Polaris Adds Mid-Model Year 2016 Models

The 2016 Ranger XP 900-6 in Black Pearl.

The 2016 Ranger XP 900-6 in Black Pearl.

Polaris announced the addition of new Ranger and RZR vehicles to their model year 2016 lineup, along with new ACE models. The new vehicles primarily feature new paint colors for various models, and mostly across the RZR product line. The exceptions are two new Ranger models, the Ranger XP 900 EPS Matte Sagebrush Green, which features a new paint color as well as Russet Brown cut-and-sew seats, and the Ranger Crew XP 900-6 EPS Black Pearl, which features a Velocity Blue graphics package along with the new paint color. MSRPs are not currently available but similar models with special paint colors are priced at $15,299 for the Ranger XP 900 EPS and $16,499 for the Ranger Crew XP 900-6 EPS.

The 2016 RZR S 1000 EPS in Blue Fire Metallic.

The 2016 RZR S 1000 EPS in Blue Fire Metallic.

The RZR models with new paint colors include:

  • RZR XP Turbo EPS Matte Sunset Red
  • RZR XP Turbo EPS Matte White Lightning
  • RZR XP 4 Turbo EPS Matte White Lightning
  • RZR XP 4 Turbo EPS Matte Sunset Red
  • RZR XP 1000 EPS Sunset Red
  • RZR XP 4 1000 EPS Sunset Red
  • RZR S 1000 EPS Blue Fire Metallic
  • RZR 4 900 EPS Spectra Orange
  • RZR 4 900 EPS Matte Sunset Red
  • RZR S 900 EPS Spectra Orange
  • RZR S 900 EPS Matte Sunset Red
  • RZR 900 EPS XC Edition Titanium Matte Metallic
  • RZR 900 EPS Trail Stealth Black
  • RZR 570 EPS Trail Sunset Red
The 2016 ACE 570 SP in Titanium Matte Metallic.

The 2016 ACE 570 SP in Titanium Matte Metallic.

The ACE models featuring new paint colors include:

  • Polaris ACE 570 Indy Red
  • Polaris ACE 570 Velocity Blue
  • Polaris ACE 570 SP Titanium Matte Metallic

All of the new models will begin shipping in January.

Learn more:  Polaris.com

Comment:  This is a typical mid-model year product introduction for Polaris. While they occasionally introduce a significantly new model at this time or special editions of existing models, the additions are typically new paint colors and/or graphic schemes. It is also an indicator of how well they handle their dealer inventory and manufacturing process. The ability to offer such a wide range of colors across many models in a timely manner while not bloating dealer inventory requires a very responsive and efficient manufacturing process.

CFMOTO 2016 Models Added To SVR Database

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

We recently added CFMOTO’s 2016 model year vehicles to our database. These include the ZForce line, which is designed for trail riding and recreational use, and the UForce line, which is designed for work.  Some of the 2016 models feature CFMOTO’s new 495cc high output engine, which replaces a larger but less powerful engine in previous models.

The ZForce lineup includes the 500, 500 Trail, 800, 800 EPS, 800EX and 800 EX EPS. All of the ZForce models come standard with selectable 2WD/4WD, double A-arm independent suspension in the front and rear with nitrogen gas shocks, contoured roof, cargo and side nets, 3,000 lb. winch, 14″ aluminum wheels, 26″ tires, LED headlights and a multi-function digital display. The main difference between the 500 and 800 models is that the 800 models feature a 800cc engine with 62 hp and have an electronic power steering option. The 500 Trail, 800 and 800 EPS models are only 50″ wide while the standard 500 model is 52″ wide. If you favor a wider vehicle, then the 800EX model is 59″ wide and is also available with electronic power steering. The 800EX has a slightly higher ground clearance at 11.8″ compared to 11.2″ for the other models. The list prices for the ZForce lineup range from $8,799 to $11,599.

The 2016 CFMOTO UForce 800 in Crystal Orange.

The 2016 CFMOTO UForce 800 in Crystal Orange.

