Renault Debuts Twizy Delivery Concept

The Twizy Delivery Concept vehicle from Renault.

The Twizy Delivery Concept vehicle from Renault.

Renault has introduced a concept delivery vehicle based on their Twizy two seat passenger vehicle. The Renault Twizy Concept has a specially-modified short-cab big enough for just the driver. Instead of a second seat behind the driver as in the regular production Twizy — or the small cargo-carrying space found in the single-seat Twizy Cargo — the Delivery concept features a flat pickup-style bed onto which a tiny two-wheeled trailer is hitched. A one meter square cargo box fits on the rear trailer platform which is rigidly attached to the front. The vehicle has six wheels instead of four and the middle axle provides motive power. The vehicle will be used in a pilot project in Paris to test the viability of using the vehicle for deliveries where larger vehicles can’t go. Learn more:  Transportevolved.com 

Comment:  The vehicle, although small, looks like it might be slightly oversized for its intended use and maneuvering the six-wheeled vehicle in tight spots might be difficult. It will be interesting to see how the pilot project turns out. The article notes that the passenger version has very low sales but I think that requirements for a passenger vehicle are much more demanding. A smaller, niche application such as “final kilometre” delivery may prove to be a more viable market for the Twizy vehicle platform, but perhaps not with this specific design.

Club Car Introduces The Precedent Stretch PTV

The new four person Precedent Stretch PTV from Club Car.

The new four person Precedent Stretch PTV from Club Car.

Club Car has launched a new personal transportation vehicle (PTV), the Precedent Stretch. The four-person vehicle includes four forward-facing streets, an optional19-mph Private Use Speed Option, 3.7-hp IQ Plus™ electric motor, a 350-amp controller and ERIC, a new charging system. ERIC issues audio and visual alerts to inform owners when charging begins, when the car is fully charged, when the battery state of charge drops below 20% and 10%, and of any problems with the charger. The Precedent Stretch, purposely built for four people, also features a tubular aluminum frame, spacious bagwell and heavy-duty SportDrive™ Steering and Suspension System.  The full press release follows the comment.

Comment:  What I find interesting about this new vehicle is that it is a PTV and not an LSV. PTVs have a higher maximum speed than what is typically found for golf cars, 19 mph vs 15 mph, but is not as fast as an LSV, 25 mph. The vehicle is clearly aimed at gated communities where people would like to travel faster but don’t want the added expense of an LSV, which must have a set of mandated safety features. This choose may indicate that Club Car finds more potential in the non-LSV personal transportation market in gated communities than in the market for LSVs for use on local public roads.

Press Release

Club Car Introduces New Precedent Stretch PTV (Personal Transportation Vehicle) with 19-mph Private Use Speed Option
New Four-Passenger Electric Vehicle Is Great for Neighborhood Transportation, Small Businesses and Golf

Club Car introduces the versatile new Precedent Stretch personal transportation vehicle (PTV). It combines unsurpassed power and durability with four forward-facing seats and 35 additional inches of legroom, for people who want to take the long view. In the Precedent Stretch PTV, drivers don’t have to leave a friend or relative behind or sitting on a rear-facing seat. “The vehicle’s automotive design fosters conversation, camaraderie and comfort. It delivers the most front and rear legroom of any four-passenger vehicle in its class,” says Product Manager David Woodward. The Precedent Stretch PTV comes with a maximum speed of 15 mph or with Club Car’s 19-mph Private Use Speed Option, making it ideal for neighborhood transportation.

Engineered to Carry the Load

Many small four-passenger vehicles are simply traditional golf cars that have been extended by a third-party provider, often putting the OEM warranty at risk. The Precedent Stretch PTV was designed to carry the additional length and weight. The car is equipped with 10 percent more battery capacity, providing more range than competitive vehicles. The system features: 

  • A rugged 3.7-hp IQ Plus™ electric motor
  • A 350-amp controller
  • A heavy-duty solenoid
  • Four-gauge battery wires
  • Regenerative brakes that capture and store energy used during braking, extending the miles per charge

Durable, Environmentally Safe and Family-friendly
The vehicle uses no gas and releases no carbon emissions. It comes with:

  • A spacious bagwell for groceries, gear or two sets of clubs.
  • An exclusive rustproof, corrosion-resistant, 2-x-3-inch tubular aluminum frame that makes it more impact resistant than steel frames.
  • An extended Monsoon Top™ Canopy with built-in drains that channel water to the ground.
  • A heavy-duty SportDrive™ Steering and Suspension System for a smoother ride and better handling.
  • An integrated rear-passenger grab bar, a five-panel mirror and improved rear braking for safety.
  • One of the longest, most inclusive warranties in its class.

