Hustler Turf’s New MDV UTV

Posted on October 5, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The new MDV utility vehicle from Hustler with a unique cargo bed technology. Photo: Pinkston’s Inc.

More information on the Level Lift technology used in the Hustler MDV. Photo: Pinkston’s Inc.

A frontal view of the Hustler MDV. Photo: Pinkston’s Inc.

Hustler Turf Equipment, a manufacturer of zero-turn mowers for residential and commercial customers, has launched a new utility vehicle, the MDV (Maximum Duty Vehicle) with Level Lift technology. Level Lift technology allows the user to move the cargo bed from the vehicle to flat on the ground and vice-versa. At any point during this movement cargo can be lifted, lowered or dumped. The Hustler MDV was recently shown to dealers at a Hustler company event in Nashville and will be on display at the GIE+EXPO in Louisville, KY later this month. Learn more: Pinkstons

Comment: This is another example of a power equipment company trying to take advantage of their unique distribution network. The turf and lawn care UTV market is seeing big name UTV brands using partnerships and contract manufacturing deals to reach this market, as well as, outdoor equipment brands develop their own products. It will be interesting to see how the level lift technology does in the market and whether other manufacturers will develop something similar. It could be popular in larger institutional or other settings where there might be interest in trying to limit work place injuries due to lifting cargo in and out of vehicles.

Nikola Motor Reveals Electric UTV Prototype

Posted on September 19, 2016 by Marc Cesare

A prototype of the Nikola Zero all electric UTV from Nikola Motor.

A view of the Nikola Zero cockpit.

In May, Nikola Motor, known more for developing an electric powered long-haul truck, also announced that it was developing an impressive electric powered UTV, the Nikola Zero. Now, in September the company has unveiled a prototype vehicle. According to the company, here are some of the key specifications for the vehicle:

100% electric powered vehicle
Range up to 200 miles
400 volts
Up to 520 hp
Up to 467 ft-lbs of torque
72kWh Battery
All-wheel Drive
Instant torque in < 1 sec
0-60 mph in 3 seconds
20″ suspension
32″ tires
14.5″ of ground clearance
Optional 10 degree rear steering box
Waterproof motor and gearbox
Two 7″ displays or one optional 15″ display
Seats 4

A 2-seat version will also be offered according to management. The vehicle will be priced at $37,000 and the target date for deliveries is Q3 2017. A model can be reserved with a $750 deposit. Learn more: Electrek.co

Comment: From the pictures, the Nikola Zero appears to also have solar panels on the roof. At 72kWh the battery pack for the Nikola Zero is very large. By comparison the Ranger EV Li-Ion battery pack features a 30v 8.3 kWh battery and a 15v 4.1 kWh battery. The price point also seems to be on the low side given the size of the battery pack. The Ranger EV Li-Ion with a much smaller battery pack sell for a $11,700 premium over their standard Ranger EV. Given that high performance UTVs sell for $25,000 or more, the price premium of a similar vehicle with a large lithium ion battery pack should place the Nikola Zero at a price point well above $37,000. It will be interesting to see if the vehicle can make it to market. In any case, the vehicle is another indication of a continuing trend of electric UTVs being purposefully built for more demanding applications and uses other than hunting.

Tata Motors Launches SuperAce Mini-Truck in Vietnam

Posted on September 14, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Tata Motors has launched their SuperAce mini-truck in Vietnam.

Tata Motors, with their partner TMT Motors, have launched the Tata SuperAce mini-truck in Vietnam. The SuperAce is positioned as a versatile replacement for a small pick-up truck. The vehicle has a one ton payload and comes with either a diesel or gas engine and has a top speed of 130 km per hour. The vehicle can be used for inter or intra-city transport and for a wide range of goods including construction material, produce and consumer goods. According to Tata Motors management, “Through our partnership with TMT Motors, we are committed to shaping the commercial vehicles industry here and are determined to build a long-lasting relationship with the customer for competitive business advantages and the trusted credentials of the Tata Motors brand,”. Tata Motors sees a lot of potential in the fast growing Vietnamese economy and announced their intention to enter the market last year.

