Winnebago introduced an eRV concept vehicle in January. The Advanced Technology Group at Winnebago is also working on e-concepts for the towable and marine segments.
Eden Prairie-based Winnebago Industries Inc. will build a new innovation center in the Twin Cities next year.
The 40,000-square-foot center is for its Advanced Technology Group, formed in 2019 to explore and develop new innovations across its brands.
Winnebago created the Advanced Technology Group in 2019 to explore and develop new innovations across its brands, which include Winnebago, Newmar and Chris-Craft.
“Our ability to excel in the market and further our industry leadership will hinge on our ability to advance the consumer experience through technology,” said Winnebago CEO Michael Happe in a news release.
Each Winnebago business unit has its own product developers and engineers for new models and features. The Advanced Technology Group, though, takes a longer term view of innovation for recreational vehicles and boats.
“We really want the advanced technology team to look at technologies which are going to be five, seven, 10 years out and work with the business units in a very collaborative fashion,” said Ashis Bhattacharya, senior vice president of business development.
The company is not releasing yet the cost and location of the center because negotiations are still underway, but it will include laboratory and office space, plus space for the vehicles, Bhattacharya said. It should be open by May or June.
Click here to read the full story from Patrick Kennedy in the Minneapolis Star Tribune.