Category Archives: Technology

Golf Car Companies Pursue Work UTV Segment with New Vehicles

Posted on by
Reply
The new Cushman Hauler Pro with a 72-volt AC drivetrain.

The new Cushman Hauler Pro with a 72-volt AC drivetrain.

 

 

Carryall 2 from Club Car

Carryall 2 from Club Car

Faced with slow or no growth in their primary market, fleet golf cars, Club Car and E-Z-GO are pursuing higher growth opportunities in the commercial and consumer work UTV segments. To do this both companies have recently producing revamped product offerings. Club Car has come out with their new Carryall line of vehicles and E-Z-GO is attacking their market with the new Cushman Pro Hauler. The Pro Hauler uses a 72-volt AC drivetrain to provide longer runtime at golf courses and other maintenance environments. The whole Carryall line has been redesigned to appeal to a wide range of consumer and commercial customers.  Learn more:  The Augusta Chronicle

Polaris Suing Arctic Cat Over Side-by-Side Patent

Posted on by
Reply
Image from patent no. 8,596,405, the basis of the Polaris lawsuit against Arctic Cat.

Image from patent no. 8,596,405, the basis of the Polaris lawsuit against Arctic Cat. See link below to patent for other images and information.

Polaris is suing Arctic Cat for alleging violating patent no. 8,596,405 which covers versions of the Ranger RZR side-by-side. The patent was originally filed in 2006, updated in 2010 and approved several weeks ago. The alleged violation relates to the Arctic Cat Wildcat and the patent appears to pertain to trail riding side-by-sides.

I’m no patent lawyer but the patent seems to be very broad, covering the basic design of a trail riding side-by-side. One key element of the vehicle design as described in the patent claims is the placement of the engine in the rear of the vehicle behind the seat. This lawsuit could have major implications for the UTV market and further enhance the dominant position of Polaris if they win. This is just another sign of how competitive this market has become, especially in the higher end trail riding/recreation segment. Learn more:  Startribune.com

Polaris Patent (USPTO.gov)

 

Club Car Launches Newly Overhauled Line Of Carryall Utility Vehicles

Posted on by
Reply
Club Car has launched a new line of Carryall UTVs.

Club Car has launched a new line of Carryall UTVs.

New Carryall UTV from Club Car

New Carryall UTV from Club Car

Club Car announced their new line of Carryall utility vehicles which feature significant changes to the vehicles. One key feature of the line is a new engine developed by Subaru.

The 14-hp-rated, 404-cc, single-cylinder overhead cam engine features electronic fuel injection (EFI), capacitive discharge ignition (CGI), hemispherical heads and a case-hardened steel timing chain that enhances reliability. A splash lubrication system that eliminates the need for oil filters simplifies maintenance and reduces environmental waste.

The engine will be warrantied for 3 years and 3,000 hours, up from the previous 2 years and 2,000 hours. The product line will continue to have an aluminum frame, rack and pinion steering and independent front suspension. Other key features include:

  • 30% more horsepower and 50% more fuel efficiency
  • Electric models have an inboard solid state charger that is programmable for different algorithms depending on battery type i.e. flooded lead-acid or AGM and 10% more efficient than the previous one
  • Movable bed dividers and cargo tie-downs and ability to accommodate ladder racks, bucket holders and other accessories
  • Rhino lining for the cargo bed floor is standard
  • New body and interior styling for better ergonomics and usability
  • Integrated halogen headlights with an LED option
  • Optional cab designed to integrate with vehicle design
  • A street-legal LSV model configuration and six passenger Transporter model

Learn more:  PRWeb.com

Comment:  The product line is being marketed as a replacement for pickup trucks in the commercial and industrial markets. This is a fast growing segment in work segment of the UTV markets. The savings is not so much in the front-end costs but all the insurance, maintenance and fuel costs during the life of the vehicle. UTVs like the Carryall can also offer productivity improvements as they can prove more versatile and better access work areas than larger pick-up trucks. The electric vehicles are particularly popular with colleges/universities, parks and municipalities that have green or sustainability policies. This is one of the reasons that the UTV market has continued to grow at a good pace despite a slow economic recovery.