Heads Off Charging Errors
The Precedent Stretch PTV has a new charging system known as ERIC (Efficient. Reliable. Intelligent. Connected.).
“The solid-state, high-frequency system works globally, keeps charging even during voltage fluctuations, and outsmarts common user errors,” says Woodward.
ERIC issues audio and visual alerts to inform owners when charging begins, when the car is fully charged and of any problems with the charger. On-car dash lights alert drivers when the battery state of charge falls to 20 and then 10 percent charge so they don’t get stranded.
Unlike chargers in competitive vehicles, ERIC continuously monitors the battery pack after charging and delivers power as needed. It can be charged through a standard 110-volt outlet, and comes with a standard single-point watering system that makes battery maintenance quick and easy.

Research Demonstrates Effectiveness of Solar Panels For Vehicle Range Extension

University of Windsor associate professor Narayan Kar, left, and Unconquered Sun founder and CEO Sean Moore, in front of a electric powered shuttle outfitted with solar panels. (Photo:  Julie Kotsis/The Windsor Star)

University of Windsor associate professor Narayan Kar, left, and Unconquered Sun founder and CEO Sean Moore, in front of a electric powered shuttle outfitted with solar panels. (Photo: Julie Kotsis/The Windsor Star)

Researchers from the University of Windsor have conducted testing that show the effectiveness of solar panels to extend the range of electric vehicles. The research was performed in collaboration with Unconquered Sun Solar Technologies, a solar panel company based in Ontario with manufacturing facilities in Windsor. According to the company’s management, the testing showed that driving range could be extended 45% on average. Unconquered Sun is planning on launching a line of low-speed vehicles with rooftop solar panels in the Spring. For the testing, the solar panels used Lexan rather than heavier glass for the lamination of the solar cells. Learn more:  Windsorstar.com

Comment:  There are a number of companies in the market that provide electric STOVs with solar panel options. For example, some of Polaris’ GEM as well as Club Car provide a solar panel option from Solardrive for some of their electric vehicles. This research is just one more sign that this trend is likely to continue and even gain more momentum. The college/university market which has a strong interest in building green and sustainable fleets are a likely target for this type of vehicle option.

Polaris Expands RZR and Ranger Lineups

The new four passenger RZR 4 EPS in Havasu Red Pearl from Polaris.

The new four passenger RZR 4 EPS in Havasu Red Pearl from Polaris.

Yesterday Polaris announced new RZR and Ranger models as they continue to build out their 2015 utility vehicle product lines. To the RZR line they are adding the RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition, which includes a special suspension package, the multi-passneger RZR 4 900 EPS in Havasu Red Pearl and Voodoo Blue and special paint and graphic schemes for some of their existing 2015 models. To the Ranger line they are adding the Ranger XP® 900 EPS–Sunset Red Silver, Ranger XP® 900 EPS–Sandstone Metallic, Ranger® Diesel HST & Ranger Diesel HST Deluxe. The press releases follow with more details about vehicle features. The Ranger models will be available at dealerships in late January and the RZRs in February.

