Road Use Regulation Roundup: June 2018

Posted on June 29, 2018 by Marc Cesare

golf cart sign The following is a summary of some of the road use regulations for golf cars, LSVs, ATVs and UTVs that have been passed or are being considered at the state, county and city levels since January, 2018.

Some trends in this latest regulation roundup:

This roundup saw more legislation related to allowing LSVs on roads as opposed to golf cars and ATVs/UTVs but it is too early to tell if this represents a long term trend and reversal of previous legislative trends favoring golf cars and UTVs.
Of special note is legislation in California that is focusing on the development of a regional multi-city plan for LSV transportation. I believe this is the first time a regional approach has been covered in the roundup.
Most of the legislative activity occurred in the Midwest and Southeast.

Highland Village, TX – The City Council approved an ordinance allowing the use of NEVs, LSVs and golf cars in the city with certain restrictions.

Myrtle Beach, SC – The City Council passed an ordinance requiring businesses that rent golf cars to get $10 tags on each vehicle.

Glendale, MO – City officials passed an ordinance allowing golf cars to be used on city streets provided they have certain safety features.

Bay St. Louis & Waveland, MS – The state passed legislation that allows the use of LSVs on certain city streets.

Oxford, MS – The owner of a local LSV taxi service requested that the city lower the minimum driving age of such vehicles from 21 years old to address a driver shortage. They lowered it to 20 years old.

Audubon, IA – City Supervisors will likely pass an ordinance allowing the use of ATVs/UTVs on county roads if they have certain safety features.

Newport, RI – The City Council passed an ordinance allowing the use of electric LSVs on local roads.

SanDiego, CA – State legislation is being considered that would allow the use of LSVs on a county wide basis. The legislation, backed by North County cities, would allow for the implementation of regional LSV transportation plans.

Cincinnati, OH – The City Council passed an ordinance creating a three year pilot program for the use of LSVs in the Central Business District and Over-the-Rhine neighborhoods.

Augusta, GA – The City Commission is considering an ordinance that will allow the use of personal transportation vehicles (PTVs) in the central business district. They would initially be used to provide prearranged tours as opposed to taxi service, and could eventually lead to PTV permits for individual owners.

Sanibel Island, FL – The City Council denied the application for the opening of a seven vehicle LSV rental business citing concerns about traffic, safety and the concept being inconsistent with city planning aimed at reducing auto ridership.

Kawasaki Launches Mule PRO-MX UTV Line

Posted on June 19, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The Mule PRO-MX EPS is part of the new PRO-MX product line from Kawasaki.

The Mule PRO-MX EPS LE adds a roof and aluminum wheels.

The Mule PRO-MX EPS Camo rounds out the new product line from Kawasaki.

Kawasaki has expanded their Mule PRO series of utility vehicles with the launch of the all new Mule PRO-MX product line for 2019. Positioned as a mid-size compact crossover vehicle for work or play, the MX product line is smaller in size and price, and features less horsepower, less cargo capacity and less towing capacity than the Mule PRO-FX or Mule PRO-FXR models (SVR recently posted some reviews of the 2018 Mule Pro-FXR). The PRO-MX models seat two rather than three passengers or six in the case of the PRO-FXT models.

The PRO-MX UTVs are powered by a 695cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder DOHC liquid cooled engine mated to a CVT, and has selectable 2WD/4WD/4WD with rear differential lock along with engine braking. Additional features include:

Seating for 2-passengers
Speed-sensitive EPS
Doors
Steel front bumper
Steel cargo screen
10.6″ of ground clearance
25″ tires
Multi-function digital display
Halogen headlights
Two LED auxiliary headlamps
Tilt adjustable steering wheel

Models in the PRO-MX lineup are 60″ wide compared to 64″ for FX and FXT models and have a 700 lb. rather 999 lb. capacity cargo box as well as the ability to tow up to 1,500 lb. compared to 2,000 lb.

