changes, stream lining and becoming more cost efficient is a vital part of this.

Firstly for all new motor homes built there will be a reduction in the cost per man hour. Ultimately companies will have to increase productivity in order for them to achieve more sales at reduced prices. If customers wish to continue receiving great value it means employment in the industry may well have to be trimmed.

Methods used in the construction of motor homes will also have to change. The old 'stick-built' method will have to be rapidly surpassed. The method involves individually welding and bonding frames to the chassis and is intrinsically laborious and time consuming.

Modern methods of fully moulded sub-assemblies that fit onto the chassis will reduce the hours spent on construction and hence reduce the price of new motor homes. This is not completely new as some in the industry already employ these methods, the scale of this type of production will however need to be increased.

Aluminium and wood will have to be replaced as the primary materials used in the construction of motor homes. Plastics with structural strength will have to become more widespread. Once again fully moulded structures such as side walls will already contain insulation and fixtures such as windows and will simply bolt straight onto the larger frame. Subsequently time and energy will be reduced.

One matter of debate in the construction of motor homes is the main power source. The diesel engines present will arguably be replaced by turbine engines in the future as a lightweight and more efficient alternative. Also the use of hybrid engines should become a large element in the industry; as with much of the car industry the drive to be more eco-friendly is rapidly becoming a primary goal.

There are also a few design elements that will have to change in the future to make motor homes more comfortable and reliable. Firstly, industry standards need to be created to ensure the electronic systems are reliable and hard wearing. Power surges are still a major concern as the fuses can blow in an instant; leaving travellers sat in the dark. Added to the large televisions and sound systems that are present in modern motor homes the expense can soon be tallied when faulty electrics become a problem.

Secondly the major area of concern in the industry is waste management. All enthusiasts dread emptying their chemical toilets and technology in this sector has been slow in its fruition. Problems with blockages and leaks are of prime importance especially when considering the hazardous materials involved. Systems are now becoming apparent that are reliable and easy to manage, the ultimate is to have a system that leaves any waste materials in a small container that does not leak and is easy to empty.

In terms of layout, for years the bedroom, galley, lounge and washroom areas have been a prerequisite, this however is set to change. With the increased emphasis modern consumers place upon internet access, not only will the necessity for connection be vital but the incorporation of study areas will also form a large part of any modern motor home.

These trends are at the moment just speculation, they do however follow a logical course and for that reason many may well become a reality. The construction methods and materials are almost definitely going to change as are the advances in waste management solutions. Whether the industry can keep up to date with the demands of modern consumers will be the deciding factor in any continued growth