Polaris Rangers To Be Used For DARPA Robotics Challenge

Posted on by
Reply
Modified versions of the Polaris Ranger XP 900 EPS will be used in the DARPA Robotics Challenge

Modified versions of the Polaris Ranger XP 900 EPS will be used in the DARPA Robotics Challenge

Polaris Industries will provide a modified versions of its Ranger XP 900 EPS for DARPA’s upcoming Robotics Challenge. Polaris customized the vehicles with a remote SafeStop Electronic Throttle Kill and Brake Actuation technology and it features a 1,000-pound capacity bed with space for the robot’s power supply. The competition is based on eight tasks in a simulated disaster relief scenario which would likely include utility vehicles because of their versatility and off-road capabilities. The Rangers will be used for the driving task and will need to navigate a a 250-foot course with obstacles and varied widths and exhibit the ability to turn the vehicle in a full circle. The DARPA Robotics Challenge Trials will be held Dec. 20-21 at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in Homestead, Fla., and are open to the public. Learn more:  Theroboticsofbusiness.com

Comment:  The vehicles are coming from the Polaris Defense Division. The military has been testing robotic vehicles including UTVs for a number of years. John Deere has a robotic Gator that it partnered with Boeing UK to develop. Disaster relief and military applications have a fair amount in common in terms of the vehicle capabilities and features needed.

on for some testing.

Polaris Acquires Navigation Software Company Primordial

Posted on by
Reply

Screenshot from Primordial’s flagship Ground Guidance software product.

Polaris Industries announced the acquisition of Primordial Inc, a Minnesota-based software company known for navigation software used by the military in off-road environments and a crowd sourced mapping application. Ground Guidance is used by soldiers to map fast and stealthy routes in difficult terrain. Ooze is a crowd-sourced mapping application that it sells to businesses and government agencies.

Ground Guidance is a good fit for Polaris’s military segment which has been a long term strategic growth segment. Ooze could have synergies with their RiderX mobile apps, which snowmobilers use to navigate trails. Long-term there could be potential in the off-road recreation segment for both products.  Learn more:  Bizjournals.com

Comment:  You have already seen improving electronics in utility vehicles and the trend has been for these vehicles to eventually adopt many of the advanced features of automobiles. It will not be surprising to see OEMs offering more electronic gear and software as optional and eventually standard equipment. Polaris vehicles are also frequently used by firefighting teams for the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. These software applications may have some application in the off-road emergency response/fire/rescue market as well.

GEM Introduces New Electric UTV: GEM eM1400

Posted on by
Reply

The new GEM eM1400 marks a departure from the traditional GEM models.

GEM has added a totally new member to their product lineup, the GEM eM1400. The all electric utility vehicle is a more heavy duty utility vehicle than the rest of the product line and, significantly, is not an LSV. It has an MSRP of $9,999. I spoke with GEM as well as GEM dealer about the vehicle to get some more information.

In part, the vehicle is a response to demand for an electric utility vehicle that does not have to be used on public roads and therefore does not need to be LSV compliant. This may be up to half of the GEMs sold today. The main differentiating features of the eM1400 are the 1,400 lb payload, 1,250 lb towing capacity, 8.5 inch ground clearance and the fully independent suspension. GEM claims the ride will be significantly better than other UTVs in its class. While not using the same parts as suspensions from the Polaris Ranger line of UTVs it does borrow the “same architecture and design philosophy”.

The main competitors for this vehicle currently in the market are the e-Gator and the electric Toro Workman UTV, the Carryall models from Club Car, electric UTVs from E-Z-GO and Cushman as well as gas powered alternatives. This entry into the market is definitely pushing GEM into more direct competition with these other brands.

While GEM has a strong presence on college campuses for transport and general maintenance, according to the dealer I spoke with, the demand for such a heavy payload in this market segment is limited. Combined with it not being LSV compliant, sales to this segment will probably be lower than other GEM models. On the other hand, I believe it might have more appeal to grounds crews on college campuses where a more rugged and heavy duty UTV is needed. GEM management sees the vehicle as having a much wider appeal than just the university market, basically anywhere a rugged, electric UTV is needed from landscaping to plants to golf courses. The dealer noted that use in industrial settings is most likely where the demand for the payload capacity will be. Users who mount special equipment like compressors or welders will be prospects.

Polaris will start building the GEM eM1400 in early November and they should be in the market by the end of November. The company is already taking orders from dealers. According to management, there may be some GEM dealers, like the legacy Chrysler dealers and those focused on the LSV market that may choose not to carry the new model. At the same time there is also the possibility that some Polaris dealers may have interest in carrying this GEM model. How that is handled by the company will depend on dealer interest.