Learn more: Thestatesman.com

Comment: While not as popular in the US market, in Southeast Asia and in other countries mini-trucks are quite popular. They are integral for delivering goods in the hub and spoke system employed in these countries. The small-sized trucks can more easily maneuver in crowded and narrow city streets to deliver goods the “last mile” from large distribution centers. In the US they can be seen on farms and are usually imported used vehicles. With their top speeds mini-trucks don’t meet the safety standards for full on-road use in the US and are too fast too be considered low speed vehicles. Approximately 20 states allow mini-trucks on roads where it is locally permitted. Depending on the state mini-trucks are not allowed on highways or, in some cases, not allowed on roads with speed limits above 35 mph. Vantage Vehicle International offers vehicles that are mini-truck like in styling but are configured as LSVs.

New Models Reveal Market Trends

Posted on September 13, 2016 by Marc Cesare

While the growth of the small, task-oriented vehicle market (STOV) may not be as strong as a few years ago, the proliferation of new models since the beginning of the year indicate a competitive and still growing market. The STOV market includes utility vehicles(UTVs)/side-by-sides, golf cars and LSVs. UTVs make up the largest share of the STOV market and not surprisingly that is where much of the action is. The UTV segment is also where much of the growth opportunity is as well.

A review of over 25 brands and product lines including all of the major players in the UTV market, as well as smaller ones, shows that approximately 80 new models were launched since the end of 2015. These have included completely new entrants, product line extensions, special edition models customized for specific applications and product line upgrades.

Yamaha continues to build out their UTV line with models like the 2017 Wolverine EPS.

A major factor in this large number of new models has been the re-entry of established powersports brands into the market over the last several years. For example, Honda after being somewhat dormant after their Big Red UTVs pursued the market with their Pioneer line. Meanwhile Yamaha had built out the work oriented Viking line, the Wolverine crossover line and more recently attacked the pure recreational/sport segment with their YXZ line.

The Ranger XP 1000 EPS in Nara Bronze features more horsepower than the XP 900.

An analysis of recent model introductions illuminates important trends in the market including the continued push for higher horsepower vehicles, targeting ‘value’ buyers with lower price point models, developing models with accessory packages for specialized applications, and shifts in the electric UTV segment. These trends and others are discussed in an article a I recently posted in our buying guide section.

Martex Global Launches War Horse Line of Electric UTVs

Posted on August 25, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The new War Horse 4×4 All Electric is part of a new electric product line from Martex Global Enterprises.

There is also a crew version of the 4×4 All Electric.

Martex Global Enterprise, LLC of Fort Worth, TX, is introducing an all-electric and hybrid line under the War Horse™ brand. The company, under the direction of Ben King, President and CEO,has for many years manufactured and sold the HuntVe™ line of all-electric 4 X 4 hunting vehicles. The War Horse is similar to the HuntVe, as a four-wheel drive vehicle, but as King explains, “Unlike the HuntVe 4×4 line which is marketed to, and targets only, the hunting industry, the War Horse 4×4 has a broader appeal and speaks to commercial/ industrial/ government applications as well as the general trail riding and outdoor loving consumer.” There are four models in the line, two all-electric, one of which is a crew-type vehicle, seating four, and two are hybrid vehicles, a two-seater and a four-seater crew model.

The War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx features a 64 volt electric power train and 460cc gas engine for range extension.

There is a hybrid crew version as well with theWar Horse 4×4 Hybrid Crew Maxx.

The hybrid models, as well as the all-electrics, feature dual, 38 hp, direct drive motors. As King explains, “We considered moving to a single motor with drive shaft like most of the electric 4×4 competitors, but despite the cost savings, found that a single motor electric 4×4 will not perform to our expectations, and it makes so much more noise.” The expected range extension comes from a 480 cc gas generator, which can extend the range by approximately 30 miles. The War Horse specs call for a 20 mile off-road range in electric mode which looks very conservative for the vehicle when not in an off-road environment. Via the convenient on-board charger, the generator will keep the batteries charged for the extra mileage and can be used to recharge the batteries when not driving. In fact, the recharge time from a flat state of charge is only two hours, according to King.

