This weird thing you see here is called the Volunteer VTX and it’s a production of outdoor equipment company, Cub Cadet. Set for debut at the ongoing SEMA show, the VTX is a utility crossover that, according to its makers excels at applications related to both work and recreation. Yes, it has a stupid name and it looks like a prehistoric animal, but it seems to be huge fun!

The VTX concept offers many of the rugged features found across the proven Volunteer platform with several enhancements in form and function. For those jobs that require additional power, the VTX cross-over includes 12-volt power outlets, hook-ups for air-powered tools and multi-functional high-intensity lighting.

They also offer a wide range of upgrades including a new engine and drive-train. Under the hood is a powerful, parallel-twin Webber engine with twice the horsepower found on the current Volunteer EFI allowing it to reach speeds of 45 mph plus. You can control the top speed by a special speed key!

Three Volunteer utility vehicles will be featured at the 2010 SEMA Show: the new 850cc Volunteer VTX concept vehicle, a 4×4 V2 concept vehicle with a Harley-Davidson Revolution engine and a stock Volunteer 4×4 EFI.

“Whether it’s tackling a variety of professional work-related needs, taking on extreme, challenging terrain or transporting VIPs, the new Volunteer VTX concept utility vehicle represents the epitome of both form and function, bringing high style to high performance and high capability applications,” said Jeff Salamon, director of marketing.  “The essence of the new VTX concept utility vehicle is a combination of powerful utility with incredible transformability – allowing users unprecedented UTV functionality because of its UTV parts.  Pushing the boundaries of the UTV as we know it, the cross-over design of the VTX opens the market to a new class of transformable Utility Vehicles.”

The all-new VTX concept vehicle offers users:

• Versatility to do More: Whether it’s moving people, valuable equipment or cargo, the VTX quickly and easily converts from the ultimate transporter to the ultimate mobile work station. Features include rear jump-seats that can accommodate more people or be folded down and out of the way to reveal a sizable flat surface with an innovative versatile track system.  This highly adaptable area can be used simply as additional storage space or, thanks to the track system, used for a variety of purposes ranging from a slide-out work support area to a secure storage case system and even to carrying a stretcher. The possibilities are nearly unlimited. In addition to the jump seat area, the rear bed sides of the VTX fold flat to create a large remote work shop. On-board 110V electric outlets and retractable air hose allow the use of power tools and more.
• A Comfortable Ride: Thanks to a custom contoured bench seat and adjustable suspension, the VTX holds riders in place and gives users a smooth, stable, and comfortable ride on both civilized and uncivilized terrain.
• More Power: Relying on an 850cc Webber engine and electronic on-dash shifting, users will have more power at their fingertips than any other Volunteer utility vehicle with the ability to comfortably reach speeds of 45+ mph.
• Speed Key Technology: For specific applications users can choose between two separate speed keys that set top speeds. For work around schools, municipalities, job-sites and residential communities, the lower speed key restricts speed to 25 mph. The high speed option key allows for 45+ mph — perfect for longer excursions.
• High-Profile Styling: The design of the new VTX concept combines assertive styling with purposeful design for an unequaled combination of high-profile appearance, unmatched versatility and rugged durability.  The VTX is a utility vehicle that brings high style to high performance applications.
• Fully-Digital Interface: A dynamic digital display conveniently located on the steering column allows users to easily access vital information.  An in-dash monitor with GPS and rear-facing camera view gives riders a true global view. The accessibility to information provided by the VTX is unlike any other UTV on the market.

[PRNEWSWIRE]