U.S. Marines Testing Nikola Electric UTV

Electric Nikola Reckless UTV

The Nikola Reckless UTV on test by the US Marines.

The US Marines are testing modified versions of the Nikola NZT electric UTV. Named the Nikola Reckless UTV after a decorated Korean War military horse, Sgt. Reckless, the vehicle can be outfitted with a range of weaponry including a 7.62mm machine gun, 12.7 mm gun, 40 mm MK19 automatic grenade launcher or Javelin anti-tank guided missiles. The four-person vehicle includes an “an infra-red beam that can be used with night vision and a remote weapons system machine gun that can be controlled by a joystick anywhere in the vehicle. It’s light enough to go on a MV-22 osprey,” according to Andy Christian, Nikola’s Director of Defense. The company invested $500,000 to build four prototypes and the production military model will cost around $85,000.

The consumer version of the Nikola NZT can be configured several different ways depending on the number of motors and the size of the battery pack, which is available in 75Wh, 100Wh and 125 Wh. The most powerful four motor configuration delivers 555 hp and 4,900 ft-lbs of torque. The base model starts at $28,900.  Learn more:  OCRegister.com

SVR’s Take:  Given the high price of the Nikola NZT, Nikola Motors is smart to target the military market that can afford the cost of such a cutting edge vehicle. Electric vehicles fit into the US military’s ongoing efforts to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Special forces in particular already make widespread use of UTVs and ATVs. An electric UTV offers several advantages that could be critical in a combat zone including reduced noise, greater acceleration and reduced maintenance. I would imagine the biggest concerns would be the range of the vehicle, charging time and what options are available for re-charging the vehicle in a combat zone.

This effort puts Nikola Motors in direct competition with Polaris Industries which has a growing defense business that is largely based on military versions of their gas-powered RZR UTVs and their ATVs. It will be interesting to see if this draws any response from Polaris. They offer an electric Ranger and have a host of non-off-road electric vehicles like GEM, Taylor-Dunn and Goupil, but they have not put much emphasis on electric UTVs based on their consumer facing websites and marketing material.

Marc Cesare, SVR

Eli Electric Vehicles Launches Eli Zero NEV

Eli Zero NEV

The new Eli Zero NEV from Eli Electric vehicles is expected to reach market in late 2018.

Eli Electric Vehicles is launching a new NEV, the Eli Zero, with the intention to”…fundamentally shift how people engage with modern communities and urban environments.” The company, which is co-headquartered in Long Beach, CA and Beijing, China where the vehicles are manufactured, is now taking reservations for the Eli Zero. The plan is to deliver the first 100 vehicles by the end of 2018. The first 100 customers reserving a vehicle will receive a discount of $2,200 off the expected MSRP of $9,900 to $10,900. The vehicles are targeting the urban mobility space. The base model is expected to have a 55 mile range and the Plus model with a larger battery will have an 85 mile range. The Eli Zero will be using Samsung 18650 lithium cells in the battery pack. Like all NEVs the top speed is limited to 25 mph. Key features of the Eli Zero include:

  • 2-passenger seating plus cargo area behind the seats
  • AC asynchronous motor
  • 48V system
  • 6.0 kWh or 8.3 kWh battery packs
  • Toyota MCU
  • Vehicle Management System that monitors data, malfunctions and energy optimization
  • High-tensile aluminum frame
  • Doors made from a single sheet of thermoplastic-reinforced tempered glass
  • 877 lb/904 lb curb weight for the Base/Plus models
  • Four wheel disk brakes
  • Regenerative braking
  • Cruise control
  • Wide field of vision from the drivers position
  • 24 ft. turning circle
  • Driver proximity detection system to automatically unlock doors
  • LED signal lighting
  • Sunroof
  • Anti-theft system
  • Press to start
  • Multi-function dashboard control dial and LED dashboard display
  • Bluetooth
  • Radio
  • Heat and AC and Defrost
  • Adjustable driver’s seat

Learn more:  NewAtlas.com and Eli.world.

SVR’s Take:  The Eli Zero appears to be a step above the current NEVs on the market in terms of technology and design. The question is whether that is appealing enough to enough consumers. NEVs have consistently fallen short of market expectations in the consumer segment even though a strong argument can be made for their use based on efficiency, appropriateness for urban mobility, size and impact on the environment. An issue in the urban environment is that if a consumer can only own one car will they make it an NEV limited to low speed roads when they can spend several thousand dollars more and have a more versatile highway capable vehicle.