The UForce lineup offers fewer models with the 800, 800 EPS and the 500 EPS. The latter model uses the new high output engine. All of the UForce models come standard with selectable 2WD/4WD, double A-arm independent suspension in the front and rear, safety doors, contoured roof, a winch, 14″ wheels, 26″ tires, a large capacity dump box with nitrogen gas spring assist lift, LED headlights and a multi-function digital display. All the models have 10.2 inches of ground clearance and are 57.6 inches wide. The 800 models features a 3,500 lb. rather than 3,000 lb. winch, 1,250 lbs. of towing capacity versus 1,025 lbs. for the 500 EPS, and aluminum rather than steel wheels. The list prices for the UForce lineup range from $8,999 to $10,799.

Learn more:  Search Database

CFMoto Introduces New Engine & 50″ Trail Side-by-Sides

The new 500HO high output engine from CFMoto.

The new 500HO high output engine from CFMoto.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

The new 2016 CFMoto ZForce 500 which uses the new high output engine.

CFMoto recently announced two new trail side-by-sides for 2016, the ZForce 500HO Trail and the ZForce 800 Trail. The ZForce 500HO Trail is powered by their new 500HO high output engine. The single-cylinder, four-valve overhead cam, liquid-cooled engine features BOSCH electronic fuel injection for instant starts, crisp throttle response and improved fuel economy. The new engine delivers 15 percent more power and 10 percent more torque than the 600 engine it replaces. The two new trail friendly models will be available at dealers in mid-January. The 2016 lineup will also feature new Sumitomo electrical connectors to improve performance in wet conditions and more durable front differentials as part of an effort to improve the overall durability of CFMoto’s side-by-sides. The MSRP for the ZForce 500HO Trail is $8,799 and for the ZForce 800 Trail it’s $9,999. Learn more:  Powersportsbusiness.com

Comment:  While the press release notes the vehicles being 50″ wide, on a couple of dealer websites I checked have the vehicles are listed as being 52″ wide. Nevertheless, this introduction is an indication that no segment in the side-by-side market is escaping increased competition. While the 50″ trail riding segment has largely been the battleground of major brands such as Polaris and Arctic Cat, the entrance of a value brand such as CFMoto indicates both the sales potential of the segment and the determination of companies to grab a piece of the pie.

LEO Motors Introduces Electric Vehicles with “Swappable” Batteries

Newly launched electric vehicle from Leo Motors.

Newly launched electric vehicle from LEO Motors. 

Leo Motors  of South Korea, launched a line of electric vehicles with “swappable” batteries. The vehicles include an electric cargo one-seater car, a delivery truck and a garbage truck. The company also introduced two electric fishing boats.

A key differentiator for the vehicles is that customers rent charged batteries from the company’s Battery Swap Centers, thereby reducing their costs. The vehicle lineup includes:

  • E-Dot, a 100% electric cargo one-seater with a cargo space of 7 cubic feet. Its maximum weight capacity is 220 pounds and the cargo space can be replaced with a second passenger seat.
  • LC-1 –  a light delivery truck with low decks and wide ramps for easy loading, and a maximum carrying capacity of 1,100 pounds.
  • LC-2 – Similar to an LC-1 but with an 1,100 pound capacity garbage collection container.

Batteries at Leo’s battery swap stations are owned by the station operators and rented to the electric vehicle owners. This not only significantly reduces the price of the vehicle but also eliminates concerns about battery life span. Leo’s battery swapping machines are carts which replace battery cartridges eliminating the need for expensive large robot arms to handle massive battery packs. Using this shopping cart sized device, a typical 20 cartridge replacement takes 5 minutes. Learn more:  Baystreet.ca

Comment:  It will be interesting to see if the rental battery concept will work. Advanced batteries, such as lithium ion, can be very expensive, especially for LSVs and lower priced utility vehicles where the cost of the lithium batteries compared to the overall cost of the vehicle is very high. A battery rental approach could lower the up front costs of the battery pack.

