Category Archives: market trends

Polaris Introduces 2017 Side-by-Sides

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

New RZRs

MY2017 RZR XP 1000 Gold Matte Metallic LE

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

Kawasaki Recalls 28,000 Mule UTVs

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One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

One of the Kawasaki Mule models being recalled.

Kawasaki announced the recall of approximately 28,000 of their Mule UTVs because the front floor cover can be punctured by a foreign object, posing an injury hazard to riders. There has been one report of debris striking an operator’s leg. The recall covers a wide range of Mule models for model year 2015, 2016 and 2017 including the PRO-FX, PRO-FXT, PRO-DX and PRO-DXT models and related configurations. specific models affected are described below. Towards the end of last year Kawasaki recalled a large number of their Teryx recreational UTVs for a similar floor issue.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units:  About 28,000

Description:  The recall involves 2015, 2016 and 2017 model year side-by-side recreational off-highway vehicles. The recalled models are 4-wheel side-by-side seating for three to six people and automotive style controls. The vehicles come in various colors. The model name is printed on the right and left front fender. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is located on the steel frame between the right front lower A-arm mounts.

Screen Shot 2016-07-08 at 9.33.55 AMScreen Shot 2016-07-08 at 9.34.21 AMIncidents/Injuries:  Kawasaki has received two reports of debris coming up from the floor cover, including one report of debris striking an operator’s leg.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact their local authorized Kawasaki dealer to schedule a free repair.

Sold at:  Kawasaki dealers nationwide from July 2014 through June 2016 for between $12,000 and $16,900.

Manufacturer(s):  Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. of Foothill Ranch, CA.

U.S.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This is a large recall and combined with the previous Teryx recall for the same reason brings the total number of vehicles involved to 47,500. What is disconcerting is that it seems to be a basic design flaw in that the company did not engineer the front floor boards to be strong enough to withstand normal use. On the heels of major recalls from Polaris, there are now almost a quarter million UTVs being recalled from two of the most prominent brands in the market, most from the last several model years.

Polaris Recalls 43,000 Ranger 570 UTVs

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The 2016 Polaris Ranger Crew 570 Mid-Size is one of the range of model year 205 and 2016 Ranger 570 models being recalled.

The 2016 Polaris Ranger Crew 570 Mid-Size is one of the model year 2015 and 2016 Ranger 570 models being recalled.

One of the 2015 models being recalled.

One of the 2015 models being recalled.

Polaris has announced the recall of approximately 43,000 model year 2015 and 2016 Ranger 570 vehicles due to a potential overheating and fire hazard. The recall covers a range of model variations for the two model years. The vehicles can overheat during heavy engine loading, slow-speed intermittent use and/or high outdoor temperatures and catch fire. No injuries have been reported due to the problem. This is the second very large recall from Polaris, which in April recalled 133,000 RZR UTVs.

The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Recall Details

Units:  About 43,000

Description:  This recall involves 2015 and 2016 model year Polaris Ranger 570 recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs). They have either two or four seats and a rear box. “Ranger” is printed on the rear box and “570” is printed on the hood. “Polaris” is stamped onto the front grill. The ROVs were sold in several colors. The following models are included in the recall.

Model Year 2015:  Ranger 570, Ranger 570 EPS, Ranger 570 EPS HD, Ranger Crew 570, Ranger Crew 570 EPS

Model Year 2016:  Ranger 570 2×4, Ranger 570, Ranger 570 EPS, Ranger 570 EPS HD, Ranger 570 EPS ZUG, Ranger Crew 570, Ranger Crew 570 EPS

Incidents/Injuries:  Polaris has received seven reports of the recalled ROVs overheating and catching on fire. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ROVs and contact Polaris to schedule a free repair. Polaris is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Sold at: Polaris dealers nationwide from August 2014 through June 2016 for between $10,000 and $12,500.

Importer(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Distributor(s):  Polaris Industries Inc., of Medina, Minn.

Manufactured in:  Mexico

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  One very large recall is bad enough but a second in a matter of months could present some significant problems for Polaris. Besides the sheer cost of repairing so many vehicles, there is also the operational difficulties in handling so many repairs in a reasonable amount of time. These are both relatively short term issues, but in the long term the impact on the Polaris brand may be more critical. For a company that prides itself on innovation and engineering prowess, and, in fact, considers such prowess a strategic advantage these recalls may have more of an impact on their brand image. I would imagine they also are generating some internal soul-searching regarding their product development processes as the issues appear to point to an underlying design flaw, as opposed to a faulty part.

