Polaris unveils its first purpose-built commercial vehicle line

Polaris Industries Inc., the Medina, Minn.-based off-road vehicle manufacturer, recently announced an initiative to expand into the commercial vehicle market. As a result of this initiative, Polaris unveiled the Polaris BRUTUS, the company’s first purpose-built commercial vehicle line and the first side-by-side utility vehicle in the market to deliver front-end power take-off (PTO) capability.

The new BRUTUS models are specifically engineered for individuals and businesses that seek capable, durable task vehicles. In addition to the BRUTUS line of work utility vehicles, Polaris’ commercial offerings include the hard-working, smooth-riding family of RANGER side-by-sides and SPORTSMAN all-terrain vehicles, and the GEM line of premium compact electric vehicles.

“The introduction of the BRUTUS product family is part of our commitment to offer the commercial customer innovative and relevant vehicles that best suit their needs,” said David Longren, vice president, off-road vehicles (ORV) and ORV engineering at Polaris. “Through our 60 years of engineering experience, strategic alliances with other industry leaders and our incredible network of dealers, we are able to provide the commercial market with the most productive, reliable and versatile vehicles.”

The BRUTUS product line is an outcome of the strategic alliance formed between Polaris and Bobcat in 2009. The co-developed vehicles leverage the strengths of both companies with Polaris’ expertise in utility vehicles and the powersports market, and Bobcat’s experience in work vehicle technology and attachments.

Manufactured at a Polaris facility in Spirit Lake, Iowa, the BRUTUS models leverage technology found in the Polaris RANGER line and are comprised of 3 models — BRUTUS, BRUTUS HD and BRUTUS HDPTO. The line was built to be the most versatile, most capable and most comfortable side-by-side utility vehicles ever created, enabling users to complete more tasks without spending more time and energy.

The BRUTUS models offer a 24-hp. diesel engine with hydrostatic transmission, which delivers all the torque and power needed to get the job done. An innovative treadle pedal allows travel in forward or reverse without shifting gears, providing an ideal setup for commercial applications. BRUTUS vehicles provide a class-leading 6 inches of suspension travel, which combined with On-Demand True All-Wheel Drive, allows for safe and comfortable transportation of passengers and cargo over virtually any terrain.

BRUTUS models are the first side-by-side utility vehicles that use a multi-link coil-over De Dion rear suspension to deliver outstanding ride quality for commercial work applications. The rear suspension supports a 1,250-pound cargo capacity and minimizes suspension sag when fully loaded. The suspension also maintains class-leading ground clearance when trailering with its best-in-class 2,000-pound towing capacity. A pallet-sized rear cargo box features Polaris’ exclusive Lock & Ride cargo system for easy installation and removal of worksite accessories.

The ability to operate several front-end attachments provides commercial customers with new levels of versatility, and ultimately, a cost-effective and more productive work solution. The Pro-Tach attachment system, standard on the BRUTUS HD and BRUTUS HDPTO, delivers work customers the capability to change from one attachment to the next quickly and easily. Creating levels of productivity never before seen in its class, a front-end PTO system on the BRUTUS HDPTO draws power directly from the vehicle’s engine. The high-efficiency, mechanical PTO maximizes power to a line of purpose-built, out-front commercial attachments. Featured in the complete line of attachments are 3 PTO-powered attachments — angle broom, finishing mower and snow blower — and 3 hydraulically-powered attachments — snow blade, pallet forks and materials bucket — allowing users to sweep, mow, blow, lift, plow, and scoop with just one machine.

For optimal use of attachments regardless of weather, the BRUTUS HDPTO comes standard with a fully-enclosed, factory-installed cab with heat, defrost and air conditioning. Available Lock & Ride PRO-FIT cab components are pre-designed for the BRUTUS and BRUTUS HD frame and lock on tightly for a secure cab system. A full line of cab, storage and vehicle protection accessories are available for the BRUTUS line to meet each commercial customer’s unique needs.

The BRUTUS, BRUTUS HD and BRUTUS HDPTO are now available to order through select Polaris dealers with shipments starting in April 2013.

Polaris Industries Inc.