E-Z-GO Recalls Golf, Shuttle and Off-road Utility Vehicles

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One of the Bad Boy Buggie models being recalled.

One of the Bad Boy Buggie models being recalled.

E-Z-GO TXT_2plus2_LARGE

One of the E-Z-GO TXT models being recalled.

 

The Cushman Shuttle that is part of the recall by E-Z-GO.

The Cushman Shuttle that is part of the recall by E-Z-GO.

E-Z-GO is recalling approximately 30,000 golf, shuttle and off-road utility vehicles because a steering wheel nut may not have been tightened sufficiently, reducing the driver’s steering control. This can result in a crash. There has only been one reported incident related to the issue and it was a minor injury.

The recall includes E-Z-GO, Cushman and Bad Boy Buggies branded vehicles. Recalled E-Z-GO and Cushman vehicles have serial numbers from 2823208 to 2850425 and from 3000001 to 3003187. Bad Boy Buggies vehicles have serial numbers from 8005089 to 8006013. The recall includes the following models:

  • E-Z-GO TXT Fleet golf cars
  • E-Z-GO Freedom TXT, Shuttle 2+2 TXT and Valor personal golf cars all with one bench seat and one rear-facing seat
  • E-Z-GO Express with two bench seats and one rear-facing seat,
  • E-Z-GO Terrain with a cargo bed
  • Cushman Shuttle vehicles
  • Bad Boy Buggies HD, LD, LTO, and LT Safari utility vehicles

The vehicles were sold between August 2012 through February 2013. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled vehicles and contact E-Z-GO or an authorized dealer for a free repair. E-Z-GO and E-Z-GO dealers are already contacting known owners. Consumers can contact E-Z-GO toll-free at (855) 738-3711 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday; or online at www.ezgo.com and click on Product Recall Information or at www.badboybuggies.com and click on Recall Information at the bottom of the page for more information. Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  The number of vehicles being recalled is quite large compared to the typical recall in the STOV market, which usually numbers a few hundred to a few thousand vehicles. On the other hand this seems to be only a minor issue and for the company a simple and relatively inexpensive fix. In general, dealers I’ve spoken to believe the quality of the Bad Boy Buggies vehicles has increased significantly since E-Z-GO acquired the company in late 2010. At the time, a large and more serious recall from both a safety and financial standpoint was a major reason the company needed to be sold.

More Club Car Models To Use Subaru EFI Engine

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Club Car XRT850 utility vehicles will soon feature a new Subaru EFI engine.

Club Car XRT850 utility vehicles will soon feature a new Subaru EFI engine.

Club Car’s  XRT800 and XRT850 utility vehicles manufactured after April, 2014 will use the new Subaru 14-hp rated, 404-cc, single-cylinder overhead cam engines with electronic fuel injection (EFI). The new engine represents a 30 percent increase in horsepower and the EFI technology will allow for more reliable starting, better fuel efficiency and in general improved performance. The Subaru’s splash lubrication system requires no oil filter eliminating the need for buying, changing and disposing of filters.

Learn more:  Digitaljournal.com

Comment:  EFI technology is an example of automobile technology that has migrated into the STOV market. Technology migration such as this typically starts with higher-priced, specialty or higher performance models in the market. In the case of EFI technology, it first started appearing in the high-end recreational side-by-sides and in vehicles for work applications that had higher performance requirements. Now EFI is moving to smaller, less expensive vehicles like these Club Car  XRTs which are compact UTVs. Another example is Yamaha’s use of EFI engines in their golf car and utility vehicle product lines.

19 Star EV Models Receive CARB Certification

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The Star EV 48-4SF NEV is one of the Star EV models that was recently CARB certified.

The Star EV 48-4SF NEV is one of the Star EV models that was recently CARB certified.

