SVR Adds 2016 Kawasaki UTVs To Vehicle Database

Posted on June 19, 2015 by Marc Cesare

The new 2016 Teryx with redesigned front.

The Mule Pro FX lineup is a variant of the existing FXT lineup.

Smallvehicleresource.com has added the recently announced 2016 Kawasaki utility vehicle models to our vehicle database. The Kawasaki offerings include their Mule Pro, Mule Pro Diesel, Mule and Teryx product lines. The Mule Pro product lines are more full-size, heavy-duty type vehicles mainly targeting work while the Mule vehicles are small to medium sized work and recreation vehicles. The Teryx product line is more for purely recreational use.

The 2016 lineup filled out their full size work utility vehicle offerings by adding single seat Mule FX and DX variations to their Mule FXT and DXT models. The FXT and DXT models can fit three people or be reconfigured to fit six by transforming the cargo area into an additional bench seat with a smaller cargo bed. In the recreational Teryx and Teryx4 product lines the 2016 models offer a mix of changes in performance, styling and ergonomics. Performance changes include optimized shocks and larger tires for certain models. The front of the vehicle has been restyled and certain models add LED headlights.

If you are a Kawasaki dealer you can add a basic listing for your dealership to our dealer directory for free or if you are already in our dealer directory you can add Kawasaki to your listing.

BRP Announces FY2016 First-Quarter Results

Posted on June 15, 2015 by Marc Cesare

New for 2016 is the Commander Mossy Oak Hunting Edition which is targeting the hunting segment, an untapped segment for Can Am according to management.

BRP, manufacturer of Can-Am side-by-sides, announced their first quarter results for fiscal year 2016 which ended April 30, 2015. The following is a summary of the earnings call as it relates to the STOV market. Financial figures are in Canadian dollars and comparisons are between first quarter FY2016 and first quarter FY2015 unless otherwise noted.

Revenues for the quarter increased 18% to $898.1 million compared to the first quarter in FY2015 and were slightly better than planned
Revenue from Year-Round Products that include side-by-sides, ATVs and the Spyder increased 8.9% from $365.4 to $398.1
Year-Round Products was driven by the introduction of the Maverick X ds side-b-side models and overall industry growth
NA side-by-side retail sales up mid-single digits % for the first 10 months of the model year starting last July
Management estimates the NA side-by-side market increased model year to date mid-teens % with growth in the utility and sport categories but the recreation/utility segment (Can-Am Commander) is shrinking
Can-Am is behind plan in the the sport category but 2016 model year includes a higher horsepower models including one that fills in a lower price point
Management reports increased competition in the NA side-by-side market in the last six months
BRP is targeting the hunting segment, an untapped potential market for Can-Am, with both ATVs and UTVs and their new partnership with Mossy Oak which produces camouflage designs
Mossy Oak will be using Can Am products when showcasing their designs
Management estimates that there are 15 million hunters in NA and a high percentage use ATVs and UTVs
Comments by management indicate that BRP will enter the utility side-by-side segment in the relatively near future
Management expects Year-Round Products to grow revenue by 7-11% for FY2016

Learn more: BRP.com

Honda Adds Full-Size UTVs To Pioneer Line

Posted on June 12, 2015 by Marc Cesare

The new Honda Pioneer 1000-5 can fit up to five people.

The new 2016 Honda Pioneer 1000

Honda announced the addition of the Pioneer 1000 and Pioneer 1000-5 utility vehicles. Both of these models feature a new 999cc engine developed by Honda as well as a 6-speed fully automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with engine braking, three shift modes (automatic, manual and sport) and high and low gearing ranges. Drive modes include 2WD, 4WD, Turf and Differential lock. The transmission has steel gears and shafts with no belts and is controlled by paddle shifters. The Pioneer 1000-5 has a three person bench seat up front and two QuickFlip seats in the back that can be folded down for more cargo space and better cargo access.

