New Generation of 4x4 Hybrid Offers Upgraded Powertrains and Ability to Recharge Batteries in the Field
AUGUSTA, GA - Hunters no longer have to choose between range, power and silence in a utility vehicle, with the introduction of the new 2014 Ambush® iS 4x4 hybrid from Bad Boy Buggies®. With the flexibility to switch between independent gas and electric powertrains, the utility of Regen Mode™ to recharge the vehicle's batteries on the fly, and the ability to engage both powertrains at once for 4WD power, the Ambush iS provides the range and off-road performance you need -- and silence when you need it most.
Like all Bad Boy Buggies vehicles, the Ambush iS is manufactured by E-Z-GO, a division of Textron Inc.
The Ambush iS has three distinct operating modes: rear-wheel-drive 2WD gas, front-wheel-drive 2WD electric, and 4WD with both gas and electric powertrains engaged. Operators can shift between the three modes using simple controls within easy reach on the vehicle's dashboard. A proprietary onboard computer coordinates the operation of the Ambush's dual powertrains, ensuring that the gas and electric systems work together for maximum power and efficiency.
The Ambush iS offers a 28-horsepower, 720cc fuel-injected Subaru® engine, offering 75 percent more horsepower than the previous Ambush model. To maximize performance when the Ambush iS operates in electric mode, the vehicle's 48-volt electric drivetrain has been upgraded with AC Drive technology, offering longer range and greater, more sustained performance between charges than traditional DC-powered drivetrains.
With the Ambush iS' new, exclusive Regen Mode™, hunters can ensure that they have silent electric power when they need it, by recharging the vehicle's batteries on the fly while the Ambush iS operates under gas power. In Regen Mode, the Ambush iS' AC electric motor becomes a generator, transferring energy generated by the revolution of the vehicle's front axle back into the vehicle's batteries. With Regen Mode set to high, the amount of energy sent back into the batteries can even exceed that of recharging the vehicle using a traditional battery charger.
"The Ambush has changed how people think about hunting UTVs, and the enhanced power, range and flexibility of our new Ambush iS model once again proves that this Bad Boy is the ultimate hunting machine," said Eric Bondy, Vice President, Consumer for Bad Boy Buggies. "We've worked hard to develop a vehicle that requires no compromise between the silent operation needed to stalk the day's trophy kill, and the power, range and performance necessary to navigate the toughest conditions and longest days in the field."
The Ambush iS offers four-wheel independent suspension and a sway bar to keep the ride smooth, and the vehicle under your control. When additional traction is needed, locking front and rear differentials direct the vehicle's power to the wheels that need it most, powering the vehicle through the toughest terrain. The Ambush iS also features four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes and rack-and-pinion steering for optimal control and stopping power on narrow trails and in difficult conditions.
The Ambush iS features six 8-volt batteries, with four batteries under its seat and two additional batteries under the vehicle's hood. The new battery configuration is optimized to provide better weight distribution on the front of the vehicle, resulting in better traction in front wheel drive operation.
Safety features such as an occupant protective structure (OPS), three-point seat belts and side safety nets are standard on the Ambush iS.
To accommodate the needs of any hunting party, the Ambush iS will be available in a two-passenger model with a 9.6-cubic-foot cargo bed, or a four-passenger model with a rear-facing back seat. The Ambush iS is available in matte black, matte green, flame red, Realtree® Max-4™ camouflage, or in Realtree's newest camouflage pattern, Realtree® Xtra™.
The Ambush iS will be available in September 2013 from Bad Boy Buggies Authorized Dealers. To learn more, or to find your local dealer, visit badboybuggies.com.
About Bad Boy Buggies
Bad Boy Buggies is a leader in off-road utility vehicles for hunting and outdoor lifestyles. Bad Boy Buggies pioneered the category of electrically powered 4x4 vehicles, ideal for hunting and outdoor recreation due to their silent, odorless operation and environmentally friendly, emissions-free drivetrains.
Today, the Bad Boy Buggies product line ranges from four-wheel-drive electric hunting machines such as the Recoil, a fully electric, 4WD vehicle with an innovative, highly efficient 72-volt AC electric drivetrain, to the Work Series of diesel and gas-powered utility vehicles, including the Bad Boy Buggies XD, a versatile 4WD, diesel-powered utility vehicle with a total capacity of 1,600 pounds.
In 2010, the Bad Boy Buggies brand and product line were acquired by E-Z-GO, a business unit of Textron Inc.
About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron in known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. More information is available at www.textron.com.
Contact
Brandon Haddock
Director, Communications
706.722.5931
bhaddock@textron.com