Kubota’s RTV-X900 to the rescue

Kubota’s RTV-X900 utility vehicle is the latest addition to the crew at Station 60 of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service.

The Urban Search and Rescue team have found the RTV invaluable in helping them carry out their duties in the largely urban counties where woodlands can prevent a fast response from larger vehicles.

Jon Worsley, Group Manager Specialist Capabilities & Local Risk Manager, said: “The RTV has been a fantastic asset to our fleet, it’s reliable, well-built and is remarkably cost-effective.

“Since its arrival at the station just over a year ago, we’ve used it for a range of applications including moving high volume pumping equipment over rough terrain such as that in Woodbury Common, as well as for clearing snow out of the way at the station during the bouts of bad weather we had earlier last year.”

The purchase of the RTV has also been a handy addition to the fleet when needing to transport personnel off-road during training days, a crucial factor when testing out how quick their response would be during a rescue mission in woodland areas, through water or on higher ground.

Jon continued: “Our search and rescue team get called out to hard to reach areas that aren’t always suitable for vehicles to access safely. With the RTV we can get to the scene quickly and potentially prevent a person, or in some cases animals, from getting into further danger.”

Kubota’s RTV-X900 has been specially designed to meet the evolving demands of the market and is increasingly being specified by those involved in the emergency services. Its powerful 21.6HP diesel engine and variable hydraulic transmission ensures dependable performance in the most challenging of weather conditions or terrain.