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Kubota launch new micro excavators

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Kubota launch new micro excavators: Kubota, the market-leading manufacturer of high-performance mini excavators for the construction industry, has launched two new micro excavators that offer users a number of enhanced performance and operational benefits. 

Replacing the popular K008-3, U10-3 and U10-3SL models, the new Kubota K008-5 and U10-5 machines will allow users to bring increased power, provided by efficient Kubota-designed Stage V engines, to more places than ever before. With track widths adjustable to as little as 0.7m (K008-5) and 0.75m (zero tail swing U10-5), the new excavators bring their superb all-round vision and high power-to-weight ratio to the most difficult to reach environments with low ground impact.

Kubota launch new micro excavators

Kubota launch new micro excavators

The exterior on both models has been redesigned to offer unparalleled comfort and safety. The U10-5 now offers a convenient side lever joystick as standard, and both models have been upgraded with a more durable operators’ seat, unrivalled legroom and a new and even more ergonomic console, making working for longer periods more comfortable.

Convenience is bolstered by innovations for both worker and worksite safety, thanks to features such as engine safety start, an expanded control lock system, highly visible orange seat belt and alarm, alongside green beacon capability and LED boom lights. Crucially, both excavators come with these features as standard, offering excellent value for operators.

Glen Hampson, Construction Division Manager at Kubota, said: “The new K008-5 and U10-5 models are the culmination of years of ongoing product development and investment with the aim of improving the design and performance of some of the most popular micro excavators available on the market.

“The new machines bring innovations first seen in our largest excavators to this smaller form factor, so that Kubota can offer users unrivalled safety, reliability and performance, without having to compromise on weight and size.”

The K008-5 and U10-5 continue to offer best-in-class Kubota reliability and security. Operators can be assured of simple machinery maintenance, excellent warranty, and a first-class dealer support network, all working hand-in-hand to keep downtime to an absolute minimum and maximise both productivity and work volume. Meanwhile, anti-theft features included as standard are working hard to keep these excavators safe and secure.

Glen continued: “Kubota understands the importance the construction sector will have in the global economic recovery following the impact of Covid-19 and we are excited to be able to offer operators enhanced machines that will give them improved levels of performance and productivity.”

To learn more about the new micro excavators, download the product brochures or locate your nearest dealer, please visit: https://www.kubota-eu.com.

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Kubota is top of the class

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Kubota is top of the class: Taking grasscutting in-house has allowed site manager Ed Crawford to have better control of the mowing cycle at Horncastle Primary School, and a Kubota Z122R is just the machine for the job.

The Lincolnshire school accommodates 580 pupils from nursery-age to year six, and the four-acre site includes grass playing fields and lawns, from small areas around car parks to a one acre field.

Kubota is top of the class

Kubota is top of the class

“We have used a contractor in the past, but last year decided to do the pedestrian mowing ourselves. It then made sense to have a ride-on for larger areas, as we were paying £2500 a year just for grass cutting.”

A discussion with local Kubota dealer Irelands Farm Machinery, which opened its groundcare division last October, suggested that a Z122R zero turn would be the ideal solution.

Powered by a 19hp petrol engine, the mower packs a punch with a 1.07m (42in) cutting deck to tackle larger areas with ease, but features a clever zero turn steering system. This uses a pair of levers for precise control of forward and reverse and steering, allowing it to manoeuvre in its own length for effortless work in tight or tricky areas such as around flowerbeds or street furniture.

“It’s very manoeuvrable,” comments Mr Crawford, who is the main driver, “But can really move on and cover the ground on a longer run. The levers took a little getting used to but I was soon up and running; it’s very easy to operate.”

He notes that the twin blade rotary deck produces a high quality cut, and says: “The grass has always been cut with a cylinder mower, but I actually think the rotary is doing a better job. We’ve also got the flexibility to mow when the grass needs it, rather than on a contractor’s fixed schedule, and at a time and in conditions that suit us.”

Cut height will mainly be kept fairly consistent, but he praises the ease of adjustment allowing a taller sward to be left in spring and autumn.

“The Kubota has a good, comfortable operator platform and there’s a clear view over the deck,” Mr Crawford notes. “The deck lifts up and there’s a hose slot for easy cleaning out, and on our use so far, fuel consumption looks low,” he says.

Irelands Farm Machinery will offer servicing as needed, but Mr Crawford expects the Z122R to have low running costs.