There are four model configurations: Pioneer 1000, Pioneer 1000 EPS, Pioneer 1000-5 and Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe. Key features of the new models include:

999cc liquid-cooled twin-cylinder Unicam® four-stroke engine
Electronic fuel injection
Fully-Automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
Independent double wishbone suspension front and rear with 10.55 and 10 inches of travel respectively
2,000 lb. towing capacity
1,000 lb. cargo bed capacity
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
Color options:
- Pioneer 1000: Red, Olive
- Pioneer 1000 EPS: Red, Orange, White, Honda Phantom Camo
- Pioneer 1000-5: Red, Olive
- Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe: Red, Metallic Silver, White, Honda Phantom Camo
Electronic Power Steering optional
LED headlights & 14-inch aluminum wheels & 27-inch radial tires optional
MSRPs: TDB

The models will be available in Fall 2015.

Comment: With these new models Honda continues to target the dual use work and recreation applications. They could have chosen to introduce a product line directed at the performance-oriented recreational rider but instead they have beefed up their existing product line. The introductions are also a sign that Honda is committed to the UTV market. Before the Pioneer line they had their Big Red vehicle which they didn’t build out to any extent. With the Pioneer line, they first added the smaller 500 models and now more robust 1000 models, indicating a longer term commitment to the market. It will be interesting to see if their future product development continues to extend the Pioneer product line or if they head in a new direction.

The press release follows:

Honda Announces 2016 Pioneer 1000
Brand-new model to round out 2016 Pioneer multipurpose SxS lineup

PR Newswire
TORRANCE, Calif., June 11, 2015
TORRANCE, Calif., June 11, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Honda today announced the addition of two brand-new full-size side-by-side models—the groundbreaking Pioneer 1000 and Pioneer 1000-5—to its 2016 lineup. With class-leading displacement and payload, a 6-speed fully automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and a full list of features and options, the flagship Pioneer 1000 promises to raise the bar in terms of power, performance and capability in both work and recreation applications.

Honda’s 2016 Pioneer 1000-5 side-by-side
“We’re very excited about the all-new 999cc engine we’ve developed for these new Pioneers,” said Lee Edmunds, Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda. “We’ve also added the industry’s only fully automatic mechanical transmission—the 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. With steel gears, the DCT offers true engine braking, seamless shifting and a smooth, reliable transfer of power.”

Pioneer 1000/1000-5
Immediately assuming its position as the clear leader in the full-size multipurpose SxS category, Honda’s new-from-the-ground-up, no-compromise Pioneer 1000 is powered by a purpose-built inline, twin-cylinder, Unicam® 999cc engine. It’s also the first side-by-side with a 6-speed fully automatic DCT, a state-of-the-art beltless transmission that is durable, efficient and easy to use. Designed, developed and produced according to Honda’s holistic methodology, the largest Pioneer is smooth-riding and extremely versatile. Built in the USA using domestically and globally sourced parts, the Pioneer 1000 is offered in four different configurations, from the base three-person version to the Deluxe five-person model, which features 14-inch aluminum wheels, 27-inch radial tires, LED headlights and electric power steering. Every Pioneer 1000 comes standard with four-wheel-drive, as well as a high-low sub-transmission and 4-mode differential lock, while the five-person model features auto-leveling rear suspension and a full-size convertible bed with Honda’s exclusive QuickFlip™ seating. An extensive range of Honda Accessories is available, and the Pioneer 1000 is covered by a one-year warranty.

Colors
Pioneer 1000: Red, Olive
Pioneer 1000 EPS: Red, Orange, White, Honda Phantom Camo
Pioneer 1000-5: Red, Olive
Pioneer 1000-5 Deluxe: Red, Metallic Silver, White, Honda Phantom Camo
Availability: Fall 2015
Click here to view images

Pioneer 1000: http://powersports.honda.com/2016/pioneer-1000.aspx
Pioneer 1000-5: http://powersports.honda.com/2016/pioneer-1000-5.aspx
Pioneer 700/700-4
Since its introduction, Honda’s Pioneer 700-4 has set new standards in versatility, thanks to the industry’s first QuickFlip™ convertible rear-seating design, which switches between two-, three- and four-person configurations. In all cases, wheelbase remains a manageable 76.8 inches, and in the two-person configuration, it provides a full bed with tilt mode. Both versions are powered by a rubber-mounted 675cc liquid-cooled engine that’s paired with an automatic transmission with automotive-style torque converter and a dual-stage shift map.

