OPD argument raging on
A stoush is brewing with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) heavily criticising Farmsafe Australia’s recent Safer Farm Report.
At that time in New Zealand import tariffs made the unit expensive so it sold in low numbers.
The first model to sell in large numbers in NZ was the Mule 500, a 2x4 light utility powered by a 300cc air-cooled single; then came the Mule 2510 4x4, a larger machine powered by a liquid-cooled, 620cc V-twin.
The range developed over the years with the Mule 600 and 610 range of 400cc models and the 4-seat Trans in the 620cc, 4010 range. A 953cc diesel model in 2- and 4-seat form was added to the line-up and proved popular here.
In 2015 Kawasaki introduced the Mule Pro FXT, an all-new model powered by a 3-cylinder 820cc petrol engine able to carry up to six people. This was the start of a new Pro series model line which now includes a Mule Pro-FX, 3-seater and 3- and 6-seat Mule Pro-DX and DXT diesels – altogether nine models in NZ
Unlike many side-by-side vehicles, Mule was not designed as a recreational/utility vehicle, but as a workhorse for agriculture and industry. Manufacturing is at Kawasaki's plant in Lincoln, Nebraska.
All Mules except the Mule Pro-FX/FXT 820cc petrol models are speed limited – popular on some farms where speed limiting helps keep workers safe.
The new Mule Pro-DX diesel is powered by a Yanmar, 953cc, 3-cylinder diesel and has the same strong chassis and driveline as the other Mule Pro series models.
It has a flat bottomed, gas assisted-tilting cargo bed capable of carrying at least 450kg.
A wide track gives stability over rough terrain and electrically switched 2WD/4WD and a lock/unlock rear differential ensures plenty of traction when needed.