The Mule PRO-MX EPS has an MSRP of $11,999 and is available in Timberline Green or Bright White. The Mule PRO-MX EPS LE is priced at $12,499 and comes in Firecracker Red. LE features include a hard plastic roof and aluminum wheels. The Mule PRO-MX EPS Camo is priced at $12,649 and adds Camouflage Truetimber HTC Green bodywork and a plastic roof. Learn more: Kawasaki.com

SVR’s Take: Over the last several years Kawasaki has transitioned to making their PRO series of utility vehicles the dominant part of their UTV offerings. There are now 18 different models across the Mule PRO FX, FXT, FXR, DX and now MX product lines. The MX models fill in a price point between the smaller more consumer oriented Mule SX line and the rest of the Mule PRO product lines designed for heavier duty utility use. The price point is similar to their Mule 4000 and 4010 models but the MX models offer more in the way of crossover capabilities. Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

2019 Can-Am UTV Models Unveiled

Posted on June 11, 2018 by Marc Cesare

Can-Am just unveiled their 2019 side-by-side lineup. Rather than introduce completely new models, this round of vehicles includes a host of upgrades across the 2019 Can-Am side-by-side offerings.

The 2019 Can-Am Defender HD8 features upgrades such as more towing capacity and a longer warranty.

Numerous advances to the Defender utility-recreation side-by-side family delivers resourceful solutions for various off-road undertakings. The addition of a class-leading tow rating — now rated at an industry-leading 2,500-lb. (1,134 kg) for units with the HD8 and HD10 engines and a 1-year limited warranty on all Defender 2019 (USA and Canada) models brings more value and a tougher design to owners.

Defender HD8 now has a standard lockable rear differential system, 27 in. (68.6 cm) Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tire. Defender XT CAB and MAX XT CAB vehicles get a revised 12-in. (30.5) ground clearance supply ample traction and additional space for overcoming demanding obstacles.

The 2019 Defender X mr comes with lower gear ranges and large shocks.

The specialized, mud-ready Defender X mr is fortified with the industry’s top ground clearance at 15-in. (38.1 cm), suspension travel and shock size, with a new larger shock bore. Engineering revisions reduced the lower ranges for both the HIGH and LOW range, while a new lockable rear differential system, with eight total selective modes, makes the specialty X mr even more capable in and out of the mud. The system is even calibrated to prevent turf tearing. The Defender XT-P package now features Smart-Lok traction system with TRAIL mode for maximum footing in every condition, but especially in slow-speed maneuvering. The Defender Lone Star edition receives its own unique and prominent badging, improved cast-aluminum wheels and, like the Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition package tougher protective equipment for more resilience in challenging terrain.

Like the rest Maverick X3 lineup, the Maverick X3 Max X ds now features a Smart-Lok front differential and new Dynamic Power Steering system.

The 2019 MAX versions receive similar upgrades as well.

The invigorating Maverick X3 and Maverick X3 MAX X-package super-sport side-by-sides all receive Smart-Lok, a fully lockable on-the-fly front differential with electronically controlled automatic modes for maximum traction and precision cornering. All X3 side-by-side vehicles get a new high-torque, tri-mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS) system to improve low-speed riding and enhance input feedback to the driver for a more complete driving experience. Significant engineering adjustments were also made to enhance overall comfort and dependability. The Can-Am engineering team redesigned the front sway bar link to be more durable, which also enhances cornering. A new electrical cover better protects the engine control unit (ECU).

Many new components and the expansion of the existing co-branded partnership agreements with Lonestar Racing, S3 Power Sports and others, have once again grown the Can-Am genuine accessory lineup for 2019. All-new accessories include convenient roof racks, MTX speakers, window nets, ATV Windshields, batteries accessories and much more, providing consumers with more adaptable customization options to meet their needs.

2019 Can-Am Side-By-Side Vehicle Lineup Colorations
• Phoenix Orange — Maverick X3 X ds / Maverick X3 MAX X ds
• Gold, Can-Am Red & Hyper Silver — Maverick X3 X rs / Maverick X3 MAX X rs
• Hyper Silver: Defender DPS HD10 / Defender MAX DPS HD10 / Defender XT HD8 / HD10 / Defender XT CAB HD8 / HD10 / Defender MAX XT HD8 / HD10
• Boreal Green — Commander XT 800R / 1000R / Commander MAX XT 1000
• Carbon Black & Octane Blue — Commander XT 800R / XT 1000R
• New graphics on Carbon Black & Sunburst Yellow X mr packages – Maverick X3 X mr Turbo / X mr Turbo R / Defender X mr

Learn more: Can-am.brp.com

Textron Launches Prowler Pro UTVs

Posted on June 8, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The new 2019 Prowler Pro from Textron Off Road with a 50 hp gas engine.