Color
Pioneer 700: Red, Olive, Honda Phantom Camo
Pioneer 700-4: Red, Metallic Blue, Honda Phantom Camo
Availability: August 2015
Click here to view images:

Pioneer 700: http://powersports.honda.com/2016/pioneer-700.aspx
Pioneer 700-4: http://powersports.honda.com/2016/pioneer-700-4.aspx
Pioneer 500
Introduced last model year, the compact Pioneer 500 is easy to maneuver in tight conditions, and it fits into a full-size truck bed or a small storage shed. This fun and affordable 4WD vehicle does it all in style and comfort, with a similar look to the larger Pioneer models. It also has steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifting, 450-pound-capacity large rear carrier design, independent rear suspension and single-function door and net. And of course the Pioneer 500 has the superior engineering and record of durability and reliability for which all Honda four-wheel powersports products are known.

Color: Red, Metallic Blue, Honda Phantom Camo
Availability: October 2015
Click here to view images: http://powersports.honda.com/2016/pioneer-500.aspx

Different jobs, terrain, and adventures mean it only makes sense to fine-tune your Honda ATV to your specific needs. A full line of Honda accessories is available to make your ATV even better. For more information on Honda accessories, go to powersports.honda.com/accessories.aspx

ABOUT AMERICAN HONDA
American Honda Motor Co., Inc., is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and Side-by-Sides in the U.S. American Honda’s Motorcycle Division conducts the sales, marketing and operational activities for these products through independent authorized Honda retail dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to powersports.honda.com.

powersports.honda.com

Sichuan China To Loosen Low-Speed Electric Vehicle Restrictions

Posted on June 11, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Reports from Sichuan China point to the government loosening restrictions on low-speed electric vehicles. The new regulations are expected in August for the province. Lead acid battery manufacturers that supply the market expect it to grow 15% in 2015. In related news, Shandong province, a major producing area of low speed EVs in China reports production of the vehicles is up almost 70% to 69,200 vehicles in the first quarter. Learn more: Metal.com

Comment: When it comes to low speed vehicles the market size in China far outpaces the US. However a direct comparison is hard to make because low speed vehicles in China have a much higher top speed, about 48 mph. A more basic difference though is that there is simply more market demand. With comparatively low vehicle penetration, there is a sizable demand for vehicles that are more affordable than highway capable vehicles but can still get you around town locally.

Yamaha To Sponsor McGladrey Classic Pro-Am Event

Posted on June 11, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Yamaha’s golf car division recently announced that they will be sponsoring this year’s pro-am event at The McGladrey Classic, an official PGA Tour event. The press release follows:

Yamaha inks agreement to sponsor the 2015 pro-am at The McGladrey Classic

The Yamaha Golf-Car Company will sponsor the 2015 Pro-Am at The McGladrey Classic, an Official PGA TOUR Event, on Wednesday, November 18th. For the first time, the Pro-Am Event will be played on both the Plantation Course and Seaside Course at Sea Island Golf Club in Georgia’s Golden Isles. The courses are the same that the professional golfers will play competitive rounds on during this year’s McGladrey Classic.

The Yamaha Golf-Car Company has been investing in grassroots programs designed to support and grow the game of golf through PGA of America Sectional events, the Web.com Tour, as well as a partnership with the Executive Women’s Golf Association. Over 1,400 golf courses have switched to Yamaha Golf Car products over the last five years, signaling a major shift in the industry. Armed with a rich pedigree of quality and engineering, Yamaha’s fleet, utility, and personal transportation cars are enjoying a fast growing following throughout the world both on and off the golf course.

