RV Fire Blocks Traffic on I-75

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van is gaining popularity for vanlife on the US West Coast, partly due to the discontinuation of the Ford Econoline in 2014. The L2H2 model offers an interior height over 1.9 meters, allowing one to stand upright, and is available in nine body variants ranging from 5.2 to 7.4 meters in length. The vehicle is equipped with a 2.1-liter turbo diesel engine and modern driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control.

The Rockwood Roo 233S 2026 trailer, accommodating up to 10 people, has been introduced. The model features three bump-outs and one slide-out, measures 7.6 meters in length, and has an actual starting price of around $31,000.

Chinese company Skydream Caravans has unveiled an eight-meter caravan with a battery up to 85 kWh and solar panels. The model features autonomous parking and hitching systems, an electric assist motor, and can accommodate up to six people. The official presentation will take place in San Jose, California.

In the US, Germany, Australia, and India, the growing popularity of RV and caravan travel is reducing demand for short-haul flights and hotel stays. Airlines including Delta and American Airlines report declining bookings on domestic routes, while the hotel sector is losing billions as tourists shift to campgrounds and RV parks.

Shares of component manufacturer Patrick Industries gained after preliminary fourth-quarter results. The company reported revenue of $805 million, up 5% year-over-year, with EBITDA margin expanding to 13%. The increase is attributed to recovering RV demand in North America and improved supply chains.

An RV fire spread to a shipping container filled with fireworks, causing explosions and a wind-driven grass fire. The incident occurred on March 18, 2026, in Tomball, Texas, requiring a multi-agency fire department response. The cause investigation has been turned over to the Harris County Fire Marshal's Office.