JCB Launches New Workmax UTV

JCB Workmax 800 D

JCB Workmax 800 D

UK based JCB has added a new 4×4 utility vehicle to their Workmax product line, the Workmax 800 D.  Targeting the UK and European markets, the 800 D features a 600 kg payload and a 784cc Yanmar diesel engine.  The 4×4 drive plus locking differential is electronic.  Management believes that the utility vehicle market in Europe is still developing and offers plenty of opportunity for growth.  Accordingly, this year JCB has put more emphasis on UTVs rather than ATVs as the former is becoming the preferred work vehicle in many applications.  They have also expanded their dealer network beyond their traditional construction equipment dealers to include specialist ATV and agricultural equipment dealers.  Learn more:  MHWMaagazine.co.uk

Ingersoll Rand Reports Earnings

Ingersoll Rand, parent company of Club Car, announced 4Q 2010 and full year earnings.

The company’s reported revenues increased 13 percent to $3,712 million, compared with revenues of $3,281 million for the 2009 fourth quarter. Total revenues excluding currency were up 14 percent, compared with 2009. … Full-year 2010 net revenues were $14,079 million, and increased 7 percent compared with reported net revenues of $13,102 million in 2009. Operating income for 2010 totaled $1,247 million, an increase of 43 percent compared with $872 million in 2009.

Relative to the rest of the company, Club Car underperformed.

Club Car revenues increased slightly compared with the fourth quarter of 2009, as increased sales for both golf cars and aftermarket were partially offset by declines in utility vehicles. Bookings declined due to slowing demand in the North American golf market and more difficult year-over-year comparisons.

Learn more:  IEWY.com

Company News

Curtis Wins Award For Cab System – Curtis Industries was recently chosen by Car & Driver Magazine to receive the SEMA Global Media Award for the  PathPro SS cab system for the Polaris Ranger UTV.  The year round enclosure can easily mount to the factory installed Roll-Over Protection System.  Learn more:  blog.curtisindustries.net

Case IH Announces UTV Rebate – Effective as of January 1st of this year, Case IH added their Scout utility vehicles to the rebate program program for Iowa Farm Bureau members.  Purchasers of new utility vehicles will be eligible for a $300 rebate.  Learn more:  Iowafarmbureau.com

Kandi Technolgies Trades On NASDAQ Global Market – As of last Monday, January 11th, Kandi Technologies switched from being traded on the NASDAQ Capital Market to the NASDAQ Global Market.  The Chinese exporter of the CoCo LSV as well as gas and electric UTVs, ATVs, go-karts and other small, task-oriented vehicles trades under the symbol KNDI.  Learn more:  Motorsportsnewswire.wordpress.com

E-Z-GO Partners With Dixie Sales Company To Expand Service Network – E-Z-GO has partnered with Dixie Sales Company to offer qualified outdoor power equipment dealers the opportunity to become E-Z-GO authorized sales and service centers.  As such, they will be able to offer parts and accessories for E-Z-GO and Cushman vehicles.  Dixie Sales Company is an independent, full service, value added distributor.  Learn more:  Benzinga.com

Bad Boy Buggies Recall & Acquisition

Recently acquired Bad Boy Buggies announced a large recall to address ongoing acceleration problems with their Classic model.  The recall covers approximately 9,300 vehicles sold from 2003 to 2010 including models involved in a 2009 recall that unsuccessfully attempted to solve the same problem. The vehicles can accelerate without warning and have led to some injuries.  Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Bad Boy Buggies was acquired by E-Z-Go in October 2010 and now operates as BB Buggies, Inc.  Given the extent of the recall and assuming management new the recall was imminent, being acquired may have been the only recourse for the company.  For E-Z-Go the vehicle line adds a 4-by-4 electric platform to their extensive product line.  In our discussion with executives about the acquisition they remarked that they see potential in the platform beyond its current positioning as primarily a hunting vehicle.  In local newspaper reports E-Z-Go management has stated that for now they will be keeping manufacturing facilities in the Natchez, MS but will be analyzing the best course of action in the future.  Bad Boy Buggies CEO Skrabo noted the top-notch engineering and manufacturing facilities E-Z-Go brings to the situation.  Learn more:  Chronicle.augusta.com

Kandi COCOC LSV Receives Chinese Approval

Kandi Technologies COCO LSV recently qualified to be eligible for certain Chinese government energy programs.  The vehicles can now be marketed to Chinese consumers and government agencies and are available for various local and regional subsidies.  Management also formalized a partnership with China-based battery maker Tianneng Power International, Ltd. and Jinhua Bada Group, a subsidiary of State Grid Power Corp. to create China’s first Electric Vehicle battery replacement services company.  Kandi will make batteries available on a rental basis for their vehicles and the partnership will create a network of charging and battery replacement locations.  Learn more:  RTTNews.com

