Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr Sunshine
Just my opinion here: It seems to me that Thor could easily decide to go with an optional engine, but is unlikely to offer buyers a choice of engine options. Part of the pricing strategy behind the Vegas/Axis involves limited options, which helps keep the assembly costs down. It will soon be June, and the 2017's will be coming off the line. Until then, it's all speculation.
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I agree on both counts. Buyers won't get a choice and indeed it's all speculation on our part.
I also agree that pricing is very important to Axis/Vegas product line. And we also know that Ford and Thor had issues with E-350 chassis because of emmissions, which forced them to use the higher-cost E-450 for now. But Thor hasn't updated their WEB site, suggesting that they may be switching back to E-350 at some point.
A quick check shows that there is a $2,000 difference in cost between E-350 and E-450 chassis; whether comparing Cutaway or Stripped chassis. And I'd bet (I'm almost 100% certain) that the cost difference to upgrade to a 6.2L V8 will be much less than $2,000. Hence, if emmissions issues with V10 remain as at present, it would seem that Thor could reduce cost by going back to E-350 with 6.2L V8 rather than keep building on E-450 with V10.
And since emmission regulations will be stricter soon, I'm not sure the V10 will be an option in the Axis/Vegas weight class for much longer anyway. So unless Thor decides to pursue multiple slides or full-wall slides for Axis/Vegas where they may need the higher GVWR, I personally expect they will go back to E-350 with the newer engine. It's lower cost that way, and should be a better product overall.
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