AUGUSTA, GA (NOVEMBER 1, 2017) Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, is proud to introduce the Cushman® AC-powered Tug tow tractor, the latest upgrade to its industrial lineup. The newly designed Tug, purpose-built for towing applications in factories, warehouses and other facilities, offers users more uptime and user-friendly features. Key upgrades include the implementation of an AC motor for power and efficiency, higher voltage batteries for extended operation, the switch from a mechanical parking brake to an automatically engaged electronic parking brake (E-brake) for increased safety, and consolidation to one model that offers a robust 8,000 lb. (3,629 kg) towing capacity.

Cushman vehicles are designed and manufactured in Augusta, Ga., by Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc.

Transitioning the Tug motor from DC to AC allows the tow tractor to operate more efficiently due to the durability of its brushless motor and the use of direct drive, rather than a pulley system. The AC motor also increases the lifespan of the vehicle and the longevity of its batteries, which means more uptime on the job. The Tug motor has improved peak horsepower at 15.42hp (11.5kw) in comparison to the previous model's 11hp (8.28kw).By increasing the battery voltage from 36 volts to 48 volts, the vehicle has an extended range, tested to up to 80 miles (129 km). The electronic parking brake offers users more convenience and increased safety, as the Tug automatically engages the parking brake when the operator stops the vehicle.

Moving forward, the Tug will no longer be available in a 5,000-lb towing capacity option. Instead, the Tug will have one model with a standard 8,000-pound towing capacity.

Product enhancements also include a user-friendly dashboard design. The new Tug features a digital display that includes a state-of-charge meter, speedometer and hour meter. The dash also incorporates a forward-neutral-reverse selector that is integrated into the key switch to increase ease of use and convenience. The access port for charging the vehicle is now located on the rear of the vehicle, eliminating the need to remove the deck board for access. The deck board is NUDO® coated to add grip and increase durability.

About Cushman

Since 1901, Cushman vehicles have been recognized as light-transportation solutions for commercial and industrial applications. Today, Cushman products include more than 30 different vehicle models, from the rugged Hauler® utility vehicles, ideal for tough hauling and towing tasks in outdoor environments, to the imposing Titan®, a fully electric material-handling vehicle for indoor environments with a load capacity of 3,000 pounds, to the Minute Miser, perfectly suited for transporting people and small loads across large facilities. Cushman vehicles are manufactured by Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. in Augusta, Ga.

About Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc.

Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of golf cars, utility and personal transportation vehicles, snowmobiles, side-by-sides, all-terrain vehicles, professional turf-care equipment, and ground support equipment. Textron Specialized Vehicles markets products under the E-Z-GO®, Cushman®, Textron Off Road, Arctic Cat®, Jacobsen®, Dixie Chopper®, Ransomes®, TUG, Douglas, Premier and Safeaero brands. Its vehicles are found in environments ranging from golf courses to factories, airports to planned communities, and theme parks to hunting preserves.