Textron Off Road recently announced the addition of the Prowler Pro and Prowler Pro XT to their UTV lineup. Targeted at farmers and hunters the Prowler Pro is powered by a 50 hp, 812cc EFI gas engine. Designed to be a “whisper-quiet”, the engine is paired with vibration reducing mounts and a muffler with rubber isolator. The vehicle features a drive-by-wire throttle and CVT drive system that is programmed to compensate for unintended “foot bounce” on rough terrain. Additional key features include:

3 passenger capacity
2/4WD with selectable locking rear differential
Double A-arm suspension with gas charged twin tube shocks
10″/9.5″ of front/rear suspension travel
10.75″ of ground clearance
26″ Pro terrain tires
Dual piston front calipers and single piston rear calipers
1,000 lb. cargo dump box
2,000 lb. towing capacity
Tilt steering
Customizable speed control
Removable passenger seats
Behind-seat storage
Dual high/low beam halogen headlights and LED taillights
Digital gauge
ROPS

The Prowler Pro comes standard rack-and-pinion steering and 12-inch steel wheels in Marsh Green for $11,399. The Prowler Pro XT comes in Dynamic Charcoal or Fire Red and includes electronic power steering and 14-inch machined aluminum wheels for $12,999. All vehicles are sold with a 12-month warranty and will be available in dealerships in May.

Learn more: Textronoffroad.com

SVR’s Take: After purchasing Arctic Cat Textron first consolidated and pared down their lineup of vehicles across a number of brands and product lineups and put them under the Textron Off Road macro brand. Since then they have launched a number of new models and are building out their vehicle offerings across a number of segments including performance, sport, crossover and work utility. Textron looks like it could become a major competitor to the traditional powersports companies in the market. The company has significant financial and manufacturing resources as well as engineering expertise to draw upon from its other high tech businesses. One of the keys to success will be building out a dealer network to have the geographical reach and proper distribution channels to reach all the customer segments they are targeting. Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Yamaha Announces New 2019 Wolverine X2 UTVs

Posted on June 8, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The new Wolverine X2 side-by-side for 2019 from Yamaha.

Yamaha has revealed new utility vehicles for model year 2019 including the all new Wolverine X2 and updates to their YXZ line of sport side-by-sides. Compared to the current Wolverine the Wolverine X2 features:

All-new styling and maximum visibility
847cc DOHC, eight-valve, parallel twin-cylinder engine compared to the 708cc engine
All-new 600-pound-rated dump bed compared to a 300 lb. dump bed
2,000 pound towing capacity compared to a 1,500 lb. towing capacity
New Ultramatic CVT
Pre-Wiring for Yamaha Adventure Pro GPS

Additional key features include:

Two-passenger capacity
On-Command 3-way locking differential; 2WD, 4WD, full diff-lock 4WD
Electric power steering
Independent double wishbone suspension with anti-sway bar
8.7″/8.9″ of front/rear suspension travel
11″ of ground clearance
Hydraulic disc brakes with shaft mounted parking brake
26″ Maxxis MU75/MU76 tires
High back bolstered bucket seats
Adjustable driver seat and steering column
Doors
Fenders
LED High/Low headlights
New LCD display
Noise and vibration dampening features
6 month limited factory warranty

The Wolverine X2 is available in Graphite and has an MSRP of $12,699.

The Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE is part of Yamaha’s new recreation lineup for 2019.

In addition to the Wolverine X2 Yamaha’s 2019 recreation lineup includes the Wolverine X2 R-Spec and the Wolverine R-Spec SE. The Wolverine X2 R-Spec comes with a suntop, aluminum wheels, KYB piggyback shocks, over fenders and is available in Ridge Red or Alpine White for $14,499 or Realtree Edge camo for $14,949. The Wolverine X2 R-Spec SE further adds painted bodywork, color-matched interior and is available in Tactical Black or Backcountry Blue for $15,299.

