by : Lisa Ziegler

International Truck and Engine, an Illinois-based leading producer of medium trucks and heavy trucks for various markets has recently worked in conjunction with Conquest Motorhomes, a division of Gulf Stream Coach and one of the leading manufacturers in the RV industry. The collaboration of the two companies will make International Truck and Engine the sole supplier of cab and other chassis parts for the Class C diesel motorhomes manufactured by Conquest Motorhomes. Gulf Stream Coach is ordering about 625 International DuraStar chassis system that will be installed in Gulf Stream Coach' Class C diesel motorhome models including Super Nova and Gladiator (Enduramax). According to International, their supply of chassis systems "underscores the significance of the market opportunity, with the relationship projected to expand over time."

Steve Guillaume, General Manager of Medium Truck, International said: "This partnership is a tremendous growth opportunity for us. The Class C motorhome market represents a substantial portion of a growing industry - approximately 33 percent of the total motorized RV market. Once again, International is challenging convention as this is a great opportunity to leverage the scale of our core business and generate growth outside of the commercial trucking sector."

"When a leader in the commercial truck industry collaborates with a leader in the RV industry to build a great product, RV customers are going to be the big winners. Moreover, our industry is coming into its sweet spot for growth as population and demographic trends favor long-term RV market growth." said Jim Johnson, Vice President of Operations, Conquest Motorhome Division, Gulf Stream Coach.

Gulf Stream Coach has chosen International Truck and Engine because of the Class 6 International chassis, which features the company's superior engineering and quality service. In addition, Class 6 International chassis is also equipped with some innovative electronic features including the International Diamond Logic Electrical System and AWARE Vehicle Intelligence. According to International Truck and Engine, customers choose Gulf Stream Coach's Super Nova and Gladiator (Enduramax) models with their International chassis because of its numerous advantages such as superior gross vehicle weight (GVW) capacity; best-in-class towing capability of up to 13,000 pounds; roomiest cab in the category, including an ergonomic interior design; proven, durable diesel engine offering, which is the 300-horsepower International VT 365; exterior mirrors that are 42 percent larger than traditional mirrors for enhanced rear visibility; and smooth ride, handling and maneuverability for drivers and passengers, just like provides smooth and comfortable ride for Jeep vehicles.

International Truck and Engine will commence their full-scale production of chassis systems early in June.