“Like most people, I’ve always been familiar with Yamaha’s high performance products within the Motorcycle, ATV, Boat, and Marine industries,” said Tournament Host Davis Love III, 20-time PGA TOUR winner and Captain of the 2016 U.S. Ryder Cup Team. “Now, having recently spent a lot of time with their golf division, it’s easy to see that their Golf Car and Utility Car products have carried on that same high quality, reliability and high-performance position in the golf industry. Yamaha is an ideal fit for The McGladrey Classic and I’m proud to have their support of our event.” “We are proud to support the Davis Love Foundation and be a part of the sixth annual McGladrey Classic. This is a great opportunity for us to support children and family charities and build relationships with our customers,” said Tom McDonald, President of the Yamaha Golf-Car Company.

The Pro-Am includes a Tuesday night Pairings Party hosted by Love and his wife, Robin. The event has become an integral part of The McGladrey Classic and one of the premier Pro-Am events on the PGA TOUR. There are a limited number of Pro-Am spots available. For more information on the 2015 Yamaha Pro-Am at The McGladrey Classic visit mcgladreyclassic.com.

About The McGladrey Classic (www.mcgladreyclassic.com)
The McGladrey Classic is an Official PGA TOUR FedExCup Event played on the Seaside and Plantation Courses at Sea Island Golf Club located on St. Simons Island, Georgia. The tournament (which will be held November 16 – 22 in 2015) is hosted by the Davis Love Foundation which was established by PGA TOUR pro golfer Davis Love III for the purpose of contributing to the wellbeing and progress of society by supporting both national and community-based programs that focus on children and their families. The McGladrey Classic is named for title sponsor McGladrey LLP, the nation’s leading provider of assurance, tax, and consulting services focused on the middle market. McGladrey has more than 7,000 employees in 75 cities across the country. McGladrey is a member of RSM International, one of the largest global networks of independent accounting, tax, and consulting firms, with more than 35,000 employees in more than 100 countries around the globe.

About Yamaha (www.yamahagolfcar.com)
Yamaha Golf-Car Company, headquartered in Newnan, Georgia since 1988, manufactures the most highly engineered, highest quality golf cars and utility vehicles in the industry. The company was the first to develop proprietary Electronic Fuel Injection technology, producing the greenest gasoline-powered golf car available, and with the industry’s smallest carbon footprint. Yamaha also offers a complete line of transportation and specialty vehicles.
CONTACT:
Melanie Trotter
Media Director
The McGladrey Classic – An Official PGA TOUR Event Hosted by Davis Love III
704-807-2173
mtrotter@trotlandgroup.com

Can-Am Announces New 2016 Side-by-Sides

Posted on June 5, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Can-Am has added to their side-by-side lineup and upgraded some of their existing side-by-sides for model year 2016. Most of the changes were made to the Maverick line as Can-Am is clearly targeting the more purely recreational segment of the side-by-side market for growth. Even in the mixed recreational and utility oriented Commander lineup the major change has a recreational tilt with a new hunting edition model. From a strategic point of view, this is somewhat of a contrast to other powersports manufacturers that have been trying to expand more into pure utility vehicle segments or the recreational/utility crossover vehicle segments. This is not to say others, like Polaris and Arctic Cat, aren’t continuing to pursue the purely recreational vehicle segment, they are, but at the same time making a concerted effort to break into to other segments.

The Can-Am changes continue to reflect the importance of horsepower in the pure recreational segment as they have tweaked their turbocharged 1000R Rotax engine to put out 131 hp. They are also pressing what they see as an advantage, their turbocharged engine, by adding several turbocharged models. Key additions and changes to the Can-Am side-by-side lineup include:

Revised the 131-hp Rotax 1000R Turbo engine with larger injectors, increased boost pressure and re-calibrated the CVT.
A new 60-inch wide model, the Maverick xc DPS 1000R, for use on narrower trails and with 12 inches of suspension travel.
A Dynamic Steering Package (DPS) model variation is available in the Maverick DPS 1000R and Maverick MAX DPS 1000R and includes cast-aluminum wheels, Visco-Lok QE, Tri-Mode DPS and two color options.
The 2016 Maverick 1000R Turbo in White Light Grey – Manta Green