In gated, summer or other communities with widespread use of lower speed vehicles, NEVs are typically the most expensive option. Other available options include used golf cars, refurbished golf cars and new golf cars which can all be customized to a fairly high degree for the same price as an NEV or be equipped with less and cost significantly less. A large swath of that market elects to own less expensive golf cars. From my experience, NEVs have been most successful in these types communities where local regulations are most restrictive regarding the use of golf cars. Perhaps the design and tech of the Eli Zero will have enough appeal to make it a primary choice in a wider range of communities.

In the urban environment NEVs will more likely have a greater appeal where their is a shared fleet of vehicles. In this situation the consumer isn’t making an ownership choice but a ride choice. Do they really need to ride in a highway capable vehicle for a short intra-city trip or will a NEV, likely for a lower cost, be more than sufficient and better for the environment?

Marc Cesare, SVR

Garia Golf Car Inspired By Mercedes Benz Style Premieres

Garia Golf Car Mecedes-Benz Style

The Garia Golf Car inspired by Mercedes-Benz Style is now available in limited edition release.

Garia aluminum rims

14″ black aluminum wheels with diamond-cut elements add style.

outdoor touchpad

The 10″ outdoor touchpad display is paired with bluetooth connectivity.

Under the moniker “The coolest golf car ever”, Garia premiered their Garia Golf Car inspired by Mercedes Benz Style at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. Priced at $73,000, the two-seat Golf Car is the height of luxury and available for a limited edition release.

What makes a $73,000 golf car? You can start with unique styling unlike any other golf car that is a product of Garia’s partnership with Mercedes-Benz. This includes 14″, five spoke, black aluminum rims with diamond cut elements, uniquely designed headlights, carbon fiber accents, as well as Garia and Mercedes-Benz Style logos prominently placed around the vehicle.

The vehicle is handmade including hand-stitched leather “lounge” seats and Mansory carbon fiber parts like the black leather lined roof.The electric powertrain features a 10.24 kWh lithium battery pack good for a 50 mile range and a 70 km/hr top speed that can be limited to 25 mph to meet LSV regulations. For electronics the Golf Car features a 10.1″ outdoor touch screen that displays the scoreboard, bluetooth connection with hands-free streaming, and speakers in the roof and seat interior. Other amenities include a built-in refrigerator, water-proof leather, grab handles, dual size cup-holders and a tray for golf balls and tees. If you are interested, a $1,000 deposit is required to place an order. Learn more: Garia.com

SVR’s Take:  While I’m sure Garia would be happy to sell a bunch of these golf cars that’s not really the point. They are trying to fortify their image as not only a luxury golf car manufacturer but as THE luxury golf car manufacturer. In addition, the design pushes the concept of the golf car away from traditional golf cars and more towards automobiles. With the future of transportation alternatives in flux, this could be helpful in positioning Garia vehicles more towards the personal transportation end of the spectrum as opposed to the golf car end. If niches develop for lower speed urban transportation would you want a vehicle that looks like a golf car or an automobile? From a more current standpoint, elements from the Golf Car will likely find their way into some of Garia’s other lower-priced but still luxurious golf cars.

Marc Cesare, SVR

Polaris Introduces The RZR XP Turbo S

Polaris RZR SP Turbo S

The new Polaris RZR XP Turbo S features 32″ tires, 16″ of ground clearance and 168 hp turbo engine.

Polaris RZR SP Turbo S

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. 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. The vehicle will be available at dealers in mid-March.  Learn more:  Polaris.com

SVR’s Take:  After years of manufacturers coming to market with new models with more horsepower the RZR XP Turbo S went in a different direction. They really focused on the ride and suspension as well as the ability of the vehicle to take a beating when powered by such a large engine. This introduction may signal that there are diminishing returns for increasing horsepower and/or that the rest of the vehicle features need to catch up with power of the engine. This could signal a market move towards focusing on durability, handling and creature comforts. How will other manufacturers in the market respond?

Mahindra Reveals Roxor Turbodiesel UTVs

Mahindra Roxor

The new Mahindra Roxor utility vehicle powered by a 62 hp urbo diesel.