JH Global Services announced that 19 models under their Star EV brand have received certification from the California Air Resource Board (CARB) as zero-emission neighborhood electric vehicles. CARB certified the models in March, 2014 after almost a two year process. The certification will be help when marketing the vehicles in other states that follow the CARB guidelines such as New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Oregon. The vehicles certified include the following Star EV models:

BN48-4-NEV/LSV
848-6-NEV/LSV
48-2-NEV/LSV
48-4SF-NEV/LSV
48-4L-NEV/LSV
48-SSF-NEV/LSV
48-SL-NEV/LSV
48L-4SF-NEV/LSV
48L-6SF-NEV/LSV
48-2H-NEV/LSV
48-4H-NEV/LSV
48-2-HCX-NEV/LSV
48L-2H-NEV/LSV
48L-4H-NEV/LSV
48L-2-HCX-NEV/LSV
K48-STD-NEV/LSV
K48-STD-D-NEV/LSV
K48-LONG-NEV/LSV
K48-LONG-D-NEV/LSV

Learn more:  PRWeb.com

New Tracked Utility Vehicle From Fecon

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The new EX60 Tracked Utility Vehicle from Fecon.

The new EX60 Tracked Utility Vehicle from Fecon.

Fecon, a maker of vegetation management equipment such as mulchers and stump grinders, recently introduced their new EX60 Track Vehicle. The EX60 has a 6,000-lb payload capacity and all-terrain rubber tracks. The company is targeting applications such as  fleet service, fire-fighting, material handling, or spraying vegetation and insects where trucks or larger vehicles can’t go.  Two standard auxiliary hydraulic circuits can power optional equipment.  A load sense pump is offered as an option for more demanding applications.  The EX60 features a universal mounting plate in the payload area to easily switch between solutions, whether skid mounted equipment or material handling apparatus.  A reversible operator station and operator controls add to the flexibility of the EX60.  The 46HP diesel engine enables transport of the impressive payload and 7-MPH travel speed.

There is no additional information on the cost of the vehicle or other specifications. Fecon existing lines of equipment are for the right-of-way, land clearing, firebreaks, pasture restoration, invasive species and wildlife restoration markets.

Learn more: Fecon.com

Comment:  This vehicle definitely pushes the envelope and falls in the more heavy duty range of the of STOV market. While the end market for a vehicle like this may be on the smaller size, it is another example of how the STOV market is being segmented by specialized application needs. While in many cases this segmentation can be handled by customization of base models with a wide range of uses, in other cases more specialized, purpose built vehicles are needed. Another less extreme example in the work UTV portion of the market would be the Brutus line of UTVs from Polaris with it’s PTO and multiple attachment capability. The EX60 may have appeal in other markets but Fecon’s distribution network focusing on the vegetation management markets will likely limit sales of the vehicle to this customer base.

Tata Motors To Launch New Mini-Truck

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The Tata Ace mini-truck

The current Tata Ace mini-truck

Tata Motors announced plans to launch a new mini-truck for the Small Commercial Vehicle  (SCV) segment within the next month. The new vehicle will be targeting the segment between Tata’s Ace mini-truck and their Super Ace pickup truck. The SCV segment, which comprises sub-1 tonne payload mini trucks and above 1-tonne payload pick- ups is below the 3.5 tonne (gross vehicle weight) Light Commercial Vehicle segment. The segment has become a competitive segment as more companies have launched vehicles for the market. Tata holds an estimated 48% share of the market.

In India and other countries in the region SCVs are used for the delivery of goods in the last mile of the distribution network. This service need often offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs to start their own business as a local shipper. They typically will get financing to purchase a vehicle. Despite a sluggish economy of late the, market segment is expected to grow as penetration in rural areas is low and when compared to other developing countries, India’s use of SCVs is low as well. Learn more:  Thehindu.com

Comment:  The SCV market in India is dominated by Tata and other local or regional manufacturers. It should be noted though that Polaris has started to enter other vehicle segments in India. In the future there could be potential for their GEM line or some of their vehicles from European acquisitions for use in this market. For electric vehicles, the ability of the local electrical grid to provide reliable charging opportunities, could be a significant hurdle though.

Arctic Cat Recalls Prowler 500 HDX UTVs

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The 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX is being recalled due to a fuel leak issue.

The 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX is being recalled due to a fuel leak issue.

Arctic Cat has recalled approximately 2,300 model year 2014 Prowler 500 HDX utility vehicles because of a potential fuel leak issue and related fire hazard. No injuries have been reported related to this recall. The vehicles were sold from August 2013 to January 2014. The following information is from the Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice.

Recall Details

Product:  Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX

Hazard:  Fuel can leak from the fuel fitting at the throttle body of the vehicle, posing a fire hazard.

