Tag Archive for: Kubota

Kubota discusses challenges facing construction industry

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Kubota discusses challenges facing construction industry: Leading mini-excavator manufacturer, Kubota, discusses what the construction industry is likely to face in the coming months, with changes to legislation expected and disruptions to materials and supply chains rife in 2021 set to continue. Geoff Smith, Dealer Manager at Kubota UK explains.

Industry data tells us while commercial construction was slightly hampered in 2021, overall construction industry growth was in fact driven by residential building and public infrastructure projects. This helped account to a significant growth as an industry average. Of course, this was achieved through a number of difficult circumstances; the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions and a shortage of materials to name a few. These resulted in trying times for the industry – a perfect storm. Isolating staff, transport delays, shortages of materials to transport and labour gaps all contributed to industry disruptions and seemingly had an effect on pricing too, with some suppliers looking to cover themselves in difficult times.

Kubota discusses challenges facing construction industry

Kubota discusses challenges facing construction industry

After a tough previous year, industry growth is forecasted to continue increasing at around 5%. Some of the key drivers of industry change are foreseeable. Legislation will continue to impact trends and most noticeably the Building Safety Bill, expected to become law in Summer 2022, and the Red Diesel usage changes in April. Unfortunately, the issues of last year are not immediately ceasing to exist, as this recovery will take time. Furthermore, a spike in Covid-19 cases saw a surge of positive tests in the first few weeks of 2022, isolating key workers and staff. Supply chain issues are expected to continue fluctuating parallel to this due to driver availability and ongoing staff shortages.

These uncertain challenges highlight the need for foresight and importance of partnering with a supplier or manufacturer with industry expertise, to help manage fluctuating lead times and negate any foreseeable disruptions to projects.

Furthermore, sustainability will continue to increase in popularity as projects, suppliers and manufacturers look to hybridize their efforts, readying for a more sustainable future. Of course, Kubota has already made strides in this field with its Smart Energy Solutions range that includes LPG and electric powered machines offering high levels of productivity, reduced downtime and low to zero emissions. Perfectly suitable for projects within low emission zones and city centres.

Alongside sustainability, alternative fuels are expected to be high on forthcoming agendas, with reform and entitlement restrictions on the use of red diesel coming into law from April. This huge change to construction is anticipated by Kubota, who is well placed to help customers with this transition, further supporting the idea of partnering with a trusted, industry expert to negate challenges faced across the industry.

A positive for the industry is the expectation of growth around public infrastructure works, which naturally fosters a demand for digging and mini-excavator equipment. This growth is fueled by regional and national infrastructure projects such as HS2 and National Highways construction plans, such as Smart Motorways, as the country continues its efforts to be better connected. Of course, the longevity of projects this size leaves availability for dealers to target the regionalised market to help with local requirements around civil and other works.

So, with the hangover of 2021 to see off, and a wide range of expected fluctuating challenges expected throughout this year, Kubota suggests partnering with an industry expert like itself in order to be fully prepared and have the expertise and foresight needed to approach any difficulties faced. The additional benefit of such a partnership of course means having access to the latest innovative mini-excavator technologies from the number one trusted manufacturer in the U.K.

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Kubota teams up for Guinness Six Nations

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Kubota teams up for Guinness Six Nations: The Welsh Rugby Union and Kubota dealer Hopkins Machinery Ltd have enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership, dating back to the 1960s when Cardiff Arms Park was still the home of Welsh rugby.

In 2005 the Newport-based dealership took on the Kubota franchise, and Kubota machinery has been an important part of the armoury ever since. Kubota tractors and RTVs fulfil various roles at Principality Stadium, home to international rugby tournaments including three World Cups and the Guinness Six Nations, which is set to thrill capacity crowds again this spring with the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions.

Kubota teams up for Guinness Six Nations

Kubota teams up for Guinness Six Nations

“Although we use pedestrian equipment on the pitch, Kubota tractors are essential workhorses for the Stadium,” explains Head Groundsman Lee Evans. “Our relationship with Hopkins Machinery is key – if ever we need parts, service or repairs or replacement machines, their support is second-to-none.”