“It’s a really well-built machine, much more robust than others that we looked at, so I think it will stand up well to the work and will last. We’re very pleased with our choice.”

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Kubota launches new V tracked dump truck

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Kubota launches new V tracked dump truck: Kubota has expanded its extensive range of track dumpers with the launch of two new Stage V emissions compliant models. The KC300HR-5 and KC300H-5, are compact and powerful and are ideal for transporting construction materials quickly and efficiently, especially in rough terrain. 

Both models have a maximum load capacity of 2,875 kg and are capable of transporting large quantities of material in a short time. In the H version, the machine is equipped with a hydraulic three-sided tiltable loading trough. The tipping angle of this model is max. 55°, the tipping angle of the HR version is max. 84°. In addition, the tipper is equipped with a stepless, hydraulic 180° rotation function (HR – hydraulic rotation 90° right / 90° left). With this version, the rotation function can be actuated at the same time as the tipping of the body. This gives the operator the great advantage of being able to unload the bulk material with pinpoint accuracy, which significantly increases the flexibility of the machine.

Kubota launches new V tracked dump truck

Kubota launches new V tracked dump truck

The heart of these two models is the liquid-cooled Kubota diesel engine V2403, which complies with the current European exhaust gas stage V. The four-cylinder diesel engine enables the machine to be operated with a high degree of flexibility. It provides the operator with a wide power spectrum in all working situations and, if required, a high driving speed of up to 11 km/h, even when loaded. Other design features include a robust crawler chassis that guarantees the operator efficient and comfortable working. Ground clearance is 330 mm, ensuring avoidance of obstacles and making machine use on uneven terrain much easier.

In addition to outstanding versatility and performance, special emphasis was also placed on driver comfort when developing these new track dumpers. The comfortable, reversible seat allows the driver to turn 180 degrees and face the opposite direction of travel. This allows the driver to quickly and easily adjust his seating position to the corresponding loading direction at all times, even in tight construction sites. Joystick operation and a digital display showing all important engine and machine data ensure simple and smooth operation and are always in the operator’s field of vision, even in reverse gear and with the seat direction adjusted.

Glen Hampson, Construction Division Manager at Kubota,  said, “These two KC300H-5 and HR-5 models are an exciting new addition to our track dumper range and the result of years of experience and continuous investment in new product development. The KC300-5 meets the latest European Stage V diesel emissions regulations and combines power and speed with unbeatable flexibility – all in a compact design.

For more information on the Kubota KC300H-5 and HR-5 models, visit: https://kuk.kubota-eu.com/constructionmachinery/products/track-dumpers/kc300h-hr-5/

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Kubota introduces the F-251 front mower

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Kubota introduces the F-251 front mower: Kubota continues to expand its ground care machinery offering, with the addition of the F-251 to the company’s front mower range. This professional mower benefits from the latest engine technology to offer enhanced performance alongside features designed for productivity and high-quality cutting.

The new model uses a powerful three-cylinder 1123cc Kubota diesel engine which complies with the most recent EU Stage V emissions directive, while delivering 25hp for increased productivity.

Kubota introduces the F-251 front mower

Kubota introduces the F-251 front mower

A highly efficient two-range HST transmission offers on demand four-wheel drive (4WD) with the capability of selecting permanent 4WD.

This new F-251 model will also see the introduction of newly designed 1.52m (60in) side and rear discharge mowing decks with improved cutting quality. Both new decks have optional mulch kits available which offer a high-quality finish. All the controls are perfectly positioned, and the instrument panel is clear and easy to read in all light conditions, making work easier and quicker. Operators can set the adjustable steering wheel to the position that suits them best for comfort and convenience, and the F-251 is equipped with LED headlights for optimum visibility and as a key safety feature. To add extra reliability, the decks are equipped with puncture-proof tyres and for ease of maintenance, the engine cowling can be fully opened, and blades are quick to replace. It has also been designed for easy transportation, with tie down points at the front and rear for reliable and secure anchoring when transported on a trailer.

Once again, Kubota has demonstrated its commitment to making ground care tasks easier and quicker by means of innovation and market research, and will continue to do so and support its customers around the world, offering the best solutions for their needs, whatever they may be.

