Research Demonstrates Effectiveness of Solar Panels For Vehicle Range Extension

Posted on January 22, 2015 by Marc Cesare

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 To Build Factory In Huntsville, Alabama

Posted on January 14, 2015 by Marc Cesare

The site for the new Polaris factory in Huntsville, AL.

Polaris Industries has announced that they will begin construction on a new factory in May of this year in Huntsville, AL. The the 600,000-square-foot plant on a 453-acre site is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2016 and will manufacture Ranger, RZR and Ace utility vehicles. According to reports, operations at the $142 million will include vehicle assembly, chassis and body painting, welding, fabrication and injection molding and employ an estimated 1,700 people full-time when fully operational and potentially 2,000 over time. The average wages are expected to be approximately $18/hr with some highly skilled positions earning $30/hr. Learn more: Al.com

Comment: This clearly indicates that Polaris believes their strong growth in the UTV market to continue. I expect one of the reasons they chose Alabama is the strong market for UTVs in the Southeast and in the Southern tier of the US in general. The location is also puts them closer to the Central and South American markets they have been trying to expand as well, although they also have Mexican facilities to serve these markets. Given that they could have expanded operations in Mexico, I suspect the proximity to the Southeastern US markets might be the primary geographical reason for the location. In addition that area of Alabama has an established manufacturing base and the related skilled work force they need.

Polaris Expands RZR and Ranger Lineups

Posted on January 8, 2015 by Marc Cesare

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

Posted on January 5, 2015 by Marc Cesare

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.

Polaris Commercial Pushes Non-Pneumatic Tires

Posted on December 15, 2014 by Marc Cesare

Polaris Commercial highlights potential cost-savings for non-pneumatic tires.

I recently came across a product listing from Polaris Commercial for Non-Pneumatic Tires (NPT). We’ve posted about the tires previously. Originally designed for military applications, Polaris has moved them into the commercial arena. While their basic pitch for the tire is the same, ability to handle rough terrain and punctures or travel where air tires can’t, they also added another potential benefit for commercial users, cost savings. While I haven’t seen any pricing for the NPT, it is more expensive than the standard UTV tire and probably considerably so. However, if you are operating a fleet Polaris is making the argument that with NPTs you can avoid carrying a spare and/or reduce the number of tires you buy and store for your vehicle fleet. In addition vehicle downtime can be avoided. Learn more: Utilityproducts.com

Polaris Adds Pro Armor Brand To Accessories Lineup

Posted on November 26, 2014 by Marc Cesare

A Polaris RZR 800 with a Pro Armor door.

Polaris Industries recently purchased the Pro Armor Brand of ATV and side-by-side accessories from California-based of LSI Products Inc. and Armor Holdings LLC. Pro Armor had sales of $15 million last year. The company will continue to operate and develop products independently at their Riverside, CA location. Polaris has been collecting brands of late for its’ Parts, Garments and Accessories (PG&A) division including acquisition of KLIM branded snowmobile and motorcycle clothing and Kolpin Outdoors, another UTV/ATV accessory manufacturer. Learn more: Startribune.com

Comment: Accessories account for over 50% of Polaris’ PG&A revenue which reached $611 million in 2013 and has nearly doubled since 2009 when it was $313 million. In 2014 management expects PG&A revenue to increase another 20%. Increasing sales of this division has been a strategic objective of the management and they have executed on that objective through both organic growth and acquisition of existing strong brands. Accessory spending on high performance UTVs is quite high, averaging around $1,500 and often ranging thousands of dollars higher. In a recent presentation to the investor community Polaris reported strong increases in dollars spent on accessories per vehicle for both Rangers and RZRs.

Pro Armor Recalls Doors For Polaris RZR 800 and 900

Posted on November 26, 2014 by Marc Cesare

The Pro Armor door being recalled.

A closeup of the door’s problematic latch.

Pro Armor is recalling about 300 doors that were sold as accessories for model year 2010 through 2014 Polaris RZR 800 and RZR 900 models because a problem with the door latch can allow the door to open while the vehicle is moving. The details from the Consumer Safety Products Commission follow.

Recall Details
Units – About 300

Description

This recall involves Pro Armor doors sold as accessories for model year 2010 through 2014 Polaris RZR 800 and RZR 900 models. The doors have a black powder coated finish and have four major components: a large square sheet metal panel, a smaller triangular sheet metal panel, a tubular metal frame and a latch. The panels are interchangeable and come in two styles. One style has cutout vents along the top and the other style has none. The smaller panel has a white Pro Armor logo below the cutouts. The door frame has the logo and “Pro Armor” on the top tube. The latch is silver with a black locking mechanism that attaches to the vehicle frame and a handle that attaches to the door.