POLARIS ANNOUNCES SPECIAL FOX EDITION AND NEW RZRS IN LIMITED EDITION COLORS

Minneapolis, MN (January 7, 2015) – As part of RZR’s continuing innovation and commitment to its enthusiasts, Polaris is announcing several new models featuring new paint schemes and graphics, and a new RZR XP 1000 EPS model with the first-ever Internal Bypass Shocks available on a side-by-side.
The new RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition is hands-down, the best performing suspension ever offered on a sport Side by Side, featuring highly-tuned FOX Podium® Internal Bypass Shocks, re-tuned coil-over springs, new front stabilizer bar and softer rear bar. The vehicle offers the next generation of suspension innovation that takes Razor Sharp Performance to a whole new level.
The new FOX Podium® Internal Bypass Shocks found on the RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition generates highly-progressive damping that gives the vehicle a plush ride with all the bottom-out resistance expected from an ultra-performance off-road vehicle. The shocks have large diameter bodies (3 in/7.6 cm rear, 2.5 in/6.4 cm front), reservoirs and increased fluid capacity for dramatic improvements in heat dissipation, fade resistance and durability. The internal bypass technology offers more zones than a conventional shock for better tenability and performance for the smoothest ride available on a side-by-side and better handling over a wider range of terrain at any speed.
To complement the new shock package, Polaris outfitted the RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition with redesigned coil-over springs. The progressive rate upper spring is a lighter-weight spring that absorbs small impacts while the stiffer, main spring maintains ground clearance and absorbs bigger impacts in rough terrain.
The RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition also is the first RZR XP to feature a front sway bar and also has a redesigned rear sway bar with 25 percent less stiffness. Combined with the FOX Podium Internal Bypass Shocks, the sway bars dramatically decrease body roll and improve vehicle handling and comfort.
Along with the new suspension package, the RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition features Matte Turbo Silver paint, cut and sew seats, new graphics package, innovative 6-Point harnesses and the Polaris Interactive Digital Display which is an integrated, industry-leading LCD display and gauge with full-featured GPS, mapping capability and compass. The display also features integrated Bluetooth functionality and shows the speedometer, tachometer, dual trip meters, odometer and maintenance warnings along with a digital clock, and operating conditions including fuel level and diagnostics.
The RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition will be available in dealerships starting in February 2015.
Along with the new RZR XP 1000 EPS FOX Edition, Polaris also is announcing several other new models with new paint scheme and graphics which include the following:

2015 RZR® 570 EPS Black Pearl
Additional features on this model include:
Electronic Power Steering
Engine Braking System (EBS)
TURF Mode
Sealed under hood storage
Maxxis Tires with Cast Aluminum Rims
High / Low beam headlights
Black Pearl paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® 900 EPS Trail Blue Fire
Electronic Power Steering
High Performance Close Ratio AWD
Engine Braking System (EBS)
TURF Mode
Driver’s Side Seat Slider
Cast Aluminum Rims
Blue Fire paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® 900 EPS Trail Gloss Nuclear Sunset
Electronic Power Steering
High Performance Close Ratio AWD
Engine Braking System (EBS)
TURF Mode
Driver’s Side Seat Slider
Cast Aluminum Rims
Nuclear Sunset paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® S 900 EPS Voodoo Blue
Electronic Power Steering
High Performance Close Ratio AWD
Driver’s Side Seat Slider
High Performance Steering Wheel
Voodoo Blue paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® S 900 EPS Stealth Black
Electronic Power Steering
High Performance Close Ratio AWD
Driver’s Side Seat Slider
High Performance Steering Wheel
Stealth Black paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® XP 1000 EPS Stealth Black
Electronic Power Steering
Stealth Black paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® XP 1000 EPS Orange Madness
Electronic Power Steering
Orange Madness paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs

2015 RZR® XP 4 1000 EPS White Lightning (Monochrome)
Electronic Power Steering
White Lightning paint
Custom graphics package
Custom cut & sew seats with RZR emblem
Color-matched painted front and rear suspension springs
All models will be available in dealerships starting in January.

