Brinkley Model Z Air — Brinkley RV’s Debut in the Travel Trailer Segment
Brinkley RV unveils a groundbreaking chapter in its journey as it debuts the much-anticipated Brinkley Model Z Air travel trailer, adding an exciting dimension to its diverse lineup and showcasing a fusion of cutting-edge features and signature craftsmanship.
In a remarkable development for Brinkley RV, the renowned recreational vehicle manufacturer is set to unveil its inaugural travel trailer, the Model Z Air, at the Florida RV SuperShow — taking place from Jan. 16-21 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa.
The introduction of this new line is a pivotal moment in the company’s history, marking its expansion into the travel trailer segment alongside the existing Model G fifth-wheel toy hauler and Model Z fifth-wheel brands.
“Everybody knows travel trailer is the largest segment of the market so, for us, it’s a big deal. It also gets us into another category of buyers – who a lot of times eventually buy fifth-wheels. We’ve done pretty well in this upper-echelon category, and it feels good to kind of spread our wings a bit.”
—Nate Goldenberg, Co-owner and Operating Partner at Brinkley RV
Founded by a visionary ownership team consisting of brothers Ron and Bill Fenech, Nate Goldenberg, Micah Staley, and Ryan Thwaits, Brinkley RV has rapidly emerged as a key player in the industry. Currently boasting 497 employees and 168 dealer locations, the company continues to grow its production campus while diligently working on several upcoming model lines.
Brendin Green, an inside sales representative for Brinkley RV, has provided insight into the unique features that define the Model Z Air. This latest addition incorporates Brinkley’s signature elements, such as CraftSense wood trim construction, dovetail drawer joints, flush-floor slides with through-frame slideout mechanisms, Euro frameless square windows with integrated window screens and insulated blackout blinds, and an automotive-grade sealant package.
“Suspension, obviously, is a big deal. It’s a home on wheels, so we need to do everything we can to help lessen vibration and enhance towability. So, we’re using Lippert Road Armor Equalizer, half-inch shackle, greasable wet bolts. And then each wheel will actually have a shock absorber as well, which is pretty sweet. So, that’ll help big time with road vibration.”
—Brendin Green, inside sales representative for Brinkley RV
Distinctive to the Z Air line are features like a composite floor on a drop-frame chassis with over 100 cubic feet of exterior storage, a one-touch leveling system, 5,600-pound axles, and E-rated Goodyear tires mounted on 16-inch custom aluminum wheels.
Additional highlights include solid surface counters, an 18K variable speed main air conditioner, a 13.5K second AC unit, tankless on-demand water heater, heated enclosed underbelly with electric waste valves, custom LP box with battery storage, premium utility center with a retractable 65-foot water hose, industry-first brass plumbing connections, and a low-maintenance roof equipped with a 370-watt solar panel and pre-wired for an additional panel.
While the Model Z Air offers luxurious amenities, its 295 configuration, the first in the lineup, caters to diverse needs. Featuring 54-by-74-inch bunks in a private rear bedroom, the 34-foot, 9-inch unit also includes a 60-by-80-inch walk-around queen bed up front, a three-piece bathroom with a one-piece 30-by-42-inch shower.
In addition to this, it also features a living/kitchen area equipped with opposing sliders, a center island, and a spacious couch with theater seating and a removable dinette table. Interior highlights comprise a 50-inch TV on an articulating swivel arm and a heat-generating fireplace.
Final Thoughts On The Brinkley Model Z Air
The Model Z Air 295 boasts a dry weight of 9,168 pounds, a GVWR set at 11,495 pounds, and an 870-pound hitch weight. With an estimated MSRP of around $75,000, the only optional feature on this luxury unit is dual pane windows.
“We already hired the plant manager, assistant plant manager, all the group leads. We actually had them involved in the prototyping process, so they were a part of it from the frame up. So, when they start hiring, they know how this unit is supposed to be built. We’ll get the team, all of our core groups, will get started over at Hackberry. Then, when we move into the big plant (as early as April), we already have the people and already they know how to build the product.”
—Nate Goldenberg, Co-owner and Operating Partner at Brinkley RV
Anticipation surrounds the imminent arrival of the first production models of the Model Z Air, currently in progress at Brinkley’s original facility on Hackberry Drive, aptly named the “feeder plant.” These models are expected to reach dealer lots in March. As a testament to Brinkley RV’s commitment to innovation and expansion, a dedicated production facility for the Model Z Air is nearing completion at the company’s expansive campus on the southeast side of Goshen, Ind.