The 2016 Maverick MAX 1000R Turbo in White Light Grey – Manta Green
The Maverick 1000R TURBO and the MAX 1000R Turbo, which seats four, are powered by the revised 131 hp Rotax 1000R Turbo engine and also include:
- Front and rear FOX 2.5 PODIUM RC2 shocks with single-speed compression and preload adjustments
- 14-inch painted black cast-aluminum wheels
- 28-inch Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
- The 2016 Maverick X rs 1000R Turbo in Carbon Black – Can-Am Red
  
  The 2016 Maverick MAX X rs 1000R Turbo in Carbon Black – Can-Am Red
Maverick X rs 1000R Turbo and MAX X rs 1000R Turbo models feature:
- 131-hp Rotax 1000R Turbo engine
- Longer 88 in. wheelbase
- Torsional Trailing A-arms independent rear suspension with sway bar and 16 in. of travel
- 4-point harness system
- Yoshimura exhaust
- Rear bumper
- A suspension calibration tuned in partnership with FOX
- Carbon Black & painted Can-Am Red color pattern
- MSRPs: X rs 1000R Turbo – $23,999; MAX X rs 1000R Turbo – $26,599
- New for 2016 is the Commander Mossy Oak Hunting Edition
Commander line adds a Mossy Oak Hunting Edition which features:
- Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo
- Gun scabbards
- Front bumper
- Aluminum skid plate
- Roof
- Half-windshield
- Bed rails
- Mudguards
- 14 inch cast aluminum wheels and Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires
- 4,500 lb. Warn winch
- MSRP: $18,849
New electronic belt drive protection for the Commander MAX models is now standard. It offers belt-spotting protection for when a driver is in high gear, but should be in low gear. The vehicle will not move and a “LOW GEAR” message will appear on the gauge, alerting the driver.
New & updated color schemes
- Light Grey (Commander 800R base)
- Viper Red (Commander DPS 800R / 1000)
- Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo; (Commander XT 800R / 1000 and Commander MAX XT 1000, Commander Mossy Oak Hunting Edition 1000)
- Matte Black & Octane Blue; (Commander XT 800R / 1000 and Commander MAX XT 1000)
- Cognac (Commander Limited 1000)
- Light Grey (Maverick 1000R base)
- Light Grey & Can-Am Red color option (Maverick DPS 1000R and Maverick MAX DPS 1000R)
- Light Grey & Octane Blue (Maverick X xc 1000R)
- Hyper Silver, Black & Octane Blue and White, black & Can-Am Red color option (Maverick X mr 1000R)
- White, Light Grey & Manta Green (Maverick 1000R Turbo and MAX 1000R Turbo)
- Hyper Silver & Octane Blue (Maverick X ds 1000R Turbo and MAX X ds 1000R Turbo)
- Carbon Black painted & Can-Am Red (Maverick X rs 1000R Turbo and MAX X rs 1000R Turbo)

Learn more: BRP.com

Kawasaki Reveals New 2016 Side-by-Side Models

Posted on June 3, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Kawasaki announced an extensive lineup of new 2016 side-by-side, revealing new models for both work and recreational uses. Kawasaki filled out their full size work utility vehicle offerings by adding single seat Mule FX and DX variations to their Mule FXT and DXT models. If you recall, the FXT and DXT models can fit three people or be reconfigured to fit six by transforming the cargo area into an additional bench seat with a smaller cargo bed. For those buyers who only need three person capacity, the FX and DX variations offer a less expensive option for essentially the same vehicle. Offerings in the traditional Mule 4000 and 4010 work utility vehicle lineup remain essentially the same, although a couple of special edition models were added.

In the recreational Teryx and Teryx4 product lines the 2016 models offer a mix of changes in performance, styling and ergonomics. Performance changes include optimized shocks and larger tires for certain models. The front of the vehicle has been restyled and certain models add LED headlights. The vehicle cockpits have been redesigned with tilt steering, new steering wheel, easily adjustable driver’s seat and new dash layout. Kawasaki is the first of the major manufacturers to launch a full complement of 2016 models.