For the YXZ1000R sport line the changes for 2019 include:

New styling
A relocated radiator
Updated suspension
A new ROPS design to increase comfort
29″ Maxxis M917/918 tires instead of 27″Maxxis MU09/10 tires

The sport line includes the base YXZ1000R, the YXZ1000R SE, the YXZ1000R SS and the YXZ1000R SS SE. The SS models add the Yamaha Sport shift with paddle shifters and auto clutch. The SE versions add beadlock wheels and a suntop. The YXZ line will be available in September and the MSRP has not been published yet.

Learn more: Yamahamotorsports

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Honda Recalls 65,000 Pioneer 1000 UTVs

Posted on May 25, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 EPS is one of the models being recalled.

Honda is recalling approximately 65,000 Pioneer 1000 utility vehicles because potential muffler overheating may cause a plastic heat shield to melt or catch fire. Consumers should immediately stop using the vehicles and contact a Honda powersports dealer for a free inspection and repair. Honda is contacting all known purchasers directly. The recall involves model year 2016, 2017 and some 2018 three passenger and five passenger Pioneer 1000 vehicles. The vehicles were sold from October 2015 through April 2018. The following recall information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Hazard: The muffler can overheat, causing the plastic heat shield to melt or catch fire, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Remedy: Repair

Recall date: May 15, 2018

Units: About 65,000

Consumer Contact: American Honda toll-free at 866-784-1870 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or online at http://powersports.honda.com and click on “Recall Information” at the bottom of the page for more information.

Recall Details

Description: This recall involves all model year 2016 through 2017, and some model year 2018 Honda Pioneer 1000 Vehicles. The recalled vehicles were sold in various colors including: red, blue, green, gray and yellow. The name “HONDA” is on the front, sides and the rear of the vehicle. The model name Pioneer 1000 is printed on a label located on both sides of the vehicle, near the rear. The serial number (VIN #) is stamped in the frame at the left rear, below the tilt-up bed/seat. The following model numbers and serial number ranges are being recalled:

MY	Model	VIN Start
2016	Pioneer 1000 3P (SXS10M3*)	1HFVE04G4000001 — 1HFVE04G4008403
2016	Pioneer 1000 5P (SXS10M5*)	1HFVE04G4000001 — 1HFVE04G4010507
2017	Pioneer 1000 3P (SXS10M3*)	1HFVE04H4100001 — 1HFVE04H4102101
2017	Pioneer 1000 5P (SXS10M5*)	1HFVE04H4100001 — 1HFVE04H4103000
2018	Pioneer 1000 3P (SXS10M3*)	1HFVE04G4200001 — 1HFVE04G4203360
2018	Pioneer 1000 5P (SXS10M5*)	1HFVE04G4200001 — 1HFVE04G4207379

* Variable character

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled ROVs and contact an authorized Honda Powersports dealer to schedule an appointment for a free inspection and repair. Honda is contacting all known purchasers directly.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 22 reports of the muffler plastic heat shield melting and three reports of muffler plastic heat shield fires. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At: Authorized Honda Powersports dealers nationwide from October 2015 through April 2018 for between $14,000 and $22,000.

Manufacturer(s): American Honda Motor Company Inc., of Torrance, Calif.

Manufactured In: United States

Recall number: 18-742

Learn More: CPSC.gov

SVR’s Take: This is another very large recall for the industry and once again related to an overheating and heat shield issue that can create a fire hazard. While massive recalls by Polaris have probably received the most attention in the industry, other manufacturers have had very large recalls as well.

Horsepower is one of the key vehicle specifications that manufacturers use to differentiate their offerings. This has created an atmosphere of one-upsmanship regarding engine size with each vehicle introduction trying to outdo the last in terms of horsepower. Given the large number of recalls in recent years related to overheating and/or fire hazards one has to wonder if the industry’s expertise in engine technology has outpaced their expertise in handling the additional heat output by these increasingly powerful engines. SVR has been tracking utility vehicle recalls for the past several years.

Marc Cesare, Smallvehicleresource.com

Cub Cadet Launches Challenger 400 4×4

Posted on May 7, 2018 by Marc Cesare

Cub Cadet Challenger 400 4x4 compact crossover

The new Challenger 400 4×4 UTV from Cub Cadet.