About Kubota

Kubota has been a leading manufacturer of agricultural, turf and construction equipment and Industrial Engines since 1890. With world Headquarters in Osaka Japan, and offices in more than 120 countries, and with over 41,000 employees throughout North America, Europe and

Asia, Kubota achieved revenues in 2020 of $17.3 billion. Although agricultural equipment is Kubota’s primary line of products, Kubota also produces a diverse portfolio of other products including city wide water filtration systems, irrigation, piping, roofing, housing and large underground valves.

Our Mission

Our mission, “For Earth, For Life,” speaks of our commitment to the preservation of the Earth’s natural environment while aiding the production of food and water supplies that are vital to societal needs as our world population continues to grow. That mission is realized each time a Kubota tractor harvests the land to produce life-sustaining food or our construction equipment

excavates to transport water resources or provide shelter. For more information on Kubota, please visit www.kubota-global.net or www.kubota-eu.com.

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Kubota delivers in small, medium and large

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Kubota delivers in small, medium and large: It’s Kubota all the way for the Mere Resort near Knutsford, Cheshire, where Course Manager John Quinn is in no doubt about the right choice of horsepower for a multitude of turf preparation tasks.

The 7003yd par 71 course is highly popular with hotel and corporate guests as well as members, presenting a variety of challenges from its James Braid-designed heathland and parkland setting. It also plays host to the Mere Trophy, a popular amateur tournament, won in the past by Ashley Chesters and Ernie Els.

Kubota delivers in small, medium and large

Kubota delivers in small, medium and large

John has been at the resort for five years, quickly rising up the ranks to be Course Manager, and as part of his upgrading plan looked to replace some older tractors.

“We already had an L Series and its performance and durability made the choice of Kubota a ‘no brainer’,” he says. “I decided what we needed was a small, medium and large tractor, and Kubota had the models to fit the bill, which were delivered in the summer of 2019.”

For power in a compact package and Kubota’s exclusive Bi-Speed turn for manoeuvrability, the 37hp ST 371 is ideal for greens and tighter areas but is also handy with a trailer and has the muscle to pull a small slitter.

The 50hp L2501 is a real workhorse, tackling leaf clearing duties with a Trilo vacuum and aeration with the Vertidrain.

“Its predecessor was a great tractor and to be honest would still have done more hours, but it made sense to have the latest model as there have been significant improvements. The greenkeepers all find the new L series really easy to use as it’s a lot smoother to operate, and the pto engagement is more straightforward.”

Big jobs are down to the 74hp M4072 which is fitted with a Kubota LA1365 loader, which pulls a high capacity Omarv flail collector and tackles all sorts of materials handling work from loading seeders to top dressers.

“Having the choice of tractors means that we can handle all the implements that we need, or can use them together – for example with a chipper on the ST blowing into a trailer behind the M4072, which still leaves the L2501 to work on the greens,” explains John.

“We’ve specified pallet forks as well as a bucket for the loader to get the most out of its materials handling capabilities.”

Also picked out by John as a good feature is the drop hitch, which makes hooking up big implements much easier. “The tractors are really well thought out – there’s even a slot for a spare hitch which means that you have it with you when you need it rather than leaving it on the shelf in the workshop!”

Fuel economy comes in for praise too – even when working with implements requiring high revs such as the flail collector.

“You just have to compare the savings made from having the tractors – our pto-powered blower is considerably more economical than the petrol blower it replaced.”

All servicing is carried out in-house and John reports that the tractors are also good to access and work on.

“We’ve not needed any parts yet, but our dealer GGM Groundscare is local and offered us very good support as the tractors were delivered and set up.”

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Kubota launches new L1-382 tractor

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Kubota launches new L1-382 tractor: Building on the success of its versatile, dependable L1 Series, Kubota has introduced a brand new model,  the L1-382.

With its enhanced features, the L1-382 model ensures greater durability and productivity, whilst also improving performance and efficiency. Its attractive new styling reflects Kubota’s new design strategy, combining a dynamic appearance with superior robustness.

Kubota launches new L1-382 tractor

Kubota launches new L1-382 tractor

Amongst its most significant improvements is a new Kubota stage V three-cylinder 38hp engine with CRS, EGR and DPF technologies designed to minimise exhaust emissions and reduce fuel consumption. The L1-382 also boasts increased fuel tank capacity at 42 litres for longer working days.

In addition to its improved efficiency and enhanced performance, this tractor offers increased visibility and comfort, with a new platform design and impressive ergonomics, all controls being optimally placed and easily within reach.

