Fleetwood Recognized by Ford’s QVM Program

February 7, 2012 by RVBusiness · Leave a Comment

Decatur, Ind.-based motorhome builder Fleetwood RV Inc. recently was awarded quality recognition from Ford Motor Co.’s Qualified Vehicle Modifier (QVM) Program.

According to a press release, QVM is Ford’s quality recognition awarded to manufacturer’s that meet “best practices” guidelines. The guidelines are based on an assessment of a modifier’s engineering capability, design and build process controls, management commitment and quality control procedures.

Ford developed the QVM Program to assist manufacturers in achieving greater levels of customer satisfaction and product acceptance through the manufacturing of high quality conversion vehicles. Specifically, the QVM Program requires the following from converters:

• Compliance with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).

• Conformance with all Ford industry guidelines for vehicle conversions.

• Annual facility inspection and review of converter’s processes.

• A commitment to continuous improvement.

According to Ford, the purpose of this program is to assure vehicle modifier’s have the capability and processes in place to complete the vehicle in a repeatable manner – maintaining the integrity of the Ford chassis system while meeting federal and other compliance standards in place at the time of the build, and providing end-users with a quality built vehicle that meets their expectations.

“We believe we have achieved excellence in Ford’s Motor Home Quality Vehicle Modifier Program because of the investments we have made in engineering technology and lean manufacturing,” stated Fleetwood RV President and CEO John Draheim. “Our continued commitment to the quality and safety of our products is a driving force behind the products we deliver to our customers.”