Technology News

Traction Device Patent – I came across a recently awarded patent for a system for improving the traction of ATVs and utility in loose terrain.  In brief, a conical structure is attached to the wheels that helps add traction in loose terrain conditions but does not interfere with driving the vehicle in other conditions. US Patent 7,850,252

Drawing of Loose Terrain Traction Device

Drawing Of Loose Terrain Traction Device

 

Loose Terrain Traction Device

Patented Loose Terrain Traction Device Shown on an ATV

Learn more:  Full patent at US Patent Office

 

Wireless Charging System Installed – New Zealand based UniServices Ltd and Ove Arup & Partners, through their UK based subsidiary, HaloIPT, have installed the world’s first wireless charging system for electric vehicles in London.  The inductive power technology (IPT) allows vehicles equipped with receiver pads to automatically be charged when parked over transmission pads.  The technology is based upon magnetic fields and can work under asphalt, submerged in water or under snow.  Management expects to develop roadway embedded systems in the future to charge vehicles while they are moving.  Learn more:  Voxy.co.nz

Garia LSV In NYC

Garia LSV In NYC

Street legal Garia on the streets of New York City

Garia recently premiered the street legal version of their luxury golf car in New York City.  Pictures and videos show the vehicle as it makes its way from Columbus Circle through Times Square into downtown Manhattan and across the Brooklyn Bridge into Brooklyn.  The press release follows below.  Learn more:  Garia.com

World Premiere: Luxury Golf Cart Goes Street Legal

With the street legal version of The Garia you can take luxury and comfort straight from the green to the street.

Built at the same factory as the Porsche Boxster and Cayman and with luxury features such as a super-car inspired steering wheel, a built-in refrigerator and hand-stitched seats, The Garia is the ultimate machine in its class.

Now, The Garia LSV*, a street legal version of The Garia, lets you drive directly from the golf course to the streets. Fitted with street legal safety equipment such as seatbelts, side mirrors and reflectors, The Garia LSV will take you straight from your home to the golf course, tennis club, grocery store or your favorite cafe.

With a 25 mph top speed, The Garia LSV features a double wishbone front suspension, automotive style shocks and springs and a unique digital instrument cluster with all relevant driver information.

Superb handling and stability, extra storage space and a comfortable car-like driving position simply makes The Garia LSV ideal for your short, daily commutes.

The Garia LSV features a drive train built by an Italian company that also produces Ducati gearboxes, and its components are made by the same company that supplies Aston Martin, Jaguar, and Volvo.

With automotive features unseen in the golf cart industry The Garia LSV has – as the first golf cart ever – entered the automotive league and earned its right to be called a car as opposed to a cart.

For videos of The Garia LSV in the perfect city scene, New York City, please visit www.garia.com

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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Gator Review

John Deere 825i at play

John Deere Gator 825i 4x4 at play

Earlier this year John Deere launched their crossover utility vehicle the XUV 825i.  The vehicle was developed to capture the part of the UTV market that is using vehicles for both work and recreation.  One of the fastest growing segments in the UTV market, in recent years John Deere has lost some market share in this area to the powersports manufacturers.  Side by Side News put the 825i to the test in a recreational setting and came away impressed with the vehicle’s performance.  Learn more:  sxsnews.com

Gators spotted on UK beach – On another Gator related note, I came across a story about the town of North East Lincolnshire in the UK using TH 6×4 Gators to patrol their local beaches.  The diesel powered vehicles are “…equipped with a cab for winter protection, plus a PA system, internal two-way radio, siren, warning beacons, a detachable winch and a land anchor.”  Besides general patrol duties, the vehicles are used to warn and help visitors stranded by changing tides and clearing paths and leveling sandbanks.  Learn more:  Pitchcare.com

Cub Cadet Unveils Crossover UTV

Cub Cadet VTX

Cub Cadet Volunteer VTX Crossover UTV

Cub Cadet is using the upcoming SEMA (Specialty Equipment Manufactuers Association) show to unveil their crossover concept vehicle the Volunteer VTX.  The VTX is designed to appeal to those using UTVs for both work and recreation.  Management is touting the vehicle’s ability to transform into different configurations as a defining feature of the vehicle.  Transformable features include:

  • 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.
  • Bed sides that fold down to transform the VTX into a mobile work station complete with tool hookups.
  • Speed keys to set separate top speeds

Other features include:

  • 850cc Weber engine that can power the vehicle to 45+mph
  • 12-volt power outlets, hook-ups for air-powered tools and multi-functional high-intensity lighting
  • Digital display
  • In-dash monitor with GPS and rear-facing camera view

Learn more:  PRNewswire.com

Insurance Company Formed To Serve LSV & Golf Car Markets

Chad Boozer and Jerod Summer have formed LSV Insurance, LLC specifically to offer insurance for the LSV and golf car markets.  The new company offers personal auto protection insurance for the LSV consumer and general liability and inventory coverage for dealers.  Free rate quotes are available on their website, www.lsvinsurancellc.com.  The company currently offers policies in SC, NC and GA with plans to expand into FL and MI.  Learn more:  Golfcarnews.com

Vehicle OEM News

Kubota Introduces Two UTVs in Australia – Kubota Tractor Australia recently introduced the diesel powered RTV1140 and the gas  powered RTV500.  The RV1140 features four-wheel drive and a 28.5 hp engine along with 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, hydrostatic power steering and hydraulic bed lift as standard.  The smaller RTV500 features electronic fuel injection, a 200 kg payload and can easily be transported to work areas.  Learn more:  Fatcow.com.au

AVID Vehicles e-Warrior

AVID Vehicles e-Warrior

AVID Vehicles of the UK Launches Electric UTV – AVID Vehicles based in Cramlington, UK recently launched their e-Warrior electric utility vehicle.  The vehicle features dual DC motors, a range of 40 miles, a top speed of 25 to 30mph  and a 250kg payload.  MSRP is US$15,600.  The company plans to produce 500 vehicles in 2011 and 1,000 in 2012.  Learn more:  Greencarcongress Journallive.co.uk

LSV Maker Wheego Unveils Full-speed EV – Wheego Electric Cars, manufacturer of the Wheego Whip LSV, will unveil the two-seat subcompact Wheego LiFe at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in November.  The car has a 100 mile range, 20 kWh Li-ion battery pack and a MSRP of $32,995.  Learn more:  Greencarcongress.com

Company News Briefs

Carrus BV buys golf cars and parts – Carrus BV of the Netherlands signed an agreement with a European supplier to purchase 3,300 used golf cars as well as thousands of parts and accessories.  Carrus is a brand-independent supplier of top brand cars, parts and accessories, and serves various European markets, including the leisure sector, golf courses and industry.  Learn more:  Golfcarnews.com

ZAP truck & van qualify for tax credit – ZAP recently announced that their electric truck and van have qualified for a ten percent federal tax credit, up to a maximum of $2,500, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  Vehicles purchased through 2011 will be eligible for the tax credit.  Learn more:  Autorevolution.com

Kawasaki announces new consumer credit program – This month, Kawasaki, in partnership with GE Money, is rolling out a new consumer credit program for purchasing Kawasaki’s motorcycles, ATVs, utility vehicles and watercrafts.  Learn more:  Marketwatch.com

RMD Technologies selects seat supplier for electric vehicles – RMD Technologies of San Marcos, CA has chosen PRP Seats of Murrieta, CA to provide seats for their small electric vehicles.  RMDT’s core business is providing electronics recycling services to businesses, state and federal agencies.  However in 2007 they decided to branch out into developing an  alternative energy vehicle using a large percentage of materials recycled from electronic waste.  Their electric utility vehicle is expected to hit the market at the end of 2010 or beginning of 2011. Learn more:  Cleanenergynews.blogspot.com

Zap Acquires 51% Stake In China’s Jonway Auto

EV manufacturer Zap recently announced an agreement to purchase a 51% stake in Zhejiang Jonway Automobile Co. Ltd for $29 million.  The deal gives Zap an entry into the fast growing electric vehicle market in China and access to high volume production capacity.  According to Zap,

The ZAP Jonway merger accelerates cost-effective manufacturing of ZAP’s electric vehicles and gives ZAP access to the Chinese market through Jonway’s distribution channels of more than 80 factory direct dealerships that feed into hundreds of factory authorized dealers. Jonway’s volume manufacturing capacity gives ZAP a strong manufacturing base with the means of commercializing its innovative EV technologies.

Zap will be able to purchase the remaining 49% of the Jonway by march, 2011 at  the same evaluation.  Jonway had revenues of $40 million in 2009 and $20 million in the first quarter of 2010 alone.