 

Polaris General: A New UTV Product Line is Launched

 

The base model General 1000 EPS is Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999.

The base model General 1000 EPS in Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999.

The premium model General 1000 EPS Velocity Blue with an MSRP of $17,499.

The premium model General 1000 EPS Velocity Blue with an MSRP of $17,499.

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Deluxe Orange Burst with an MSRP of $19,999.

The Polaris General 1000 EPS Deluxe Orange Burst with an MSRP of $19,999.

Polaris Industries is launching the Polaris General, a new product line positioned between the Ranger and RZR product lines, that is designed for work and recreational use. “Today is a great day at Polaris! Once again, we are launching a game-changing new product,” said Tim Blinkhorn, GM, RANGER & Polaris GENERAL. “This vehicle is the most versatile sideby-side ever built, made for those who want to battle it all. Whether it’s dominating any trail, or conquering any job, The Polaris GENERAL delivers.”

The General product line initially features three models, a base model in Indy Red with an MSRP of $15,999, a model in Velocity Blue at $17,499 and a Deluxe model in Orange Burst priced at $19,999. The price points and features such as one of the more powerful Polaris ProStar engines indicate a higher-end crossover UTV. Some of the key figures across all models include:

  • 100 hp ProStar 1000 engine
  • Electronic Power Steering
  • High Performance Close Ratio On-Demand AWD/2WD
  • Engine Braking System
  • 12.25″ of front suspension travel and 13.2″ in the rear
  • Front and rear sway bars
  • 12″ of ground clearance unloaded and 7.4″ when cargo box is loaded
  • 600 lb. cargo box capacity
  • 1,500 lb. towing capacity
  • Full-body skid plate
  • Factory installed doors with armrests
  • Dual bolstered bucket seats with adjustable driver seat
  • Space-optimized foot rests
  • All-new customizable digital/analog instrumentation cluster that tilts with the steering wheel
  • 23 liters of integrated storage
  • 27″ tires
  • 30 brand new Polaris Engineered Accessories™ and 90-plus common fit items

The Velocity Blue model features:

  • Automotive-style paint
  • Sport low profile front bumper
  • Polaris HD 4,500 lb. winch
  • 14″ Matte Black cast aluminum wheels
  • Eiight-ply, 27″ GBC Dirt Commander Tires

The DeluxeOrange Burst Model has all the features of the Velocity Blue model plus:

  • Adjustable Fox Podium X 2.0 QS3 shocks
  • Pro-Fit Lock & Ride Sport Roof
  • Rear-view mirror
  • MTX Premium Soundbar with eight speakers and blue-tooth connectivity

The Velocity Blue and Deluxe Orange Burst models will be available at Polaris dealerships starting in December. The Indy Red will be available in March 2016. Learn more:  Polaris.com

Comment:  While Polaris Ranger and RZRs are certainly used as crossover UTVs, the product lines are delineated with the Ranger for work applications and the RZRs for recreation. The General provides Polaris with a more targeted line of crossover UTVs. The launch is another indicator of the continued high level of competition in the UTV market. The General provides Polaris with more models to directly compete with John Deere’s XUV line, the Honda Pioneer line, the Yamaha Viking line and Can Am’s Commander line. The Polaris General, given the model price points and features, appears to be targeting a higher priced end of the crossover market. As these product launches continue in the market, most of the major brands are building out specific product lines for work, recreation and crossover applications.

GEM Director John Stockman Talks About the New Model Year

The new GEMs for model year 2016.

The new GEMs for model year 2016.

I recently interviewed GEM Director John Stockman about the changes to the GEM lineup for model year 2016, the vision for the brand and how it fits within the overall small vehicle portfolio of Polaris. Here is an excerpt from the larger article posted in our Buying Guide section:

Polaris has made extensive changes to the GEM lineup for the 2016 e2, e4, e6 and eL XD models. Stylistically the iconic “bubble” design is still noticeable from a side view, but a frontal view reveals significant changes. The new design was in large part based on customer research. According to Stockman, in the neighborhood of 10 different designs were vetted by customers and consumers before a final design was chosen.