Cub Cadet continues to expand their utility vehicle line-up with the new Challenger 400 4×4. Building on the 2WD Challenger 400, the compact Challenger 400 4×4 has four-wheel drive and at only 50″ wide can fit into the bed of a standard pick-up truck. The new model is being positioned as a compact crossover UTV for work or play.

This model’s off-road capability is improved with enhanced ground clearance, heavy-duty shocks, 24″off-road tires, rear selectable locking differential and front automatic locking differential. The two-passenger Challenger 400 4×4 also features a 400 lbs cargo bed compared to the 350 lbs cargo bed in the 2WD models and can tow up to 1,200 lbs compared to 500 lbs. Other key specs include:

14 hp, 404cc Subaru EX40 air cooled gas engine
25 mph top speed
10″ aluminum alloy wheels
Heavy-duty coil shocks
5″ of front and rear suspension travel
Adjustable driver’s seat and adjustable headrests
LED headlights and brake light
Hard roof
12V in-dash outlet
Ball mount and pin hitch
Dent-resistant, double-walled cargo bed with tie downs and bed divider slots

The MSRP for the Cub Cadet Challenger 400 4×4 is $7,499. See the manufacturer’s video explaining key features.

The main differences between the new Challenger 400 4×4 and the base Challenger 400 include:

4WD vs. 2WD
400 lbs vs. 350 lbs cargo bed
1,200 lbs vs. 500 lbs towing capacity
6.7″ vs. 5.5″ of ground clearance
5″/5″ vs. 6″/4.5″ of front/rear suspension travel
24″ front and rear tires vs. 21″ front and 22″ rear tires
Hard roof
Alloy wheels
LED brake light
Headrests
12V in-dash outlet
$7,499 vs. 5,599 MSRP

SVR’s Take: Cub Cadet has really committed to reinvigorating their utility vehicle line-up. They started with the launch of the Challenger series in 2015 and have steadily added models to their lineup. The work and crossover segments have become highly competitive as many manufacturers view these market segments as growth opportunities. However, to be viable in these segments manufacturers need to make a long term commitment to product development, as the main players in the UTV market are frequently launching new vehicles and smaller manufacturers and imports are active as well. In addition, the main players have taken notice of the success of brands like Cub Cadet in the value end of the market, and launched new lower priced models or enhanced the value of their existing lower priced models.

Polaris RZR XP Turbo S Reviews

Posted on May 3, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The RZR XP Turbo S has 25″ of usable front and rear suspension travel.

Polaris introduced their new, top-of-the-line RZR, the 72-inch RZR XP Turbo S in March. The RZR XP Turbo S was completely “redesigned and reengineered” with a reinforced chassis, stronger axels and other strengthened components. Like other high performance RZRs this model is powered by a 168 hp ProStar turbo H.O. engine. Rather than bump up the horsepower, Polaris beefed up almost every other aspect of the vehicle. The XP Turbo S features 32″ ITP Coyote tires 16″ of ground clearance and 25% more assist in power steering. This model also has the Dynamix Active Suspension system, 19″ or 21″ of wheel travel depending on settings and 25″ of what Polaris refers to as useable travel to the skid plate. The drive system is the new Isolated Xtreme Performance True On-Demand AWD/2WD with greater front drive impact strength, improved throttle control and a redesigned clutch box “..for better air flow and decreased belt temperatures.”

Other key specs and features of the RZR XP Turbo S include:

4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc with Triple-Bore Front and Dual-Bore Rear Calipers
EPS
2.5″/3″ FOX Podium Internal Bypass Shocks with Live Valve
Premium Sparco Steering Wheel
Bolstered Bucket Seats with 4-point Harness
Aluminum Roof
Bowed 1/4 Doors
Front Blacked Out White LED Low/High w/ Accent Lights & Rear Red LED Tail / Brake / Accent Lights
Rear Wired Camera
RIDE COMMAND™ 7” Glove-Touch Display with DYNAMIX Visualizer
Built-In GPS
Bluetooth & USB Smartphone Connectivity
GoPro® Control
In-Vehicle Communications Capable
Ride Command App Integration

The RZR XP Turbo S is available in Indy Red or Polaris Blue and has an MSRP of $27,499.

