Tag Archive for: Utility

John Deere to unveil light utility Gator GS models at BTME

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John Deere to unveil light utility Gator GS models at BTME: Greenkeepers visiting John Deere’s BTME stand in Harrogate in January will be among the first in Europe to see the new Gator GS utility vehicles. 

Built to meet the growing need for a work vehicle which sits between a golf cart and a go-anywhere, all-terrain machine, the Gator GS allows British and Irish greenkeepers to get carry out lighter duties around the course quickly and efficiently without sacrificing on durability and reliability.

John Deere to unveil light utility Gator GS models at BTME

John Deere to unveil light utility Gator GS models at BTME

“Whether it’s course setup, hand watering, hauling mower trailers, or just moving from hole to hole, the Gator GS allows greenkeepers to get those jobs done on time and efficiently,” says Chris Meacock, Golf and Turf Division Sales Manager at John Deere.

The new GS is available now in petrol or electric derivatives, both of which are designed to complete jobs without disruption to the neighbours or early morning golf groups.

The powerful, yet quiet,  14hp petrol electronic fuel injected engine incorporates a unique engine and body design that incorporates baffling and sound deadening materials for quiet operation.

Customers choosing the 48V GS Electric Gator will have an AC drive motor and controller system that helps maintain torque during even the toughest of situations, with eight Trojan T-105 batteries providing the power needed to complete the day’s work.

Both machines have a top speed of 17.5mph to enable greenkeepers to get more done in less time.

Operation is simple with a pedal start and infinite speed selection that doesn’t require shifting thanks to a continuously variable transmission drivetrain.

Measuring just 49.3 inches across, the body design allows for transport through tight areas while avoiding turf damage on the edges of cart paths.

Cargo space has been optimised for tools and materials, with 371 litres of space and a 363kg cargo box weight capacity. The Gator GS has an easy-to-access and effortless cargo box latch to make it easy to unlock, tilt, and quickly unload materials.

The Gator GS is ready to tow with a standard factory installed 50.8 mm rear receiver hitch and a 544.3 kg towing capacity.

Built with operator comfort in mind there are high-back bucket seats, two standard USB ports, low-effort steering system design, and multiple storage compartments for gloves, small hand tools and mobile devices.

“The John Deere Gator is one the most versatile vehicles that a golf course manager and their team can use, and the GS and GS Electric adds to that versatility with its size and manoeuvrability,” says Chris.

The Gator GS and GS Electronic will be on show at BTME from 20 to 22 January at Harrogate Convention Centre, and can be ordered through dealers now.

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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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A lighter utility vehicle

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A lighter utility vehicle: Hardest working. Smoothest riding. The Polaris Ranger is one of the bestselling utility side-by-sides across the globe, and has earned its reputation as the ultimate utility vehicle with over one million vehicles built and counting.

To showcase the versatility of the Ranger, Polaris has embarked on a journey across Europe, Middle East and Africa to discover and film how customers are using the Polaris Ranger in their day-to-day lives. The initiative, called Ranger Stories, is set to demonstrate the many ways in which the RANGER line-up is servicing customer lives worldwide.

A lighter utility vehicle

A lighter utility vehicle

Episode 8 – MW Agri Ltd., Hertfordshire, UK

Heavy machinery and specialist equipment are a must for agricultural and grounds maintenance work, but what happens when a utility vehicle is needed for lighter duties? Longstanding agricultural business, MW Agri Ltd., found a solution in the Polaris Ranger.

Working across a large part of Hertfordshire in the UK, MW Agri Ltd. covers a wide range of agricultural duties, public and private grass management and maintenance tasks. Beautiful landscapes surround this South East region, a number of which are maintained by the team at MW Agri Ltd.

Originally purchasing a Polaris Ranger 900 five years ago, MW Agri has since owned a Polaris Ranger XP 1000 and more recently, bought a 2021 Ranger 1000 from local Polaris dealer Taylors Tools to help out across their many duties.

For the eighth episode of RANGER Stories, Polaris joins MW Agri Owner and Managing Director, Malcolm Weaver, to see exactly what aspects of the Polaris Ranger make it so versatile for ground management. Homologated for road use in the UK, and with the addition of the larger alloy wheels for increased road speed, the Ranger 1000 is perfect for transporting the team across different locations; especially as time management plays such an important role in this line of work. The Ranger 1000 boasts class-leading 1,134kg towing capacity and smooth low-speed drivability, which allows the team to tow all kinds of heavy fencing equipment and implements, and paired with its 30.5cm of ground clearance, the team can access all areas for every client.

Reliability also played a large part when choosing the Polaris Ranger; it’s essential that the company’s equipment doesn’t fail on a job for its clients. The Polaris Ranger 1000 is built to last with a heavy-duty steel front bumper, full body skid plate, longer-lasting sealed suspension bushings and the new Pro-PVTi clutching system which has been engineered with large internal wear components to deliver enhanced drivability, reliability and control.

Malcolm Weaver said, “…the Ranger, with its light footprint and maneuverability, comes into its own taking equipment and materials to remote locations even when the conditions are boggy. With its two-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive options the Ranger gets us through the toughest of conditions. The Ranger also has Turf Mode, which is absolutely essential and one of the main reasons why we bought it which is ideal when working on delicate areas.”

There are no days off when it comes to the upkeep of land, so MW Agri have made full use of the Polaris Engineered accessories for the Ranger 1000, including a full cab kit with a windscreen, full doors, roof and rear panel, as well as an in-cab heater to stay warm on colder winter days. Not only that, they have also added a Polaris fitted winch which comes with a number of benefits when working in woodland – such as retrieving fallen limbs or for some extra pulling power when removing dead branches – as well as tensioning fencing wire.