Even more important than stylistic changes, were the engineering changes made under the skin in direct response to several phases of customer research, including multiple ride clinics with dozens of customers and consumers, feature and finish related research, as well as feedback from dealers. The research focused the product development process on a number of key areas. One was the comfort of users as they ingress and egress from the vehicles all throughout their day. Towards that end, more legroom and headroom has been created. A past complaint about hot seats was also addressed as well as items as minor as having self-canceling turn signals.

A second issue highlighted by the research was vehicle safety. Stockman states that, “We are hearing more and more from corporate campuses, colleges and universities, hotel and resorts, that they are moving away from the traditional golf carts towards LSVs because of their safety features.” With that in mind the safety features the GEM is known for were kept but also improved. This included better brakes, vehicle handling in evasive situations and seatbelts. “We really focused on making sure that this was the safest LSV you could get”, remarked Stockman.

Another focus… View Full Article

I will be following up this article with some impressions from GEM dealers on the changes for the 2016 model lineup. For detailed vehicle specifications for the 2016 and past GEMs, search the SVR vehicle database.

 

Polaris Introduces All-New GEM Lineup For 2016

The all new 2016 GEM e2.

The all new 2016 GEM e2.

The 2016 GEM e2 with an enclosed cargo box.

The 2016 GEM e2 with an enclosed cargo box.

The 2016 GEM eL XD with an enclosed rear cargo area.

The 2016 GEM eL XD with an enclosed rear cargo area.

Polaris Industries has announced an all new GEM lineup of vehicles for model year 2016. According to John Stockman, GEM director at Polaris. “The all-new GEM takes what our customers already love about these vehicles and improves the ergonomics, ride and range. We’ve also added more comfort and safety features to provide an even better experience for both rider and driver, with the added benefit of just $.03 per mile cost of ownership.” Some of key features for the all new GEM include:

  • Aluminum chassis that passes SAE roof-crush-test standards
  • Front-wheel disc brakes
  • Automotive style suspension
  • High-back forward-facing seats
  • 3-point seat belts
  • Automotive glass windshield
  • LED signal lights
  • Optional RiderX app provides free access to road maps
  • Smart Power which matches the power to the task with the ability to choose the best combination of battery and charge options.
  • Optional Li-ion battery
  • The eL XD model offers a recessed bed option to lower loading height and maximize hauling capability, and a tailgate ramp.

There are seven models in the product line.  There are three passenger vehicles, the e2, e4 and e6, as well as four utility vehicles, the eL XD, eM 1400, eM 1400 LSV and the Polaris M1400.  The Polaris M1400 is a gas powered vehicle. Pricing starts at $8,999 for the GEM e2 and increases to $12,999 for the GEM eL XD. A range of factory installed options are available including but not limited to in-windshield defrost, electronic power steering, integrated doors and a full range of rear carrier options. Learn more:  Polaris.com

Comment:  I spoke with a GEM dealer who has some limited knowledge of the vehicles at this point and he gave me his first impressions:

  • The redesigned doors are the most significant improvement, addressing hardware problems, water intrusion, ease of entry/exit, line of sight issues and lack of availability for 6 passenger models.
  • The redesigned interior addresses driver comfort issues with more legroom and headroom.
  • The new AGM and Lithium ion battery options are a significant improvement and allow for better matching of batteries to vehicle application.
  • The additional options for the popular eL XD model will allow for more customization for the wide variety of uses for which customers currently use the vehicle.

Jacobsen Launches New Professional Series of Utility Vehicles

The following is a summary of the key vehicle features:

The Truckster MS/MX are two of the newly launched Jacobsen models.

The Truckster MS/MX are two of the newly launched Jacobsen models.

