What’s Cooking On The STOV: Mining Vehicles

Highlighting some of the many applications for Small, Task-Oriented Vehicles

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

The Tomcar LV1 is electric powered and designed for mining operations.

tomcar-lv1_100556594_lThis November Australian based Tomcar will put into production their Tomcar LV1, an electric powered utility vehicle designed for mining applications. The zero emission, low operating noise and low maintenance powertrain should be an advantge in underground mining conditions. The LV1’s brushless permanent-magnet motor operates continuously at 80 hp and peaks at 135 hp and generates 111 lb.-ft. (150 Nm) of continuous torque or 221 lb.-ft. (300 Nm) of peak torque at a maximum 8,500 rpm. The LV1 will be available with battery packs ranging from 12kW to 20kW. Tomcar worked with Engergetique, a EV technology company, to develop the vehicle over the course of two years. Tomcar already produces a line of commercial and consumer-oriented utility vehicles that are gas or diesel powered with an electric motor option available as well. The Tomcar vehicles have evolved from early off-road military vehicles.  Learn more:  Greencarreports.com

Yamaha Reveals New 2017 Side-by-Sides

Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha announced their new side-by-sides for model year 2017.

Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, announces its 2017 line of Side-by-Side (SxS) vehicles. Leading the 2017 announcement are Yamaha’s new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift) and an all-new YFZ50 youth model. The new Yamaha 2017 SxS models announced today include: the new YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), new YXZ1000R SS Special Edition (SE) and new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black, new Midnight Blue Metallic SE Viking and Viking VI, new Matte Silver Wolverine R-Spec SE, new Yamaha Blue Wolverine R-Spec and new Wolverine with Electric Power Steering (EPS).

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

The 2017 YXZ1000R SS in Blaze Orange.

Innovating again this year, Yamaha introduces the new 2017 YXZ1000R SS (Sport Shift), the first and only SxS vehicle to combine pure-sport driving performance with an exciting and high-tech paddle shifting experience. Boasting the same industry-first 3-cylinder 998cc engine and unparalleled direct-connection feeling as the original YXZ, the YXZ1000R SS features Yamaha’s all-new confidence-inspiring Sport Shift transmission.
The SS technology is defined by a 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission boasting an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport inspired paddle shifters — eliminating the need for both the clutch pedal and taking your foot off the gas during shifting. The pure-sport inspired paddle shifters on the YXZ1000R SS are mounted to the steering column and are synched to the Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift (YCC-S) technology, an advanced automatic clutch system that eliminates the need for a clutch pedal. This allows a wide range of enthusiasts on a variety of terrain to enjoy the pure sport performance and direct connection of the world’s first and only manual transmission SxS.

The shift sequence — shift up with the right paddle and shift down with the left paddle — is designed to be highly intuitive for drivers, even if they are not familiar with operating a manual transmission. The YXZ1000R SS delivers a fun and exciting experience beyond what one would find in everyday automobiles with paddle shifters. The Sport Shift system incorporates features that complement the overall pure sport SxS experience — an auto downshift feature assists by automatically downshifting to first gear when the vehicle comes to a stop, even if the driver has not done so manually.

Another exciting and innovative feature on the YXZ1000R SS is the all-new “Launch System,” which is exclusive to the Sport Shift experience provides an exciting high-acceleration feeling from stop — similar to “dropping the clutch” in a manual vehicle with a clutch pedal — adding to the direct connection experience and exhilaration.

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

2017 YXZ1000R in Team Yamaha Blue and White

New for 2017, the Special Edition YXZ1000R and YXZ1000R SS acquire industry-first twin-wall FOX 2.5 Podium X2 Shocks. These unparalleled shocks were developed in tandem with Yamaha specifically and exclusively for the new Special Edition YXZ models. They provide ultimate slow speed comfort without sacrificing performance during aggressive driving situations combined with unprecedented adjustability to suit a variety of driving types and preferences. A new level of performance and comfort are achieved by creating completely independent high and low speed compression and rebound adjustment, combined with huge 16.2-inches of front and 17.0-inches of rear travel. Additional features of the X2 shocks include dual adjusters on the upper cap and twin tube structure, dual rate springs with coupling and crossover adjustment, position sensitive damping, and more.

Making its debut to the motorsports world in September of 2015, the wildly successful and highly anticipated pure sport YXZ1000R is available in exciting new color schemes for the 2017 model year. Augmenting the high-end look and feel, the Team Yamaha Blue / White now comes with a color matched Team Yamaha Blue sun top, colored seat stitching, embroidered seats and race-inspired decals. A new YXZ1000R SE in Matte Black shares the same great accoutrements as the YXZ1000R SS SE, including the FOX Podium X2 shocks, yet with the industry-first 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission for ultimate driver-to-vehicle cohesion.

