Kubota Essence - Luyckx

Kubota Essence - Luyckx Kubota Essence - Luyckx

NO.<br />

96<br />

2012


P. 3-6<br />

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P. 7-13<br />

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P. 14-16<br />

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P. 17-19<br />

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P. 20-23<br />

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P. 24-25<br />

P. 26-27<br />

P. 28<br />

P. 29-30<br />

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P. 39<br />

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CONTENTS<br />

TIMES INTERVIEW<br />

Mr. Tadahisa Omote, President<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America Corporation (KEA)<br />

KUBOTA ESSENCE<br />

KUBOTA RICE TRANSPLANTERS<br />

Models SPW-48C, NSPU-68C, and NSD8<br />

DEALER IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

Germany: Mr. Werner Nietfeld and Ms. Waltraud Tramann<br />

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS<br />

India:<strong>Kubota</strong> Compact Tractor B2420<br />

SPECIAL REPORT<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Aids Reconstruction in Disaster Stricken Northeastern Japan<br />

POWERED BY KUBOTA<br />

The USA: <strong>Kubota</strong> Generated Power in a Miami Food Truck<br />

Russia: VP Forklifts<br />

ADS OF THE TIMES<br />

The USA: KTC Marketing Activities<br />

PARTS & SERVICE<br />

The 6th and 7th Service Manager Meetings<br />

TOPICS<br />

Vietnam: The First <strong>Kubota</strong> Mekong Delta Cup Competition<br />

KUBOTA GLOBAL UPDATES<br />

Updates from Global Members of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Family<br />

READERS’ FORUM<br />

Submissions to “READERS’ FORUM” Welcome!<br />

Questionnaire<br />

ML<br />

: Articles marked ML are available in Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian,<br />

Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Tamir, Thai and Vietnamese.


TiMES<br />

Mr. Tadahisa Omote<br />

President,<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America<br />

Corporation (KEA)<br />

“KEA seeks to build trust among<br />

customers and provide them with ease<br />

of mind by continuously supplying<br />

durable and efficient engines that clear<br />

the latest emissions regulations.”<br />

– 3 –


Until 2001, <strong>Kubota</strong> dispatched Mr. Omote to two <strong>Kubota</strong> affiliated firms in<br />

the USA – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Corporation (KTC) and <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America<br />

Corporation (KEA). Returning to Japan following those postings, he was in<br />

charge of exports within the Engine Division. From 2008, Mr. Omote served as<br />

Managing Director of <strong>Kubota</strong> (U.K.) Ltd. (KUK) for two years. Then, in<br />

January 2011, he returned to the USA for the third time as president of KEA<br />

entrusted with the task of expanding sales of <strong>Kubota</strong> engines in that market.<br />

Would you please describe KEA’s involvement in the USA marketplace and<br />

the general characteristics of the engine market there?<br />

The main focus of KEA’s business in recent years has been to supply OEM customers with durable,<br />

efficient, and environmentally-friendly engines that are, for all practical purposes, the heart of their products.<br />

Faced with fact that the Tier 4 Emission Regulations for engines of 75 HP and above come into effect in 2012<br />

while the Tier 4 Emission Regulations for engines of less than 75 HP are scheduled to become effective in 2013,<br />

all engine manufacturers face fierce competition in order to survive. In fact, success requires developing<br />

innovative technology able to meet these tough regulations while at the same time maintaining<br />

cost effectiveness.<br />

Moreover, engine manufacturers are facing another equally tough challenge. It is to provide enhanced<br />

services together with higher added value for customers in spite of the currently unstable business environment<br />

that is hampered by recent global-scale currency fluctuations.<br />

In an effort to minimize exchange rate risks, numerous OEM customers around the world are relocating<br />

their production bases. In consideration of the fact that <strong>Kubota</strong> engines are predominantly “Made in Japan” at<br />

present, we are now undertaking ever more positive efforts to provide OEM customers with stable services by<br />

making utmost use of our global sales network.<br />

KEA Head Office.<br />

– 4 –


How about KEA’s marketing performance?<br />

The outstanding performance of the V3-Series and the 07-Series of <strong>Kubota</strong> diesel engines has been highly<br />

evaluated since their launch with the result that they continue to have sound results both in the number of<br />

customers and in sales volume.<br />

Previously, KEA was not a supplier of engines to major forklift manufacturers. With the development of the<br />

SI engine, however, we are now gradually becoming a presence in that segment of the market. In January 2011,<br />

for example, we received the very first order for our diesel engines from NACCO Materials Handling<br />