Truckster MS/MX

  • Engine:  13 hp, 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled Kawasaki engine
  • Engine:  CVT transmission
  • Speed:  MS – 16.5 mph; MX – 17 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  MS – 1,200 lbs; MX – 800 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  MS – 800 lbs; MX – 500 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  MS – 4.3″; MX – 5.3″
  • Width:  MS – 49.5″; MX – 48.5″
  • Available lifted suspension on the MX provides added ground clearance
The electric powered Jacobsen Truckster MS-E.

The electric powered Jacobsen Truckster MS-E.

Truckster MS-E/MX-E

  • Motor:  22.4 hp, 72V AC induction electric motor
  • Speed:  MS-E 13 mph programmable to 19 mph; MX-E 16 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  MS-E 1,000 lbs; MX-E 900 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  MS-E 600 lbs; MX-E 500 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  MS-E 5.5″; MX-E 7.0″
  • Width: MS-E/MX-E 49.8″
Truckster LS-LX

The Truckster LS and LX feature a polyethylene cargo bed.

Truckster LS/LX

  • Engine:  13 hp, 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled Kawasaki engine
  • Speed:  LS/LX 17 mph
  • Payload Capacity:  LS/LX 800 lbs
  • Cargo Bed Capacity:  LS 500 lbs; LX 400 lbs
  • Ground Clearance:  LS/LX 4.3″
  • Width:  LS 49.5″; LX 48.5″
  • Polyethylene cargo bed
  • Available lifted suspension for the Truckster LX

Learn more:  Jacobsen.com

John Deere Announces XUV 825i Special Edition Gator

The new XUV 825i Special Edition Gator with two integrated tool boxes.

The new XUV 825i Special Edition Gator with two integrated tool boxes.

The special edition model also features LED roof lights.

The Special Edition model also features LED roof lights.

John Deere used the GIE+EXPO to announce a new 2016 special edition Gator utility vehicle. The XUV 825i Special Edition Gator features two integrated cargo tool boxes and LED roof lights. The two cargo boxes are situated on the driver and passenger side. The driver’s side box opens from the top and has two divided compartments with a removable tray. The passenger side box opens from the side and features one open compartment. Both tool boxes have a 75 lb. capacity.

Additional features include a 50 hp, 812cc, electronic fuel injected gas engine that delivers a 44 mph top speed, on-demand four-wheel drive, power steering, Operator Protective System with nets, 27″ Maxxis Big Horn tires, 11″ of ground clearance and a 1,000 lb. deluxe cargo box with a polyurethane liner. The 2016 XUV 825i Special Edition Gator will be available in December 2015 with a MSRP $16,799 compared to $13,159 for the standard XUV 825i Power Steering model. Learn more:  UTVguide.net

Comment:  Compared to the standard model, the Special Edition model includes the cargo tool boxes, the LED roof lights, side nets and the Maxxis Big Horn tires.

Cenntro Automotive To Display Electric Utility Vehicle At Auto Show

The new Metro compact utility vehicle from Cenntro Automotive.

The new Metro compact utility vehicle from Cenntro Automotive.

Cenntro Automotive will showcase its METRO™, electric utility vehicle at the Orange County International Auto Show held in Anaheim, CA from October 15 – 18. Launched earlier this year, the Metro, which the company refers to as a Compact Utility Vehicle (CUV) is similar to mini-truck and manufactured in Sparks, NV.

The electric powered vehicle features Cenntro’s own Cenntro Power powertrain, has a range of up to 50 miles, a top speed of 25 mph and payload capacity of 1,400 lbs. The Metro’s modular design allows for six different cargo area configurations for a range of end use applications including van box, refrigerated unit, grille enclosure, tarpaulin enclosure, tilting flatbed, and fixed flatbed with sideboards. Some of the key markets for the company are the US, European Union and China and targeted end use applications include city service and delivery, campus maintenance and park services. The US version of the Metro uses a lead acid battery pack while the European version uses a lithium battery pack  and has a top speed of 50 mph and a range of approximately 124 miles. Currently, the vehicles appear to be sold directly by the company rather than dealers.  Learn more:  PRnewswire.com