Ford Motor Company->ke31 has just announced its partnership with Livin Lite, a manufacture of lightweight travel trailers, toy haulers, and slide-in campers. The campers will be unique to Ford in their appearance and design, though each product will have the backbone of Livin Lite’s aluminum construction and other weight-saving materials.
“Exploring America is in our customers’ DNA and recreational vehicles are part of Ford’s history, so these new camping options are great for our adventurous customers,” said Mark Bentley, Ford Licensing manager. “Ford is an industry leader in towing technology, so it was only natural for Ford to license its name and designs in this industry.”
The licensing means that Ford’s Blue Oval logo will appear in several locations, including within the exterior graphics package and embroidered on the seatbacks within the interior. Other Ford touches are the F-Series-->ke1913style wheels on the travel trailers. Of course, these Ford-branded trailers will have their own shape; different from anything else Livin Lite produces. Interiors will come with Lariat-style designs, including unique leathers and stitching.
Ford worked with Livin Lite for more than 15 months to get the project rolling. Initially, the slide-in truck->ke242 campers will available first, starting in early 2016. The travel trailers and toy haulers will come later, starting in the second quarter of 2016.
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Why it matters
This unique branding opportunity seems like a win-win for Ford. Not only do they stand to make profit off each RV sale, they also have an increase brand presence in the RV community. Ford already produces rolling chassis for motorhome builders that include Ford engines, transmissions, and subsystems.
What’s more, brand loyalty will likely persuade Ford truck owners to purchase a matching Ford travel trailer or slide-in camper. And having a camper in the driveway would seemingly keep truck customers coming back for another truck – should the need arise to replace it – for another F-Series vehicle rather than purchasing an SUV, crossover, or sedan.