Electric RV manufacturer Lightship expands Colorado production facility

Lightship, a US-based manufacturer specialising in all-electric recreational vehicles, is significantly increasing its production capacity with an expansion of its Colorado manufacturing facility. Founded in 2020, the company is responding to rising demand by nearly doubling its facility size from 32,000 to approximately 76,000 square feet. Construction is already underway, with operations in the new space expected to commence this summer, ultimately aiming to quadruple production capacity by the end of 2026. The expansion reinforces Lightship’s commitment to American manufacturing, contrasting with many competitors who outsource production overseas. Currently, 80 percent of the components used in the Lightship AE.1 are sourced domestically, a strategy that enables tighter quality control, faster product development, and resilience against global supply chain disruptions. The enlarged facility will also enhance vertical integration, as well as bolster service and research and development capabilities to support future innovations. Alongside the facility growth, Lightship is simplifying its product offering by introducing a streamlined configuration for its AE.1 model. The new approach centres on a single, configurable version with a starting price of $157,500, making the previously premium 77 kWh battery pack standard across all vehicles. This change reflects customer preferences, with over 90 percent opting for the larger battery, and allows for greater customisation to suit various uses such as home backup, extended travel, rental purposes, or full-time living. Lightship’s leadership emphasises the strategic importance of maintaining domestic production and advancing innovation within the emerging electric mobility sector. CEO Toby Kraus highlights the company’s role in creating skilled jobs in a region poised to become a hub for next-generation transportation. Meanwhile, Chief Product Officer Ben Parker points to the enhanced flexibility of the new model lineup as a key benefit for customers, aligning product development closely with market demands. The expansion and product update position Lightship to capitalise on the growing electric RV market while reinforcing its reputation for quality and innovation. As the company scales up, it is set to strengthen its foothold in the US electric vehicle manufacturing landscape, with potential implications for broader adoption of sustainable recreational vehicles and increased domestic industrial activity.