Below are highlights from reviews of the RZR XP Turbo S from a Polaris arranged test drive event in the desert near Las Vegas, NV. Not surprising for a high end vehicle, the reviews in general are predominantly positive. The Dynamix Active suspension with the new FOX shocks is a big hit. Reviewers are amazed at how the vehicle handles rough terrain and can corner. Reviewers noted the difficulty of the trails on which they drove the vehicles and on several occasions the vehicles easily handled terrain where the driver thought they had pushed the envelope too far. The new steering wheel is also widely praised. While the turbo provides the same horsepower as the previous RZR Turbo model, reviewers found the power output to be more than adequate and good throughout the throttle range. On the negative side, seat comfort could be an issue, one reviewer wants full doors and one wants a lower low range for rock crawling. The 4-point harness is welcomed but can take some adjusting.

UTVGuide.net – Las Vegas test drive first ride review

Feels sturdy and stout
Designed for 32″ tires
Can adjust suspension from the cab
Good visibility from the cockpit
Improved CVT cooling and stronger front differential
Liked the LED accent lights
Liked the new Sparco steering wheel
Not enough legroom
“Low range is too high for technical rock crawling.”
Too much seat movement in rough terrain
Hard to adjust harness
Usable travel is the distance from the bottom of the tires while at full droop to the skid plate.

UTVDriver.com – Las Vegas test drive first ride review

New Sparco steering wheel much better
EPS system works well similar to other RZRs
32″ tires are “hook up well” and are smoother over obstacles than 29″ Bighorns
“Tires track and slide predictably” but wear relatively quickly in the rear in 2WD
Felt quick despite width and long travel
Punchy throughout throttle positions and a top speed of 85 mph
CVT belt appears more durable
Handles big bumps really well
Can drive with confidence with stronger suspension components
Would have liked full doors

Forbes.com – Las Vegas test drive – This reviewer’s perspective is from a rider less experienced with high-end side-by-sides than the typical reviewers.

“…no flexing, clanking or rattling on the roughest of trails.”
Harness is “fiddly”
Soaks up the bumps
Provides a controlled and stable ride
“Ridiculously fast”

Dirt Trax Video – Specs Review and some commentary

Best Polaris EPS system of any RZR to date
Balanced through the corners

SXSBlog.com – Full video review. Includes an informative discussion with Polaris technical about how the Dynamix system works. This accompanying article provides an in-depth technical review.

Like the RIDE Command touchscreen
Linear power and well-tuned – more driveable
Impressive ride on very difficult terrain
Can really take a hit
“Dynamix system is real”
Longer throttle to control compared to X3
“Wow. that is super impressive…70 mph through those whoops”
“Tough and works really well”
Handles really well through corners

Brandon Pierce – Las Vegas test drive video

Love the steering wheel
Like the comfort setting on the suspension
Feels fast
This is a “beast”

Brandon Pierce – Polaris Marketing Spokesman Vehicle Walkaround & Main Points

Completely redesigned from old turbo model -not just larger tires and long travel kit
168 hp turbo is the same but top speed increased to 85 mph and throttle mapping more aggressive for 32″ tires
Toughest machine – 32″ tires, which requires redesigned chassis and other components – control arms, tire rods, spherical, knuckles, trailing arms, radius rods, axles; larger and stronger front drive; improved clutch box and belt cooling
Higher ground clearance but same center of gravity as previous RZR Turbo
Most capable suspension – Smart travel with Dynamix Active suspension, usable travel and improved FOX Live Valve internal bypass shocks shocks
Most evolved cockpit – new Sparco wheel, new seats, 4-point harness, new driving position in relation to wheel and maintained sight lines; Ride Command with rear view camera;
Lower profile ROPS with more welds and generally beefier
Aluminum roof

Polaris Tailors UTVs for Police, Fire & Rescue

Posted on April 27, 2018 by Marc Cesare

A Polaris UTV up-fitted for law enforcement use.

A Polaris Ranger up-fitted for fire operations.

Another Polaris UTV with an alternative fire operations kit.

A Polaris UTV up-fitted for rescue operations.