What’s Cooking On The STOV: Mining Vehicles

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Highlighting some of the many applications for Small, Task-Oriented Vehicles

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

tomcar-lv1_100556594_lThis November Australian based Tomcar will put into production their Tomcar LV1, an electric powered utility vehicle designed for mining applications. The zero emission, low operating noise and low maintenance powertrain should be an advantge in underground mining conditions. The LV1’s brushless permanent-magnet motor operates continuously at 80 hp and peaks at 135 hp and generates 111 lb.-ft. (150 Nm) of continuous torque or 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of peak torque at a maximum 8,500 rpm. The LV1 will be available with battery packs ranging from 12kW to 20kW. Tomcar worked with Engergetique, a EV technology company, to develop the vehicle over the course of two years. Tomcar already produces a line of commercial and consumer-oriented utility vehicles that are gas or diesel powered with an electric motor option available as well. The Tomcar vehicles have evolved from early off-road military vehicles.  Learn more:  Greencarreports.com

Yamaha Reveals New 2017 Side-by-Sides

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Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces its 2017 line of Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles. Leading the 2017 announcement are Yamaha’s new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift) and an all-new YFZ50 youth model. The new Yamaha 2017 SxS models announced today include: the new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), new YXZ1000R SS Special Edition (SE) and new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black, new Midnight Blue Metallic SE Viking and Viking VI, new Matte Silver Wolverine R-Spec SE, new Yamaha Blue Wolverine R-Spec and new Wolverine with Electric Power Steering (EPS).

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

Innovating again this year, Yamaha introduces the new 2017 YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), the first and only SxS vehicle to combine pure-sport driving performance with an exciting and high-tech paddle shifting experience. Boasting the same industry-first 3-cylinder 998cc engine and unparalleled direct-connection feeling as the original YXZ, the YXZ1000R SS features Yamaha’s all-new confidence-inspiring Sport Shift transmission.
The SS technology is defined by a 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission boasting an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport inspired paddle shifters — eliminating the need for both the clutch pedal and taking your foot off the gas during shifting. The pure-sport inspired paddle shifters on the YXZ1000R SS are mounted to the steering column and are synched to the Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology, an advanced automatic clutch system that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal. This allows a wide range of enthusiasts on a variety of terrain to enjoy the pure sport performance and direct connection of the world’s first and only manual transmission SxS.

The shift sequence — shift up with the right paddle and shift down with the left paddle — is designed to be highly intuitive for drivers, even if they are not familiar with operating a manual transmission. The YXZ1000R SS delivers a fun and exciting experience beyond what one would find in everyday automobiles with paddle shifters. The Sport Shift system incorporates features that complement the overall pure sport SxS experience — an auto downshift feature assists by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

Another exciting and innovative feature on the YXZ1000R SS is the all-new “Launch System,” which is exclusive to the Sport Shift experience provides an exciting high-acceleration feeling from stop — similar to “dropping the clutch” in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal — adding to the direct connection experience and exhilaration.

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

New for 2017, the Special Edition YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SS acquire industry-first twin-wall FOX 2.5 Podium X2 Shocks. These unparalleled shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition YXZ models. They provide ultimate slow speed comfort without sacrificing performance during aggressive driving situations combined with unprecedented adjustability to suit a variety of driving types and preferences. A new level of performance and comfort are achieved by creating completely independent high and low speed compression and rebound adjustment, combined with huge 16.2-inches of front and 17.0-inches of rear travel. Additional features of the X2 shocks include dual adjusters on the upper cap and twin tube structure, dual rate springs with coupling and crossover adjustment, position sensitive damping, and more.

Making its debut to the motorsports world in September of 2015, the wildly successful and highly anticipated pure sport YXZ1000R is available in exciting new color schemes for the 2017 model year. Augmenting the high-end look and feel, the Team Yamaha Blue / White now comes with a color matched Team Yamaha Blue sun top, colored seat stitching, embroidered seats and race-inspired decals. A new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black shares the same great accoutrements as the YXZ1000R SS SE, including the FOX Podium X2 shocks, yet with the industry-first 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission for ultimate driver-to-vehicle cohesion.