Mahindra Roxor LE

The Mahindra Roxor LE adds features like a winch, soft top, LED light bar and more.

Mahindra, a well-known auto and tractor manufacturer, revealed two new turbodiesel powered utility vehicles, the Roxor and Roxor LE. The 152cc engine puts out 62 hp at 3,200 rpm and 144 ft lbs of torque at 1,400 rpm. The retro styled exterior is reminiscent of a classic Jeep and is married to a boxed steel frame. The Roxor seats two, has a top speed of 45 mph and 9″ of ground clearance. Both models are targeting recreational users. The vehicles are assembled in Mahindra’s Auburn Hills, Michigan plant. Other key specs include:

  • 3,490 lbs towing capacity
  • 349 lbs cargo capacity
  • 5 speed transmission
  • Selectable 2WD/4WD
  • Rigid leaf spring front suspension with stabilizer bar
  • Leaf spring rear suspension with hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Hydraulic front disc and rear drum brakes
  • Hydraulic power steering
  • Halogen headlights
  • Underseat storage
  • Available in Carbon Black, Classic White, Fire Orange or Tahoe Blue
  • MSRP:  $15,499

The Roxor LE adds the following features:

  • Bestop Bikini soft top
  • Warn 8,000 lb. winch
  • HD front bumper with mounting plate and HD battery
  • 40″ KC HiLites Light Bar
  • BF Goodrich KO2 radial off-road tiers
  • MTX AM/FM bluetooth sound bar
  • Side and rearview mirrors
  • ROPS mounted grab handles

The MSRP for this limited edition model is $18,899. Company marketing material indicates a Dune Edition will be coming later in California.

A marketing program to support the new vehicles will be launched this Spring and the vehicles will be available from over 240 Mahindra powersports dealers in the US.

Learn more: Roxoroffroad.com

SVR’s Take:  I think the very Jeep-like look could prove popular, although not everyone may want a diesel powered UTV. The styling really sets the vehicle apart in a market where there are plenty of options and more seem to materialize every day. If it proves popular I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of the larger players in the market come out with similar styling.

This is another example of an agricultural equipment company more aggressively moving into the UTV market to take advantage of their existing distribution channel. However, Mahindra appears to be putting more resources in the most by designing and manufacturing the vehicles themselves, and establishing dedicated new facilities in the US.

A quick perusal of their dealer network shows a large number of agricultural and power equipment dealers. The diesel powertrain makes the UTV a natural fit on farms. The company may have difficulty reaching beyond the farm and large area home owner market, which are a primary target given Mahindra’s popularity in the tractor market. It would appear that this vehicle could have wider appeal beyond these segments, but Mahindra may have to be creative in developing dealers or partnerships to expand the reach of their current distribution channel.

Marc Cesare, SVR

 

Massive Yamaha Golf Car & PTV Recall

Yamaha Drive2

The 2018 Yamaha Drive2 is one of the models being recalled over a brake cable issue.

Yamaha Golf Car has issued a recall for over 160,000 golf cars, personal transportation vehicles (PTVs) and utility vehicles due to potential failure of the brake cables and subsequent crash hazard. The recall involves model year 2015 through 2018 gas and electric powered golf cars, PTVs and utility vehicles. Note that the utility vehicles from Yamaha Golf Car are different than those from the power sports manufacturer Yamaha Motors which makes the YXZ, Wolverine and Viking utility vehicles. This recall involves Yamaha Drive and Drive2 branded vehicles made by Yamaha Golf Car. For a detailed list of the model numbers and serial number ranges included check the CPSC.gov website. Owners can also contact Yamaha at 800-962-7926 or at www.yamahagolfcar.com.   Owners should immediately stop using these recalled Golf Cars and PTVs and contact a local Yamaha Golf Car dealer to schedule a free repair. Yamaha is contacting all registered owners directly.

The following recall details are from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Name of product:  Yamaha Golf Cars and Personal Transportation Vehicles (PTVs) Hazard:  The brake cables on the golf cars and PTVs can fail, posing a crash hazard.

Recall date: February 22, 2018
Units:  About 161,000

Description:  This recall involves the following model year 2015 through 2018 gas and electric-powered golf cars , PTVs and utility vehicles. The vehicles were sold in various colors including blue, green, red, white, tan and silver. The model and serial numbers can be found on a label under the seat on the left or right side.

