Engineering consulting company Ricardo has supported Winnebago in the development and launch of the Winnebago eRV2 prototype, stated to be the first all-electric, zero-emission RV in North America.
Winnebago chose Ricardo for the development due to its track record with diverse product development cycles, launch management and its knowledge of EV integration. The UK-based firm was responsible for project delivery, from clean sheet design through development to launch in one year. All of the required engineering, manufacturing, quality, procurement and supply chain management was carried out in the same year.
With expertise in the area of automotive electrical system development, Ricardo also supported the RV manufacturer with the integration of an advanced 48V electrical system, consisting of the entire electrical engineering architecture and the associated wiring harnesses.
“We were pleased to support Winnebago with the company’s first electric prototype launch: a significant milestone for the business,” said Scott St.Clair, global vice president of Ricardo’s strategic consulting team. “The project enabled the Ricardo team to demonstrate our expertise in the design and integration of software and electrical engineering solutions within a challenging timeframe, delivering a future mobility solution that meets the needs of the client. To complete this project in 12 months was a fantastic achievement and is testament to the tenacity and hard work of the two teams.”
Brian Byndas, vice president of product engineering and quality at Winnebago, said, “Our primary goal in developing the eRV2 prototype was to help customers comfortably explore the world around them with less environmental impact. This is a significant development for the Winnebago brand, as it represents the first time that we have mixed our pioneering legacy, representing not only an achievement in design, innovation and sustainability, but also our commitment to continuously evolve with the changing needs of consumers.”