Cub Cadet Recalls Utility Vehicles

Cub Cadet voluntarily recalled approximately 200 Cub Cadet Volunteer utility vehicles because the front lower ball joint can detach and cause a loss of steering control. No injuries relating to the problem have been reported.  The vehicles were sold between April and September 2010.  Customers should stop using the vehicles and schedule a free repair.  Cub Cadet can be contacted toll-free at (888) 848-6038  or at  www.cubcadet.com .  Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Cub Cadet Volunteer VTX Crossover UTV

Cub Cadet sent some additional pictures of their new crossover UTV, the Volunteer VTX, which they unveiled at the recent SEMA show.  The accompanying press release follows.

Cub Cadet Volunteer VTX
Cub Cadet Volunteer VTX Crossover UTV

NEW VOLUNTEER VTX CROSS-OVER CONCEPT STAKES CLAIM

IN NEW UTV CLASS AT SEMA

Cub Cadet Announces Vision for Uniquely Transformable Utility Vehicle

Las Vegas, Nev. (Nov. 2, 2010) – Knowing that consumers demand a utility vehicle that excels at applications related to both work and recreation, Cub Cadet is excited to unveil its newest concept vehicle, the Volunteer VTX, during the premiere performance industry event, SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association). From its new engine and drive train to numerous innovative features and fresh purposeful styling, the Volunteer VTX gives users premium power and seemingly unlimited versatility. And, with its new transformable cross-over design, it’s ideal for institutional and municipal work, event production and VIP transport, large property maintenance and recreational use, medical and security applications and more. Maximizing the possibilities of the UTV, the Volunteer VTX concept ushers in the industry’s first transformable Utility Vehicle.

“Whether it’s tackling a variety of professional work-related needs, taking on extreme, challenging terrain or transporting VIPs, the new Volunteer VTX concept utility vehicle represents the epitome of both form and function, bringing high style to high performance and high capability applications,” said Jeff Salamon, director of marketing.  “The essence of the new VTX concept utility vehicle is a combination of powerful utility with incredible transformability – allowing users unprecedented UTV functionality.  Pushing the boundaries of the UTV as we know it, the cross-over design of the VTX opens the market to a new class of transformable Utility Vehicles.”

To establish a future vision of UTVs and create the Volunteer VTX concept, Cub Cadet partnered with power sports industry leader, Cycra. The Volunteer VTX creates a new class of transformable Utility Vehicles that set higher expectations of what a UTV can provide.  The concept easily transforms – even in remote locations – for multiple high-demand, high-profile and challenging applications.

To manage difficult municipal tasks, tackle challenging event-related jobs, move cargo and/or people, the VTX concept offers many of the rugged features found across the proven Volunteer platform with several enhancements in form and function. For those jobs that require additional power, the VTX cross-over includes 12-volt power outlets, hook-ups for air-powered tools and multi-functional high-intensity lighting.

For those looking to explore more challenging terrain, the VTX also offers a wide range of upgrades including a new engine and drive-train. Under the hood is a powerful, parallel-twin Webber engine with twice the horsepower found on the current Volunteer EFI allowing it to reach speeds of 45 mph plus. In keeping with the versatility theme, maximum speed can be easily controlled as necessary by using special speed keys.

Directly in line with its progressive design and styling are a full range of innovative features guaranteed to make a day’s tasks and journey as enjoyable as the destination. Features include unique, foldable jump seats that provide the flexibility to carry up to five riders or create more space behind the front seats for cargo or as a work area. The bed sides fold down to transform the VTX into a mobile work station complete with tool hookups. The fully digitized dashboard displays a digital instrumentation pod above the steering wheel, including in-dash GPS and radio capabilities. For those adventures that demand even more than four-wheel drive, the VTX comes with a front, rear and portable winch.

The all-new VTX concept vehicle offers users:

