Introducing the Bowlus Rivet RV to Outdoor Living
As the weather improves and our minds, especially mine, drift towards vacationing in more outdoorsy locales, camping begins to enter the equation. In the evolving world of RV travel, luxury and sustainability are no longer mutually exclusive. Bowlus, a leader in the high-end RV market, is pioneering this intersection with their latest model, the Rivet. Setting a new benchmark for eco-friendly luxury camping, the Rivet comes with a price tag of $165,000 — significantly lower than its top-tier Volterra and Terra Firma models, which hover around the $300,000 mark. This blog post delves into the Rivet’s unique selling points and explores its role in the future of RV travel.
Tell Me About Bowlus
Before we jump into the Rivet trailer, I know what you are thinking because I also thought it. Are they copying the Airstream? It turns out the first aluminum riveted travel trailer in the world was constructed in 1934 by a certain Hawley Bowlus. This pre-dates Wally Byam’s Airstream, and the rest is history. There is quite a bit more to this story, but that is for another time.
Understanding the RV Landscape
The RV industry is experiencing a renaissance driven by a heightened interest in outdoor adventures and sustainable travel. As more individuals seek to balance luxury (glamping) with eco-conscious living, the demand for innovative RV solutions is skyrocketing. Companies like Bowlus are at the forefront, offering models that cater to these evolving preferences.
The Rise of Sustainable Travel and Luxury Camping
Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a lifestyle choice transforming how we travel. Luxury camping, or “glamping,” is gaining traction among those who crave the beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. This trend has led to a surge in demand for eco-friendly and luxurious RVs. The Bowlus Rivet perfectly embodies this trend, offering a sophisticated yet sustainable camping experience.
Exploring the Bowlus Rivet Luxury RV: Features and Benefits
The Bowlus Rivet luxury RV is a marvel of modern design and engineering. Here are some of its standout features:
AeroMove Technology
Exclusive to the Rivet is AeroMove technology, which makes getting into and out of a camping site as easy as controlling a remote-controlled car. Unlatch the Rivet from your vehicle, use the included remote control, and the Rivet can be rotated and guided forward or backward into its targeted place. This dual-motor system allows the Rivet’s wheels to be controlled independently. Translation- you can make it spin in place for your amusement. This is an optional upgrade at $10,000, but it may be well worth it to make your life a little easier.
Solar Panels
Incorporating 400W solar panels allows the Rivet to harness renewable energy, making it a greener choice for those committed to sustainable travel. You will be happy to know that an additional 260W of solar panels can be added to help top off the included 8kWh onboard battery and extend your off-grid experience. The Solar feature also qualifies the Rivet for a federal tax credit, reducing its overall cost to a more palatable (yet still expensive) $148,500.
Compact Yet Spacious Design
While the Rivet is roughly two feet shorter than the Terra Firma and Volterra models, its design is ingeniously compact, offering ample living space without the extra bulk. Weighing in at 3500 pounds GVWR with a base weight of 2800 pounds, it’s lighter and easier to tow, making it ideal for a broader range of vehicles.
A Few Additional Features
The Bowlus Rivet has a trademark sizeable front door that is great for loading bikes and kayaks. The optional propane tank is just in front of that robust front door.
The Rivet is a four-season camper with A/C units and a hydronic heating system. The hydronic heating system circulates hot glycol throughout the interior flooring, creating a silent means of warming the cabin.
The kitchen has plenty of storage and always-on power outlets, as well as a microwave, fridge, and induction cooktop.
Let’s not forget dimmable LED lighting is available throughout the cabin.
The bathroom comes complete with a sink, toilet, and shower, along with a little extra. To really give it a spacious feel, the Rivet has a unique door enclosure system that closes off the master bedroom and the main cabin from the bathroom, making it a larger, private space. It's an excellent use of space and can be seen here:
You will notice the queen-size bed in the primary bedroom, which will sleep two, along with the dining area converting to sleep an additional two individuals. It is safe to say the Rivet will sleep four rather comfortably.
Comparing the Bowlus Models
Understanding the differences between the Rivet, Terra Firma, and Volterra models is crucial for those considering a Bowlus RV. Here’s a quick comparative analysis:
Size and Weight
Rivet: 2 feet shorter at 25 feet and 3 inches long, 3500 pounds GVWR, 2800 pounds base weight. This will give it roughly 700 lbs of carrying capacity.
Terra Firma: Larger, heavier, more suited for extended stays.
Volterra: Equally large, featuring advanced amenities for an unmatched luxury experience.
Unique Features
Rivet: AeroMove technology, solar panels.
Terra Firma & Volterra: Advanced interior features, more extensive living spaces, and additional tech integrations.
While the Terra Firma and Volterra offer unparalleled luxury, the Rivet stands out for its blend of sustainability, innovation, and more accessible pricing.
The Future of Luxury Camping and RV Travel
As sustainable travel continues to gain momentum, the Bowlus Rivet is steadily leading the charge. Its innovative features and eco-friendly design make it a model that other manufacturers will likely emulate. The Rivet is not just shaping the future of RV travel; it’s setting a new standard for what luxury camping can be.
Conclusion
The Bowlus Rivet is a testament to what happens when cutting-edge technology meets visionary design. It offers a unique blend of luxury, sustainability, and affordability, making it a compelling choice for RV enthusiasts, sustainable travelers, and those seeking the ultimate luxury camping experience. Bowlus is taking pre-orders for the Rivet, but the backlog is already extensive. In either case, by embracing the Bowlus Rivet, you’re not just investing in an RV but stepping into a future where travel is both luxurious and kind to our planet.
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