The all electric models feature:

72-volt high performance electric system
38 hp dual direct drive motors
On-board charger
4-wheel independent suspension
Switch on the fly 2WD/4WD
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
Protective side doors
Head, tail and brake lights
11″ of ground clearance

The hybrid models feature:

64-volt high performance electric system
38 hp dual direct drive motors
460cc gas engine
4-wheel independent suspension
Switch on the fly 2WD/4WD
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
Protective side doors
Head, tail and brake lights
11″ of ground clearance

The MSRPs for the models are as follows:

War Horse 4×4 All Electric $14,799
War Horse 4×4 Crew All Electric $15,799
War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx $16,499
War Horse 4×4 Hybrid Maxx Crew $17,299

To learn more about the vehicle’s development see our article in our Buying Guide section.

Polaris Introduces 2017 Side-by-Sides

Posted on July 27, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Polaris announced new model year 2017 side-by-sides along with their new Ride Command technology.

New RZRs

The new MY2017 RZR XP 1000 Gold Matte Metallic LE from Polaris.

Polaris is introducing the new RZR XP 1000 EPS Gold Matte Metallic Limited Edition with a new 55-percent-lower low gear, all-new Xtreme Performance All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and a factory-installed, and turnkey accessory package with premium trail and rock accessories such as high clearance A-Arms and rear radius rods, rock sliders, a premium HMW skid plate and Pro Armor Crawler XG tires with beadlocks. The MSRP for this Limited Edition model is $23,999.

At a lower price point is the new RZR S 570 EPS in Indy Red.

For those on a smaller budget there is the new RZR S 570 EPS, a 60″ wide side-by-side with a 45 hp engine, electronic power steering and a $12,999 MSRP.

The Ride Command display for the new Ride Command technology from Polaris.

Polaris is also offering their new Ride Command technology as standard equipment on the RZR XP 1000 EPS Velocity Blue Limited Edition model. Ride Command uses an app and a weather-resistant Ride Command 7-inch display to connect people to their machines and people-to-people for a more social off-road experience. Users are able to map rides in advance and transfer waypoints from their phones to the display via Bluetooth, plan and share their ride stats and track their friends’ locations while riding. In addition, drivers can integrate devices such as mobile phones to receive messages and play music, control their go GoPro and sync Sena headsets to talk to passengers all through the Ride Command 7-inch display. The Ride Command display is available as an accessory for other models for $1,499.99

New Rangers

The Ranger XP 1000 EPS in Nara Bronze.

The Northstar special edition version of the new Ranger XP 1000 lineup features EPS and a full cab with HVAC.

Polaris has added new 80 hp Ranger XP 1000 and Crew XP 1000 models. There is one Ranger XP 1000 base model priced at $13,999, three EPS models at $15,999 and four special edition models with MSRPs ranging from $16,999 for the Hunter Edition to $23,699 for the Northstar HVAC Edition. The latter comes with a full cab and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system. There is also High Lifter Edition model for mud riding and a Ranch Edition for work.

The High Lifter special edition Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS for mud riding in Titanium Matte Metallic.

The base model Ranger Crew XP 1000 in Sage Green.

Similarly there is a new lineup of Ranger Crew XP 1000 models including one base model priced at $15,199 MSRP, three EPS models at $16,999 and High Lifter and Northstar HVAC Editions priced at $20,499 and $25,999 respectively.

New Generals

The new four passenger General 4 1000 EPS.

Also new for model year 2017 is the General 1000 EPS Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo.

For model year 2017 the General lineup adds the four-passenger General 4 1000 EPS with a $20,999 MSRP and a Hunter Edition in Polaris Pursuit Camo priced at $18,999. Other two-passenger models are upgraded with VersaTrac Turf Mode.

New Polaris ACE

At the high end of the ACE lineup is the new 900 XC with a 78 hp engine.

At the entry level is the Polaris ACE 500 with a 32 hp engine.

For model year 2017 the Polaris ACE lineup adds a more powerful and affordable entry-level model and a new 78 hp Polaris ACE 900 XC. The latter is priced at $12,999 and includes electronic power steering, Walker Evans compression adjustable needle shocks, 27″ GBC Commander tires, performance tilt steering wheel, blue tooth capable instrumentation, and a cut and sew seat. The Polaris ACE 500 features a 32 hp, 500 cc EFI engine and has a $6,999 MSRP. Learn more: www.polaris.com

Textron Targets UTV Market With New Stampede 900 Models

Posted on May 4, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The new gas powered Stampede 900 from Bad Boy Off Road.