The dealer I spoke with also remarked that if you add accessories including a cab, which is needed in some areas, the price could easily reach $13,000 which is pretty pricey. He also noted that GEM is known for their LSV compliance, 72 volt system, maintenance-free batteries, aluminum frame and unique styling and the eM1400 has none of those features. It might thus detract from the GEM image or falsely attract prospects who assume it has the normal GEM features. I would say he has point here, the eM1400 is clearly a departure from the traditional GEM product line. On the other hand, this vehicle could move the GEM brand more strongly into additional market segments. If done well the new vehicle could help reposition the brand more broadly as an electric small, task-oriented vehicle brand as opposed to the more limited positioning as an electric LSV brand. This would be relevant for markets outside the US as well.

Lastly, the dealer noted that some of the new GEM dealers come from a powersports background and are not as experienced in selling to commercial or institutional purchasers which usually require more direct outreach from the dealer as opposed to waiting for customers to walk through the door. I think this point is valid and it remains to be seen if newer GEM dealers can adapt their sales approach. The more successful dealers I know in this market are the ones that actively go out and demo vehicles for potential customers. This means having the time, people and equipment to make appointments, haul vehicles around the sales territory and demo the vehicles on site for potential customers.

The press release from GEM follows:

The long-awaited GEM® innovation is finally here! All electric-powered and purpose-built to last, the GEM eM1400 is the ultimate work vehicle. It delivers more power, more payload, and an exceptional ride backed by Polaris’ 60 years of performance and innovation.

Perfect for applications in industrial, commercial, government and education markets, the GEM eM1400 balances performance and versatility to tackle the work your customers need. Classified as a LEV (Low Emission Vehicle), this is the perfect vehicle for hauling cargo across your property or jobsite.

Key features of the GEM eM1400 include:

  • 1400 lb payload
  • 7 HP AC motor
  • 1,250 lb towing capacity
  • Range of up to 45 miles, top speed of 19 mph
  • Rugged, ergonomic design
  • Independent front and rear suspension
  • Lock & Ride®, Lock & Work™ configurability options

Learn more:  Polaris.com

ARPA-E Funding More EV Battery Research

Posted on by
Reply

ARPA-E RANGE program $36 million into more EV battery technology projects.

The US Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) will award approximately $36 million to 22 projects to develop transformational electric vehicle (EV) energy storage systems using innovative chemistries, architectures and designs. While the research is predominantly targeting highway capable vehicles, any significant advancements in battery performance and/or cost reduction will work its way down to the STOV market eventually. There are already lithium battery pack options available for some STOVs with more expected to hit the market in the next one to two years. Any trickle down technology will likely impact niche markets or particular applications that require better battery performance first. For example, an organization with “green” or sustainability mandates may be willing to pay the price premium for new better performing battery packs.

The projects being funded cover a range of battery technologies including lithium, lead acid, zinc-air, metal hydride and flow batteries. Some of the projects focus on integrating the batteries into the structure of the vehicle itself and/or changing the placement of batteries to increase battery safety in the event of a collision. Others focus on developing solid state lithium battery technology that is non-flammable and safer.  Learn more:  Greencarcongress.com

Utility Vehicle Reviews from the UK

Posted on by
Reply

The Kubota RTV1140 being put through it’s paces.  Credit:  HW

 

HorticultureWeek based in the UK recently put a Kubota RTV400Ci, Kubota RTV1140 and John Deere XUV855D through their paces and offered their opinions.  The reviewers were from college campuses, a park and a golf course. In general, all the vehicles received good reviews but the John Deere seems to garner the most praise.  Here is a quick summary of their reviews:

Kubota RTV400Ci

  • Smaller than the others but compactness good for certain applications
  • Good ergonomics and usability
  • Handles tough terrain well
  • Powerful and agile
  • Cargo box size a little small

Kubota RTV1140

  • Utility with versatility
  • Large cargo area and convertible to 4 person seating
  • Good power and acceleration
  • Comfortable ride
  • Good engine braking
  • Long wheelbase offers stability but wider turning circle and ground clearance issues in some situations

John Deere XUV855D

  • Fast
  • Climbs hills well
  • Couldn’t get it stuck
  • Comfortable ride
  • Feels well-built
  • Good maneuverability and suspension travel
  • Notable improvements on the previous version

Learn more:  HorticultureWeek.com

What’s Cooking on the STOV

Posted on by
Reply

Highlighting some of the many applications for small, task-oriented vehicles:

Here are a couple more examples of the different applications for STOVs. They show the range of uses of utility vehicles and how they can be customized or accessorized to a small or large degree depending on the need of the customer and the specialized conditions under which they will be used. In the first example, you also see how once again a STOV can replace a full-size vehicle and offer both upfront and operational cost savings.

