New 400 Model T@B?

Tabaz

I think it's great that the factory has put this prototype out and asked for consumer feedback. I suggest a focus group to fine tune some of the current designs. Jenn, PXLated, Verna, Michigan Mike, Dale, Chris and Patty come to mind. 

jkjenn

PXLated said:

Jenn - You talking about the square shades around the round windows - if so, not good.

This stuff:



The Euro model doesn't have it probably because there is no screen, but it could benefit from something more elegant.

In the bathroom, the trim is more noticeable than the porthole, it's too heavy for the space..



Similar around the bed.

Verna

8 gal black
20 gal gray

30 gal fresh

Ducted Cool cat A/C--if you see round vents, that is the A/C

82" wide

16' long

8'+ tall

lapowers57

Given the number of people who express an interest in towing with the smallest TV possible, the 2500 lb weight will be an issue.  I have been towing with a Ford Explorer with a 210 hp engine and a 3100 lb tow capacity and found that in the mountains, fully loaded for a week plus of camping the TV was being heavily taxed. The 400 hundred will definitely require a bigger class TV then the 320.

lapowers57

Verna - Question about the bed.  I looks to me like it runs across the camper like the bed in a clam shell model 320, is the correct?  Is the 400 wider then the 320?  I thought from looking at the specs on the European trailers that the 320 and the 400 were nearly the same width.  If so a person 6 foot or taller will not fit comfortably.  Will there be other interior arrangements?

lapowers57

240Z, first car I nearly got killed in.  Lots of fun.  If dad only knew.  But this is off topic.

Sharon_is_SAM

The 400 is a foot wider, so at leadt 80 inch long bed.

lapowers57

I agree with Larrygon, I find the T@B MAX S to be nearly perfect for me.  The overall weight and length combined with the toilet/shower, heat, hot water, stove and fridge give me what I need.  To move into a larger camper I would need standing room for a 6'1" person.  To move to a larger T@B I would need a clam shell model that had a large enough bed for me to sleep in.  My preference is for classic finishes and this could include a mid century modern look with lots of wood.  A plastic modern finish does not do it for me.

I expect to keep my T@B MAX S for a long time.  I am turning 60 next year and think that the small size will allow me to keep camping for many years.  If my wife and I decide to spend a year on the road and just don't feel that the T@B MAX S will be big enough, I would look at an Alto camper with the retractable roof or an Airstream Bambi (I would not get rid of my T@B, just give it a rest for that year).  The Alto is probably the closest thing I have seen to the T@B 400.  Very similar sleeping arrangements but with full standing height for me and about 600 LBS less weight then the T@B 400.  

I am sure that the T@B 400 will tap into a segment of the market that the T@B 320 does not reach.  What I learned from sailing small boats is that there is always a bigger boat with just a few more options you think you need.  But each time you move up in size you spend more time and money maintaining the bigger boat and less time enjoying it.   For now the T@B 320 fits my minimalist needs.

Nomad

Jenn - Don't mind the square, somewhat heavy frame around retangular windows like we have in the T@B but squares around circles look unfinished. Actually, I think they steered down the wrong path with ovals. Like someone went "ooooooo" space moduly, cool. Circular in the door and potentially the bathroom like in the current T@Bs works, retangles everwhere else please. 

ericnliz

Verna, I checked out this 400 model on another site [European model]. Does the prototype have the lazy susan in the galley area? I thought that was a brilliant idea for storage. 
I have to agree with PXL on the wood choices. The lighter wood gives a better visual than the contrasting colors, more elegant and pleasing to the eye.
The bed area adjustable pieces are a BIG plus! Doesn't appear to be just a "gimmick" if you really look at the design. The design allows for a more versatile weight distribution, and versatility for individualizing the bed for different size and shape folks. Being tall [6'], and having a really bad back and knees, this would be a big plus for me!
The trim might not bother me so much around the windows if it were incorporated a little better, perhaps a smaller width. The trim around the porthole window should be round to compliment the window, not create a distraction, again with a smaller trim. I'm thinking they did that to alleviate the gaps around the screens to ward off the "no-see-ums" that tend to creep in. 
The extra storage areas are a HUGE plus.
The hydraulics on the bed, again, very nice.
The outside access to the winterizing, adjustable potion of the Alde system is fantastic.
Bigger, larger capacity battery a huge plus. I'm in agreement about sticking with the 20lb propane tanks. Easier to handle, take up less space, and much easier to find "exchanges" rather than re-fills. The systems in the T@Bs are frugal enough to not require the extra capacity tanks in my opinion.
Larger tire/ wheel combo, definitely, not only for aesthetics, but load capacity as well.
I REALLY like the fold-up sink in the bathroom area, and the built-ins for the TP, and toothbrushes, nice touch. More room and accessibility for the necessities in life! Another bathroom plus, central rather than in the lower portion of the trailer.
Separate dining, and sleeping area, another big plus, although I feel that the current table design appears a bit "cramping". I like Jenn's idea of a swivel table in that area for more versatility.
The big question, I'm sure everyone is curious about is just HOW big a TV you would safely need to tow with, and are they takin' trade-ins?

