Industry roundup: Kubota introduces gas-powered RTV520

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Kubota’s gas-powered RTV520 utility vehicle next to a landscaper clearing leaves with a backpack blower
Photo: Kubota

Kubota Tractor Corporation recently launched its gas-powered RTV520 with a new look and upgraded features.

Featuring a variety of performance, appearance and comfort upgrades over its predecessor, the RTV500, the company says the RTV520 was designed for large property owners and commercial contractors alike. Offered in general purpose and deluxe configurations, the company says the RTV520 is available at Kubota dealerships starting in March.

“The RTV520 is the perfect utility vehicle for anyone who needs to get work done on their mid- to large-sized property and for commercial operators who need a reliable, quality utility vehicle on the jobsite,” says Jacob Mandoza, Kubota senior product manager, utility vehicles. “The RTV520 is easy to operate with confidence, offers a quiet and comfortable ride and provides durability at a value price point.”  

Boasting a new appearance, Kubota says the RTV520 is tougher and more aggressive than the previous generation from the inside out. The company says a more powerful 2-cylinder Kubota liquid-cooled EFI engine provides more than 17 horsepower while Electric Fuel Injection (EFI) makes starting the engine in cold weather easier and gives instant power with greater throttle control.

Kubota says it is equipped with a Variable Hydrostatic Transmission (VHT) that provides exceptional performance on any terrain with smooth and powerful acceleration, and low-speed driving is enhanced through smooth throttle control, great traction and increased maneuverability.

Additionally, Kubota says dynamic braking allows for one-pedal operation making jobs that require frequent stops easier. Regardless of experience behind the wheel of a utility vehicle, Kubota says ease of operation is made possible through the VHT’s one-pedal operation, smooth acceleration and engine braking.

The company says a large cargo bed opening provides easy access to components for quick and simple maintenance, and because the VHT does not have a belt, Kubota says there is no worry about having to replace it.

The company says key areas of the vehicle, like the underbody and beneath the cargo box and operator’s station are protected, and the radiator features a screen that prevents mud and grass from sticking to it. Kubota says the RTV520 has a heavy-duty cargo bed with 441 lbs. of cargo capacity and a towing capacity of 1,168 lbs. At 54.7 inches wide and 74 inches tall, the company says the RTV520’s narrow stance allows it to travel the slimmest passageways and fit through the tightest spaces.

With a tight turning diameter of just 21.7 feet, the company says the RTV520 is able to access areas where bigger utility vehicles simply can’t go. Kubota says an improved suspension system features a 5-link rear system that helps prevent the vehicle from bottoming out and improves rider comfort.

The company says a redesigned seat with 30 percent softer material provides more comfort during long rides; the 360-degree crank and two axis balancers reduce noise and vibration from the engine.

Toro acquires Left Hand Robotics, Inc.

The Toro Company recently announced that it has acquired Left Hand Robotics, Inc. The company says the acquisition supports The Toro Company’s strategy ofToro Logo leadership in next generation technologies, including alternative power, smart connected and autonomous products. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Based in Longmont, Colorado, Toro says Left Hand Robotics is recognized for developing innovative autonomous solutions for turf and snow management. The company says its patent-pending software and advanced technologies for autonomous navigation are designed to provide professional contractors and grounds managers with future solutions to improve their operational efficiency and tackle outdoor tasks with precision.

General Equipment Company introduces 2350 Bor-Max earth augers

General Equipment Company (GEC) recently introduced the 2350 Bor-Max Series earth augers and auger extension.

The company says these augers are specially designed to drill through unconsolidated soil classifications, such as loam, sand, soft clay and granular rubble.

The company says the Bor-Max Series earth augers are engineered to be rugged, dependable and long lasting. The company says this is evident in their use of heavy-gauged helicoid-type flighting and axle to better withstand bending and torque loads.

Overall, GEC says the augers are built to be more aggressive with soil penetration, requiring less horsepower to dig a hole. The company says cupped flighting in combination with an increased flighting pitch is intentionally designed to maximize the amount of soil removed to produce cleaner holes with less spill back.

General Equipment Company’s 2350 Bor-Max Series of earth augersPhoto: General Equipment CompanyGEC says the cast-steel boring head boasts an alloy-steel screw bit and heat-treated cutting blade that are easily field replaceable to ensure minimal downtime. The company says the cutting blade’s outside edge extends past the boring head and flighting to extend service life of the auger.

GEC says the augers come in nominal diameters ranging from 2 to 8 inches, and the plain shaft-type auger extension can be used with all auger sizes and increases the digging depth by 15 inches.

The company says the Bor-Max series earth augers are designed specifically for use with General Equipment Company’s 200 Series EPIC hole digging products plus competitive products utilizing 1-inch diameter auger drive connections, and they represent over five decades of auger design expertise and field experience.

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