A customized Club Car XRT1550SE in operation at a potash mine.

Transport for Potash Mining Operation – Club Car’s Custom Solutions Department has been customizing utility vehicles for use in this potash mining operation since 2007. The mining operation had previously been using full-size SUVs to transport personnel over a kilometer into the mine over challenging terrain. The SUVs were both expensive to purchase and maintain given the harsh work environment.  Club Car customized their XRT1550-SE four-passenger diesel utility vehicle for the application. The difficult and sometimes corrosive conditions required a number of specific features including:  diesel scrubbers, power steering, 120 decibel back-up alarms, heavy-duty brush guards, rear differential guards, belly pans/skid plates, CV boot guards and rock guard brake calipers for the difficult terrain. For operations in dark conditions the vehicles have complete light packages rear and front-facing spot lights on separate circuits, and digital speedometers that are legible in the dark. The cars were also equipped with sealed CVTs to keep dust and dirt off the clutch face, gel-cell maintenance-free sealed batteries, and spare tires and rims.

Over 50 of the vehicles have been used at the operation since 2007. Key benefits of the vehicles include aluminum frames that avoid corrosion, purchase price that is 20% of the full-size SUVs they previously purchased, tighter turning radius for operating in narrow tunnels, better handling in loose dirt, cheaper parts, and less oxygen use in the underground conditions than the SUVs. (The oxygen needs to be replaced as part of the mining operation.)  Learn more:  PRweb.com

The type of Gator the town of Greenville will use for trail maintenance.

Trail maintenance – The city of Greenville, MI will be purchasing a John Deere Gator for maintenance on the Fred Meijer Flat River Trail. The 4×2 Gator will feature an electric motor and a larger motor. The vehicle is being funded primarily by a grant from the Greenville Area Community Foundation and is expected to make it easier for town workers to move up and down the trail for maintenance work.  Learn more:  www.thedailynews.cc

New Polaris Ranger Midsize Models For 2014

Posted on by
Reply

New 2014 Polaris Ranger 570 EFI

Along with their new RZR XP 1000, Polaris is also introducing new models for their lineup of Ranger utility vehicles for work applications. The new models include the Ranger Crew 900, Ranger 570 EFI and Ranger Crew 570 EFI.

The Ranger Crew 900 features a 60-horsepower ProStar 900 engine, the ability to tow one ton, a new high capacity battery and stator, and an integrated Lock & Ride PRO-FIT cab accessories. It also has a more rigid chassis, and extended wheel base, 1 in. more rear suspension travel and 11 in of ground clearance. The cargo box is wide enough to fit a pallet and has a 1,000 lb capacity. The engine is located under the cargo box providing a quieter ride.

Similar to the Ranger XP 900 cab frame, the new Ranger Crew 900 frame also features profile tubing, providing a 360-degree sealing surface for every cab component. Windshields, roofs, doors and rear panels follow the shape of the vehicle, locking directly into the cab frame’s precision contours. The cabs are 60 percent quieter at idle and 40 percent quieter at 20 mph. The vehicle fits five people and has a new center console, more storage and cup holders and tilt steering wheel. The Ranger Crew 900 is available in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo. Limited Edition models include Sunset Red and Titanium Matte Metallic. Electronic Power Steering (EPS) is standard on the Polaris Pursuit Camo and Limited Edition models.

The  Ranger 570 EFI and Ranger Crew 570 EFI feature a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 570 engine delivering smooth acceleration and 25 percent more power than previous models. The models also features a new transmission, a quieter ride with the engine located behind the seat, a larger stator for operating more accessories and electronic power steering on Limited Edition models. The standard editions for both models are available  in Sage Green, Solar Red and Polaris Pursuit Camo.

Learn more:  ATVIllustrated.com