Evan Hopkins concurs: “Having taken the decision to move into groundcare in 1995 and then taking on Kubota in 2005, Principality Stadium is an ideal sponsorship for us, with rugby being our national sport. It’s highly prestigious and gives us a fantastic hospitality opportunity.”

Paramount in the qualities of a tractor to be used in the Stadium is dependable reliability, and the 2016 Kubota STW 40 currently in use is a perfect example.

“It’s important that we can rely on the tractor to do a job and that it is straightforward enough for any of the three groundsmen to drive,” Lee points out. “It never lets us down.”

The tractor is fitted with a Kubota LA 454 ST front end loader, and tasks range from loading grass clippings from buggies on the pitch into a skip for collection by the local authority to pulling a harrow to maintain the artificial turf surrounding the pitch and positioning goalposts.

After a match, the STW 40 gets its moment in the spotlight, pulling lighting rigs onto the pitch

while the TV cameras are still rolling.

“The pitch is on a slight incline so the nine larger rigs, which weigh two tonnes, have to be towed on with the tractor. It’s labour intensive but a crucial job as the roof makes this the darkest stadium in Europe and the light helps the turf recover quickly,” he explains.

Stadium manoeuvres are also the role of another Kubota machine, with the RTV utility vehicle used to transport Terraplas sheets used to cover the pitch for concerts.

“We don’t need the RTV all the time, so it’s a great feature of the sponsorship that Hopkins Machinery can provide one on a short term hire for jobs like this,” comments Lee.

Hopkins Machinery has a dedicated hire fleet of more than 80 RTVs, used for everything from festivals and sporting events to winter maintenance contracts, so is well equipped to be able to help out.

“With a prestigious venue like this, we’re reliant on partnerships to help us deliver high standards in a busy programme, and we really value working with Kubota and Hopkins Machinery,” he concludes.

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Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

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Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series: Kubota (UK) Ltd has taken the covers off a cost-sensitive, five-model M6-001 Utility series tractor range. As the successor to the MGX models, the M6-001 Utility series spans 104-143hp, and meets EU Stage V emissions thanks to an improved exhaust after-treatment package that contributes to a lower cost of ownership.

Like the MGX, it offers plenty of horsepower for local authorities, grounds maintenance contractors and racecourse groundsmen looking to increase productivity with larger implements, while delivering simplicity of operation and exceptional reliability.

Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

Kubota introduces M6-001 Utility series

Short wheelbase models include the M6-101U and M6-111U, and both use a 3.8-litre Kubota V3800 four cylinder engine. Maximum power outputs are 104hp and 111hp, with maximum torque figures of 346Nm and 379Nm respectively. These two models weigh 4.3 tonnes, and use a 2.54m wheelbase.

Long wheelbase M6-121U, M6-131U and M6-141U use Kubota’s 6.1-litre V6108 four cylinder engine. Power outputs are 123hp, 133hp and 143hp, with maximum torque figures of 503Nm, 544Nm and 586Nm respectively. These three larger models weigh 4.8 tonnes, and use a 2.68m wheelbase.

Engine technology on all models has seen an improvement in exhaust after-treatment, with DOC and DPF performance increased to deliver greater operational flexibility and lower cost of ownership. DPF regeneration can now be achieved at a much lower engine speed – typically 1,200rpm down from 2,000rpm – and using a much lower working temperature of just 50 degrees C. The latter makes regeneration much easier to achieve with light engine loads, lower noise levels and a reduced fuel burn.

The DPF cleaning interval for M6-001 Utility tractors is 8,000 hours for the 6.1 litre engine, and up to 6000 hours for the 3.8 litre engine, again contributing to lower operating costs. Engine oil change intervals are every 500 hours on all models.

All M6-001 Utility models get a 40kph semi-powershift transmission, which uses eight powershifts in three mechanical ranges to provide a 24×24 gearbox. The option of a creeper range increases the choice of ratios to 32×32. Transmission functionality includes auto-shifting in each range, and a sensitivity dial – the latter allows operators to adjust the responsiveness of gear changes to suit load on the tractor.

Operator comfort is provided by an air suspension seat in the same cab frame shared wth M6-002 and M7003 models, while front axle suspension is available as an option. A wide sunroof offers generous visibility for those looking to equip the M6-001 Utility with a loader, of which there are two variants – 3.7m or 4m lift height to the pin, and maximum lift capacities of 1,950kg or 2,200kg respectively.

