Can-Am Defender attacks estate management market
Estate and facilities managers who are contemplating purchasing a Side by Side Vehicle (SSV) to add to their fleets should consider one that is functional, reliable and easy to use. This is where Canadian manufacturer BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products), the world leader in the design, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of motorised recreational and utility vehicles, has stepped up to the mark with its new workhorse SSV, the Can-Am Defender. The product, which will be available to purchase from February 2016, has been specifically designed by BRP’s engineers to meet the exacting demands of users in the utility sector - one of the business’ key segments.
The Can-Am Defender is available in three models including the non-DPS base, DPS and XT, which are powered by Rotax’s reliable v-twin petrol engines, located behind the vehicle’s bench seats. They supply the product with optimal weight distribution for steady control on any terrain, and improved handling and reduction in engine noise, even at high revs. The 799cc 50hp HD8* is available in the non-DPS base and DPS packages and the 1,000cc 72hp HD10** is offered with the XT model. Both have been designed to provide the user with the torque and power required when driving or towing and hauling cargo.
The product is fitted with PRO-TORQ transmission which presents users with a selection of features to enhance their driving experience. The Quick Response system (QRS) improves low speed riding and produces a precise power delivery. There is also a Hill Descent Control for a smoother predictable deceleration and a larger Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) ratio delivering optimal torque for heavy loads, especially when the extra L gear is engaged. In addition, the product has increased belt durability which allows for a more efficient power transfer.
When driving around a campus or estate, there is always something which needs to be transported or towed from A to B. The Can-Am Defender will make light work of these tasks with its class leading towing capacity of 907kg and payload of 680kg. The versatile multi-functional cargo box on the back of the vehicle carries 454kg and is fitted with various elements as standard including integrated anchors on the sidewalls; several tie-down points and a removable tailgate, which carries up to 155kg and can be removed quickly for ease of use. To make the most out of the cargo box, there are 14 exclusive LinQ quick attach accessories that are available from BRP including gear rails and cabin protection. The space can be optimised with 1 inch x 3 inch wood or plywood separators. The Can-Am Defender also has a power tilt bed accessory which can be manoeuvred via an integrated button on the dashboard. This ensures safe and easy unloading, reducing strain when lifting heavy objects and making it easy to maintain and change the cargo box angle.
The cabin is another important area for workers as it has to combine comfort with functionality. The ergonomic design of its 40/20/40 bench seat, inspired by modern pick-up trucks, provides the comfort that is expected from a normal vehicle. The seat accommodates up to three people so users can transport more than one worker when on site. There is also innovative onboard storage under the seats as well as on the dashboard. The dash’s open design features an industry-first removable water resistant toolbox and an enclosed pocket, perfect hide-away for keys, mobile phones and radios.
When it comes to handling, the Can-Am Defender HD10 XT and HD8 DPS models are equipped with a rear open differential and a four-mode traction system. This enables the driver to toggle between a 2x4 open rear, 2x4 lockable rear, 4x4 open rear and 4x4 locked differential for maximum traction depending on what the vehicle is being used for and the type of terrain it is travelling on (optional on the HD8 non-DPS base package).
The Can-Am Defender’s heavy-duty Torsional Trailing A-arms (TTA-HD) rear and Double A-arm front suspension have been designed specifically for utility and estate management usage to offer predictable handling, comfort on rough terrain and a smooth ride, even when carrying heavy loads.
For security, the product is fitted with BRP’s D.E.S.S (Digitally Encoded Security System), which provides peace of mind with its anti-theft key system. It utilises electronic key codes that are required to match each specific SSV’s engine control module (ECM). The machine will not start unless the coded microchip in the key matches the pre-installed code. There are also three programmable keys which come with each model:
· Work key - Limits the vehicle’s speed to 25mph but does not limit engine torque
· Standard key - Limits the speed to 44mph and engine torque by 10 per cent
· Performance key - No restrictions on the speed and engine torque.
The Can-Am Defender has no break-in period so once the vehicle has been purchased there is no need to return it to the dealer for a routine inspection. This will reduce the overall cost of owning the vehicle.
It also has over 55 accessories from roofs to winches and windshields that have been designed specifically for utility users and estate managers to customise the vehicle to suit their needs and requirements.
The Can-Am Defender comes with a two-year limited warranty.
Prices:
· Can-Am Defender non-DPS base - £9,799
· Can-Am Defender DPS - £11,799
· Can-Am Defender XT - £15,999
For further information, visit:uk.brp.com/off-road/
*Can-Am Defender HD8 will be available in March
**Can-Am Defender HD10 will be available in February