Here is a summary of some of key features of the 2016 models

The Mule Pro FX lineup is a variant of the existing FXT lineup.

Mule Pro-FX Models

Single-row seating allows for larger steel cargo bed with 1,000 lb. capacity
New 3-cylinder 812cc fuel injected engine
2,000 lb. towing capacity
Independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes, CVT
Electric Power Steering for most models
Tilt-steering except non-EPS model
LCD Display
Multiple 12 volt outlets
Pro-FX line includes four models: Base non-EPS, EPS, EPS LE and EPS Camo
EPS model adds EPS and tilt steering
EPS LE further adds LED auxiliary headlights, aluminum wheels and a composite sun top
EPS Camo adds EPS, tilt steering, LED auxiliary headlights and Realtree Xtra Green Camo color scheme
MSRPS: Mule Pro-FX, $11,999; Mule Pro-FX EPS Camo, $14,199; Mule Pro-FX EPS, $12,999; Mule Pro-FX EPS LE, $14,199

The Mule Pro DX, a variant of the existing diesel powered DXT lineup is also new for 2016.

Mule Pro-DX Models

New three-cylinder 993cc diesel engine
55-amp alternator
Cargo bed with 1,000 lb. capacity and fits standard pallets
2,000 lb. towing capacity
Independent front and rear suspension, disc brakes, CVT
Electric Power Steering for most models
Tilt Steering
LCD Display
Multiple 12V outlets
Pro-DX line includes three models: Base non-EPS, EPS, and EPS LE
EPS model adds electronic power steering and Timberline Green color option
EPS LE further adds LED auxiliary headlights, a composite sun top and Dark Royal Red color option
MSRPs: Mule Pro-DX $13,199; Mule Pro-DX EPS, $13,999; Pro-DX EPS LE, $14,899

The Mule 4000 and 4010, (shown here) models have minor changes for 2016.

Mule 4010 & Mule 4000 Models

These models are similar to the 2015 models with the exception of the special edition 4010 4×4 SE and 4010 Trans4x4 SE which feature LED headlights and a composite sun top.
Depending on the model available colors include Timberline Green, Dark Royal Red, Realtree Xtra Green Camo and Super Black
Trans models allow for re-configuration of the seating and cargo area to carry 2 people and 800 lbs. of cargo or 4 people and 400 lbs. of cargo.
MSRP: Mule 4000, $8,999; Mule 4010 4X4 SE, $10,549, Mule 4010 4X4, $10,199; Mule 4010 TRANS4X4 SE, $11,999; Mule 4010 TRANS4X4, $11,199 ($11,699 Camo model)

The new 2016 Teryx with redesigned front.

This earlier version of the Teryx shows the design differences in the front of the vehicle.

Teryx Models

A number of new features have been introduced for the 2016 models
New redesigned front face
New dashboard layout
Tilt steering is standard along with thicker and sportier steering wheel
Electronic Power Steering on all models
New tool-free adjustment for driver’s seat
New optimized setting for the Fox Podium 2.0 shocks
Bigger 14″ wheels on the Teryx LE
Four LED headlights on LE and Camo models
Standard hard top on LE and Camo models
Available in three models: EPS in Bright White; LE with 14″ aluminum wheels, LED headlights, hard top and choice of Candy Lime Green or Metallic Flat Raw Graystone paint; Camo with LED headlights, hard top and Realtree XtraGreen Camo
783 V-twin engine remains the same
MSRPs: Teryx EPS, $12,999; Teryx Camo, $14,299; Teryx EPS LE, $14,999

The new 2016 Kawasaki Teryx4 Camo.