In search of new growth opportunities Textron Specialized Vehicles is targeting the off-road utility vehicle market with their new Bad Boy Off-Road Stampede 900 models. The vehicles represent a new strategy for the company as they add a gas powered UTV to their Bad Boy Buggie line of electric powered vehicles. At the same time they are re-branding the product line under the Bad Boy Off-Road brand, which now includes the new Stampede 900 models, existing Ambush and Recoil Bad Boy Buggie models as well as Onslaught 550 gas powered ATV models.

The Bad Boy Buggie line has had limited success, as electric powered hunting vehicles are more of a niche market and face competition from lower priced modified golf cars. The new Bad Boy Off Road platform should provide ample opportunities for the company to branch into a range of off-road market segments. However, these markets are increasingly competitive as many manufacturers with strength in certain market segments look to attack other segments.

The Stampede line launches with three different 2-passenger models: the base 900 model, the 900 EPS and the 900 EPS +. The Stampede 900 EPS adds electronic power steering, a selectable locking rear differential, a Jet Black color option and high beam headlights. In addition to these features, the Stampede 900 EPS+ adds 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires with aluminum alloy wheels, a platinum color option and color accented contoured bench seats. Both EPS models feature a USB port. The following are key features across all models unless noted:

80 hp, 846cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, twin cylinder, SOHC gas engine
59 ft-lb of torque
Electronic fuel injection
CVT
Double A-Arm suspension with performance shocks and front and rear sway bars
9.5″/10.5″ front/rear suspension travel
11.25″ of ground clearance
4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
26″ Kenda off-road performance tires with steel wheels (Except for 900 EPS+ model)
Extended cab
24-cu-ft of storage
600 lb. capacity tilt cargo bed
2,000 lb. towing capacity
LCD Display
Contoured bench seat
Doors
3-point seat belts
Front steel brush guard
Steel tube ROPS

The MSRPs for the models are $13,799 for the Stampede 900, $14,799 for the Stampede 900 EPS and $15,599 for the Stampede 900 EPS+. There are over 70 accessories available as well as a Workman’s package and a Hunter’s package. Learn more: Badboyoffroad.com

Comment: The Stampede line with the 80 hp engine and other features is clearly a crossover vehicle that can be used for work or recreation. The price points are in the mid-range of the market. The question is how will this new market entrant fair in a highly competitive market. Textron will likely have to expand their dealer network, which has traditionally been golf car dealers and material handling equipment dealers. The existing network is considerably smaller than the dealer networks of other powersports companies. In addition, the network’s existing customer base and geographic locations may not match up well with the target market.

2016 PGA Show: Evolution Electric Vehicles Introduces Revolution 4-seater LSV

Posted on February 9, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The new Revolution LSV from Evolution Evolution Vehicles.

The new Revolution LSV from Evolution Electric Vehicles.

A view from the front of the Revolution LSV.

The perspective from the rear shows the Revolution’s LED taillights, brake lights and turn signals, as well as the rear bumper.

A side view of the 4-seat LSV.

Evolution Electric Vehicles launched their Revolution vehicle, a 4-seater LSV powered by a 72V AC system. The 4.0kw AC motor is paired with a 300 amp Curtis programmable controller and features regenerative braking. The Revolution also features an independent front and rear suspension, powder coated chassis, TPO injection moulded body, 12 inch aluminum wheels and four wheel hydraulic brakes. The model includes LSV features such as 3-point seat belts, laminated windshield, LED headlights, brake lights and turn signals, rear view mirrors and DOT tires. Additional features include:

Adjustable bucket seats
Air conditioning
Mp3 layer
Windshield wiper and washer
On board charger
Front and rear bumpers
Electric powered door windows
Air conditioner

Company management stated that additional Revolution variants will be launched later this year.

Company management stated that these additional Revolution variants will be launched later this year.