The YXZ1000R was the world’s first pure sport SxS, combining the industry’s first naturally aspirated three-cylinder 998cc sport engine with the first ever 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission. The YXZ1000R is born of Yamaha’s true high-performance DNA — creating a direct connection to the driver and serving up unmatched power and handling characteristics, resulting in a vehicle perfectly positioned as the only choice for the pure sport SxS enthusiast. MSRP on the 2017 YXZ1000R models will be announced this fall.

Additions to the Wolverine Line

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017-Wolverine-R-Spec_Alpine-White-e1465397974772

2017 Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White

The new Wolverine R-Spec SE in Matte Silver features painted bodywork with color-matched seats and springs, convenient under seat storage, and durable injection-molded polypropylene overfenders for increased protection from the elements. Furthering the off-road capability and comfort of the Wolverine RSpec, the new SE adopts a stout yet lightweight full-length, full-coverage aluminum skid plate set — including the front bash plate, center, rear and side frame skids — aluminum a-arm guards, robust 12-inch true beadlock wheels and a new soft grip over-mold steering wheel with a design exclusively developed for ultimate off-road control and handling. MSRP for the new Wolverine R-Spec SE is $14,799.

New for 2017, every Wolverine R-Spec now comes with Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain. In addition to the new SE, the Wolverine R-Spec is now offered in Yamaha Blue with machined aluminum wheels. Returning colors include the Alpine White with machined aluminum wheels, Hunter Green and Realtree Xtra. MSRP starts at $13,199.

The 2017 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. The Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point starting at $10,999 MSRP. Adding to the Wolverine’s value-packed features, the 2017 is now offered with Yamaha’s durable and reliable EPS system.

Setting the standard in off-road capability and class-leading comfort, all Yamaha Wolverine SxS models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments. Designed and engineered for exploring extreme terrain, the Wolverine features a nimble chassis with a compact design, look and feel, along with Yamaha’s proven core technologies: Ultramatic fully-automatic transmission, On-Command four-wheel drive and EPS.

Additions to the Viking Line

2017 Viking and Viking VI

2017 Viking and Viking VI

With class-leading cab room and comfort, coupled with superior handling and off-road capability, Vikings are the toughest and hardest working utility-based SxS vehicles that are also fun to drive. The 2017 Viking and Viking VI are now offered in a new Midnight Blue Metallic SE with silver cast aluminum wheels, overfenders and silver seats.
Leading the 2017 Viking line is the premium Ranch Edition Viking VI in Copper Metallic painted bodywork with color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, review center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, a rear bed grab bar, a heavy duty front brush guard, and unique Ranch Edition badging, bringing an all-new level of comfort and convenience to tough off-road work.

Viking enhancements carried up from 2016 include automotive-style two-stage door latches and a parking brake warning buzzer. Noise and vibration reduction features include new rubber damper plates, a more rigid chassis, additional sound dampening materials and an engine-mounted torque rod for a more relaxing quality ride at any engine RPM. The newly reinforced rear steel cargo bed now incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to further reduce sound and vibration, all while improving durability and cargo-carrying options and capacity. Large enough for a fully-loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies. The standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds.

All coming standard with a sun top and at an MSRP starting at $11,999, additional Viking colors include a new Steel Blue with cast aluminum wheels, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra. MSRP for the 2017 Viking VI EPS starts at $13,999, with Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra rounding out the color options. Learn more:  Yamahamotorsports.com

New Georgia Tech Policy Favors LSVs

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Georgia Tech recently instituted a new policy regarding low speed vehicles and golf cars. According to the policy, as of July 1, all LSVs or golf cars owned or purchased by any department must be street legal and registered with Georgia Tech Fleet Services, which will now only perform maintenance on registered vehicles. Furthermore, LSVs can only be driven on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or lower and golf cars on streets 25 mph or lower. There are a number of streets near the campus that only LSVs will now be able to drive. The new policy will also phase out any non-street legal golf cars and motorized vehicles by July 31, 2016. The policy does not impact landscape and maintenance utility vehicles. Learn more:  GATech.edu

Comment: This policy is likely to push departments to purchase LSVs rather than golf cars as they will require no modifications to be street legal and will have fewer restrictions with regards to driving on public streets. For a number of years the university and college market has been a good market for low speed vehicles. The institutions like the safety features of the vehicles, as compared to a golf car, and the ability to legally drive on nearby public streets, especially if they need to transverse public roads to access different campus locations.

Can-Am Announces 2017 Side-by-Sides

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Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am’s 2017 side-by-side product lineup includes three new models:  the Can-Am Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition, the four-person Can-Am Maverick Max X mr 1000r and the Maverick xc 1000R.

The Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition continues the build out the more work oriented Defender line launched in late 2015 and expanded in early 2016 with crew size models. As the model name suggests, the newest edition is specifically designed for the hunting market segment. Key features of the Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition include:

  • 72 hp Rotax HD 10 engine with electronic fuel injection
  • PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System (QRS), high airflow ventilation and Electronic Drive Belt Protection Extra
  • 4WD with 4-mode traction system
  • Dynamic Power Steering
  • 10″ of front and rear suspension
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14″ black cast aluminum wheels
  • 11″ of ground clearance
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 1,000 lb. cargo box capacity
  • Seating for three
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • Tilt steering
  • Heavy duty steel bumper
  • Full under body skid plate with front aluminum pre-runner skid plate
  • Hard roof
  • Half windshield
  • Headache rack
  • Double Kolpin Stronghold gun boots
  • Side mirror
  • Portable RAM LED spotlight
  • MSRP:  $19,699
The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am's high performance line with a four passenger model.

The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am’s high performance line with a four passenger model.

To their Maverick recreational/sport side-by-side lineup Can-Am added the Maverick Max X mr 1000r for mud specific performance. This high end model seats four and is priced at $23,999. Key features include:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • Quick Response System (QRS) CVT with high airflow and Extra low L-Gear
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential
  • High positioned engine air intake and CVT ineltes/outlets
  • Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.5 PODIUM QS3 shocks with compression adjustment
  • 30″ Gorilla Axle Silverback tires on 14″ cast aluminum wheels
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system
The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

To their narrower trail minded lineup Can-Am added an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R. Priced at $15,699, this two-seat model does not have power steering but does include the following features:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • CVT with Zylon reinforced belt and engine braking
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.0 PODIUM C Piggyback shocks with compression adjustment
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 12″ cast aluminum wheels
  • 60″ vehicle width
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system

Polaris Defense Adds Turbo Diesel MRZR

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The new turbo-diesel powered MRZR-D from Polaris Defense.

The new turbo-diesel powered MRZR-D from Polaris Defense.

Another view of the MRZR-D, which will go into production this year.

Another view of the MRZR-D, which will go into production this year.

Polaris Defense, a division of Polaris Industries Inc., announced the addition of the MRZR-D, a high-performance MRZR turbo diesel to their military vehicle lineup. Polaris Defense will publicly debut the MRZR-D at the 2016 Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC), in Tampa, Fla., May 24-26, and at CANSEC 2016, in Ottawa, Ontario, May 25-26. While many key features – like the dimensions, payload, towing, ground clearance, accessories, handling and other features – remain the same, Polaris improved occupant seating space, ergonomics and sight lines based on user feedback. The turbo diesel increases auxiliary power, improves range and helps with fuel logistics given the large number of diesel fueled military vehicles. MRZR vehicles are helicopter transportable and come in two, four or six person configurations. The MRZR vehicles are used by US Special Forces and other allied militaries. Learn more: Polaris.com

Comment:  The use of diesel fuel is key. SVR previously conducted research on a specialized UTV with potential military applications. Diesel is not only used in many other military vehicles but is often more readily available in potential combat areas. In addition, if improvisation in the field is needed, vegetable oil can be used as well.

 

Road Use Regulation Roundup: May 2016

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The following is a summary of some of the road use regulations for golf cars, LSVs, ATVs and UTVs that has been passed or is being considered at the state, county and city levels since October 2016. Some trends in this latest regulation roundup:

  • Many of the ordinances cover the use of UTVs and ATVs on public roads while others also involve golf cars or sole involve golf cars. Few involve LSVs or NEVs.
  • In many instances the impetus for the regulations started with local residents approaching local council members or city managers.
  • Regulatory activity is happening primarily at the town or city level, but there is some action at the county level as well.
  • The regulations are a mix of those restricting on road use of ATVs, UTVs and golf cars and those allowing the use of these vehicles.

Chillicothe, IL – The Public Safety Committee agreed to send an ordinance prohibiting the use of UTVs on local roads after numerous calls from residents against an initial ordinance allowing the vehicles. Golf cars are still allowed.

Solon, IA – City Council voted against an ordinance that would allow UTVs on some city streets. Concerns were raised about safety given the size and speed of the vehicles and the fact that the city has no police officers of its’ own to enforce the ordinance. The city has allowed golf cars on certain streets since 2011.

