Kubota RTV900 launched

An all-terrain utility vehicle featuring a unique transmission system, advanced automotive-type suspension and the highest ground clearance in its class is now available from authorised Kubota dealers throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Known as the RTV900, the four-wheel drive vehicle is the first machine of its type to be designed and built by Kubota, the world’s leading manufacturer of compact tractors, mini tracked excavators and diesel engines. If required, four-wheel drive can be de-selected for reduced tyre wear and fuel consumption when driving on hard, firm or level surfaces.
Powered by a Kubota 22hp E-TVCS three cylinder water-cooled diesel engine easily accessed for servicing, the RTV900 is equipped with a unique three-range variable hydrostatic transmission known as VHT. The system is actuated by a single foot pedal that gives infinitely variable forward and reverse travel up to a maximum speed of 25mph. In action, VHT delivers rapid acceleration, excellent traction across all surfaces and impressive hill climbing ability thanks to the use by Kubota of an additional hydrostatic assist motor that “kicks in” when climbing a slope, delivering instantly more torque to the drive wheels. The VHT system also provides dynamic braking for safe, controlled hill starts and descents without having to use the vehicle’s brakes.
Complementing the RTV900’s exceptional hill-climbing and tractive abilities is an automotive style suspension system with independent MacPherson strut-type suspension on the two front wheels and a semi-independent suspension at the rear combining a DeDion axle, leaf springs and shock absorbers. The result is a smooth, shock-free ride with class-leading load-carrying ability and minimal body tilt across challenging terrain.
To enhance the suspension’s go-anywhere capabilities, Kubota has given the RTV900 full hydrostatic power steering, a ground clearance of 210mm (8.3in) on all-terrain tyres (185mm/7.3in on turf tyres) and fully-enclosed oil-immersed inboard disc brakes at the front and rear. The use of inboard sealed brakes eliminates the risk of dirt contamination and premature wear and tear, ensuring consistent and positive stopping time after time.
Recognising that the RTV900 will be used for both people-carrying and load movement, Kubota offers the vehicle either with a bench seat or individual seating, both types suitable for two large adults held safely in place by side grab rails and seat belts. The optional hydraulically-tipped rear cargo box has a load capacity of 500kg (1,100lbs) within generous internal dimensions of 1.32m wide x 1.18m long x 0.29m deep (52in x 47in x 11.4in).

In common with Kubota’s compact tractors, all controls and instruments on the RTV900 are positioned ergonomically for ease and speed of operation. Positioned to the driver’s right hand are the hydrostatic range change lever, 2WD/4WD selection lever and switches for the indicators, lights and hazard warning flashers. Differential lock engagement and bed hydraulic tip, when fitted, are to the driver’s left hand. There are warning lights for oil level and battery charge status and a speedometer is optional.
Available in various versions to suit customers’ specific requirements, the RTV900 comes in Kubota orange for turf and general-purpose duties or “realtree” camouflage for outdoor and leisure pursuits. The wide range of accessories includes various cab options, additional worklights, warning beacon and front and rear towbars. Price of the RTV900 starts at £8,750.

STANDARD SPECIFICATION COMPACT TRACTOR LAUNCHED BY KUBOTA 25th January 2006

Kubota will be using January’s BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in Harrogate to debut a new standard specification compact tractor (NB: Please see Note to Editors at the foot of this press release).
Designated the L3200, the 32hp model takes its place in the Kubota range to fill the gap in its manual gearbox line-up, the company already having several hydrostatic transmission (HST) models in this horsepower sector.
Offered with a standard specification, the L3200 will appeal to cost-conscious customers in a wide variety of markets who require a no-frills compact tractor capable of producing reliable, durable, economical and consistent performance in all seasons and all applications, both in confined and open areas. Available through Kubota dealers from March 2006, the L3200 is expected to be priced in the region of £10,000.
Equipped with eight forward and eight reverse gears split into high and low ranges, the L3200 is powered by a three-cylinder, water-cooled Kubota diesel engine incorporating Kubota’s unique three-vortex combustion system (E-TVCS) technology. The design gives enhanced fuel/air mixing for exceptional combustion efficiency resulting in a cleaner, quieter, smoother-running engine with improved power delivery, torque and fuel consumption.
Available with a ROPS (roll-over protection structure) as standard, the L3200 has all of the key features necessary for year-round cost-effective working. These include four-wheel drive, a dual clutch, 540rpm rear power take-off, power steering, oil-immersed multi disc brakes and a choice of tyres to suit field, road or turf applications.
Kubota’s own LA463 front-end loader can be specified as a dealer or retro-fitted option. Equipped with single lever joystick control, the quick-attach loader offers a lift height of 2.42m (8ft) to the bucket pivot pin and a maximum load capacity of just over 500kg.