Hisun Motors Introduces Electric UTV With 45 Mile Range

The new Sector E1 electric UTV from Hisun Motors.

The new Sector E1 electric UTV from Hisun Motors.

HISUN Motors takes a big step forward with the announcement of the all-new Sector E1 electric Utility Vehicle, adding yet another quality vehicle to their line-up. Building on the success of the Sector UTV line’s performance and modern advancements in electric technology, HISUN is excited to enter the growing electric UTV market. The Sector E1 4×4 is a mid-size UTV which provides quiet performance thanks to its powerful 48 volt 36hp AC drivetrain. The Sector E1 starts at an MSRP as low as $10,199.

HISUN’s Sector E1 features 4-wheel independent nitrogen suspension, 4-wheel drive, 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, and an industry best run time. The Sector E1 is the first electric UTV on the market with the Discover EV Traction Dry Cell Battery technology that is maintenance free and designed for longer run times and a longer life. The Discover EV Traction Dry Cell Battery is also recyclable, built from recycled parts, and will deliver an estimated 45 miles on a single charge. HISUN has leveraged superior North American technology for integral components such as the Kinetek Motor, Delta Q IC1200 Chargers, and 450 Amp Sevcon Gen IV controllers. Dealer and customer feedback has helped refine the end product of the vehicle resulting in the Ultimate Electric Utility Vehicle.

The introduction of the Sector E1 will strongly position HISUN into a segment of the UTV market which has grown year over year in comparison to the gas UTV market. “We felt like with the improvements in battery technology coupled with the North American sourced supply chain of critical drivetrain components will lead to a much more reliable product and runtime that is “first in its class” compared with price,” said Shane Wilson, VP of Engineering and Operations. Learn more:  Hisunmotors.com

Comment:  Whereas in the past electric utility vehicles have mainly been targeted at the hunting market, newer models like the Sector E1 are looking for a broader appeal for work or recreation applications. In part the trend is because the hunting segment has turned out to be a niche market, but advances in battery and powertrain technology is also increasing the range and potential end use applications for electric UTVs.

Polaris Introduces 2017 Side-by-Sides

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

Yamaha Launches New Drive2 Fleet Golf Cars

The new Drive2 fleet golf cars from Yamaha.

The new Drive2 fleet golf cars from Yamaha.

Yamaha Golf Car Company has unveiled their new electric and gas Drive2 fleet golf cars. The new models feature a new performance tuned rear suspension for an improved ride, new design lines on body panels, a larger rear access lid for easier maintenance and a 34% larger automotive dash. The newly redesigned dash has built-in storage areas for mobile devices, range finders and multiple sized drinks. Yamaha also added no-slip mats in the front storage compartments to keep personal items more secure during the round.

The dash has been redesigned to be larger and more versatile.

The dash has been redesigned to be larger and more versatile.

The Drive2 is available with an electronic fuel injected or carbureted gas engine with 8.9 hp or a 5 kW AC or 2.6 kW DC electric motor. The gas model also features Yamaha’s QuieTech, developed by Yamaha engineers to make a their gas golf car dramatically quieter than the competition and almost as quiet as an electric car. Other features include:

  • HybriCore chassis featuring a robotic welded automotive ladder-style steel frame
  • Tru-Trak II™ fully independent automotive-style strut front suspension and fully independent automotive-style strut suspension
  • Rear mechanical drum brakes
  • Front and rear bumpers
  • Range of colors to choose from
  • 4-year limited warranty

For personal use, Yamaha offers the Drive2 PTV with an EFI gas engine or the AC electric powertrain. Learn more:  www.yamahagolfcar.com

What’s Cooking On The STOV: Mining Vehicles

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

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

Can-Am Announces 2017 Side-by-Sides

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

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.

 

Can-Am Launches 6-Passenger Defender Max Models

The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo.

The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo.

The new 2017 Defender MAX XT HD10 from Can-Am in Intense Red.

The new 2017 Defender MAX XT HD10 from Can-Am in Intense Red.

