The Kubota RTV-X Utility vehicles are extremely versatile and capable machines, able to take on a variety of grounds maintenance and management tasks, all year round.
Going wild in Yorkshire
With over 300 acres to maintain, the Yorkshire Wildlife Park relies on it’s fleet of Kubota RTV utility vehicles for a variety of daily jobs – from animal feed and care to ground and property maintenance.
The Park attracts over 760,000 visitors each year and is well known for its carnivores after taking part in an international rescue operation to save 13 lions from an uncertain future in Romania. It also has the largest polar bear enclosure outside Canada as well as a host of other animals, from baboons to wallabies.
The terrain and workload are demanding on the Park’s four RTVs, but Director Neville Williams comments that the RTV’s strong build makes them ideal for the job.
“The Kubota diesel engine is really solid, and is proven on so many machines you know it’s going to stand up to the work.”
The RTV’s powerful combination of Kubota’s reliable high-torque Kubota 3-cylinder OHV diesel engine with strong 2-range Variable Hydraulic Transmission (VHT-X) – with selectable 4WD – provide safe operation when tackling undulating terrain, even when loaded with equipment.
VHT-X enables fast acceleration, strong hill climbing ability and a safe, controlled descent thanks to its dynamic braking capability, using the transmission to comfortably control the speed without the operator having to rely on the brakes.
The ride is comfortable too. High ground clearance and height adjustable front and rear independent suspension reduces the risk of bottoming out providing the occupants with a smooth ride.
Highly versatile operation
The RTV’s hydraulic tipping bed’s 500kg payload is put to good use at the Park, transporting large quantities of meat for lions and tigers, cleaning out enclosures, carrying grounds maintenance equipment such as strimmers, mowers and chainsaws, or hauling materials and tools to repair pathways, fencing and buildings
“We keep them very busy – although the last 12 months have meant periods of closure which have led to a drop-in income, the animals still need to be cared for and the grounds maintained, so having reliable machinery is a must.”
Cabin comfort
The spacious, comfortable cab with its deluxe split-bench seats and plenty of legroom, make the RTV a great way of getting around the extensive parkland. With its power steering, straight-forward controls and VHT-X transmission, keepers and grounds staff alike can confidently get behind the wheel.
“We need to be constantly in and out, opening gates and checking the animals, so the open canopy with its easy access is another benefit. It’s also straightforward enough for anyone to operate.”
All RTV-X models come with a full ROPS frame and canopy, plus a windscreen with wiper and washer. A fully enclosed heated cab option is also available.
For more information
Kubota’s RTV-X line-up includes the powerful RTV-X1110 and versatile RTV-X1140 four-seater that converts easily to two seats for extra load capacity. Both machines can carry a 500kg payload and they have towing capacities. of 590kg and 1,000kg respectively.
The RTV-X includes a two-year warranty as standard, which can be extended to five years – based on the number of hours worked – with Kubota’s innovative warranty, Kubota Care.
To find out more about the RTV-X contact your local dealer, visit the website or call 01844 214500
