Startup RV manufacturer Brinkley RV has delivered its first fifth wheel, the Model Z, to Walnut Ridge Family RV Sales in New Castle, Indiana.
Brinkley RV was formed by five RV industry-manufacturing leaders this year and is headquartered in Goshen, Indiana.
“It’s been a lot of blood sweat and tears to get where we’re at and we’re really proud of our team,” said Brinkley RV Managing Partner Ryan Thwaits. “We are excited to get our product out to the marketplace and let the customers see it and get their feedback.”
Brinkley touts the Model Z as being designed by RV campers for RV campers. After it debuted the prototype, the RV went on a maiden voyage across the country and during that 30-day road trip, Micah Staley, Brinkley co-owner and Model Z lead designer, stopped at campsites throughout the 6,200-mile journey getting feedback on how to improve the coach’s design and functionality. After the first road trip, the company made more than 250 refinements to the Model Z’s design, functionality and durability.
The Model Z offers spacious living areas, residential-style appliances and plenty of floorplan options, the company said. Some fifth wheel models have up to six slideouts and practical features like separated bedrooms, outdoor kitchens and two bathrooms.
“It’s great to see everything come together and the production people be so proud of what they done,” said Thwaits.
Also this week it was announced that General RV has an agreement to bring the Model Z to the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa on Jan. 18-22 at the Florida State Fairgrounds.
“We’re proud to have General RV represent us at the show, the kickoff to the season,” Thwaits said.
Added Loren Baidas, General RV’s president, “We are excited about this new relationship with Brinkley RV and the shared commitment we have to bring the most forward-focused products and best service to our customers.”
Thwaits said along with getting production rolling, the company has been busy assembling dealer partners around the country that will soon be receiving product.
“We’ve identified about 150 locations across the U.S. that we’ve committed our product to already and we’ll roll it out as we can produce the units,” he said. “From a supply standpoint I don’t think we could have timed it any better. (The slowdown) gave us the opportunity to get some of the products that weren’t so readily available before.”