The YXZ1000R was the world’s first pure sport SxS, combining the industry’s first naturally aspirated three-cylinder 998cc sport engine with the first ever 5-speed sequential shift manual transmission. The YXZ1000R is born of Yamaha’s true high-performance DNA — creating a direct connection to the driver and serving up unmatched power and handling characteristics, resulting in a vehicle perfectly positioned as the only choice for the pure sport SxS enthusiast. MSRP on the 2017 YXZ1000R models will be announced this fall.

Additions to the Wolverine Line

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017 Wolverine EPS

2017-Wolverine-R-Spec_Alpine-White-e1465397974772

2017 Wolverine R-Spec in Alpine White

The new Wolverine R-Spec SE in Matte Silver features painted bodywork with color-matched seats and springs, convenient under seat storage, and durable injection-molded polypropylene overfenders for increased protection from the elements. Furthering the off-road capability and comfort of the Wolverine RSpec, the new SE adopts a stout yet lightweight full-length, full-coverage aluminum skid plate set — including the front bash plate, center, rear and side frame skids — aluminum a-arm guards, robust 12-inch true beadlock wheels and a new soft grip over-mold steering wheel with a design exclusively developed for ultimate off-road control and handling. MSRP for the new Wolverine R-Spec SE is $14,799.

New for 2017, every Wolverine R-Spec now comes with Yamaha’s proven Electric Power Steering (EPS), providing precise handling through the best balance of assist and positive feedback from the terrain. In addition to the new SE, the Wolverine R-Spec is now offered in Yamaha Blue with machined aluminum wheels. Returning colors include the Alpine White with machined aluminum wheels, Hunter Green and Realtree Xtra. MSRP starts at $13,199.

The 2017 Wolverine is a fun, comfortable and off-road capable SxS for trail and outdoors enthusiasts. The Wolverine offers new and existing SxS customers alike a full-featured, supremely off-road capable option at a value-packed price point starting at $10,999 MSRP. Adding to the Wolverine’s value-packed features, the 2017 is now offered with Yamaha’s durable and reliable EPS system.

Setting the standard in off-road capability and class-leading comfort, all Yamaha Wolverine SxS models feature a new double overhead cam (DOHC), 708cc engine with optimized torque, power delivery and engine character for exciting recreational driving. The Wolverine’s automotive-style cab is designed to provide maximum comfort and confidence for both driver and passenger, especially in extreme off-road environments. Designed and engineered for exploring extreme terrain, the Wolverine features a nimble chassis with a compact design, look and feel, along with Yamaha’s proven core technologies: Ultramatic fully-automatic transmission, On-Command four-wheel drive and EPS.

Additions to the Viking Line

2017 Viking and Viking VI

2017 Viking and Viking VI

With class-leading cab room and comfort, coupled with superior handling and off-road capability, Vikings are the toughest and hardest working utility-based SxS vehicles that are also fun to drive. The 2017 Viking and Viking VI are now offered in a new Midnight Blue Metallic SE with silver cast aluminum wheels, overfenders and silver seats.
Leading the 2017 Viking line is the premium Ranch Edition Viking VI in Copper Metallic painted bodywork with color-matched brown interior and soft sun top, silver cast aluminum wheels, review center mirror, mud flaps, overfenders, underseat storage, a rear bed grab bar, a heavy duty front brush guard, and unique Ranch Edition badging, bringing an all-new level of comfort and convenience to tough off-road work.

Viking enhancements carried up from 2016 include automotive-style two-stage door latches and a parking brake warning buzzer. Noise and vibration reduction features include new rubber damper plates, a more rigid chassis, additional sound dampening materials and an engine-mounted torque rod for a more relaxing quality ride at any engine RPM. The newly reinforced rear steel cargo bed now incorporates mounting points on the bed rails and a rubber cargo bed mat to further reduce sound and vibration, all while improving durability and cargo-carrying options and capacity. Large enough for a fully-loaded pallet, the assisted dump bed can pack up to 600 pounds of equipment and supplies. The standard two-inch receiver hitch is rated to pull 1,500 pounds.

All coming standard with a sun top and at an MSRP starting at $11,999, additional Viking colors include a new Steel Blue with cast aluminum wheels, Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra. MSRP for the 2017 Viking VI EPS starts at $13,999, with Hunter Green, Red and Realtree Xtra rounding out the color options. Learn more:  Yamahamotorsports.com

BRP Reports Quarterly Results: FY2017 Q1

The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo.

The new 2017 Defender MAX DPS HD8 from Can-Am in Mossy Oak Break-up Camo is expected to help drive BRP’s earnings in FY2017.