Group Inc., USA.<br />

To keep up with emerging customer needs, we will further promote engine sales – including the SI models –<br />

in the marketplace.<br />

What can you tell our readers about KEA’s growth in the market place and future plans?<br />

In 2011, sales increased by 36% as compared with 2010. Based on past performance and current market<br />

conditions, it is our goal to further increase sales by 16% to 18% in 2012.<br />

KEA will, of course, continue to provide OEM customers with <strong>Kubota</strong> engines as a durable and reliable<br />

source of power for their products – innovative, cutting-edge engines featuring optimum performance and<br />

exceptional serviceability in full compliance with emissions regulations. In addition, we will redouble our<br />

efforts to develop and make available engines ideally suited to fulfill the diverse requirements of various<br />

applications by incorporating the experience and know-how that <strong>Kubota</strong> has gained over the years as a<br />

manufacturer of a broad range of agricultural and construction machinery.<br />

– 5 –


How is <strong>Kubota</strong> coping with the ever more stringent emissions regulations?<br />

In 2011, <strong>Kubota</strong> developed diesel engines that cleared the Tier 4 Emission Regulations to receive the Tier 4<br />

Interim Certification from the California Air Resources Board. In fact, <strong>Kubota</strong> became the first engine<br />

manufacturer in the world to receive this certification for engines with a displacement of 4 liters or less.<br />

As the world’s top brand of industrial engines in the category of 100 HP and less, <strong>Kubota</strong> is committed to<br />

continue offering engines that adhere to the latest emissions regulations proclaimed in various markets around<br />

the world.<br />

What do you think should be done to further expand the market share of <strong>Kubota</strong> engines?<br />

It is vital to build confidence among customers around the world and provide them with ease of mind.<br />

This can be done by strengthening our sales and service networks. By doing so, their various products fitted<br />

with our engines can continue to deliver an optimal performance throughout their service lives.<br />

Based on your previous European experience, what do you feel is the main difference<br />

in business styles between North America and Europe?<br />

It is my feeling that European markets place an emphasis primarily on tradition while markets in North<br />

America are not hesitant to introduce change.<br />

Is there any message you wish to send to the Global <strong>Kubota</strong> Family?<br />

Yes! I hope to continue counting on your warm support and guidance.<br />

– 6 –


<strong>Kubota</strong> <strong>Essence</strong><br />

KUBOTA RICE TRANSPLANTERS<br />

Models SPW-48C, NSPU-68C, and NSD8<br />

SPW-48C NSPU-68C NSD8<br />

Contributing to the Promotion<br />

of Farm Mechanization in Asia<br />

Not only has <strong>Kubota</strong> firmly established itself as<br />

the world’s top brand in the farm machinery<br />

market that includes tractors and combine<br />

harvesters, it has also been taking an active part<br />

in the positive promotion of farm mechanization.<br />

Regarding the cultivation of rice, <strong>Kubota</strong> is<br />

currently conducting a series of positive activities<br />

in various Asian nations specifically designed to<br />

stimulate the mechanical transplanting of<br />

box-nursed rice seedlings using rice<br />

transplanters. In fact, this reliable cultivation<br />

method is enthusiastically supported in Japan<br />

with the result that farmers adopting this method<br />

are successfully producing high-quality rice at a<br />

stably high yield level.<br />

In the process of fulfilling the ever-rising needs for<br />

mechanization in the cultivation of rice in various<br />

parts of Asia, <strong>Kubota</strong> has introduced a wide range<br />

of rice transplanters including the walk-behind<br />

model SPW-48C 4-Row Rice Transplanter in 2007,<br />

ride-on type model NSPU-68C 6-Row Rice<br />

Transplanter in 2008, and the model NSD8 8-Row<br />

Rice Transplanter in 2010.<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Times recently<br />

interviewed General Manager<br />

Ryuji Ochi of the Rice<br />

Transplanter Engineering<br />

Department and Mr. Yosuke Ueda<br />

of the Farm Machinery Division’s<br />

International Marketing<br />

Department regarding the<br />

development of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Rice Transplanters.<br />

Mr. Ryuji Ochi<br />

Mr. Yosuke Ueda<br />

– 7 –


Responding to the Rising Need for Mechanization in Asia<br />

In Asia where agricultural mechanization is undergoing rapid progress, what is your analysis of the trends<br />

and changes in the market for rice transplanters?<br />

Ochi: Even today, cultivation of the extensive wet-paddy fields throughout Asia still relies largely on manual<br />

labor. However, as various Asian nations – such as China and Thailand – experience the ever-stronger<br />

economic growth that results from fast-paced industrialization, the agricultural sector in those nations are<br />

being hard hit by labor shortages. To overcome this trend, the impetus for expanding agricultural<br />

mechanization has been growing. In China, in particular, agricultural mechanization is further stimulated<br />

by governmental subsidies. One outcome of all this is that the demand for rice transplanters is growing<br />

at a rapid pace.<br />

What is the present status of rice transplanter usage?<br />

Ueda: In Korea and Taiwan, rice transplanters are highly popular. However, in China their use rate hovers at<br />

around 20% while the current percentage in other Asian markets is even lower.<br />