Can-Am has expanded their line of Defender utility-recreational side-by-side vehicles with the addition of four 2017 Can-Am Defender Max models. The six passenger Defender Max model is available with either a 72-hp HD10 or 50 hp HD8 Rotax V-twin engine and as an XT version with factory installed accessories. Key standard features for all Defender MAX models include:

  • PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick-Response System
  • Three driving modes and a four-mode traction system with Visco-Lok QE front differential
  • 1,750 lb. payload capacity
  • 2,000 lb. towing capacity
  • 1,000 lb. dumpable cargo bed
  • Cargo bed tie-down points and recesses for five gallon buckets
  • Removable toolbox
  • Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
  • 10″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • 10″ of ground clearance
  • Integrated front steel bumper
  • Central skid plate
  • 2″ hitch receiver
  • Adjustable tilt steering

The four models introduced by Can-Am include the Defender MAX DPS HD8, Defender MAX DPS HD10, Defender MAX XT HD8 and Defender MAX XT HD10. The XT versions add the following:

  • 14″ rather than 12″ aluminum wheels
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires instead of 26″ Maxxis M923/924 tires
  • 4,500-lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • Full skid plate
  • Full hard roof
  • Adjustable driver seat
  • XT seat skin

The MSRPs for the new models are as follows:

  • Defender MAX DPS HD8 – $14,399
  • Defender MAX DPS HD10 – $16,299

These models are available in Green, Yellow or for $800 more Mossy Oak Break-up Country Camo.

  • Defender MAX XT HD8 – $17,199
  • Defender MAX XT HD10 – $19,099

The XT models are available in Pure Magnesium Metallic, Intense Red or for $100 more Mossy Oak Break-up Country Camo. BRP is targeting “global tradesman, hunters and farmers” with these new models.  Learn more:  Can-am.brp.com

Yamaha Recalls YXZ1000R Side-by-Sides

The YXZ1000R in red and white.

The 2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R in red and white is being recalled as well as the following 2016 model year versions.

The YXZ1000R in orange.

The YXZ1000R in orange.

The special edition YXZ1000R-SE in yellow.

The special edition YXZ1000R-SE in yellow.

The 2016 Yamaha YXZ1000R in blue and white being recalled.

The YXZ1000R in blue and white being recalled.

Yamaha is recalling approximately 7,000 2016 YXZ 1000R and 1000R SE side-by-side utility vehicles due to the potential of water freezing in the throttle cable and posing a crash hazard. No injuries or incidents have been reported related to the potential hazard. The following is the recall information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Hazard:  Water can get into the throttle cable and if it freezes during cold weather, the ice can prevent the throttle from returning to idle. This can cause the rider to lose control, posing crash and injury hazards.

Units:  About 7,000

Description:  This recall involves model year 2016 YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SE Side-by-Side utility vehicles sold in four colors: orange and black, blue and white, silver and red, and yellow and white. The model name (YXZ…) and “1000” is displayed in a graphic on both the left and right side of the vehicle. The vehicle identification number (VIN) is stamped on the frame near the driver’s side rear wheel. The letter G in the 10th position of the VIN number indicates that the unit was made in the 2016 model year.

Incidents/Injuries:  None reported

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact their local Yamaha dealer to schedule a free repair. Yamaha is contacting all registered owners directly.

Sold at:  Yamaha side-by-side dealers nationwide from September 2015 to February 2016 for between $19,800 and $21,600.

Distributor(s):  Yamaha Motor Corporation USA, of Cypress, Calif.

Manufactured in:  USA

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This recall is relative large in size but more importantly for Yamaha it involves their newest entry into the high-end recreational segment. After their problems with the Rhino, Yamaha had not been active in that market segment for a number of years before the introduction of the 2016 YXZ1000. While in the long run the recall should not be detrimental to their efforts, they would have preferred a recall free re-entry into the recreational side-by-side market.

Cub Cadet Adds Challenger 750 Crew UTV

Cub Cadet expands their Challenger UTV line with the 750 Crew, which seats four.

Cub Cadet expands their Challenger UTV line with the 750 Crew, which seats four.

Cub Cadet has introduced a crew version to their Challenger utility vehicle product line with the new Challenger 750 Crew. The model seats four and features a 735cc, 4-stroke EFI engine, on-demand 4WD, CVT transmission and power steering. Outfitted with 26″ offroad Carlisle tires with aluminum alloy wheels, the Challenger 750 Crew offers 11″ of ground clearance, a 350 lb. cargo box, 1,200 lbs of towing capacity and a front mounted 3,500 lb. winch standard. As with the rest of the Challenger series, which is targeting the value segment, the 750 Crew includes additional standard features including a roof, a quick release two-piece windshield, bumper guard, bucket seats, headrests, mirrors, turn signals and a digital dashboard. The Challenger 750 Crew is available in Red, Yellow, Blue or Camo and has an MSRP of $10,999. Learn More: Cubcadet.com

Comment:  The new addition shows the ongoing commitment of Cub Cadet to their utility vehicle offerings. The utility vehicle market has become so competitive in both the work and recreation segments that it requires a continuing investment in new product development and new models. A crew version in a product line is almost a necessity in order to maintain a solid presence in the market. The amount of resources needed to maintain a sufficient level of product development and new product introductions can be substantial for smaller volume manufacturers.