David Morgan is a Product Manager at Ipswich-based Ransomes Jacobsen, the distributors of E-Z-GO and Cushman utility vehicles across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India. Here he looks at the evolution of the utility vehicle from its golf car origins.

“Utility vehicles have moved on a long way from their golf car heritage and they are now built specifically for the tough jobs that are required of them. As you would expect, they sit much higher than conventional golf cars, have a stronger chassis and come with a heavy duty suspension.

“Our E-Z-GO MPT vehicles have a very tough and durable plastic moulded carrying box on the rear, which can be divided into sections when carrying different materials. An optional electric-powered lift is available to raise the box for unloading material such as sand and mulch. There are four vehicles in the range; two with 13hp petrol engines and two electric versions, with 48-volt high efficiency powertrains.

“The E-Z-GO ST range comes with a heavy-duty suspension, hydraulic brakes and large 56cm (22”) tyres and can be fitted with an optional front mounted winch.

“We’ve been building the Cushman Turf-Truckster for over thirty years and, unlike many other utility vehicles, this was specifically designed as a workhorse for golf course applications and general maintenance operations. It’s the ideal vehicle for the really tough jobs and has recently been upgraded. It now features a 25hp Kubota 3-cylinder diesel engine, part of an ongoing drive to add value, quality and functionality to all Jacobsen equipment. It also ensures that the Turf-Truckster fully complies with new Tier 4 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards in the USA.

"The new diesel engine is more environmentally conscious and will provide customers with more torque, more comfortable operation and reduced noise. It operates at a lower sound level, has almost 8 percent more torque in the mid-range, where most typical use occurs, and features an increased cooling capacity that results in more efficient engine operation and a lower operating temperature.

“It can be fitted with a range of accessories – top dressers, sprayers and core harvesters, has the industry's highest payload carrying almost 1300 Kg, and is among the most versatile and most productive machines on the market.”

For further information, call +44 (0) 1473 270000 or visit Ransomes Jacobsen’s website at www.ransomesjacobsen.com