The Government and Defense division of Polaris Industries recently launched a line-up of Ranger UTVs specifically tailored for law enforcement, fire and rescue operations. The vehicles take a Ranger UTV and add a pre-set package of options for each type of operation. Additional customization is available as well. Polaris is using experienced third-party up-fitters Action Fleet, RKO Enterprises and Federal Signal to put the packages together.

The law enforcement UTVs include sirens, horns, PA system and emergency lighting from Federal Signal, the same as a typical squad car. Base vehicles include the Ranger XP 1000 Northstar HVAC Edition, Ranger Crew Diesel, General 1000 EPS, Ranger 570 and RZR S 900.

Firefighting units include a capable pump, hose and reel, a combination tank for water and a compressed air foam suppression system and the ability draft from a water source. There are flexible mounting options and a firefighting and rescue combo kit is available as well. Rescue units include a rear attendant seat and a stokes rescue basket. Rescue personnel can select between the full-length or break-apart basket for shorter overall length when not in use. Base vehicles include the Ranger Crew XP 900, General 4 1000 EPS, Ranger XP 900 and RZR XP 1000 for the most challenging terrain.

Learn more: Businesswire.com

SVR’s Take – This approach of providing pre-set packages for specific end-use applications while still allowing additional customization is becoming more popular in the commercial UTV market. Club Car has successfully taken this approach to sell their utility vehicles to specific market verticals with their Fit-to Task series. While Polaris is targeting police and fire and rescue applications the Club Car vehicles are targeting a range of facility management applications. ACE mini-trucks has taken a similar approach.

Polaris Earnings Report: Q1 2018

Posted on April 27, 2018 by Marc Cesare

The new 2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS helped drive ORV sales in the first quarter according to the latest Polaris earnings call.

Polaris Industries reported first quarter 2018 revenues fo $1,297 million, an increase of 12% from the prior year. Adjusted net income for the quarter ended March 31, 2018 was $69 million compared to $48 million in the 2017 first quarter. ORV/Snowmobile segment sales were up 15% in Q1 driven by improved ORV shipments of side-by-sides worldwide as demand accelerated during the quarter.(ORV includes UTVs and ATVs). The following are highlights of the Polaris earnings call related to the small, task-oriented vehicle market.

ORV/Snowmobile segment sales were up 15% in Q1 to $833 million driven by improved ORV shipments of side-by-sides worldwide as demand accelerated during the quarter
Average Selling Price of ORV was up 4%
First quarter North American (NA) retail sales were driven side-by-side sales
NA side-by-side sales were up high single digits %
Important oil and agriculture market areas are improving
Side-by-sides gained market share in Ranger and RZR brands despite less promotional spending
Ranger business grew both in units and in dollars faster than the RZR business
The RZR RS1 demand was slightly higher than anticipated but management is not ready to call it a “Grand Slam” product
Global Adjacent Markets (GAM) grew revenue by 20% to $113 million and is looking for a strategic acquisition. This segments includes commercial ORVs, Defense, GEM, Aixam, Taylor-Dunn and Goupil sales)
GAM vehicle sales increased 25% with strong performance from Aixam, Goupil and government/defense business, and PG&A sales increased 19%
International ORV/Snow sales increased 20%
GAM international sales increased by 32%
Polaris has the leading ORV market share outside of North America
Polaris increased its full year 2018 sales guidance to up 4% to 6%
- ORV/Snow is expected to increase mid-single digits %
- GAM is expected to increase high single digits %
Management addressed the latest recalls and stated that they were part of the process of improving their systems, working with the CPSC and identifying any previous outstanding thermal issues. Moving forward under the new systems in place management expects to see fewer recalls involving a smaller number of vehicles.

Learn more: Seekingalpha.com (Polaris Earnings Call Transcript)

SVR’s Take: This was another strong Polaris earnings report and the last large recall appears to be related more to the company’s previous issues than an ongoing or new problem. The company seems to be back on track with strong performance in both Ranger and RZR and introducing innovative new products like the RZR RS1. I’m curious to see what the GAM acquisition they referred to could be. After the failed Eicher-Polaris JV are they going to try to buy their way into the Southeast Asian STOV market as an alternative? In the past they have often acquired strong brands that could be grown with improved financial and engineering resources as well as expanded distribution. I previously speculated on the pros and cons of Garia as an acquisition target, which offers a luxury international brand and electric vehicles.

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