Teryx4 Models

Key features of the 2016 Teryx4 lineup include:

New redesigned front face
New dashboard layout
Tilt steering is standard along with thicker and sportier steering wheel
Electronic Power Steering on all models
New tool-free adjustment for driver’s seat
New optimized setting for the Fox Podium 2.0 shocks
Bigger 14″ wheels on the Teryx4 LE
Four LED headlights on LE and Camo models
Versatile cargo bed and large storage area behind front seats
Standard hard top on LE and Camo models
Available in three models: EPS in Bright White; LE with 14″ aluminum wheels, LED headlights, hard top and choice of Candy Lime Green, Metallic Flat Raw Graystone or Candy Persimmon Red paint; Camo with LED headlights, hard top and Realtree XtraGreen Camo
783 V-twin engine remains the same
MSRPs: Teryx4 EPS, $15,799; Teryx4 Camo, $16,299; Teryx4 EPS LE, $16,999

Learn more: Kawasaki.com

SVR Adds Vantage Vehicle International Models To Vehicle Database

Posted on May 29, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Models like the electric powered GreenTruck Extended Cab from Vantage Vehicle International have been added to the SVR vehicle database.

Smallvehicleresource.com has added models from Vantage Vehicle International to our vehicle database. Vantage Vehicle International offers a range of electric and gas models, all of which are low speed vehicles. There are three product lines: the electric powered Green line, the Primo line with 4WD designed for all terrain and the Premium line with a 2,500 lb. payload. Each line offers models in a cargo or passenger van configuration and standard cab truck configurations. The Premium and Green lines includes trucks with extended and crew configurations. If you are a Vantage Vehicle International dealer you can add a basic listing for your dealership to our dealer directory for free or if you are already in our database you can add Vantage Vehicle International to your listing.

Kubota To Invest $80 Million To Expand US UTV Manufacturing

Posted on May 27, 2015 by Marc Cesare

Utility vehicles like the Kubota RTV400Ci will be built in a new manufacturing facility starting in 2017.

Kubota Tractor Corporation (KTC) and Kubota Manufacturing of America Corporation (KMA) announced plans to invest approximately $80 million in their Gainesville, GA manufacturing operations to increase production of utility vehicles, sub-compact tractors and turf products. The investment includes a new 502,000 square foot facility close to existing facilities for the production of RTV utility vehicles, as well as, upgrades to their existing facilities to enhance production for sub-compact tractors and turf products. The new facility will have the capacity to produce 50,000 utility vehicles per year. Construction is expected to begin in September 2015 and mass production in spring of 2017. Learn more: Businesswire.com

Comment: Kubota joins Polaris and Arctic Cat as the latest utility vehicle manufacturers to announce sizable investments in new and/or upgraded manufacturing facilities. This indicates that manufacturers are optimistic about the overall market in general and their products in particular. It also indicates that competition in the utility vehicle market will continue to be fierce and likely become more intense as these manufacturers will have to increase sales to generate returns on these sizable investments. SVR estimates that Kubota sells approximately 20-30 thousand UTVs a year in North America.

Delta-Q Technologies QuiQ 1500 Industrial Battery Charger Enters Full- Scale Production

Posted on May 27, 2015 by Marc Cesare

The new QuiQ 1500 battery charger from Delta-Q Technologies.

Delta-Q Technologies announced that their new QuiQ 1500 Industrial Battery Charger has begun full-scale production. The charger can be used with burden carriers, utility vehicles, golf cars and LSVs, and is available in 48- and 72-volt models. From an earlier post about the new charger:

The QuiQ 1500 is a higher power version of the original QuiQ 1000 that is found in many electric utility vehicles used in material handling. The QuiQ 1500 allows users to charge existing battery packs up to 30 percent faster than the QuiQ 1000 or equip machines with a bigger pack and still meet a 5- or 8-hour charging time requirement. The QuiQ 1500’s compact design matches the exact dimensions and mounting configuration of the existing QuiQ 1000, allowing swift replacement of any existing QuiQ charger. With a standard North American 110V AC power source, the QuiQ 1500 provides 1200 watts of output power, and at 220 or 230 VAC, 1500 watts of output power.

Learn more: PRNewswire.com

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