Houseboating Adventures - Issue 17 - (Page 63) nitely an important part of our business. In fact we have a website dedicated to carbon monoxide safety and SafeCO™ gensets – www.safeCOproducts.com. Though the internet is a key source for information, the marine industry is relatively small compared to other recreational-type industries and from our experience word-of-mouth still has an enormous impact on our customers’ buying decisions. Specifications and product details are important but a happy customer usually influences others’ buying decisions more than a piece of sales literature. HBA: What has surprised you the most about the houseboating industry? TS: In a relatively short period of recent time I believe the overall quality and luxurious interior designs of houseboats has improved significantly. On a personal note, I really enjoy working with houseboat manufacturers and owners. They are passionate about houseboating. HBA: Where do think the next design evolution of generators in houseboats will occur? TS: I believe evolution, not revolution, will be the process, looking at improving performance, reducing fuel consumption, increasing reliability, and making generators even simpler to operate and to service. That’s our primary track at Westerbeke. But, of course, we do have an R&D team who are encouraged to "think outside the box" – so I don’t want to imply that we aren’t looking for dramatic changes from entirely new approaches. HBA: What is the biggest challenge Westerbeke and houseboating will face in the next four years? TS: I think there are several challenges. Of course, the economy plays a big role and the upcoming election will likely impact the future and affect how people spend their money on recreation. Specifically, emissions are the biggest challenge for Westerbeke (as is true for everyone making engines and generators) and I believe water access and transportation may be the biggest challenges for houseboat manufacturers. END> )6B@" A05("%C&5AB9&@ http://www.safeCOproducts.com
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