Would you please explain the basic differences between manual and mechanical transplant methods?<br />

Ochi: As for manual transplanting, it has three significant disadvantages:<br />

• High labor costs for this labor-intensive method have a<br />

negative effect on profit. Add to this the fact that<br />

gathering a sufficient number of laborers is becoming<br />

increasingly difficult.<br />

• In the planting stage, irregular interval and depth have a<br />

negative effect on ventilation and sunshine with the result<br />

that both quality and yield suffer. In addition, the root<br />

damage that can occur when seedlings are picked from<br />

the nursery bed can negatively affect initial-stage growth.<br />

• Including the use of chemical herbicides, ongoing crop<br />

management costs are relatively high.<br />

Mechanical transplanting, on the other hand, has three significant advantages:<br />

• As a single operator is able to handle all operations in the<br />

planting stage, the cost of labor is minimized while<br />

operational efficiency is optimized. A walk-behind type<br />

4-row machine, for example, is able to deliver a<br />

performance that would otherwise require as many as 15<br />

workers.<br />

• Young seedlings are uniformly planted at regular<br />

intervals at the ideal depth so that they are exposed to the<br />

best possible ventilation and sunshine. Sound growth<br />

results in crops of outstanding quality and yield.<br />

• Not only are ongoing crop management tasks easier, a<br />

reduced need for chemical herbicides contributes to<br />

reduced costs.<br />

– 8 –


Full-Scale Entry into the Asian Market<br />

What are the key factors for promoting <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanter<br />

models SPW-48C, NSPU-68C, and NSD8 into the Asian market?<br />

Ochi: As agricultural machines utilized throughout Asia are subject to long hours of operation<br />

to handle heavy-duty applications throughout the year, there is an emphasis on providing<br />

maximum durability and simple structure. During the development of these three models,<br />

therefore, machines previously used over long periods of time in the rice paddies of<br />

target markets were thoroughly analyzed to reveal any and all examples of where<br />

durability had to be improved. Then, the findings were innovatively incorporated into<br />

overall product designs and thoroughly tested.<br />

What customer segment is being targeted?<br />

Ueda: In some areas demand comes from both individual users and contractors, but overall<br />

contractors are the main customers.<br />

The Popular Usage of Model SPW-48C<br />

How do you explain the popularity of the walk-behind model SPW-48C?<br />

Ochi: This entry-level product currently commands nearly 80% of market for rice transplanters in China and<br />

Southeast Asia. Its features include reasonable price, a handy size that enables it to perform efficiently<br />

and smoothly even when space is quite narrow, and exceptional ease of use. For a large percentage of<br />

users, it is the first choice when taking the first step towards realizing higher efficiency and profit<br />

through mechanization.<br />

Would you please describe its characteristics in detail?<br />

Ochi: In the very first place, its fuel-efficient OHV (Over Head Valve) 4-cycle gasoline engine features superb<br />

combustion efficiency to keep running costs low. Lightweight and compact, it delivers reliably high<br />

output while continuing to operate smoothly even in deep muddy<br />

fields where the workload is heavy.<br />

As for its travel performance, the large-diameter (660 mm) wheels<br />

firmly grip the hardpan – even in deep muddy fields – to provide a<br />

dependable drive force. With the Hardpan keeping the body afloat,<br />

the Auto-Balance System enables the wheels to automatically<br />

follow ground undulations with the result that the machine body<br />

maintains a stable position that contributes to realizing precision<br />

planting. Durability is also enhanced by the overall design of the<br />

body that acts to minimize the possibilities of eventual damage.<br />

Large-Diameter Wheels.<br />

– 9 –


Maximum<br />

Speed:<br />

0.77<br />

m/s<br />

m/s<br />

Model SPW-48C delivers a superb performance.<br />

Formidable and Competitive Product Lineup<br />

What sales points are unique to <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters?<br />