Remedy:  Consumers should immediately stop using these recalled Golf Cars and PTVs and contact a local Yamaha Golf Car dealer to schedule a free repair. Yamaha is contacting all registered owners directly.

Incidents/Injuries:  The firm has received 285 reports of brake cables failing. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At:  Yamaha Golf Car dealers nationwide from November 2014 through December 2017 for between $5,900 and $7,700.

Manufacturer(s):  Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America, of Newnan, Ga.

Distributor(s):  Yamaha Golf-Car Company, of Kennesaw, Ga.

Manufactured In:  Assembled in United States
Recall number:  18-725

SVR’s Take:  This is a very large recall and on par with the relatively recent large recalls from Polaris. This will likely cost Yamaha millions of dollars to remedy. More importantly, this might put a dent in Yamaha’s progress in gaining market share against Club Car and E-Z-GO. In the last few years, Yamaha has been touting how many thousands of golf courses have switched to their golf cars. The golf car market has always been highly competitive, and even more so in the last several years as golf course growth has declined or remained stagnant.

Marc Cesare, SmallVehicleResource.com

Kubota Updates UTV Lineup

Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick utility vehicle

The new Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick utility vehicle, gas-powered and with a 40 mph top speed.

Over the last few months Kubota has unveiled two significant model additions to their utility vehicle lineup that will be available at dealers in the first part of 2018. The first reveal was the all new RTV-XG850 Sidekick. The Sidekick is a gas powered UTV being marketed as fast, strong and agile with a 48 hp engine, 40 mph top speed, a CVT with centrifugal clutch and speed sensitive electronic power steering.

Kubota is clearly trying to expand their more work-oriented customer base with the faster, crossover oriented Sidekick. However, the RTV-XG850 still maintains solid work specs with a 15.2 cu. ft. and 1,000 lb. capacity steel cargo box and a 2,000 lb. towing capacity. The cargo box has an optional electric hydraulic lift.

Additional features of the Sidekick designed to widen the vehicle’s appeal include:

  • Improved ergonomics with a new digital display, steering wheel and shift knob
  • LED headlights
  • Green and Black color options beyond the traditional Kubota Orange and RealTree AP Camo choices
  • Sidekick specific accessories including a premium audio system, sports roof, alloy wheels and bed extender

Other key specs and features of the Sidekick include:

  • Selectable 2WD/4WD with limited slip front differential
  • 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes
  • Front and rear independent suspension
  • 9″/8.5″ of front/rear suspension travel
  • 9.8″ of ground clearance
  • Tilt steering
  • Front guard (standard on Worksite and Special variations)
  • Optional spray-on bed liner

The Sidekick will come in three different variations:  General Purpose, Worksite and Special. The Special comes with a front guard, alloy wheels, tilt steering and spray-on bed liner standard. The Worksite comes with the front guard and tilt steering standard. The General Purpose does not come standard with any of these options. The Kubota RTV-XG850 Sidekick will be available at dealers in Spring 2018. A quick internet search shows pricing in the $13,000 to $14,500 range.

The other addition to the Kubota UTV lineup is an updated version of the RTV-X1120, a heavy duty work-oriented utility vehicle. The updated model comes with a significantly lower price tag compared to the older version, $13,999 compared to approximately $16,000.

The RTV-X1120 is powered by a 24.8 hp diesel engine and has a Variable Hydro Transmission, a top speed of 29 mph and 4WD with limited-slip front differential and foot operated rear differential lock. Kubota aimed to improve ergonomics and styling with new shoulder restraints, ergonomic 60:40 split bucket seats, digital display, easily accessible parking brake and under seat storage compartments.

Additional key features and specs include:

  • Hydraulic power steering
  • Steel cargo box with optional hydraulic lift
  • Front and rear standard 2″ hitch receivers
  • 1,300 lb. towing capacity
  • Optional machine-polished alloy or black alloy wheels
  • Optional spray-on bed liner
  • Colors:  Kubota Orange or RealTree AP Camo

The RTV-X1120 will be available in General Purpose, Worksite and Deluxe configurations with a starting base price of $13,999 The new RTV-X1120 models will be available at Kubota dealerships in February 2018.