Photomom

I'm afraid I don't like the bed - even though it is wide enough for DH to sleep wheel to wheel, one of us would have to climb over the other to get up at night. Our current T@B lends itself to a twin bed setup with space between the beds and we rarely wake each other up for those nightly nature calls. I do like the bigger bathroom and perhaps DH would actually use it!

ericnliz

One more thought, the single dump for the black and gray water, you bettcha!

Sharon_is_SAM

Wonder if a Lagun pedestal/table could work here?

ericnliz

Photomom, Careful, 'ya might not get him out of there! I HATE having to sit to pee! [I know, TMI!] Just saying, I can totally relate!
Isn't the bed big enough the other way? Just asking because I don't know. Liz and I sleep the same way you guys do, so just curious.

ericnliz

Sam, I was wondering the same thing, only make it so you could remove it, and use it outside on another Lagun bracket outside. Just a thought. 

Photomom

lapowers57 said:

Given the number of people who express an interest in towing with the smallest TV possible, the 2500 lb weight will be an issue.  I have been towing with a Ford Explorer with a 210 hp engine and a 3100 lb tow capacity and found that in the mountains, fully loaded for a week plus of camping the TV was being heavily taxed. The 400 hundred will definitely require a bigger class TV then the 320.

Our Highlander is rated for 5000 pounds but I wouldn't be comfortable towing a larger trailer with it. Given the MPG drop we see, the engine is working HARD when towing. 4Runners are also rated 5000 pounds so we'd have to go to a Sequoia. Since we have only 3 years on our current vehicle, that's not gonna happen any time soon.

jcfaber1

I am wondering what size the fridge is?  The miniscule fridge is my single greatest complaint with our t@b.  I would like to see a larger 12v option so that we do not need to care about elevation, or being perfectly level or being able to ignite the burner or add a fan to move air inside to ensure proper cooling.  It is also more space efficient.  These use the newer Danfoss compressors and are much more efficient. They are made in Italy.  It's intended use is in boating such as sail boats that can be on a 30 degree heel without problem.  Similar compressor to the ARB. I have posted the link to two models for your consideration. They are 4.2 and 4.7 Cubit Ft with a meaningful freezer.

http://www.vfamerica.com/eng/seaclassic-c130l.html
http://www.vfamerica.com/eng/seaclassic-c115.html

These are basically the same unit but the difference is in a compressor that can be located in an out of the way space.  It fits in the same footprint as the Dometic 3 FT 2-3 way fridge. 

John

RZRBUG

I've read a few mentions of larger wheels for the 400, and I agree.  Beyond that, and probably more importantly, will the current torsion axle handle the added weight, or will a different axle/suspension be used?

ericnliz

How about a built-in level, front/rear, side to side from the factory to alleviate the guess work of having to install them?

mona

Would love to see a prototype in all the same wood. What is that dark stuff? There appears to be a shade in those square frames surrounding the round windows. Looks good from the outside, not so good from the inside. Love the look of the back end.
Jeannie

Nomad

RZRBUG - Betting beefier - The rPods have torsion and are 800-1000 lbs heavier (empty)

Cyclonic

Some more information and interior photos have been posted to the NuCamp site:

http://nucamprv.com/cirrus/blog/2016/09/21/nucamps-tb-400-debuts-to-rave-reviews/

dmerzbac

I really like the look of the 400, but I think the 320 will end up being my choice. I think it works best for a single person. (my opinion) I would need to buy another TV and I have a feeling the 400 is going to be a little bit out of my price range. But - NuCamp is going to sell a ton of these.  Dave

RZRBUG

Even if you have an adequate TV, the 400 will be more difficult to tow and handle.  That extra foot in width will create larger blind spots.  I know people tow monsters down the road all the time, but it is something to consider.  They will also be more difficult to maneuver around campsites by hand.

Not trying to be a stick in the mud.  I also think they will sell a ton of them and hope they do (wait, that would be just one, right?

I'm also staying with the 320.

Tabaz

The biggest complaint I hear from people who visit my TAB is the low ceiling height.  What is it in this new model?

Nomad

The width would be a concern. No going thru the Zion tunnel without an escort for instance.

Cyclonic

The new one will be a foot taller.

WildRumpus

I love the idea of a larger T@B as an option. Sure, I love my 320 now, but it's my first camper. I could see wanting a bigger one next (already eyeing those Airstream beauties I keep seeing at the parks).   So, it gets my vote on that! 2500lbs is still a relatively lightweight trailer. 

I HATE the cheesey '80s vinyl graphic. What attracted us to the T@B was that it was the ONLY model on the lot that didn't look like it was designed in the era of parachute pants and Rubic's Cubes.  The colored plastic panels of the current T@Bs are just iconic. If you're going to do away with them, you better do something REALLY special (like wood grain). Vinyl is a cheap, poor substitute. 

Clearly, it's a work in progress.  Keep it simple. Make it look like it was designed by Apple.  Minimize the different types of colors, textures and materials used to achieve a consistent look. I'm a graphic designer by trade, so to me it looks like it has "too many fonts" in this design. But it's off to a great start. I love the curves inside and the mood lighting. I can't wait to see the final product!

Nomad

Old graphic designer here also - Good description, too many fonts.
And like you, the current T@Bs remind me of Apple. Their website never has but the product does.

jkjenn

WildRumpus said:

Make it look like it was designed by Apple.  

I would definitely not buy it, then.