With its versatility to suit a vast array of jobs, Malcolm and the team at MW Agri rely on the Polaris Ranger as an essential part of their workforce, day-in, day-out.

Catch the eighth episode of RANGER Stories in the UK on the Polaris Off-Road International YouTube channel here.

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New T H WHITE Golf And Utility Department

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New T H WHITE Golf And Utility Department: The T H WHITE Group are delighted to formally launch a new sub-division of the business focusing on Golf and Utility vehicles, named T H WHITE Golf and Utility.

T H WHITE Golf and Utility remains part of the larger T H WHITE Groundcare business, while focusing on market leading brands E-Z-GO, Cushman and Kawasaki, and their ranges of golf, utility, personnel and hospitality vehicles.

New T H WHITE Golf And Utility Department

Sales Specialist, Simon Bingham, who will be heading up the Golf and Utility brand, brings a wealth of experience from the golf and hospitality sector with over 10 years’ experience in the industry and great relationships with golf courses and businesses across the country.

Simon commented: “While I have many years’ experience as part of T H WHITE Groundcare supporting customers with their vehicle requirements, I am excited to be part of this new venture which will enable me to focus on working specifically on specialist vehicles within the golf, hospitality, hotels and resorts, parks and estates, events and commercial sectors, among many others.

“Coupled with our wholly-owned, dedicated and experienced service engineers working across the country, an extensive hire fleet, competitive finance packages and parts and accessories stocked at our 4 groundcare depots, we are confident in our offer as a truly national provider of quality buggies and vehicles at great value and with outstanding support and back-up.”

As part of the launch, T H WHITE Golf and Utility are proud to showcase the full vehicle line-up on a new website, www.thwhitegolfandutility.co.uk, which highlights not only the brands on offer, but the servicing and hire programmes which are available for individual vehicles through to large fleets, on short- and long-term contracts.

Long-standing customer Alec Fernihough, Director of Gaudet Luce Golf Club in Worcestershire, is delighted to offer his full support to the new operation, commenting:

“We have worked with Simon Bingham and T H WHITE for many years. The level of service that Simon and his colleagues have supplied has always been excellent and this is the one reason why, despite many great deals from other suppliers, we are still working so closely with T H WHITE.

“Knowing that Simon will be heading up the new Golf and Utility division at T H WHITE means that our decision over who to go with when we increase our fleet of buggies next year will be a simple one.

Mark Laing, General Manager at Bromsgrove Golf Centre, added further praise:

“When we look at replacing our fleet of buggies there are a number of factors – price, safety, reliability, ease of maintenance and in the case of dealing with T H WHITE, trust. Personal relationships forged over many years with Simon are worth more than price to us. We trust Simon and T H WHITE to deliver for us, and they do, so we simply don’t look elsewhere. With a great product backed up by an awesome team, why would we?”

Available from T H WHITE Golf and Utility and leading the market into the future of vehicles is E-Z-GO with their ELiTE range of buggies, launched in 2017, which feature maintenance-free Samsung Lithium Ion batteries, increased efficiency, low vehicle weight, reduced charging time and an unprecedented 5-year warranty.

Additionally, visitors to the new website can learn more about the Textron Specialized Vehicles buggy GPS system, Textron Fleet Management (TFM). TFM is available with new golf cars or for retro-fitting to an existing vehicle or entire fleet, with full information on the website about the wide range of benefits available to businesses and golfers in using TFM at their club.

Andre Andrade, Director of International Sales at Textron Specialized Vehicles said:
“T H WHITE has been a longstanding, successful dealership of the TSV brands. We are delighted to be a part of this new venture and look forward to continuing to provide our world-class products, knowledge and back-up support to T H WHITE Golf and Utility.”

While continuing to build on its standing in the golf sector with new and existing customers, T H WHITE Golf and Utility is looking forward to working more closely with businesses in other markets, including hotels, resorts, estates and parks, education providers, event venues and much more.

We welcome any enquiries to learn more about the business, our vehicles and how we can support customers no matter the size, budget or vehicle requirements through the new website or by calling Simon directly on 07813 835212.

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New Kubota Utility Tractor

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New Kubota Utility Tractor: Leading groundcare machinery specialist, Kubota UK, has released its latest high performance L1361 Compact Utility Tractor, which offers unrivaled versatility, productivity and efficiency. 

For those looking to complete a wide range of maintenance tasks with ease, the 36.6 HP machine is a flexible choice, featuring a powerful three cylinder Kubota D1803-M-E2 engine, manual or three range speed hydrostatic transmission and a 38 litre capacity fuel tank for extended periods of use.

New Kubota Utility Tractor

The new L1361 also includes 4WD and live, continuous-running rear PTO exclusively available on the HST model. The frequent and alternating use of various implements are supported by the machine’s three-point hitch and impressive lifting capacity, for easier and flexible use.

By featuring a quick detach front loader, the model allows for easier and quicker use of implements, including the new Kubota LA525 front loader with a curved boom design, for easy completion of the biggest of tasks.

The bevel gear front axle has also been designed to deliver an extremely tight turning radius, with full power transfer to the wheels at every steering angle. This enables greater traction across all terrains for secure high performance.

However, productivity and performance aren’t the only key benefits of the machine. Ergonomics have also played a significant part in the L1361’s refreshed design, with a spacious operator deck and slanted front bonnet for greater field of vision when handling front loader operations to ensure maximum safety.

Speaking of the latest L1361 tractor, Adrian Langmead, Business Development Manager for Groundcare, said: “As a market leader in the manufacture of high performance solutions, Kubota is dedicated to developing machines that combine innovation and technology together to constantly improve the way in which the industry works.

“Regardless of terrain or job requirement, the L1361 allows operators to get the job done better and faster, all with greater comfort, performance and ease.”

For more information on Kubota and its extensive range of solutions visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 268000.

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