E-Z-GO Enters 4-Wheel-Drive Arena with ST 4X4 Off-Road Utility Vehicle

February 12, 2004
Augusta, GA - February 12, 2004 - E-Z-GO Textron announces production of the company's first 4-Wheel Drive Trail Utility Vehicle. The E-Z-GO ST 4x4 provides the ruggedness of a truck, a "best in class" bed load capacity, and the performance of a true off-road vehicle that can take hunters, outdoorsmen, and land managers into the toughest terrain with confidence.

The E-Z-GO ST 4x4 hauls more than any vehicle in its category, boasting an 1,100-pound bed load capacity and an impressive 1,500-pound vehicle load capacity. It is equally rugged, with a heavy-duty frame made of hot-dipped, galvanized channel and tubular steel throughout for superior strength and corrosion protection. A Rotomolded poly bed with no exposed hardware to rust or corrode adds to its ability to withstand the elements.

The E-Z-GO ST 4x4 is powered by an 18 hp, 614-cc, V-twin, air-cooled Honda engine and will reach speeds up to 25 mph. It has a key start and a 340 CCA maintenance-free, vibration-resistant battery. A hinged front cowl provides easy access to the battery, the dual-circuit master cylinder and fuses.

It is the off-road capabilities of E-Z-GO's first 4-wheel-drive vehicle that really set it apart. A unique center-mounted transmission design features a short drive shaft that does not protrude below the frame and offers greater protection for the drivetrain. The 4x4 has a heavy-duty, single-ratio Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with driven clutches protected by an environmental cover. The front differential is surrounded by rugged frame members, and wiring harnesses are protected within the frame. Electrically-activated "on-the-fly" front or rear differential locks are easily selected with a dash-mounted rocker switch.

An aggressive 9.5-inch ground clearance on the ST 4x4 means it can go places the competition can't handle and protect the vehicle from the terrain. Self-cleaning, unidirectional 25-inch tires offer the ultimate in traction on muddy, rocky, or loose surfaces. A comfortable, side-by-side ride for both driver and passenger under any load conditions is assured with the dual rate rear leaf springs and thickly padded bench seat.

The ST 4x4 has a manual, gas-lift assisted dump bed with a removable, fold-down tailgate that doesn't require a mechanical latch. Four threaded inserts accept tie-downs. The bed measures a spacious 45 x 36 x 13.75 inches, and its 31-inch load bed height makes loading cargo easy. Molded-in slots in the bed allow the user to section off the load.

Hunters and others who prefer to keep a low profile in the woods will appreciate the Recon Green body color of the ST 4x4. The color pigment is molded-in and topped with a long-lasting, automotive quality, high-gloss coating.

The dashboard design on the ST 4x4 is loaded with features for easy operation and convenience, including a passenger side storage compartment with integral grab bar, two drink holders, a two-way radio or cell phone holder and an optional 12-volt power outlet. Easy-grip, dash-mounted control knobs allow the user to select front or rear locking differential and two- or four-wheel-drive. The dashboard center gauge cluster includes an analog electric fuel gauge, analog voltmeter gauge, digital hour meter, park brake indicator, low oil indicator, front and rear differential lock indicator, and four-wheel-drive indicator.

Other standard features include front hydraulic disc brakes and rear hydraulic drum brakes with all stainless steel braided brake lines; dual halogen headlights; McPherson strut front suspension; rack and pinion steering; and two-inch front receiver that is compatible with a wide variety of hitches, winches, and after-market implements.

Even with its many premium features, the E-Z-GO ST 4x4 provides a great value, competitively priced at $8,799 (MSRP).

E-Z-GO Textron, based in Augusta, Georgia, is the world's leading manufacturer of golf cars and utility vehicles. Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) is an $11 billion multi-industry company with more than 49,000 employees in 40 countries. The company leverages its global network of businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services in industries such as aircraft, fastening systems, industrial products and components and finance. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, and Greenlee, among others. More information is available at www.textron.com.

For more information on E-Z-GO products, consumers may contact E-Z-GO Textron, 1451 Marvin Griffin Road, Augusta, GA 30906, phone 1-800-241-5855, www.textron.com or www.ezgo.com.

Connect with Textron IR

David Rosenberg, Vice President, Investor Relations
(401) 457-2288
Kyle Williams, Manager, Investor Relations
(401) 457-2288

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