Rotary Transplanting Method.<br />

Ochi: <strong>Kubota</strong>’s long years of experience is responsible for the technology ensuring that seedlings are planted as<br />

gently and carefully as if with the human hand. This process incorporates two Transplanting Claws made<br />

of stainless steel to pick seedlings up and the Push-Out Claws that eject the seedlings in order to securely<br />

transplant them into the soil.<br />

Another unique point is the enhanced maneuverability that<br />

enables even first-time users to easily undertake transplanting<br />

operations. The Main Switch and all essential levers - including<br />

the Clutch Lever, the Planting Clutch Lever, the Shift Clutch<br />

Lever, and the Accelerator Lever – are all conveniently located<br />

within the easy reach of the operator.<br />

Ueda: Only <strong>Kubota</strong> offers a product lineup consisting of 2-row and<br />

6-row walk-behind models in addition to the 4-row model.<br />

However, all three of these model types are not always available<br />

in all of the various marketplaces.<br />

Conveniently Located Levers.<br />

– 10 –


Superb Operational Efficiency of<br />

the Ride-On Type Rice Transplanters<br />

Model NSPU-68C operates at a maximum transplanting speed of 1.62m/s.<br />

Maximum<br />

Speed:<br />

1.62<br />

m/s<br />

m/s<br />

How about the ride-on type <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters?<br />

Ochi: Both 6-row and 8-row models are currently available, but the mainstay is the reasonably<br />

priced 6-row type model NSPU-68C that features a superb travel capability. Mounting a<br />

liquid-cooled 2-cylinder, 4-cycle gasoline engine made in Japan, this model delivers the<br />

dependably large power of 17 PS to realize a maximum Transplanting Speed of 1.62 m/s<br />

that the highest currently available in this class. As a result, it delivers a superior operational<br />

performance even in deep muddy paddies. Further, fuels costs are minimized by the<br />

fact that fuel consumption is also the lowest in this class.<br />

Ueda: The 4-Wheel Independent Suspension is another unique <strong>Kubota</strong> feature currently<br />

unavailable from any competitor. Movements caused by undulations of the Hardpan are<br />

faultlessly absorbed while the effects of impacts conveyed to either the machine body or<br />

to the Transplant Units are reduced. In addition, the stable body posture made possible by<br />

this feature contributes to an<br />

excellent straight steering<br />

capability.<br />

As all four wheels securely<br />

conform to differences in<br />

underlying ground surfaces<br />

wherever encountered, the<br />

operator is able to concentrate<br />

on the job-at-hand with total<br />

ease of mind.<br />

4-Wheel Independent Suspension.<br />

– 11 –


Outstanding Maneuverability<br />

What can you tell our readers about user-friendly characteristics?<br />

Ochi: As movements –forward, reverse, and speed adjustment – are simply controlled by the HST Lever in a<br />

responsive manner without requiring any clutch operation, maneuverability is outstanding. Another<br />

user-friendly characteristic are the wide steps that contribute to making it easier for the operator to get on<br />

and off as well as to replenish Seedlings.<br />

Speed and directional<br />

control with<br />

the HST Lever.<br />

Wide Step.<br />

Top-of-the-Line Model NSD8<br />

What are the strong points of the 8-row type model NSD8?<br />

Ochi: Model NSD8 features a remarkable performance along with superior operational efficiency even during<br />

heavy-duty applications. In fact, it is ideal for professional users to maximize profitability.<br />

This model is equipped with the high-quality 3-cylinder <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engine reliably made in Japan. Its<br />

21 PS of power makes possible a swift Travel Speed of 1.65 m/s – the highest currently available in this<br />

class. Tough and trustworthy, it dependably handles operations even in deep muddy paddies.<br />

Maximum<br />

Speed:<br />

1.65<br />

m/s<br />

m/s<br />

Maximum<br />

Power:<br />

21PS<br />

Top rated professional model NSD8 delivers outstanding performance.<br />

– 12 –


Highly Evaluated<br />

How have users evaluated these products?<br />

Ueda: On the whole, users consider <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters to be significantly superior to<br />

models available from competitors. Further, the <strong>Kubota</strong> Brand is such that it provides<br />

confidence and ease of mind. Among the specific comments are those stating:<br />

• Operations are much more comfortable with minimal fatigue being experienced as a result<br />

of having been freed from the hard, tiring demands of manual transplanting operations.<br />

• Operational efficiencies are incomparably superb in comparison to the manual<br />

transplanting process.<br />

• Initial worries were overcome based on the advice and support given by<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> representatives.<br />

• Advantages of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters include the superb servicing and support<br />

offered – including the valuable guidance provided relating to optimal techniques for<br />

raising seedlings in nursery trays.<br />

Looking to the Global Market<br />

What do you predict for <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters outside of Asia?<br />

Ueda: Varieties of rice are, of course, cultivated in various parts of the world including the Middle and Near East,<br />