Jonway Automobile, with approximately 800 employees, is currently manufacturing approximately 1,000 vehicles per month and has a capacity to produce up to 30,000 vehicles per year at its modern, 3.6 million square foot plant in Sanmen on approximately 141 acres of land. Focused on quality, Jonway is ISO 9000 and China Compulsory Certification (CCC) certified. Jonway distributes through a nationwide network of auto dealerships in China and distribution partners in Europe and Egypt. Jonway’s 3-door SUV has been CE approved in Italy by its European partner for the European market.

Learn more: Zapworld.com


New UTVs Hitting The Market

New Teryx 750

Kawasaki's new Teryx 750 FI 4x4 LE Camo

New Teryx™ 750 FI 4×4 LE – Kawasaki has introduced a a new Teryx™ 750 FI 4×4 LE. Key features include:

  • Liquid-cooled, 749cc SOHC, four-valve-per-cylinder, fuel-injected, 90-degree V-twin engine
  • Realtree APG HD camouflaged bodywork, wheels, front bumper, roof and dashboard
  • Digital fuel injection
  • Continuously Variable Transmission features high and low ranges, a reverse gear, very direct feel from the engine, and instantaneous acceleration
  • Limited-slip front differential reduces steering effort under normal four-wheel drive operation, while Variable Front Differential Control permits rider to distribute torque equally to left and right front wheels for maximum traction via a hand lever located between the seats
  • Selectable two- or four-wheel-drive operation, via dash-mounted switch
  • Suspension designed for high-speed operation over varying terrain
  • Large 7.4-gal. (28L) fuel tank
Volteis X4

X4 off-road vehicle from Volteis Electric Car of France

New electric off-road utility vehicle from France – Volteis Electric Car of France recently launched their X4 electric off-road utility vehicle. Reminiscent of WWII Jeep designs, the X4 features twelve 48 volt, 24 amp-hour lead-acid gel batteries located beneath the front sea and has a top speed is 44 mph. The vehicle is available in a number of configurations including dual electric motors, long and short frames and other options. The frame is made of stainless steel and aluminum. Learn more: Greencar.com

Bobcat utility vehicle

Bobcat utility vehicle

Bobcat offers new UTV lineup – Bobcat recently unveiled their new lineup of four utility vehicles: 3200 (4×2), 3400 (4×4), 3400 XL (up to 6 riders; 4×4) and 3450 (4×4). Key features:

  • Diesel engine is available in all but the 3200
  • All models feature increased horsepower
  • Top speed has increased to 30 mph.
  • High (30 mph max) and low-speed gearing (15 mph max)
  • Increased payload capacity (up to 33% more)
  • Electronic fuel injected gas engines
  • Four-wheel independent suspension (MacPherson struts, front; 5-way preload adjustable rear shocks with two optional mounting positions for load carrying)
  • 3450 includes Bobcat’s exclusive RapidLink attachment mounting system
  • All-new frame

The vehicles are a result of Bobcat’s strategic alliance with Polaris Industries to develop vehicles for the work segment . Learn more: ATVmagblog.com

Can Am Commander

Can-Am Commander in action

Can-Am enters UTV market with Commander 800 and 1000 models – Powersports manufacturer Can-Am has entered the UTV market with their Commander 800 and 1000 models which have 71 hp and 85 hp engines respectively. The vehicles features give them a mix of work qualities as well as those for aggressive trail riding. For a more complete review of the vehicle features and technologies Learn more: ATVmagonline.com

Gator XUV 825i

New Gator XUV 825i from John Deere

John Deere launches new lineup of crossover utility vehicles (XUVs) – The leading model of Deere’s new trio of XUVs is the XUV 825i which features a 50 hp engine and a top speed of 44 mph. The XUV lineup designed for both work applications and the needs of the “outdoor enthusiast”. Key features include:

  • An 815cc, liquid cooled, inline 3-cylinder engine with 4 valves per cylinder, dual overhead cams and electronic fuel injection.
  • Re-designed front and rear independent suspension system designed for less body roll and superior side-hill stability with either no-load or maximum cargo.
  • 1500 lbs. of towing and 1400 lbs. of payload capacity.
  • New hybrid metal and composite cargo box with 16.4 cu. ft. of capacity and an available factory installed spray-in bed liner with 20 integrated tie downs
  • New braking system that improves stopping performance over previous models.

Learn more: News.utvguide.net