The vehicle is currently available at authorized dealer. Later in the year the company will be launching several variations including a 2-seater with a long pick-up bed, a 2-seater with a short pick-up bed and 2-seater with an enclosed cargo box. The company produces several other product lines of people movers, utility vehicles and golf cars. Learn more: Evolution Electric Vehicles

2016 PGA Show: Torq Off-Road Electric Vehicles Showcases Suppressor VLE Electric Side-by-Side

Posted on February 8, 2016 by Marc Cesare

The spartan and aggressive looking Torq Suppressor VLE utility vehicle features a low-slung design, which results in a low center of gravity.

A frontal view of the Torq Suppressor VLE with seating for two.

A frontal view of the Torq Suppressor VLE Side X Side with racing-style four-point harnesses and seating for two.

A view of the vehicles quick-release steering wheel and instrument panel.

A view of the vehicle’s instrument panel and quick-release steering wheel.

The Torq Suppressor VLE’s AC powertrain.

Torq Off-Road Electric Vehicles used the 2016 PGA Show to showcase their Suppressor VLE Side X Side, an electric powered hunting and recreational vehicle. The company also has a single seat version, the Solo. VLE stands for Very Light Electric, and the models have a curb weight of about 1,020 lbs. Both models are powered by a 48-volt AC brushless powertrain with a 450 amp Curtis controller which produces 18 hp and a top speed of 25 mph. The battery pack consists of eight Crown 6-volt AGM batteries with an estimated run time of 3 to 3.5 hours. Other features include:

12.49:1 Team Industries Slip Disc Differential
Width of only 58.5″
10″ of ground clearance
PRP suspenison
Dual A-Arm front suspension with coil over, multi-position, pre-load adjusted shocks
A-Arm rear suspension with coil over shocks
All-wheel disc brakes
25″ tires
Four-point racing-style harness
Quick-release steering wheel
MSRPL Suppressor VLE Side X Side – $15,500; Suppressor VLE Solo – $14,500;

While hunting is a key application for the Torq vehicles, it is certainly not the only one as the company is also marketing the vehicle as a recreational vehicle as well. Compared to other electric hunting vehicles, Torq’s design and look will likely have more appeal to off-road recreational riders. This dual application design is also a good idea from a marketing standpoint. Research SVR has done in the market indicates that the electric hunting vehicle market is limited to only certain areas of the country where geography and the type of hunting lend itself to the use and expense of a dedicated hunting vehicle. The design of the Torq models should appeal to a wider potential market, although versions with a higher top speed would probably broaden the appeal in the recreational market. The company has started to build out their dealer network.

2016 PGA Show: Sunright International Introduces HJS Big Horn UTVs

Posted on February 5, 2016 by Marc Cesare

Sunright International introduced two new utility vehicles at the PGA Show, the HJS Big Horn 200VX priced at $4,199 and the HJS Big Horn 200GVX priced at $4,699. Sunright International operates as an importer, distributor and developer of motor vehicles and motorsports products from China and is the authorized importer of Jiangsu Linhai ATVs, UTVs and Scooters in North and South America.

The new HJS Big Horn UTV from Sunright International.

A view of the cockpit for the new HJS utility vehicle.

The Big Horn 200VX features include:

A CARB and EPA approved 4 Stroke Overhead Cam, Air/Oil Cooled 177cc Engine
CVT Transmission
Rear wheel drive
Four wheel hydraulic disc brakes
McPherson Strut Front Suspension
Double A-Arm Fully Independent Rear Suspension
10 in. of ground clearance
220 lb. cargo box capacity
Hydraulic assist Dump Bed and Under seat Storage
450 lb. towing capacity
Roof
Headlights, taillights and brake lights
24″ tires

The Big Horn GVX has a rear-facing bench seat instead of a dump bed and features:

Seating for four
A CARB and EPA approved 4 Stroke Overhead Cam, Air/Oil Cooled 177cc Engine
CVT Transmission
Rear wheel drive
Four wheel hydraulic disc brakes
McPherson Strut Front Suspension
Double A-Arm Fully Independent Rear Suspension
10 in. of ground clearance
220 lb. cargo box capacity
Hydraulic assist Dump Bed and Under seat Storage
450 lb. towing capacity
Roof
Headlights, taillights and brake lights
24″ tires

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