Augusta, GA – April 10, 2012 – Cushman® is proud to introduce the Cushman LSV 800, a street-legal utility vehicle ideal for use in management of large grounds and campuses, municipalities and utilities, and others seeking an energy-efficient, eco-friendly solution for light-transportation needs. The LSV 800 has a maximum speed of 25 mph and features a 48-volt AC electric powertrain with automotive-inspired braking system.
“The LSV 800 will quickly become a valuable mainstay for customers whose work demands that they take to the roads,” said Darryl Heffline, vice president, commercial for Cushman. “The LSV 800 provides a safe, energy-efficient and emissions-free solution for managing large campuses and grounds, downtown districts, and other work environments where frequent navigation of public streets is required.”
The LSV 800 meets or exceeds the standards mandated by the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 500 as well as additional standards of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) for “low-speed vehicles,” or LSVs. LSVs must have a top speed of no more than 25 mph, and be equipped with certain additional features including a windshield, seat belts, mirrors, turn signals and headlights and taillights. The vehicles are issued a vehicle identification number, like any automobile, and can be titled and, subject to state or local regulation, operated by licensed drivers on most public roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less.
Powered by four 12-volt deep-cycle batteries, the LSV 800’s patented, highly efficient 48-volt AC electric drivetrain can provide up to 25 miles of travel between charges, more than enough for a typical day’s work. For those in need of longer range, the LSV 800 can also be equipped with exclusive Exceed Hybrid Technologyâ„¢, which supplements the vehicle’s electric drivetrain with a small, gas-powered generator that recharges vehicle batteries on the fly, extending range to up to 150 miles between charges, depending on operating conditions.
The LSV 800’s bucket seats accommodate up to two occupants, and its 5.9-cubic-foot cargo bed can carry to 300 pounds of gear and material to complete the day’s work. A 2-inch rear hitch receiver allows the vehicle to tow small equipment trailers and other implements necessary for the task at hand.
The LSV 800 comes standard with numerous features to provide a safe, comfortable ride on public streets, including four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes for superior braking and vehicle control. The LSV 800’s windshield is automotive-quality safety glass, and its Operator Protective Structure (OPS) rated roof can withstand forces up to 2.5 times the vehicle’s weight. Rearview mirrors provide the LSV 800’s operator with clear sightlines to see nearby vehicles and pedestrians. A complete automotive lighting package, including headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals, provides for visibility and safety. Three-point seat belts protect driver and passenger, and radial tires offer superior wear and stopping performance. A unique feature of the LSV 800’s parking brake is that it automatically engages whenever the vehicle stops, helping prevent accidental rollaway incidents. In addition, a “rabbit/turtle” switch on the dash conveniently limits the LSV 800’s speed to 14 mph when conditions require lower speeds, such as pedestrian-heavy downtown thoroughfares.
Regenerative braking puts energy back into the vehicle to maintain a quality driving experience between battery charges, and an on-board solid-state battery charger provides for convenient recharging at available electrical outlets.
The LSV 800 also offers a number of convenience features, including a state-of-charge meter that indicates the amount of power left in the batteries, a 12-volt accessory outlet to provide electrical charge for mobile phones, two-way radios and other small electronics, and ample cabin storage, including four large cup holders and a locking glove box.
To meet the specific needs of individual work environments, the LSV 800 can be equipped with a host of options and accessories, ranging from a fully enclosed cab with doors to windshield wipers and a heater/defroster.
