Winnebago Industries launched its smart technology platform, Winnebago Connect, marking the brand’s first custom software development effort.
The innovative new technology proactively monitors and controls all onboard RV systems according to user preferences and is the only product on the RV market that achieves this integration through a single platform, the company said in a release.
“Winnebago Connect is game-changing technology for the RV industry and the community of RV owners,” said Kim Weckert, vice president of digital transformation for Winnebago. “Winnebago Connect transforms how customers can engage with their motorhome, and how Winnebago can respond to user needs through intelligent software.”
The technology features a range of customizable capabilities, from programmable lighting and climate control to cabin door locks and water system use. Through smart energy optimization capabilities, Winnebago Connect will notify users via the main dashboard and the Winnebago App if issues arise with any onboard systems so they can quickly address them.
“No other platform puts more control in the hands of users, empowering them to travel with greater ease and peace of mind than ever before,” noted Weckert. “It lets new and longtime RVers alike experience the outdoors exactly as they wish.”
A key factor of the technology is that it works proactively. For example, if the temperature inside the RV exceeds a preset parameter, it will open vents to let in fresh air before activating the AC. Winnebago Connect will even retract awnings when a wind sensor detects windy conditions. Owners gain the added conveniences of remote and self-diagnostics, plus over-the-air software updates, to ensure they always have the tools and resources necessary for a great RV experience.
Winnebago Connect will initially debut in the all-new Winnebago View and Navion 24T floorplans before integrating into the entire Winnebago lineup over the next few years, the company said. The platform includes free and paid subscriptions offerings.
Standard Features of Winnebago Connect
Winnebago Connect “Essentials” offers the most basic level of service and is free. In any RV equipped with Winnebago Connect, the technology will monitor and control all major RV systems according to user preferences, including:
- L
ighting: Users can program interior light brightness and colors to change throughout the day based on preferences for sleep, wake-time, work and more. - Climate: Winnebago Connect monitors internal and external conditions as well as the equipment onboard and adjusts HVAC systems to optimize comfort.
- Energy use: Winnebago Connect can track total energy consumption and shut down select components, such as hair dryers, the coffee maker or the AC to prevent overloading or damaging other RV electrical systems. It can also automatically turn off power to energy-draining systems that are not in use, such as tank heaters, to preserve boondocking time.
- Water systems: Users can turn the water pump or water heater on or off at designated times and set the desired water temperature.
- Awnings: When it gets too windy, Winnebago Connect will automatically retract awnings.
- Cabin door locks: Users can automatically lock and unlock cabin doors to enhance convenience and ensure security.
- Real-time alerts: Winnebago Connect can send more than 100 alerts in real-time to help users stay informed about key systems, such as remaining battery life, water tank levels and solar energy generation. The technology will even alert users when the outside temperature approaches freezing so they can turn on the heat to protect water lines.
When users pair their phone to Winnebago Connect, they gain remote access to these and other capabilities while in range of the vehicle. They can also perform local diagnostics to troubleshoot any complications.
Premium Features of Winnebago Connect
A paid Premium or Premium + Wi-Fi subscription to Winnebago Connect lets customers take advantage of the “Essentials” package plus even more features, Winnebago said. Also, customers can pause and restart either subscription plan at will.
Winnebago Connect Premium
- Allows users to monitor and control many RV systems anywhere cell phone coverage exists
- Performs advanced diagnostics and service anywhere cell phone coverage exists
- Provides ongoing over-the-air software updates, ensuring owners always have the latest tools in hand to optimize their experience on the road
- Support from Winnebago’s customer care team delivering industry-first remote service
- This level of service is free for the first year and $15 per month after that.
Winnebago Connect Premium + Wi-Fi
- Offers all of the benefits of the Premium package, plus streaming data
- Premium + 10G option: Will support routine email-checking, social media activity and browsing for $49/month
- Premium + 100G option: Will support extensive data streaming — daily movies for a month, daily video conference calls, or lighter levels of each activity during a 30-day period — for $119/month
Additional Benefits of Winnebago Connect
- Winnebago Connect, available through the purchase of select View and Navion floorplans, is compatible with both Apple and Android products. The technology is accessible through the Winnebago mobile app, which is available both through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Quick owner onboarding. Users gain access to step-by-step video tutorials, searchable help topics and easy-to-follow checklists, all from their smartphone, so they can spend less time learning how to use their RV and more time enjoying it.
- Enhanced service and support, thanks to remote and self-diagnostic systems that help users quickly troubleshoot issues. Should they require additional support, users can also access Winnebago’s Customer Care team through the app.
“Winnebago has always been on the leading edge of RV production, creating reliable, stylish and energy-efficient motorhomes for every kind of traveler,” said Weckert. “Winnebago Connect is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to deliver next-generation conveniences to our customers. It’s exciting to be at the vanguard of this effort, which is sure to create a new standard for the entire RV industry.”
Click here to about Winnebago Connect.