Learn more:   Kubotausa.com

SVR’s Take:  The work and multi-purpose use segment of the UTV market has become more competitive over the last several years as manufacturers have identified the segments as key growth areas. No doubt Kubota has felt the encroachment of this competition on their traditional customer segments of farm, ranch, large area home owners and construction. This has come from larger brands such as Can-Am with their new Defender line, Honda with their expanding Pioneer line and market leader Polaris with their dominant Ranger line, as well as from smaller brands like the value oriented and expanding Cub Cadet Challenger line and the likes of Toro and New Holland that have partnered with larger UTV manufacturers to develop vehicles to sell under their own brands. The most recent in the latter category is the construction oriented Caterpillar.

As the pace of new model development in the UTV market has increased in the last five years, one could argue that Kubota has been at the slower end of the scale among the large manufacturers. The Sidekick in particular may be an indication that Kubota will be accelerating their product development moving forward with an eye towards expanding their appeal. A key difficulty for Kubota in growing their customer base will be how to reach new customers with their existing farm and construction oriented dealership network. They may look to add new types of dealers or partner with other companies to reach new distribution channels.

Marc Cesare, SmallVehicleResource.com

2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS Reviews

2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS

The 2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS.

The 2018 Polaris XP 1000 EPS seats three and is powered by a 999cc, 82 hp gas engine with EFI. This model features electronic power steering, High Performance On-Demand AWD/2WD/ VersaTrac Turf Mode, 11″ of front and rear suspension travel, 13″ of ground clearance, a 2,500 lb towing capacity and a 1,000 lb. capacity cargo dump bed with gas assist. This base model is priced at $15,299. Some key improvements over the 2017 model include a stiffer chassis, more suspension travel and ground clearance, increased payload, greater towing capacity, tighter steering system and improved cargo bed.

Polaris also offers what might be called a “premium” EPS model for a $1,000 more with several automotive style paint options as well as aluminum Black Xcelerator 2.0 wheels and cut and sew seats. For a further $200 you can have camo graphics. There is also a Northstar Edition for $23,999 which comes with a complete cab with heating and AC.

The following are summaries from a number of reviews of the 2018 Polaris Ranger XP 1000 EPS. These include reviews from trade magazines as well as user generated content. In general the reviews of this model are positive. Polaris made a number of improvements both large and small from the 2017 model and they were well received. Some of the more common features that reviewers liked included:

  • Improved ingress and egress
  • Large amounts of cab storage including a flip-up seat
  • Built-in electrical buses for easily adding accessories
  • Better low power delivery and smoother power delivery overall
  • Improved cargo bed

www.atv.com – Two days of testing at a hunting property in Louisiana

  • Slightly improved seat entry and egress
  • “Massive” amounts of storage in the cab including fold up passenger seat for more cargo area
  • Cargo bed has more molded in dividers
  • Easy access to engine for maintenance
  • Built-in electrical buses for easily adding accessories such as a winch
  • Quiet cab
  • Smooth power and throttle delivery

www.utvplanet.ca – Test drive in work and trail environment.

  • Great suspension on a variety of terrain at slower speeds and improved over 2017 model at higher speeds with less body roll.
  • Better low end power delivery
  • “This is the most fun Ranger we’ve ever driven.”
  • More comfortable seats with additional padding
  • Cup holders have handle cutouts for mugs
  • Lots of cab storage
  • “Love” the new truck-inspired exterior design
  • Improved handling with tighter steering system and better feel
  • Smooth and controllable power delivery
  • More trail capable with “.. improved control, ride quality and stability of the new, stiffer frame.”

Cycle Works Edmonton – Video walk through of various aspects of the vehicle

  • Pre-built busbars for easy accessory connection
  • Easy access to engine for maintenance
  • Reinforced cargo box
  • Easier cab ingress and egress
  • Lots of cab storage – “Really like” the lower storage area in the dash
  • Easy access and more storage with flip up seats
  • Older accessories except doors will fit on new machines
  • Skid plates and biggest standard bumper in the industry
  • Can switch suspension to outside positioning for heavier weight like cab
  • Tailgate can easily handle weight when sitting and latch system is beefier

User Forum – Actually a Honda forum but discussed the Ranger XP 1000.