POLARIS ADDS ANOTHER MULTI-PASSENGER VEHICLE TO THE RZR FAMILY

Introducing the new RZR 4 900 EPS
Minneapolis, MN (January 7, 2015) –This past July, Polaris® introduced one of the biggest RZR® line-ups ever and continued to fuel the RZR lifestyle by offering the widest variety of vehicles for every type of sport riding. With the introduction of the new 2015 RZR 900 and RZR S 900, Polaris redefined the first two RZR products ever built by providing the vehicles with unequalled power, highly-capable suspensions, unmatched agility, and revolutionary ergonomics and styling.
To continue RZR’s tradition of offering the most-complete line-up of sport side-by-sides, Polaris is introducing the new RZR 4 900 EPS, one of the most versatile, multi-passenger side-by-sides available.
Whether you ride in the trail or desert, the RZR 4 900 EPS delivers a multi-passenger option that can tackle a wide variety of terrains at a lower price than a premium model. The vehicle shares many of the same attributes as the RZR S 900; 75 horsepower, ProStar® 900 EFI engine, Dual A-Arm Front and Rear Suspension, High-Performance All Wheel Drive (AWD), 60 in/152.4 cm width, revolutionary ergonomics and styling, and accessory integration; with a 106.5 in/270.5 cm wheelbase that accommodates two more passengers so more family and friends can experience the RZR lifestyle.
At the heart of the RZR 4 900 EPS is a 75 horsepower ProStar® 900 engine offering 40 percent more power than the legendary RZR 4 800 model it replaces. Polaris’ ProStar engines have become the pinnacle of performance engines for RZR due to their efficiency, acceleration and durability. To get more power to the ground, the vehicle also features the extremely-durable RZR XP transmission which is specifically geared to optimize the power of the engine for a huge improvement in acceleration over the RZR 4 800. With improved clutching and calibration, the RZR 4 900 EPS’ ride is also smooth and predictable throughout the power band. And the new, high-flow clutch intake system provides more airflow and decreases belt temperature to provide an extremely durable clutch system.
To handle diverse terrains from high desert to dense trails, the RZR 4 900 EPS features a 106.5 in/270.5 cm long wheelbase paired with a Dual A-Arm Front and Rear Suspension with 12.25 in/31.12 cm of front suspension travel and 13.2 in/33.53 cm in the rear and FOX Performance Series 2.0 Podium X Shocks, so the suspension can be tuned for exactly the way you ride to provide excellent plushness and comfort while still yielding great bottom-out resistance. The unit’s ultra-rigid, tubular chassis is paired with a completely new suspension geometry for less vibration inside the vehicle and more responsive suspension feedback. The machine also features new 27 in/68.58 cm GBC Dirt Commander Tires that offer better side bite, stiffer sidewalls, better tracking through corners and increased durability, making the RZR 4 900 EPS a performance-based, multi-passenger machine that’s predictable and inspires confidence.
For unmatched agility, the RZR 4 900 EPS has several features that were first introduced on the RZR S 900. The vehicle’s optimized track width inspires confidence through corners thanks to an additional 1.3 in/3.3 cm of rear track width while maintaining the overall vehicle width of 60 in/152.4 cm. While all RZR vehicles are equipped with On-Demand True AWD, the RZR 4 900 EPS utilizes Polaris’ High-Performance AWD which keeps the front wheels pulling stronger and longer, maximizing power delivery to the ground in every condition for a more responsive ride. The system provides increased traction without sacrificing steering effort to provide unmatched point-and-shoot handling. The RZR 4 900 EPS also features 20 percent faster steering response with an improved two-turn lock to lock steering ratio. Coupled with the smoothest and most-responsive standard Electronic Power Steering (EPS) with variable assist, the vehicle ensures the operator feels confident and less fatigued, and allows the driver to keep his hands on the steering wheel more often even when navigating through tight terrain.
For excellent rider comfort, the RZR 4 900 EPS features many of the same, unique features found on the RZR XP 1000. Both driver and passenger seats are equipped with seat sliders for easy adjustability, and all four seats offer improved bolstering and more hip cushioning for a more secure feel. A thin-film technology under the cover of the seats offers a drier ride in wet conditions. Rear passengers also will enjoy more foot and leg room, and an angled floor for a more secure feeling. The vehicle also features four, factory-installed quarter doors to make getting in and out easier.
First found on the RZR XP 1000, the cockpit of the RZR 4 900 EPS features front LED floor lighting and a blue back-lighted instrument cluster, readable both in direct sunlight and at night. To take more stuff along, a large center storage area and a bigger glove box provide ample space for any items needed during the ride while the deeper rear box provides ample space for additional cargo. Sealed floor seams and equipment pass-throughs keep the occupants cleaner; while dual removable floor drains allow for easier clean out of the cabin.
The RZR 4 900 EPS also is easier to service due to the ease of access of the major components. The air filter, spark plugs and oil fill are located under the removable box panel in the cargo box of the vehicle while a panel between the seats houses the dipstick and oil filter, and is accessible without removing the seats. The vehicle features an integrated transmission with only one check/fill point and grease zerks for both the inboard and outboard bushings of the A-arms. Durability is taken to a new level with new stronger ball joints, half shafts and hubs with improved bearing fit. To allow for easy electrical accessory installation, the RZR 4 900 EPS features a terminal block for wiring under the hood and a bigger battery with 44 Amp-hours of capacity and 575 cold-cranking amps.
RZR owners love to accessorize their vehicles and the RZR 4 900 EPS’ purpose-built chassis is exclusively engineered for Polaris accessories. With integrated mounting points situated along the vehicle frame and pass-through areas for routing wires, accessories can be attached with minimal installation time. Additions, such as rock sliders and bumpers, easily attach and fit securely to the vehicle’s frame due to Polaris’ innovative Lock & Ride® Expanding Anchor; a revolutionary piece of hardware that expands as it is inserted into a mounting point. Lock & Ride windshields, rear panels, roofs and doors work seamlessly with each other and install directly onto designated mounting points, making installation simple, and providing superior fit and finish.
The RZR 4 900 EPS will be offered in Havasu Red Pearl and Voodoo Blue and will be in dealerships starting in February.
RANGER®
Model Year 2015 brought a 13 percent increase in power to its flagship RANGER vehicle, the RANGER XP 900. The upgraded 68 horsepower ProStar® 900 along with RANGER XP 900’s other class-leading features such as payload, towing, ground clearance, suspension travel and torque ensures the vehicle stays the hardest working, smoothest riding side-by-side in the marketplace. The vehicle also features new, intake openings, on the pillars behind the driver and passenger, allowing for improved airflow for the engine and clutch air intake systems.
Polaris is introducing two more RANGER XP 900 models which include:

2015 RANGER XP® 900 EPS–Sunset Red Silver
Additional features on the upgrade edition model include:
Sunset Red and Silver automotive-style paint and graphic package

Sunset Red and Silver cut and sew seats

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

PXT Tires on cast aluminum wheels

2015 RANGER XP® 900 EPS–Sandstone Metallic
Additional features on the upgrade edition model include:
Sandstone Metallic automotive-style paint and graphic package
​​
​Sandstone Metallic cut and sew seats

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)

PXT Tires on cast aluminum wheels

2015 RANGER® Diesel HST & RANGER Diesel HST Deluxe
The three-passenger RANGER Diesel HST and RANGER Diesel HST Deluxe offer customers considering a utilitarian side-by-side the most comfortable and easy-to-use options on the market. The vehicles will continue to offer key features that are important to the agricultural and rural lifestyle customer such as diesel power with a hydrostatic transmission, hydraulic power steering, an industry-exclusive treadle pedal, multi-link coil over De Dion rear suspension and premium Lock & Ride® PRO-FIT™ cab system, complete with climate control and new hinged doors with operable windows, which is standard on the RANGER Diesel HST Deluxe. New for 2015, both vehicles feature a 3-cylinder, Tier 4 compliant KOHLER® Diesel engine with double the alternator output, 110 amps, to power more accessories.

Kulan Electric UTV Concept Vehicle

The Kulan electric UTV concept vehicle designed for farm use.

The Kulan electric UTV concept vehicle designed for farm use.

The Kulan electric UTV is a concept vehicle designed for use on farms. Kulan derives its’ name from a Central Asian donkey. The uniquely designed vehicle is made to be a beast of burden for payloads up to 1,000 kg. The vehicle is powered by a lithium ion battery pack paired with two 2KW electric motors on the rear wheels which generate 5 hp and a top speed of 50km/hr. The body panels are plastic and the frame is made of tubular steel. The stated range is up to six hours of run time or 300 km depending on load and driving conditions. The vehicle is being developed by Poly-Lab.net, a consortium of 14 companies based in Germany. The consortium is looking to move the vehicle from concept into production.  Learn more:  Greencarreports.com

Comment:  A unique and “bare bones” design. I’m curious to see if the Kulan will move into the production phase. While the design appears to lend itself to low-priced production costs, the lithium battery pack could prove to be expensive given the reported vehicle range. Nevertheless, the focus on farm application is another indication of how UTVs are becoming more specialized for specific end-user segments.

Ecocruise Set To Enter NEV Market

The new Cruser Sport NEV from Ecocruise will be launched in January 2015.

The new Cruser Sport NEV from Ecocruise will be launched in January 2015.

Ecocruise based in Washington is set to enter the NEV market in January 2015 when they start shipping their Ecocruise Cruser Sport. The decidedly sporty model features a carbon fibre body over exposed tubular steel,  exposed suspension and 14in aluminum wheels along with a covered rear hatch and T-tops. While built for the road, the design evokes off-road vehicles and reflects the off-road motorsports experience of company founder Steve Leighty who spent many years designing and building dirt bikes and ATVs.