A fixed displacement open centre hydraulic system provides 71 and 77 litres/min of oil flow respectively for short- and long-wheelbase models, while two mechanically operated spool valves are fitted as standard. Two additional spools are optional.

The Cat III rear linkage includes electronic linkage control with a five-tonne lift capacity on short wheelbase models and 6.1 tonnes on long wheelbase tractors. PTO equipment comprises a two-speed 540/1000 as standard, with a 540 Eco available as an option. All models can be equipped with an optional front linkage with 2.6 tonnes lift capacity, an optional 1,000rpm front pto, and the capability to run pto-powered equipment while stationary.

M6-001 Utility models also benefit from Kubota’s portal front axle with bevel gear drive, offering generous ground clearance and a 55-degree steering angle.

Kubota’s M6-001 Utility series is priced from £53,300 for the 104hp M6-101U, with the M6-141U costing £75,200. A range of Kubota Care warranty packages are available, offering up to five years and 5,000 hours of cover.

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Kubota increases Escorts Limited shareholding

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Kubota increases Escorts Limited shareholding: Kubota has reached an agreement with Escorts Limited under which Kubota will increase its shareholding in the Indian tractor manufacturer.

Escorts Limited is a major tractor manufacturer in the Indian market, reportedly the world’s largest tractor market in terms of unit sales. The company also manufactures and distributes construction machinery as well as other products.

Kubota increases Escorts Limited shareholding

Kubota increases Escorts Limited shareholding

The practice in India of utilising tractors year-round for carrying loads, in addition to usual agricultural work, means that the machines are designed to be highly durable with a basic specification and at reasonable prices.

With the aim of addressing market needs in India, Kubota strengthened its partnership with Escorts Limited, specialised in developing and manufacturing such tractors – referred to as ‘basic tractors’ – by establishing a joint venture manufacturing company in 2019 and through a direct equity investment in 2020.

Kubota has decided to increase its shareholding in Escorts Limited, based on expectations for the basic tractor market to expand in emerging countries including India. The move will also utilise combined resources in an effective manner and further strengthen the partnership between the two companies.

As a result of this, the collaboration will produce quality and affordable basic tractors utilising Escorts Limited’s knowhow in the sector and Kubota’s accumulated product development knowledge and capabilities. Kubota will also utilise both companies’ distribution networks by offering a wide range of product offerings, ranging from high-performance to basic tractors.

By positioning Escorts Limited as an important foundation for basic tractors in the future, Kubota will consider developing and manufacturing of basic combine harvesters and construction machineries targeting India and other emerging markets.

The first tractors from the collaboration to be marketed in Europe will be available at the end of 2022.

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Kubota showcases latest innovations at BTME

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Kubota showcases latest innovations at BTME: Kubota returns to BTME at Harrogate from 25-27th January, where the company will once again join forces with Baroness to showcase outstanding Japanese technology and engineering.

A selection of Kubota’s extensive range  of machinery for golf and turf will be on show, including some of the raft of new products introduced in 2021.

Kubota showcases latest innovations at BTME

Kubota showcases latest innovations at BTME

Heading up the launches is the new LX Series, a range of multi-purpose compact tractors from 35-40hp that allow users to handle a wide variety of tasks ranging from mowing and snow clearance to materials handling and cultivations. With an impressive lift capacity, optional front loader, front linkage and pto, this is a tractor for all seasons that will be the perfect workhorse for golf clubs and sports pitches.

Kubota’s mowing equipment is the mainstay of leading grounds maintenance contractors and local authorities across the country, and latest addition to the renowned F Series front mowers, the 38hp F391, will be revealed offering unmatched output and performance for commercial mowing.

Leading the way in utility vehicles for demanding applications, the RTV-X1110 will be on show and Kubota specialists will be on hand to discuss the many ways that it can be deployed and the multitude of attachments available for work on greens, tees and fairways. With a powerful 24hp engine, Kubota’s VHT-X variable hydrostatic transmission and dynamic engine braking, the RTV-X1110 is built for hard work and difficult terrain.

Kubota looks forward to welcoming visitors to stand Red Zone 230.

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