Units:  About 2,300

Description:  This recall includes Model Year 2014 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 HDX Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle (ROV). The two-seat vehicles come in four colors: green, red, vibrant red metallic or emerald green metallic. The vehicles have “Arctic Cat” printed on each side of the hood and on the cargo box tail gate, “500” printed on each side of the front fenders and “HDX” printed on each side of the rear cargo box.

Sold at:  Arctic Cat dealers nationwide from August 2013 to January 2014 for between about $11,000 and $12,400.

Incidents/Injuries:  None reported.

Remedy:  Consumers should stop using the recalled Prowlers immediately and contact an Arctic Cat dealer to schedule a free repair. Arctic Cat is contacting all known owners of the Prowlers directly.

Consumer Contact:  Arctic Cat at (800) 279-6851 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or online at www.arcticcat.com and click on Customer Care, then Product Recall and then List of Safety Bulletins for more information.

Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  This is not a particularly large recall as many UTV recalls typically involve two to three thousand vehicles or less. A search of the CPSC database shows that Arctic Cat hasn’t recalled any other UTVs in at least the last five years.

Polaris Adds Two Diesel Work UTVs To Lineup

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The new Polaris Ranger Diesel HST Deluxe with climate controlled cab.

The new Polaris Ranger Diesel HST Deluxe with climate controlled cab.

The new Polaris Ranger Diesel HST with a Yanmar diesel engine and hydrostatic transmission.

The new Polaris Ranger Diesel HST with a Yanmar diesel engine and hydrostatic transmission.

Polaris Industries recently introduced two new diesel powered Ranger work utility vehicles to their product lineup, the Ranger Diesel HST and the Ranger Diesel HST Deluxe. Both vehicles are powered by a 24hp Yanmar diesel engine with engine braking which is paired with a hydrostatic transmission featuring Polaris’ exclusive On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive. The vehicles also include a  treadle pedal and multi-link coil over De Dion rear suspension. The treadle pedal allows for travel in forward to reverse without shifting gears. The Deluxe model comes with a factory-installed cab with climate controls and an electric assist for the dump bed. Both models have a 1,250 lb cargo capacity and 2,000 lb towing capacity along with a 90 amp alternator for better cold weather starting and operating accessories. The models are targeted for the agricultural and rural customer. The vehicles will be available in April with the Ranger Diesel HST starting at $15,199 and the Ranger Diesel HST Deluxe at $20,999.  Learn more:  Polaris.com

 Comment:  Polaris continues to build out their work utility vehicle lineup, targeting different customer segments of the consumer work and commercial portions of the market. While these new Ranger models are primarily aimed at the agricultural and work customer, they could also be used in the construction market or other segments that might use diesel vehicles. The company has been making a particularly strong push into the commercial area over the last several years with their Brutus vehicle partnership with Bobcat, the GEM lineup which is primarily for commercial and institutional use and now these models provide a slightly different flavor. The question in the STOV market often returns to how well the distribution channel matches to the target customer. Since the agricultural segment has historically been served by the powersports dealer to a certain degree this should not be an issue with these models. For other more purely commercial segments where these vehicles could find traction, a more efficient distribution channel may be needed to fully exploit their potential.

John Deere Updates 2014 Gator Utility Vehicles

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The 2014 John Deere Gator XUV Line-Up

The 2014 John Deere Gator XUV Line-Up

John Deere has announced updates to their 2014 Gator Utility vehicles which include safety as well as work performance improvements to their XUV line. These updates include:

  • Operator Side Retention (OSR) is now standard on all Operator Protective Structure (OPS) equipped Gator utility vehicles. A net OSR is part of the base configuration for the HPX, XUV heavy-duty (625i, 825i, 855D), and mid-duty (550, 550 S4) models. Stylized poly doors can be ordered in lieu of nets for certain models. The nets allow for easy one-handed operation, provide great visibility and allow for accessible ingress and egress from the utility vehicle. The stylized poly doors feature automotive style handles, color-matched panels, and a 90 degree opening for easy entry and exit.
  • Warn® ProVantage 3,500 or 4,500 lb. winch
  • The heavy-duty line of XUVs features a new digital display with a glow plug indicator light (diesel), a flashing water temperature icon, and a power steering indicator (if equipped). New illuminated dash switches provide better nighttime visibility.
  • An ag management solutions system (AMS) integration kit is available for the heavy-duty models. This kit allows a customer to mount a StarFire receiver and GS display (both sold separately) to the Gator to assist with boundary mapping, flagging field obstacles, and soil sampling.
  • The mid-duty line of XUVs is an improved braking system that delivers 26 percent reduction in brake pedal effort and improved operator feedback.

