RV PRO Staff
Source: rv-pro.com, January 2023
THOR Industries said it has entered into an agreement with SpaceX’s Starlink to integrate flat high-performance Starlinks, which provide high-speed, low-latency internet even while in motion, into select motorized RVs in the United States across the THOR family of companies in 2023.
THOR will also explore opportunities to bring Starlink’s connectivity solutions to additional RVs made by their operating companies. The offering will initially be available as optional equipment in select motorized RVs manufactured by four THOR companies: Airstream, Entegra Coach, Jayco and Tiffin. All factory installed Starlinks will be eligible for a one-month service credit after the initial month of activation.
The THOR family of companies is the first RV OEM to work directly with SpaceX to integrate flat high-performance Starlink products.
THOR said a recent survey proves that reliable, robust internet connectivity is a top priority for today’s RV owners. When owners across the U.S. and Canada were surveyed about the importance of new connected features and services as part of THOR Industries’ North American Path to Purchase Study, 74% indicated that “integrated high-speed internet and Wi-Fi networks” are extremely or very important for future RV purchases.
Developed by SpaceX, Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency broadband internet around the world. With satellites positioned in low-Earth orbit at an altitude of 550 km, more than 65 times closer than conventional geostationary satellites, Starlink achieves significantly lower latency and higher transmission speeds for its end users. Starlink began offering service two years ago, and this fall the company introduced flat high-performance Starlinks, which provide high-speed, low-latency internet while in-motion on land.
“This agreement is a big step toward providing constant internet connection for RVers everywhere,” said THOR Industries President and CEO Bob Martin. “Whether for work, staying in touch with family and friends, or streaming entertainment, a reliable internet connection is a must-have for today’s RVer. Starlink will help THOR elevate our RV owners’ experiences and create yet another important point of differentiation for the THOR family of companies.”