The Cruser Sport features a ​Lifepo4 72v 62AH battery, 5kW brushless DC motor, 4-wheel disc brakes, dual A-arm front suspension and swing arm rear suspension. Other amenities include AM/FM radio, bucket seats and LCD instrument display. The Cruser Sport will retail for $8,500 to $11,900 depending on the battery and motor options.

Management expects their model lineup to be expanded shortly after the Cruser Sport launch with a one-seater EZIP-4 for around $3,800. In addition a line of service and utility vehicles, including electric scooters, will follow as well as a golf version of the Cruser Sport.  Learn more:  BBC.com

Comment:  The Cruser Sport definitely has a different look than most of the NEVs on the market. While the consumer NEV market has grown, it has not been an explosive growth rate and in many areas has been eclipsed by commercial demand from institutions such as schools and parks looking for green and safe transportation alternatives. The consumer NEV market has been undercut, in part, by local regulations allowing expanded use of lower cost golf cars on public roads. In areas  requiring compliance with NEV-type safety regulations NEVs have had more success. The design of the Cruser Sport may help it garner more sales than the typical NEV.

LiV Golf Cars Trying To Enter Fleet Golf Car Market

The Evolve fleet golf car from LiV Golf Cars

The Evolve fleet golf car from LiV Golf Cars powered by lithium batteries.

The Prosper fleet golf car from LiV Golf Cars powered by lithium batteries.

The Prosper fleet golf car from LiV Golf Cars powered by lithium batteries.

LiV Golf Cars based in Libby, Montana is hoping to break into the golf car fleet market in 2015 with a pair of lithium battery powered electric golf cars. Started in 2013 with the aid of a $368,000 grant from the local government, the company to date has produced 34 vehicles during the course of their product development and initial sales process. According to CEO Jon Hoster 15-20 of those vehicles are on five different golf courses located in California, Phoenix and Las Vegas. The development process took longer than expected but their two models, the Evolve and the Prosper are now ready for market. Under the terms of the grant the company must employ 22 people by September 2015. Currently the company employs two but Hoster hopes to add 15-20 in 2015.

What is unique about the Evolve and Prosper are that they are powered by Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries as opposed to lead acid batteries typically found in electric fleet golf cars. The company states the advantages of the lithium batteries are that they last longer, three to four times longer, than lead-acid batteries; are lighter leading to less compaction on courses; and reduce vehicle maintenance. The batteries have a 6-year warranty.

The Evolve is targeted towards more upscale courses and features an aluminum alloy chassis, independent front and rear leaf spring suspension, water-directional sun top, and impact resistant body molding. The Prosper has a tubular steel chassis instead of aluminum and has a hydraulic shock absorber with coil over springs front suspension instead of Macpherson strut front suspension. Both models feature a 48-volt system with a D&D Motor Systems, separately excited motor and a lithium iron phosphate battery pack. There is no mention of pricing for the vehicles on their website.  Learn more:  Thewesternnews.com

Comment:  Cracking the fleet golf car market will be a difficult task. It is a very price sensitive market that is dominated by E-Z-GO and Club Car with Yamaha a distant third. All three should have a significant cost advantage given their size and manufacturing volume compared to such a small company. There is also the issue of having the proper distribution and servicing network to service fleet golf cars. Golf cars are a revenue generator for courses and any down time impacts the bottom line. On top of these challenges the golf industry has faced some difficult economic times with a decline in the number of courses since 2006 as well as ongoing attrition in the number of golfers.

Polaris Reveals DAGOR: Ultra Light Vehicle For Defense Applications

The DAGOR during testing.

The DAGOR during testing in challenging terrain.

The DAGOR loaded with troops and their gear.

The DAGOR loaded with troops and their gear.

A rear view of the DAGOR loaded with troops and their gear.

A rear view of the DAGOR loaded with troops and their gear.