  • A number of users noted the increased ground clearance and greater towing and cargo bed capacity
  • Several voiced concerns about reliability in light of all the Polaris recalls
  • A couple of posters wanted doors instead of nets
  • Some noted the improved suspension and improved belts which posters noted as a problem in the past
  • Some posters liked the new design which was compared to that of a Toyota Tundra while others did not like it

Polaris Marketing Video – Marketing video that highlights some of the key features of the Ranger XP 1000 EPS

Dirt Trax Television – In-depth look video presentation. Mostly a presentation by a Polaris employee but a thorough explanation of the many changes made compared to the 2017 model.

John Deere Recalls Large Number of Gator Crossover UTVs

Gator XUV utility vehicle

One of the Gator crossover utility vehicles part of a large recall by John Deere.

John Deere announced a large recall of their XUV crossover utility vehicle because of a steering shaft issue. The recall involves approximately 68,300 Gator XUV825, XUV825 S4, XUV855, and XUV855 S4 crossover utility vehicles sold between March 2012 and November 2017. The steering shaft can separate from the steering rack assembly and result in a loss of steering control. Consumers should immediately stop using the vehicle and contact their John Deere dealer for a free repair.

This is one of the largest recalls in the market in the last few years outside of the well publicized Polaris recalls in 2016. Any recall over 10,000 vehicles would be considered large compared to what typically occurs in the market. SVR tracks recent recalls of UTVs, LSVs and golf cars.  Luckily, there have been no reports of injuries and only nine reports of steering control loss.

The following is recall information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

John Deere Recalls Crossover Gator Utility Vehicles Due to Crash Hazard (Recall Alert)

Name of product:  John Deere Crossover Gator™ utility vehicles
Hazard:  The steering shaft can separate from the steering rack assembly and result in a loss of vehicle steering control, posing a crash hazard.
Recall date:  December 21, 2017
Units:  About 68,300
Description:  This recall involves John Deere models XUV825, XUV825 S4, XUV855, and XUV855 S4 Crossover Gator utility vehicles equipped with power steering. The model number and “John Deere” are printed on the side of the vehicle. The serial number begins with 1M0825 or 1M0855 and is located on the passenger side of the frame under the cargo box. The vehicles have seating for two or four passengers.

Remedy:  Consumers should stop using the recalled utility vehicles and contact an authorized John Deere dealer for a free repair. John Deere is contacting purchasers of the recalled utility vehicles directly.

Incidents/Injuries:  John Deere has received nine reports of steering loss. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At:  John Deere dealers nationwide from March 2012 through November 2017 for between $13,400 and $16,100.

Manufacturer(s):  Deere & Company, of Moline, Ill.

Manufactured In:  U.S.

Recall number:  18-709
Consumer Contact:  Deere & Company at 800-537-8233 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET or online at www.deere.com and select Product Recall Information on the drop-down menu under Services & Support for more information.

Can-Am Expands Maverick X3 Lineup with 5 New Models

Maverick X3 X mr Turbo R

The new, mud-specific Can-Am Maverick X3 X mr Turbo R.

Maverick X3 900 HO

The new Maverick X3 900 HO features a 90 hp engine and an entry level price point.

Can-Am announced five new Maverick X3 models as the company continues to build out their side-by-side offerings with steady and high paced product development. The five new models include:

  1. The all new Maverick X3 900 HO targeting an entry level price point with a 90 hp machine featuring 18″ of front and rear suspension travel and premium FOX 2.5 Podium Piggyback shocks. MSRP $17,999
  2. Mud specific, top-of-the-line, 172-hp Maverick X3 X mr Turbo R featuring fully lockable, on-the-fly Smart-Lok front differential optimized with multiple driving modes for superb handling and traction in the mud. MSRP $25,999
  3. Lower priced Maverick X3 X mr Turbo with a 120 hp engine and 64″ rather than 72″ width, but keeps many of the same features including the Smart-Lok technology. MSRP $22,699
  4. The 2018 Maverick X3 X rs Turbo R adds Smart-Lok technology which features 2×4, 4×4 Front Differential lock and both TRAIL ACTIV and TRAIL modes. MSRP $26,899
  5. The 2018 Maverick X3 MAX X rs Turbo R also adds Smart-Lok technology. MSRP $29,399

Learn more:  BRP.com