Hazard: – The latch pin can disengage from the latch and allow the door to open while the vehicle is moving, posing a risk of ejection of an unrestrained rider and impact or laceration hazards.

Incidents/Injuries – Pro Armor has received 23 reports of the latch pin disengaging. No injuries have been reported.

Remedy – Consumers should immediately stop using vehicles with these doors and contact Pro Armor for a free repair kit.

Sold at – Powersports dealers and online nationwide from June 2014 through October 2014 for about $550 to $600 for the set of doors.

Manufacturer(s) – LSI Products Inc. dba Pro Armor, Riverside, Calif.

Learn more: CPSC.gov

Comment: This is a pretty small recall in terms of the number of units. Polaris recently acquired Pro Armor.

Ecocruise Set To Enter NEV Market

Posted on November 23, 2014 by Marc Cesare

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

Posted on November 20, 2014 by Marc Cesare

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.

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.

CPSC Moves Ahead On Mandatory Side-by-Side Standards

Posted on November 19, 2014 by Marc Cesare

Picture of roll simulator testing performed on behalf of the CPSC.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) has voted to move ahead with mandatory product safety standards for recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs), also known as side-by-sides. The UTV industry is vigorously protesting and the industry trade association, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) issued a statement stating…

The Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association is extremely disappointed that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission today voted 3 – 2 to begin the process for a rule imposing a mandatory product standard for recreational off-highway vehicles (ROVs), commonly referred to as side-by-sides.
The proposed rule relies heavily on CPSC assumptions, rather than on scientific conclusions drawn from relevant testing or incident data….The proposed rule, if ultimately approved, would limit the ability of ROV manufacturers to design vehicles to safely provide the level of performance that is expected by OHV enthusiasts. (Full Statement)

The CPSC’s draft proposed rules includes:

(1) lateral stability and vehicle handling requirements that specify a minimum level of rollover resistance for ROVs and require that ROVs exhibit sub-limit understeer characteristics; and (2) occupant retention requirements
that would limit the maximum speed of an ROV to no more than 15 miles per hour (mph), unless the seat belts of the driver and front passengers are fastened; and the rule would require ROVs to have a passive means, such as a barrier or structure, to limit further the ejection of a belted
occupant in the event of a rollover.

The CPSC makes a distinction between low speed UTVs that have a top speed of 30 mph and higher speed UTVs which the rule is targeting. There will be a 75 day comment period regarding the new rules and the industry is encouraging side-by-side enthusiasts to make their voices heard on this issue. Polaris has created a website where people can contact their Congress member. As of this posting over 12,000 people have used the website to contact over 500 members of Congress.

The industry is arguing that CPSC’s methodology in developing the standards is flawed because it is “…inappropriately apply design- restrictive standards developed for on-highway vehicles, without ensuring that those principles apply in off-highway environments.” In the CPSC’s briefing package they state

ROVs obey the same principles of motion as automobiles because ROVs and automobiles share key characteristics, such as pneumatic tires, a steering wheel, and spring-damper suspension that contribute to the dynamic response of the vehicle.11 Thus, the test procedures to measure the vehicle handling properties of passenger cars and light trucks are also applicable to ROVs.

What is not mentioned as a common key characteristic between the vehicle types is the type of ground upon which they operate and this appears to be a critical distinction. The CPSC reports 335 deaths involving ROVs from 2003 through April 2013 and estimates that ROV accidents cause more than 11,000 medically treated injuries every year. The CPSC calculated the cost of the changes at $61 to $94 per vehicle and the societal benefits at $2,200 per vehicle. While the industry has developed voluntary standards over the last several years, the CPSC does not believe that these are enough. Those in favor of the ruling believe the industry is exaggerating the negative impacts of the standards.

A video on the Polaris website mentioned above makes a few points about why they believe the standards are a bad idea.

Steering changes proposed would make vehicle steering less predictable and responsive.
Proposed stability changes would require manufacturers to lower and widen vehicles, which would reduce ground clearance and prohibit trail access, or require stiffer tires which would result in less traction on hills, longer stopping distance and more spin-outs in corners. In addition the standards would eliminate factory installed cabs and doors. (This is not explained but I assume it has to do with the vehicle’s center of gravity)
The seat belt interlock could lead to unintended high-speed vehicle decelerations, rely on sensors that could be unreliable in harsher off-road environments and would eliminate under seat storage.
The passive restraints would make vehicle entry and exit more difficult.

Learn more: Farmfutures.com

Comments: If what the industry says is true then these standards could be in direct conflict with some of the recent trends in the market, namely increased ground clearance and narrower vehicles to access ATV trails. In addition, marketing content for some vehicles has been touting improved designs for better vehicle entry and exit. I would like to hear from some engineers or those similarly informed on the applicability of the testing standards and how big an impact the standards would have on vehicle design.

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