BRP, manufacturer of Can-Am side-by-sides, announced results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 which ended April 30, 2016. The following are highlights related to the small, task-oriented vehicle market. (Figures in Canadian $)

  • Revenues increased 4% for the quarter to $919.9 from $898.1 in Q1 last year.
  • Net income increased $110.7M, an increase of $27.6M compared to the same period last year.
  • Management reports Can-Am powersports retail outpaced the industry in all geographical markets.
  • Year-Round Products business which includes side-by-sides, ATVs and the Spyder increased 1% to $400.2 for the quarter.
  • Can-Am side-by-side (SSV) retail grew mid-single digits, slightly lower than industry pace.
  • Management reports good early momentum for the Can-Am Defender.
  • Management expects to launch new SSV every 6 months for four years.
  • New models have been more specialized to target specific applications or sub-segments such as mud riding or entry level price points.
  • Management expects Year Round Products revenue to increase 6% to 10% for fiscal year 2017 driven in part by Can-Am Defender shipments, new product introductions and richer product mix.

Learn more:  BRP.com

New Georgia Tech Policy Favors LSVs

Georgia Tech recently instituted a new policy regarding low speed vehicles and golf cars. According to the policy, as of July 1, all LSVs or golf cars owned or purchased by any department must be street legal and registered with Georgia Tech Fleet Services, which will now only perform maintenance on registered vehicles. Furthermore, LSVs can only be driven on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or lower and golf cars on streets 25 mph or lower. There are a number of streets near the campus that only LSVs will now be able to drive. The new policy will also phase out any non-street legal golf cars and motorized vehicles by July 31, 2016. The policy does not impact landscape and maintenance utility vehicles. Learn more:  GATech.edu

Comment: This policy is likely to push departments to purchase LSVs rather than golf cars as they will require no modifications to be street legal and will have fewer restrictions with regards to driving on public streets. For a number of years the university and college market has been a good market for low speed vehicles. The institutions like the safety features of the vehicles, as compared to a golf car, and the ability to legally drive on nearby public streets, especially if they need to transverse public roads to access different campus locations.

Can-Am Announces 2017 Side-by-Sides

Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am continues to build out their Defender lineup with the hunter oriented Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition.

Can-Am’s 2017 side-by-side product lineup includes three new models:  the Can-Am Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition, the four-person Can-Am Maverick Max X mr 1000r and the Maverick xc 1000R.

The Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition continues the build out the more work oriented Defender line launched in late 2015 and expanded in early 2016 with crew size models. As the model name suggests, the newest edition is specifically designed for the hunting market segment. Key features of the Defender Mossy Oak Hunting Edition include:

  • 72 hp Rotax HD 10 engine with electronic fuel injection
  • PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System (QRS), high airflow ventilation and Electronic Drive Belt Protection Extra
  • 4WD with 4-mode traction system
  • Dynamic Power Steering
  • 10″ of front and rear suspension
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 14″ black cast aluminum wheels
  • 11″ of ground clearance
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 1,000 lb. cargo box capacity
  • Seating for three
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • Tilt steering
  • Heavy duty steel bumper
  • Full under body skid plate with front aluminum pre-runner skid plate
  • Hard roof
  • Half windshield
  • Headache rack
  • Double Kolpin Stronghold gun boots
  • Side mirror
  • Portable RAM LED spotlight
  • MSRP:  $19,699
The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am's high performance line with a four passenger model.

The Maverick Max X mr 1000r builds out Can-Am’s high performance line with a four passenger model.

To their Maverick recreational/sport side-by-side lineup Can-Am added the Maverick Max X mr 1000r for mud specific performance. This high end model seats four and is priced at $23,999. Key features include:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • Quick Response System (QRS) CVT with high airflow and Extra low L-Gear
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok QE auto-locking front differential
  • High positioned engine air intake and CVT ineltes/outlets
  • Tri-Mode Dynamic Power Steering (DPS)
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.5 PODIUM QS3 shocks with compression adjustment
  • 30″ Gorilla Axle Silverback tires on 14″ cast aluminum wheels
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 4,500 lb. winch with roller fairlead
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system
The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

The trail riding line gets an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R.

To their narrower trail minded lineup Can-Am added an entry level model, the Maverick xc 1000R. Priced at $15,699, this two-seat model does not have power steering but does include the following features:

  • 101 hp Rotax engine with electronic fuel injection
  • CVT with Zylon reinforced belt and engine braking
  • Selectable 2WD / 4WD with Visco-Lok auto-locking front differential
  • 12″ of front and rear suspension travel
  • FOX 2.0 PODIUM C Piggyback shocks with compression adjustment
  • 27″ Maxxis Bighorn 2.0 tires on 12″ cast aluminum wheels
  • 60″ vehicle width
  • Hydraulic disc brakes
  • 240 W from four 60-W projectors with tail lights / brake lights
  • Anti-theft system