At Simarine’s latest Dealer Days event in Maribor, Gaber Bernik from Stal Mar and a longstanding Simarine partner, shared an in-depth look at how Simarine’s products are changing the RV market. With over seven years of experience working closely with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in Slovenia, Gaber has witnessed firsthand the challenges of modernizing RV electronics to meet growing consumer demands. His talk provided not only a look into the past and present of the RV industry but also a roadmap for its future.
The Evolution of the RV Market: From Simple to Sophisticated
In his opening remarks, Gaber discussed the dramatic transformation of the RV industry in recent years. He recalled how, in the past, RVs were largely outfitted with the basics: some lighting, a 12-volt socket, and a water pump. “A good carpenter could basically put one together,” he noted, referring to the simplicity of early models. However, as customers sought greater comfort and more functionality, the demand for advanced electronic systems increased. Today, the modern RV needs to offer a home-like experience, a trend that has especially intensified in Europe, driving OEMs to integrate more complex and comprehensive electronic solutions.
Strategic Integration: Making Complex Systems Accessible
Gaber Bernik explained that his approach with OEMs has always involved more than just selling a product. “When I first started working with RV manufacturers in Slovenia, I realized that they needed a product that not only worked well but integrated seamlessly with other systems,” he said. This meant creating detailed wiring diagrams, offering 3D models, and providing system designs that allowed manufacturers to test and install components easily.
For example, he recalled working with one of Slovenia’s largest RV manufacturers, where he provided hands-on support with everything from wiring to the design layout. “We simplified the entire process so components could be pre-assembled and tested outside the vehicle, making final installation faster and easier.” This approach not only streamlined manufacturing but also minimized errors and increased overall efficiency.
Tackling Outdated Electro Blocks: A Case Study in Problem-Solving
One of the standout moments of Gaber’s talk was his explanation of the challenge with outdated electro blocks—traditional systems that OEMs were initially hesitant to replace. Gabor shared an example from a partnership with a leading OEM that had been using electro blocks incapable of effectively managing lithium batteries. The result was frequent battery failures, with RV owners reporting displays that showed 100% battery capacity, only to find the batteries completely drained.
We stepped in with Simarine’s PICO and VIA systems, which offer precise monitoring and reliable charging for lithium setups.
– These systems simply weren’t designed to monitor or charge lithium batteries, he explained. – We stepped in with Simarine’s PICO and VIA systems, which offer precise monitoring and reliable charging for lithium setups. Gabor described how his team conducted field tests and demonstrations to show the OEM the benefits of upgrading, ultimately leading the manufacturer to phase out electro blocks in favor of Simarine’s solution. This switch not only improved reliability but also reduced the number of battery-related issues reported by end users.
Building Trust Through Consistent Support and Problem-Solving
Gaber emphasized that technical expertise alone isn’t enough; building long-term relationships is key to successful partnerships. He shared how he frequently visited OEMs—sometimes weekly—providing continuous support and guidance. Initially, some companies resisted his frequent visits, but he won them over by addressing problems proactively.
Building long-term relationships is key to successful partnerships
He described one particular situation with an OEM that had limited technical resources and struggled with assembling complex electronic systems. “They didn’t have a dedicated R&D team for electronics,” Gaber said. “By working directly with their electricians, we developed simple, modular systems and trained them on installation and maintenance, making the transition far easier than they’d anticipated.” This hands-on approach, combined with transparent communication, established Gabor as a trusted advisor and eased the adoption of new technologies.
Simplifying RV Electronics: Cost-Effective Solutions That Make an Impact
A central theme of Gabor’s talk was the need for affordable, high-performing solutions that don’t sacrifice quality. As he put it, “RVs can’t support the same advanced systems as luxury yachts, but owners still want reliability and a certain level of sophistication.” He highlighted the VIA system as an ideal option for OEMs seeking a balance between functionality and cost. One OEM in Slovenia, for instance, was initially overwhelmed by the complexity and size of the older setups. Gabor’s team introduced VIA, which eliminated around 15 separate components and reduced the system’s size by a third.
VIA saved them space, simplified the wiring process, and even cut down production costs – he explained, adding that VIA also allowed for modular testing outside the RV before installation, another huge advantage for manufacturers pressed for time and resources.
Opportunities in a Shifting Market
Despite recent market slowdowns, Gabor is optimistic about growth potential. The slowdown has made competition fierce, prompting OEMs to seek ways to stand out. He explained that by integrating advanced, user-friendly systems, OEMs could offer a differentiating factor without driving up costs. Gaber sees Simarine’s portfolio as uniquely positioned to offer this balance.
He concluded with an example from the marine market: working with the French boat-building giant, Beneteau Group. Their Slovenian subsidiary, Seascape, initially approached Simarine for a compact, durable monitoring system for their boats. “Beneteau’s Seascape division didn’t want rocker switches cluttering their 36-footers. They needed an intuitive, compact panel that combined monitoring and digital switching,” Gabor explained. Simarine’s solution allowed them to eliminate traditional switches while maintaining ease of use, enabling the boats to offer cutting-edge technology without sacrificing simplicity.
The Right Techology with The Right Approach
Gaber’s insights at Dealer Days provided a blueprint for success in the RV market, one that combines technical innovation with relationship-building and a commitment to problem-solving. By sharing real-world examples of how he navigated challenges, Gabor illustrated how Simarine’s advanced systems help OEMs adapt to an evolving market. As he noted, “The right technology, when paired with the right approach, has the power to transform not just products, but entire industries.”
For Simarine and its partners, Gaber’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and foresight in a changing market landscape. His work exemplifies how aligning technology with client needs can lead to enduring partnerships and drive growth—even in challenging times.