Polaris Industries will be debuting DAGOR, their new ultra light vehicle for defense applications at the 2014 Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting, in Washington, D.C. , Oct. 13-15. The vehicle is designed to provide rapid air transportability, payload capabilities and advanced mobility in off-road conditions to meet a wide range of expeditionary missions. DAGOR can carry 3,250 lbs. of payload or nine infrantryman and incorporates off-the-shelf components such as a J98 diesel engine for easier maintenance in combat operations. The open design of the cargo bed maximizes loading space, flexibility and access for mission-essential equipment. The weight and dimensions of the vehicle are designed to increase range and facilitate rapid air transport. The DAGOR has been certified for CH-47 Chinook Internal Air Transport (IAT), air drop, and UH-60 Black Hawk Sling Load. Learn more:  Seekingalpha.com

Comment:   Growing revenue in military applications has been a strategic goal for Polaris for several years. A sizable portion of their military sales have been for US special forces and those of allied countries. In the past they have sold smaller vehicles whose design has been based in part on existing ATV and UTV technology. The DAGOR represents a significant step up in vehicle size and represents a new vehicle segment. This may portend a movement towards larger vehicles, although Polaris Defense vehicles to date have put an emphasis on mobility and lightweight vehicles. Moving to even larger vehicles than the DAGOR would likely mean a shift to different military applications. Another possibility is the transitioning of the DAGOR or some variation thereof into the civilian market. Some of the potential applications that come to mind are for use in disaster zones, forest fire fighting, logging and off-road work environments such as logging, pipelines or gas/oilfields.

EV-Fleet Begins Selling Electric Truck

The Condor electric truck from EV-Fleet

The Condor electric truck from EV-Fleet

EV-Fleet of North Carolina has started selling a pick-up sized electric truck, called the Condor which features a robust 5 speed transmission, a carrying capacity of 1000 lbs, and multiple configurations for the rear cargo area. The vehicle has a range of more than 100 miles when equipped with a 50 kWh battery and can be recharged in under an hour when using a 90 amp DC charger. The programmable powertrain has a top speed of 85 mph. The Condor’s MSRP is $49,995. Learn more:  EV-Fleet.com

Comment:  The Condor is more of a full-sized highway speed vehicle but I thought it was worth a mention since it could appeal to certain segments of the STOV market such as universities and parks. There has been a trend in this market to replace gas-powered pickup trucks with STOVs, often electric but sometimes gas. The trend is being driven by both green and sustainability initiatives as well as cost-savings and work efficiency. An electric truck such as this might provide some competition to STOVs in certain circumstances. There is obviously a green element to the truck but it would have trouble matching STOV performance for off-road use as well as access to tight spaces. On the other hand, a sprawling campus or one with satellite locations might be a good fit for this vehicle by cutting down on travel time. The other issue of course is price, at almost $50,000 multiple STOV vehicles and even highway capable pick-up trucks could be purchased instead of one Condor.

Work Utility Vehicle Reviews From The UK

Workman HDX-D 4WD from Toro on a test drive.

Workman HDX-D 4WD from Toro on a test drive.

Horticulture Week based in the UK test drove a Toro Workman MDE and HDX-D 4WD utility vehicles as well as a Brutus HD PTO from Polaris. They were operating in the vehicles in a golf course and park grounds type setting. In general they liked how all the vehicles performed. Here are some highlights from their review.

Toro Workman MDE (electric powertrain)

Likes

  • “nippy and grippy”
  • Low noise
  • Regenerative braking
  • Comfortable and ergonomic layout for driver
  • Performed well on hills
  • Comfortable ride and good handling

Dislikes

  • Play in the accelerator pedal
  • Steel diamond-plate floorboards slippery when wet

Toro Workman HDX-D 4WD (Diesel)

Likes

  • Easy to read gauges
  • 4WD on hills
  • Low engine noise
  • Good turning circle for a long vehicle
  • “But it’s a smooth ride. The steering is light, gear changes smooth and the seats comfortable. It’s a very stable vehicle.”
  • Third gear lockout for novice users cuts out engine
  • 1,229kg cargo bed capacity

Dislikes/Other

  • Looks like an airport baggage-handling vehicle

Polaris Brutus HD PTO

Likes

  • Easy to drive
  • Functionality of the PTO and attachments especially the angled broom
  • Ease of switching attachments
  • Ergonomic seats and controls
  • Smooth ride and light steering

Dislikes/Other

  • Noisy going up hill
  • Some limits to suspension
  • Niche vehicle for those who need attachment specific functionality – sweeping, pallet moving, snow removal and sanding/de-icing

Learn more:  Hortweek.com