The 8F+4R manual transmission has a two-stage clutch which allows the pto to be operated while engaging the main clutch. This is particularly useful when needing to change gears when working without stopping the pto. Alternatively, the L1-382 can be specified with the popular three-range HST transmission for easy operation and smooth control of implements requiring constant speeds.

Routine maintenance is simpler and quicker thanks to a one-piece fully opening hood, and a newly designed bonnet and side cover.

L1 Series utility tractors are renowned for their robustness and high quality, as well as their powerful diesel engines and outstanding lifting capacity. The L1-382’s Cat 1 linkage has a maximum lift force of 906kg, perfect for pairing with the wide range of implements offered by Kubota. It is also ideally matched with the Kubota LA525 front loader to make an invaluable materials handling combination.

In its efforts to further improve its offer and integrate the latest technologies into all of its products and services, Kubota continues to innovate, with the help of its R&D centres located around the world, whilst simultaneously keeping up to date with new market trends and the most pressing customer needs.

The L1-382 tractor will be available for purchase from March 2021.

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Kubota set to support #GroundsWeek

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Kubota set to support #GroundsWeek: Kubota (U.K.) Ltd is proud to officially support the Grounds Management Association’s #GroundsWeek, an inaugural celebration week for the turf care sector.

Managed by the Grounds Management Association (GMA), the leading not-for-profit membership body for grounds professionals and volunteers, the turf care campaign will take place 1-7 March 2021 and will celebrate and highlight the vital role that professional grounds staff, volunteers, and the turf sector play in making sport possible.

Kubota set to support #GroundsWeek

Kubota set to support #GroundsWeek

Following a difficult year for the sector due to the impact of Covid-19, #GroundsWeek aims to showcase grounds staff and the amazing work that they do – and have continued to do – despite sport coming to a grinding halt. It also comes after a year where parks and green spaces have been hugely valuable to the public’s health, with increased use for ‘daily exercise’ and physical activity.

To celebrate the week, Kubota (UK) Ltd will be highlighting the essential role of the groundsman via its social media channels.

Kubota (UK) Ltd General Manager Henry Bredin commented: “At Kubota, we’re immensely proud of the fantastic relationship we share with professional groundsmen, who work so hard all year round to maintain and enhance sports and leisure facilities for everyone to enjoy. During #GroundsWeek we look forward to highlighting the incredible job that they do and how they use our equipment to achieve the best results.”

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, said:

“After a tough year, GroundsWeek is a fantastic opportunity for every part of the sector to come together and celebrate all the hard work that’s gone on throughout the year. We want to inspire sports fans and the general public to realise the vital role we play and get even more people to enter the profession and lend a helping hand at pitches across the country.

“We’re grateful to those officially supporting #GroundsWeek, with businesses and partners helping us champion grounds staff and the amazing work they do.

More information on #GroundsWeek can be found here.

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Hughes Bros and Battlefield take on Kubota equipment

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Hughes Bros and Battlefield take on Kubota equipment: Kubota (UK) Ltd continues to strengthen its dealer network by announcing that two of its machinery dealers are to add the Kubota ground care equipment range to their existing Kubota tractor businesses, with immediate effect.

Shropshire-based dealers Hughes Bros and Battlefield Machinery will extend their product offerings to include a full range of compact tractors from 18-60hp, RTV utility vehicles, and commercial and domestic ride-on mowers, putting both dealerships on a path for further expansion into new markets.

Hughes Bros and Battlefield take on Kubota equipment

Hughes Bros and Battlefield take on Kubota equipment

“We’re extremely pleased to be able to support both Hughes Bros and Battlefield Machinery with the opportunity for further growth in these important sectors,” explains Tim Yates, agricultural and ground care sales manager, Kubota (UK). “This partnership will help Kubota to further strengthen its position in these key markets with the ability to cross-sell between agriculture and ground care customers.”

Hughes Bros Agricultural Engineers based at Oswestry, was established in 1973 by brothers Gary, Roy and Roger Hughes. A Kubota tractor dealer since 2012, the family-run business also has Kubota implements and Vicon machinery among its portfolio.

The business operates with a team of over 20 staff, and sees the expansion into ground care as an opportunity to strengthen its business, further enhancing its reputation as a supplier of premium quality tractors and equipment.

“There are great opportunities ahead, supplementing our existing agricultural business with Kubota’s prestigious ground care equipment,” says Richard Hughes, sales manager and partner in the family business. “We’ve been looking after many ground care customers with parts and servicing – now we can reinforce that with sales of new equipment.”

