Kubota launch new RTV range
New compact utility vehicles offer high performance and exceptional handling for total control
KUBOTA have launched a brand new range of compact, high-performance, all-terrain utility vehicles. The new four-wheel drive Kubota RTV400Ci and RTV500 have been designed to provide exceptional handling and a host of innovative features to maximize control, even in the toughest of conditions.
Adrian Langmead, Kubota’s business development manager, commented: ‘The new RTV400Ci and RTV500 have been specifically launched to strengthen our range of utility vehicles and ensure we have the right machine for every application. Along with these new compact solutions, our customers also have access to our more powerful RTV900 and RTV1140 ranges.’
The RTV400Ci incorporates a new, high-revving, 16hp, air-cooled, single-cylinder petrol engine, along with Kubota’s newly designed CVT Plus (continuously variable transmission) with inertial clutch.
The CVT Plus keeps the vehicle’s double-cogged, wide belt-drive system tight at all times, resulting in minimal slippage, giving drivers greater response and better durability. To complement this, the machine provides dynamic braking, helping users to maintain total control during ascents and descents with engine-assisted deceleration.
Similar in power, the RTV500 features a 15.8hp, two-cylinder petrol engine. However, the RTV500 engine is liquid cooled to ensure reliability and to minimize noise and vibration. The machine also includes Kubota’s innovative VHT Plus (variable hydrostatic transmission) system, which further enhances vehicle performance and handling.
Both the RTV400Ci and RTV500 include an electronic fuel-injection (EFI) system that not only provides on-demand power and helps optimize acceleration, but also improves the machine’s responsiveness.
Mr Langmead continued: ‘The EFI system helps to eliminate cold-starting issues and manual choke adjustments that can often plague other carbureted utility vehicles that are available on the market. The key benefits of this include increased reliability and improved engine serviceability.’
The compact nature of the RTV400Ci and RTV500 mean the vehicles have an excellent centre of gravity and equal weight distribution. All the wheels have robust, semi-independent rear suspension systems to compensate for rough terrain and uneven ground.
Operator comfort is further enhanced with ergonomic, well-placed controls and a comfortable seat with ample leg-room.
Other key features of the both the RTV400Ci and RTV500 include a standard frame integrated ROPS and a manually tilting dumping cargo bed that can haul up to 200kg of payload.