  • Versatility to do More: Whether it’s moving people, valuable equipment or cargo, the VTX quickly and easily converts from the ultimate transporter to the ultimate mobile work station. Features include rear jump-seats that can accommodate more people or be folded down and out of the way to reveal a sizable flat surface with an innovative versatile track system.  This highly adaptable area can be used simply as additional storage space or, thanks to the track system, used for a variety of purposes ranging from a slide-out work support area to a secure storage case system and even to carrying a stretcher. The possibilities are nearly unlimited. In addition to the jump seat area, the rear bed sides of the VTX fold flat to create a large remote work shop. On-board 110V electric outlets and retractable air hose allow the use of power tools and more.
  • A Comfortable Ride: Thanks to a custom contoured bench seat and adjustable suspension, the VTX holds riders in place and gives users a smooth, stable, and comfortable ride on both civilized and uncivilized terrain.
  • More Power: Relying on an 850cc Webber engine and electronic on-dash shifting, users will have more power at their fingertips than any other Volunteer utility vehicle with the ability to comfortably reach speeds of 45+ mph.
  • Speed Key Technology: For specific applications users can choose between two separate speed keys that set top speeds. For work around schools, municipalities, job-sites and residential communities, the lower speed key restricts speed to 25 mph. The high speed option key allows for 45+ mph — perfect for longer excursions.
  • High-Profile Styling: The design of the new VTX concept combines assertive styling with purposeful design for an unequaled combination of high-profile appearance, unmatched versatility and rugged durability.  The VTX is a utility vehicle that brings high style to high performance applications.
  • Fully-Digital Interface: A dynamic digital display conveniently located on the steering column allows users to easily access vital information.  An in-dash monitor with GPS and rear-facing camera view gives riders a true global view. The accessibility to information provided by the VTX is unlike any other UTV on the market.

Three Volunteer utility vehicles will be featured at the 2010 SEMA Show: the new 850cc Volunteer VTX concept vehicle, a 4×4 V2 concept vehicle with a Harley-Davidson Revolution engine and a stock Volunteer 4×4 EFI.  All three UTVs will be available for attendees and the press to preview at Volunteer Booth 38040 and in the feature vehicle display area. For more information about the Volunteer utility vehicles manufactured by Cub Cadet visit www.CubCadetUV.com.

About Cub Cadet

A leader in the outdoor power equipment industry, Cub Cadet has been engineering innovative, premium quality products for more than 50 years.  Through a dedicated and extensive network of dealers and retailers, Cub Cadet delivers a full line of high performance equipment and services that cover all aspects of grounds care for professional and residential customers – including innovative all wheel steer, zero turn riders; application equipment; utility vehicles; lawn & garden tractors, lithium ion- and gasoline-powered handheld & chore products, snow throwers and more.  Based in the U.S., the Cub Cadet brand is globally-recognized for its legacy in engineering excellence and its progressive dedication to exceeding owner expectations with better products, a better experience and better results.  For more information on all Cub Cadet products, visit www.CubCadet.com.

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Club Car Recall

Club Car is voluntarily recalling approximately 5,000 Model 2010 DS golf cars and hospitality, utility and transport vehicles because the brake pedal can crack and separate, resulting in a loss of braking ability.  Two incidents have been reported but no injuries.  The vehicles were sold between April and July 2010.  Club Car is contacting customers directly and will inspect and replace brake pedals for free.  For more information, contact Club Car at (800) 227-0739, ext. 3580 between 8 a.m and 5 p.m. ET or go to the firm’s website at www.clubcar.com (pdf).  Learn more:  CPSC.gov

 


 

 

Company News Briefs

Cub Cadet Sponsors Design Contest – Outdoor Power equipment maker Cub Cadet is sponsoring the Cub Cadet Future Vision Design Contest.  The contest is open to anyone with a vision for futuristic lawn mowers, tractors or utility vehicles.  Learn more:  Designcrave.com

Yamaha’s Kevin Norcross Gets Expanded Duties – Yamaha Golf-Car Company has put Kevin Norcross in charge of their National Direct Sales team.  The new duties will be in addition to his current work as Marketing Department Manager.  Learn more:  Worldgolf.com

Ladybug Resource Acquires Mag International – Ladybug Resource, a company that acquires and licenses technologies, patents, patents-pending and trade secrets in the energy, health and intellectual property sectors, has acquired controlling interest in Mag International, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of gasoline and electric mini-utility vehicles.  Learn more:  Tradingmarkets.com

ZAP and Remy Electric Motors Partner – Remy Electric Motors will be the new electric motor suppler for ZAP.  The companies will also work together on developing a drivetrain for other ZAP automotive platforms and for vehicles related to ZAP’s joint venture in China.  Learn more:  Indianapressreeleases.com

Arctic Cat Announces Earnings & New CEO

Arctic Cat CEO Christopher Twomey announced he will step down at the end of the year and will be succeeded by Claude Jordan who currently overseas the ATV business segment.  Arctic Cat also announced better than expected earnings for their second quarter that ended September 30.  The ATV business, which includes UTVs grew by 9%, from $51.7 million to $56.6 million compared to the same quarter last year.  In their earnings conference call management stated that the growth was driven by sales of their Prowler HDX and growth in international markets.  The HDX targets the work rather recreation portion of the UTV market.   Management also reported maintaining market share in the segment.  In comparing half year totals, the ATV business grew from $83.9 to $84.5 million or 1%, indicating that majority of the sales and growth occurred in the second quarter.  Combined with the recent earnings news from Polaris, indications are that the UTV market is gaining some momentum.  Learn more:  StarTribune.com