Battlefield Machinery was formed in 2017 as a Kubota tractor dealer based in Shrewsbury. Run by company directors Richard Evans and Meyrick Pope, the business is one that comprises a team of 14, of which six are mobile engineers. Battlefield Machinery has built a reputation on delivering first class service for its customers, and the extended portfolio will sit alongside the supply of Kubota Implements and Kverneland machinery.

“We’re delighted to have been given this opportunity to expand our business into new sectors,” says company director Richard Evans. “Ground care fits very well with what we already do – and the ability to now provide sales, service and support to schools, golf clubs, parks and sports grounds is a fantastic opportunity for all involved.”

“Our customer base has evolved, and a lot of that is linked to the prestigious brands we supply and service,” he says. “We also want to apply our ‘can-do’ approach to customer service and back-up to the ground care sector. All our customers must benefit from the same level of service and support.”

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Kubota appoints Henry Bredin

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Kubota appoints Henry Bredin: Kubota (UK) Ltd has appointed Henry Bredin in a newly created role as general manager to head-up its recently formed Tractor Business Unit (TBU).

With responsibility for Kubota’s agricultural and ground care sectors, Henry brings with him a wealth of commercial experience. For the last nine years he has been both account director and commercial manager with two high profile fresh produce businesses, following several years working with agricultural and ground care machinery manufacturers.

Kubota appoints Henry Bredin

Kubota appoints Henry Bredin

The development of a general manager’s role is part of the business’ expansion plans, and releases managing director David Hart to allow him to focus on his secondary role as vice president of business transformation within the broader European market sectors.

“Having worked among both the consumer and manufacturing aspects of industry, I am looking forward to bringing my experiences to this new role, and to support further development of the Kubota dealer network,” says Henry Bredin. “This is an exciting period of expansion for Kubota in the UK.”

“This new role will further strengthen Kubota’s commitment to our dealers and customers in the agricultural and ground care sectors,” explains David Hart. “With a focus on sales, marketing and dealer development, Henry’s role is one that will be instrumental in continuing to grow our core business activities.”

Since graduating from Harper Adams University with a degree in agricultural engineering, Henry has since earned a diploma in professional consulting, and recently achieved an MBA – both through the University of East Anglia. Away from work, his interests include skiing, rugby, golf and motorsports, while an element of volunteering sees him contribute to the management of Oundle Town U11 cricket teams.

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Access all areas with the Kubota B1

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Access all areas with the Kubota B1: Kubota has unveiled the latest version of the highly popular B1 compact tractor, featuring a new development that will make it even more versatile.

This adaptable little workhorse is increasingly finding favour with nurseries, specialist fruit and vegetable growers and smallholders and now benefits from an all-new folding mid ROPS option.

Access all areas with the Kubota B1

Access all areas with the Kubota B1

The ROPS is positioned in front of the operator platform, providing essential protection for fieldwork, but folding flush with the bonnet when working in a height-restricted situation. This reduces the overall height of the tractor to a maximum of 1.41m, ideal for accessing polytunnels, greenhouses or low buildings. It also avoids any interference with rear mounted implements, and folding is a simple matter of removing two pins at the base of the ROPS frame.

A number of other improvements have been made to the B1 series tractor, which is available with a choice of 18 and 24hp proven Kubota E-TVCS engines. The straightforward mechanical transmission offers three forward speeds in each of three ranges while highly effective power steering improves manoeuvrability in tight yards and sheds. Bevel gear four-wheel drive keeps productivity up in tough conditions,  its design also enhancing ground clearance.

There’s no end to the tasks that can be accomplished with the B1 series, which has a category 1 rear linkage and optional mid-pto for a mower deck on the 18hp B1181 model. The LA213 front loader can also be specified for the B1181 to tackle materials handling jobs around the farm or nursery.

Operator comfort is ensured by a roomy platform with easy access when frequent climbing on and off a tractor is required.  There’s a fully rubber covered deck, clear control layout with lever guides and handy cup holder.

This is also a tractor that’s a breeze to maintain – the bonnet lifts clear, side guards come away and the front grille comes out to give all-round access to the engine.

“The mid-ROPS options will make the B1 series, which already punches above its weight, a real favourite for nurseries and growers or anyone who needs versatile power in a compact package,” comments Phil Catley, Kubota Key Account and Groundcare Product Manager.

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