Model Z
The Model Z, the company’s initial model, features the three-quarter-ton towability of a mid-profile fifth-wheel line along with some of the luxury aspects of an upscale full-profile towable — and features a lengthy list of industry “firsts.” Its “Coastal Farmhouse” interiors feature taller ceilings, upgraded flooring, brass fittings, a 54-inch entry handrail, adjustable pantry drawers, a spice rack built into a galley drawer plus an articulating ottoman.
Other features include stackable washer/dryer prep, 370-watts of factory solar, electronic sewer tank controls, 17.5-inch H-rated tires, wide-stance auto leveling, carpetless slides, heavy weather package, a superior sealant system and a taller upper deck.
Lots of indirect lighting and amenities like magnetic soft-close cabinetry and frameless windows with integral sliding screens and shades seem to give the unit a luxury residential feel in a mid-profile footprint.
“Over the past year-and-a-half, we’ve been on the sidelines, and we’ve seen pricing soar from a wholesale standpoint,” explained Staley, who took the prototype on a month-long trip with his family earlier this year to get a feel for what might appeal to today’s consumers. “We originally were going to do a high-profile product first, a high-end fifth-wheel. And then as we saw pricing continue to rise, we said, ‘Hey, we could really take advantage of this pricing and build something on a mid-profile platform but make it a higher-end unit.’”
Next in the company’s plans is a “Model G” toy hauler and, down the road, maybe motorized RV’s. “Frankly, I think motorized would make a lot of sense for us,” maintained Goldenberg, “but towables are where we shine. That’s what we do, and it’s been our forte.”
Otherwise, Staley said Brinkley’s philosophical approach should set it apart from its competitors. “Every decision we make is based on the customer,” he noted. “And our goal is to have the most customer-focused, user-friendly fifth-wheel in the marketplace.”
“Yes,” added Goldenberg, “every manufacturer says they’re focused on customer service, but dealers feel there’s still room for improvement. So, while we work in a great industry, we’re convinced that we can help raise the bar.”