Chinook RV Unveils Its SUMMIT Class B+ Motorhome

Luxury travel trailer, toy hauler, B van, and B+ motorhome manufacturer Chinook RV, based in Peru, IN, is pleased to announce the long-awaited production of its newest model, the SUMMIT—a recent recipient of distinguished gold standard certification in four-season cold weather resistance from Truma, a leader in RV and motorhome heating systems and water heaters since 1949.

The Class B+ premium product line draws inspiration from iconic designs that launched Chinook RV to legendary status decades ago. “We went through painstaking detail to pay respect to the history and lineage of Chinook while developing the SUMMIT, even going so far as to use the original tooling and molds to craft the front and back cap,” said Jeff Butler, General Manager of Product Production at Chinook RV.

Admired for its innovative styling, high-quality construction, compact footprint, feature-rich floor plan, and convenient rear entry, the SUMMIT exemplifies superior craftsmanship, luxurious aesthetics, and practical functionality. “The SUMMIT may look like a normal B+ RV at first glance, yet it is anything but,” affirmed owner and president Phil

Rizzio. “In fact, the word ‘normal’ was left out of the Chinook team’s vocabulary—and further observation of the model shows why.”

Most B+ motorhomes rely on traditional fiberglass bonded walls. Chinook RV engineers turned to automotive design for inspiration, and enhanced the SUMMIT’s construction with a steel substructure that incorporates the sidewalls and roof. This roll-bar-like structure not only ensures a higher level of strength, safety, and durability, but also provides greater insulation. “Chinook RV has always been noted for quality construction and innovation since its inception, and this new model is no exception,” added Rizzio.

BUILD SPECS

At 23’-9”, the debut floor plan delivers timeless design elements, high end CNC-cut one-piece cabinetry, Infinity Woven vinyl floors with soft-touch vinyl finishes on interior walls and ceiling, dimmable LED lights, solid-surface countertops, and 6’-3” of interior head space. The living room is flanked with dual sofas, which open to a comfortable king-size bed, and an upgraded entertainment center package. A refrigerator with doors that open from either side, convection microwave, and induction cooktop complete the kitchen setup, with a private bathroom, separate shower, and full-length wardrobe positioned at the rear. Additional patio shade and comfort are provided by a 13' Carefree awning with wind sensor, which easily stows away during travel. Extra cargo and outdoor equipment can be safely tucked away in powder-coated steel storage boxes under the floor.

SUMMIT is powered by a 6-cylinder, fuel efficient diesel engine, with lithium house batteries as an available option— providing up to 630 amp hours of capacity. Additionally, the unit boasts upgrades like intelligent navigation, a four- camera monitoring system with display and Trac-Vision RV1 satellite system.

Taking full advantage of the proven Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the SUMMIT bears a GCWR of 16,030 lbs. and cargo-carrying capacity of 1,049 lbs. At 88 inches wide, the model is easy to maneuver and requires no exterior mirror extenders.

Pushing the SUMMIT beyond campground experiences is a highly-rated Truma Combi-Plus heater system with an integrated water heater, as well as a 30-gallon water tank, 24- gallon grey holding tank, and 24-gallon black holding tank; each holding tank includes tank sprayers for easy maintenance. Plus, with a 12V 30-amp power distribution center, 2000-watt Xantrex inverter with charger, 400-watt solar panel capacity, and on-board WiFi, travelers can head off-grid without sacrificing the modern conveniences of home. Thanks to a separate generator isolation hanger, which significantly reduces any vibration, the journey is a quiet and comfortable ride.

“With the water tank and waterlines installed inside, you can expect a hot shower even in freezing temperatures,” said Rizzio. “The SUMMIT team also enclosed and insulated the holding tanks, plus added ducted heat, to ensure they can withstand subzero temperatures.”

Moreover, the SUMMIT’s durable platform and sleek aerodynamic lines guarantee nimble handling with unparalleled style. Handcrafted options and a multi- functional layout demonstrate a fit, finish, and quality that is “unmistakably Chinook RV,” stated Butler.

“The SUMMIT’s unseen structure and subtleties set it apart from any other motorhome on the market,” he said. “Just like building a house, we started with a solid foundation.”

The model’s steel welded sub-floor frame is mounted on rubber isolation pads, creating reliable structural integrity for the chassis. Chinook RV also

incorporated a new B-Pillar support hoop as a part of the overall structure. The ride is ultra-quiet as a result of these build enhancements. Likewise, a 5” thick, fully-bonded roof differentiates the SUMMIT from competitive units, which rely on 2” thick roofs. Dual-pane frameless windows and a unique flooring system with a thermal and moisture barrier transform the SUMMIT from merely comfortable to energy efficient.

While many companies claim four-season status, a gold level certification from Truma further increases credibility of the SUMMIT program and sets a new standard in Class B+ motorhomes going forward. “Travelers who want a vehicle that offers ‘go-anywhere’, all-season functionality and truly comfortable full-time living now have a real option—and it’s the SUMMIT,” said Butler.

Innovative features like the vehicle’s thicker roof, insulated sidewalls and sub-flooring, dual-pane frameless windows, as well as advanced methods of construction cemented the Truma designation. For example, the company’s proprietary way of applying thermo and moisture-resistant barrier products reduces thermal transfer by 40%—helping to keep more heat in the vehicle.

The SUMMIT endured rigorous temperature testing, wherein the unit was sealed in a cold chamber at -15 degrees Celsius overnight. Typically, to meet the gold standard, five temperature sensors are applied for monitoring cold spots throughout the coach. Chinook RV went above and beyond with 21 in total because of its confidence in the product.

To qualify, the coach must warm to 20 degrees Celsius within a four-hour period under these conditions. The SUMMIT easily surpassed the requirement with a time of three hours, 20 minutes. Furthermore, whereas most units begin to level off in their temperature gain, the SUMMIT kept climbing. The overall test results exceeded everyone’s expectations.

A Truma gold standard designation is the culmination of a lot of hard work by a lot of people. “Jeff Butler has worked in manufacturing plants to include Monaco in Oregon and Dynamax in Elkhart, and he has put his all into the SUMMIT. John Nelson, Fiberglass and R&D Manager, came to Chinook RV years ago from Country Coach, and has experience and knowledge that most will never achieve. Such experience is evident in the SUMMIT,” said Rizzio.

“Discussion of this project dates back years. Phil challenged us with a vision to set a new standard, to create something that is totally different in the marketplace—and we got it done. We’re all reveling in this moment, soaking in the excitement and celebrating production of the SUMMIT,” added Butler.

The SUMMIT will make its debut at the Spring RV Outdoor Showcase hosted by Midwest Gateway RV Dealers Association at Six Flags in St. Louis April 9 – 11. The model is expected to hit the market fully-equipped under $200,000, with firm pricing released closer to product launch. Production volumes are dependent upon Mercedes- Benz chassis availability and timing, but initial shipments to select dealers across the country are estimated in Q4 2021. Chinook RV is accepting pre-orders. Please call (574) 584-3756 or email info@chinookrv.com for additional information.