For caravan manufacturers, having a trusted supply chain partner they can rely on is crucial for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the sector. This drive helps to propel the industry forward by creating innovative product ranges that suit the market.

Today, the industry stands at an important juncture as the call for adaptation and sustainability is louder than ever. With consumer interests shifting towards environmental responsibility, the industry must respond by providing alternative solutions to meet this demand. With net zero targets to reach, eco-conscious practices are becoming even more prevalent among consumers and manufacturers alike.

But that begs the question: What key steps does the supply chain need to take to make the caravan industry more sustainable? 

Closing the Industry Gap

As the caravanning industry continues to grow, manufacturers are under pressure to provide innovative developments within their product offerings. Often driven by the automotive sector, other mobility sectors are left to adopt advancements suitable for their market.

In fact, almost all premium tyre manufacturers in the passenger vehicle sector are developing eco-friendly alternatives using natural rubber and organic cotton to reduce environmental impact. Many leading tyre manufacturers have already produced tyres that feature more than 60% sustainable materials, with a pledge to reach 100% sustainable materials by 2050.

Aside from their sustainable credentials, these tyres do not compromise on quality either, with most ranges boasting Triple-A ratings for wet grip, fuel economy, and noise reduction. This demonstrates the gold standard of sustainable alternatives available in the passenger vehicle tyre market. Yet, many of these advancements are yet to make their way to caravan wheels and tyres – but hopefully, that will change soon.

We have been working with leading automotive suppliers such as Sumec to bring some of those developments to the caravan industry, aiming to provide more sustainable solutions for manufacturers to offer their customers.

Specialised Solutions for an Electrified Future

Electric vehicles (EVs) are often hailed as the future of the mobility industry. However, as EVs gain popularity, there is a growing need for caravan wheels and tyres capable of supporting EV towing.

EVs have different requirements compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, especially regarding weight distribution and tyre wear. To meet the specialised requirements of EV towing, tiered suppliers must begin to adopt these advancements.

Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future

When the supply chain aligns with manufacturers’ goals, it enables the creation and delivery of efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly products. This support not only enhances competitiveness but also helps manufacturers achieve their sustainability targets while collaborating with eco-conscious manufacturers driving these initiatives forward.

We work with suppliers committed to sustainability, such as Sumec, a leading manufacturer of caravan and trailer alloy wheels in the American RV market. Sumec’s dedication to innovation aligns with Wheel Solutions’ vision for the supply chain. In collaboration, we have introduced flow-formed wheels to the caravan industry. These wheels are 10-15% lighter than cast alloy wheels, support EV towing, and promote sustainability in the sector.

As a global leader in the clean energy industry, Sumec’s operations include manufacturing clean energy products (such as solar products), environmental engineering and construction projects, and comprehensive energy solutions aimed at accelerating the low-carbon transformation of cities.

The Importance of Accreditations

To ensure a unanimous approach in meeting the excellence and sustainability demands of consumers, accreditations such as ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 are essential. These certifications mean suppliers adhere to the rigorous quality management and environmental standards expected of industry suppliers.

ISO 9001 is a standard for quality management recognised worldwide, helping businesses improve performance, meet customer expectations, and demonstrate their commitment to quality. Having ISO 9001 proves a business has effective processes and trained staff to deliver flawless products and services.

ISO 14001 is the worldwide standard for environmental management systems. By adhering to this standard, organisations ensure they are taking appropriate measures to minimise their environmental footprint, comply with legal requirements, and achieve sustainability objectives.

By holding these certifications, Wheel Solutions demonstrates its dedication to efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility. We are proudly the first specialist OEM wheel and tyre supplier to implement ISO 14001 in the caravan industry.

For us, these certifications are not just accolades; they guide manufacturers towards excellence and sustainability.

Get in Touch

As your supplier of leading wheel solutions, we’re focused on bridging the gap between the mobility sectors to drive further change in manufacturers’ sustainable offerings.

For more information on our wheel and tyre offerings and alternative options, get in touch with our team today!