Learn More:  JohnDeere.com

Comment:  While the high-end recreational vehicle segment gets a lot of attention with a seemingly continuous stream of vehicles with more horsepower and off-road capabilities, manufacturers such as John Deere, Kubota, Club Car, Toro and others are making the work vehicle segment highly competitive as well. A number of new vehicle introductions as well as product line updates have hit the market in the last year, improving vehicle performance and adding capabilities.

Polaris Recalls Approximately 16,000 2013 Ranger 500 UTVs

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2013 Polaris Ranger 500 EFI

The 2013 Polaris Ranger 500 EFI being recalled.

The 2013 Polaris Ranger Crew 500 EFI being recalled.

The 2013 Polaris Ranger Crew 500 EFI being recalled.

Polaris Industries has issued a recall for their 2013 Ranger® 500 EFI and Ranger Crew® 500 EFI. The vehicles’ throttle cable can melt on the exhaust pipe and fail to operate properly. This can cause the rider to lose control, posing a crash hazard. There has been one reported incident leading to a minor injury. Owners should not use the vehicle and contact a Polaris dealer to schedule a free inspection and repair. The recall involves approximately 16,550 vehicles sold betweenJune 2012 through February 2014.

The following information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission recall notice can be used to identify if your vehicle is being recalled.

This recall involves 2013 Polaris Ranger® 500 EFI and Ranger Crew® 500 EFI recreational off-highway vehicles. Model names are on the right and left side of the hood. “Polaris” is stamped on the front of the vehicles above the front grill and “Polaris Ranger 4×4” is printed on the side of the rear bed box.

The Ranger has a bench seat and a rear cargo box. Ranger model colors are black, camouflage, green, and red. Model numbers for the Ranger are R13RH50AG, R13RH50AH, R13RH50AM and R13RH50AR.

The Ranger Crew has a front and a rear bench seat and a rear cargo box. Model numbers for the Ranger Crew are R13WH50AG, R13WH50AH, R13WH50AR and R13WH50AX. Ranger Crew model colors are camouflage, green, red and tan.

Recalled vehicles have a VIN between 4XA******DE210149 and 4XA******DE791730 stamped on the front lower frame rail of the vehicle on the driver’s side. Not all VINs in the range are included in this recall.

Alternatively you can contact Polaris directly toll-free at (888) 704-5290 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or online to check your vehicle’s VIN. To check your VIN go to www.polarisindustries.com and select the Services and Support tab, then click on Help Center, then Common Rider Questions, then Service bulletins/recalls to check your vehicle identification number (VIN). Learn more:  CPSC.gov

Comment:  As UTV recalls go this is a fairly large recall. Using a rough estimate, based on the 21 month time-frame for the sales of the vehicles involved, the recall represents about 3% of the total UTV market for 2013. It could be more or less depending on how sales were distributed across the time period. Many recent UTV recalls have involved fewer than 5,000 vehicles.

Iowa Bill Addresses Changing UTV Market

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The House Natural Resources committee passed a bill that changes the definition of “off road utility vehicles” in the Iowa Code. With input from a range of stakeholders, the bill addresses changes in the UTV market as new models with different characteristics and capabilities have out grown the existing UTV definitions in the code. The bill creates three different off-road utility vehicle definitions based on vehicle dry weight and width.

1. Off-road utility vehicle type 1 – an off-road utility vehicle with a dry weight of 1,200 pounds or less and a width of 50 inches or less.

2. Off-road utility vehicle type 2 – an off-road utility vehicle with a dry weight of 2,000 pounds or less and a width of 60 inches or less. This will include the Polaris RANGER, John Deere Gator and Arctic Cat Prowler.

3. Off-road utility vehicle type 3 – an off-road utility vehicle with a dry weight of more than 2,000 pounds or a width of more than 65 inches, or both. This will include the Polaris BRUTUS, Kubota RTV and Bobcat 3600.

The new definitions will allow newer vehicles to be sold and used legally in Iowa.

I followed up with Joel Fry, the Representative who sponsored the bill, about what was the likelihood that the bill would pass and when but I have not heard back from him. Learn more:  OsceoliaIowa.com