Jefferson, WI – The city council unanimously approved an ordinance allowing NEVs on city streets with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less. The ordinance pertains to vehicles that conform to NHTSA LSV standards.

Panorama Village, TX – The city approved a golf car registration ordinance to ensure that residents are following regulations regarding use of golf cars on city streets.

Gulf Breeze,  FL – The city council is considering strengthening golf car regulations for street use because of concerns with unsafe golf cart operations including use by children and teenagers, use on pedestrian sidewalks, use on high-traffic streets, excessive occupant loads and use at night with no headlights.

Louisa County, IA – The board of supervisors approved an ordinance allowing ATVs and UTVs on secondary roads in the county.

Barry County, MI – The Board of Commissioners approved an ordinance that opens non-highway roads to off-road vehicles (quads, ATVs, dirt bikes and UTVs) with a speed limit of 25 mph, but bars the vehicles from city and village streets and state roads. It also increases fines for unauthorized use of the vehicles from $60 to $250, with a portion of the revenue set aside for road repairs.

Gardner, WI – Urged by residents, the town board is considering allowing ATVs and UTVs on local and county roads in town. Vehicle users want to establish a trail to connect with neighboring towns that allow the vehicles.

Wadena, MN – The city passed ordinance that will allow permitted use of ATVs, UTVs, golf cars and other types of vehicles that are used for snow removal or other uses in the city. They are also working on an ordinance for recreational use of these same vehicles.

Jacksonville, IL – The City Council is working on an ordinance to allow street legal gof cars and utility vehicles on city roads. Drivers are required to have a valid license, carry mandatory liability insurance, pay a $75 permit fee and be at least 18 years old. Vehicles must have a review mirror, warning devices, seat belts, taillights, brake lights and turn signals.

Delaware County, IA – Delaware County officials are exploring the possibility of allowing all-terrain vehicles on county roads. A group of local ATV enthusiasts recently asked county supervisors to open county routes to the vehicles, as well as utility vehicles. The 100 members of Roads to Trails say there are limited options locally to use the vehicles.

Danville, IL – Danville Township passed an ordinance allowing people to use golf cars and UTVs on township roads after the vehicle has been inspected and an annual $25 fee has been paid.

Fayette County, IL – The County Board did not approve an ordinance allowing low speed vehicles on rural roads in the county. The ordinance pertained to ATVs, UTVs and golf cars.

Panama City Beach, FL – The council directed the city’s legal team to craft an ordinance that will put a moratorium on the registration of any new vehicles — essentially golf carts — until the board decides how to limit the number on the road. The city reports 194 rental vehicles are registered with the city compared to 93 the year before. The city is concerned with the large number of such vehicles on the roads and has already limited the number of scooters used.

Silver City, NM – Silver City is considering allowing ATVs and UTVs on city streets. In their 2016 session, the New Mexico Legislature passed a law allowing ATV use on paved roads in the state, subject to local government approval and stipulations. Any municipality that wishes to adopt this rule has the right to do so, and can also restrict ATV use on their roads in the ways they wish — including establishing separate speed limits for the vehicles.

What’s Cooking On The STOV: Sports Facility Vehicles

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Highlighting some of the many applications for Small, Task-Oriented Vehicles

From left, Morgan O’Sullivan of Cushman, Simon Jennings of Ernest Doe & Sons, Darren Baldwin of Tottenham Hotspur FC and Andy Turbin, also fo Ernest Doe & Sons, with the fleet of electric vehicles supplied for the club's training ground.

From left, Morgan O’Sullivan of Cushman, Simon Jennings of Ernest Doe & Sons, Darren Baldwin of Tottenham Hotspur FC and Andy Turbin, also fo Ernest Doe & Sons, with the fleet of electric vehicles supplied for the club’s training ground.

In the UK, the Tottenham Hotspur football club of the Premier League recently replaced their fleet of transport and utility vehicles for their training facility. The all electric fleet from Ransomes Jacobsen and purchased through a local dealer, Ernest Doe & sons, features vehicles from sister brands Cushman and E-Z-GO. The fleet includes six Cushman Hauler PRO 72-volt electric utility vehicles, two Cushman four-seater Shuttles with custom cargo beds, two specially-designed stretcher/ambulance vehicles and an E-Z-GO Express Shuttle 6, for transporting VIP guests around the 77-acre site. The 72-volt vehicles represent an upgrade for the club whose previous fleet was three years old. Management expects to increase operating time and range with the vehicles. Learn more:  EADT.co.uk