Mediterranean nations, and Africa. In view of this, modest international marketing activities have already<br />

been initiated. Before going ahead full blast in global marketplaces, however, emphasis will continue to be<br />

given to the <strong>Kubota</strong> presence in Asia due to the fact that the mechanization of rice transplanting methods in<br />

many Asian countries is still in the early stages of implementation.<br />

Multi-Function Models Ideally Meet Diverse Needs<br />

What are the themes and perspectives for further spreading<br />

the use of <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters in Asia?<br />

Ochi: It is felt that <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters will not only become increasingly popular among<br />

individual users, but also that the market for these outstanding products will further expand<br />

to keep pace with the large-scale business growth being experienced by contractors.<br />

In order to fulfill the diverse needs of users, it is essential to continue focusing on the<br />

enhancement of durability for such parts as the Planting Arms that are exposed to severe<br />

wear as well as to upgrading the ease of conducting inspections and performing maintenance.<br />

Also under consideration is the development of multi-functional models capable of<br />

dispersing fertilizers and chemical herbicides.<br />

Ueda: I feel it is necessary to offer guidance to users to gain a deeper understanding of the advantages of the<br />

mechanical transplanting of box-nursed seedlings utilizing <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters. Of course, efforts are<br />

constantly being made to positively contribute to Asian agricultural mechanization.<br />

Thank you both for your insightful input regarding these outstanding <strong>Kubota</strong> Rice Transplanters.<br />

– 13 –


DEALER IN THE SPOTLIGHT<br />

Germany<br />

Mr. Werner Nietfeld and<br />

Ms. Waltraud Tramann<br />

Managing Directors<br />

Dealership:<br />

Tramann+Sohn GmbH & Co. KG<br />

(TSC)<br />

Location:<br />

Haselriege 6 / Etzhorn Oldenburg,<br />

Germany 26125<br />

Founded: May 1926<br />

Main Product Lines:<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Construction Machinery<br />

Ditch Witch Horizontal Directional<br />

Drilling Devices<br />

Ditch Witch Trencher<br />

Mr. Nietfeld and Ms. Tramann beside a <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavator.<br />

“Service is the key factor to achieve<br />

and maintain customer satisfaction”<br />

A History of Growth to Meet Emerging Market Needs<br />

The history of TSC commences in May of 1926 when Mr. Fritz Tramann – not yet 21 years of age – started the<br />

business dealing primarily with road construction materials. An interesting fact is that the company had to be<br />

registered in the name of Mr. Tramann’s father as the founder himself was not yet legally of age.<br />

In 1969, this energetic firm began to offer products manufactured by Ditch Witch of Oklahoma, USA. Today,<br />

the main Ditch Witch products in the German Market are the Horizontal Directional Drilling Devices.<br />

In 1981, <strong>Kubota</strong> Mini excavators exhibited at a small trade fair in Holland strongly impressed Mr. Dietmar<br />

Tramann, Fritz Tramann’s son. So strong was the impression, in fact, that since 1982 <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators<br />

have held a prominent position in the firm’s lineup of available products. Previously accustomed primarily to<br />

– 14 –


large equipment, European contractors have been surprised and pleased by the compact <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators<br />

that deliver powerful operational performances without requiring either a special license or a big truck for<br />

transportation.<br />

Besides its main location in Oldenburg, TSC today – under the guidance of Managing Directors Mr. Werner<br />

Nietfeld and Ms. Waltraud Tramann – has four branch locations in northern Germany employing a professional<br />

staff exceeding 70 employees to provide sales and service throughout that part of the country.<br />

The dealership.<br />

Growth in the market for <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators<br />

In 1999, <strong>Kubota</strong> (Deutschland) GmbH (KDG) awarded TSC for its annual sales the previous year of<br />

approximately 250 <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators. Since then, the growth of sales was rather constant until a market<br />

slump in the German construction industry that began in late 2008 that lasted through 2009. After that, however,<br />

growth has resumed with TSC recording sales of approximately 700 <strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators in 2011.<br />

Mr. Nietfeld and<br />

Ms. Tramann at a staff meeting.<br />

– 15 –


The relationship with customers<br />

TSC customers highly evaluate <strong>Kubota</strong> products for their outstanding quality, dependability, and durability.<br />

Further enhancing the image of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Brand are the positive efforts of the TSC dealer network. In fact, the<br />

basic philosophy of TSC is to develop positive customer relationships and provide exceptional service.<br />

Customers want and need their equipment to be in perfect operating condition at all times. That means<br />

providing trained mechanics and/or spare parts as soon as they are needed. And that is why TSC maintains a<br />

huge stock of spare parts and why 60% of its employees are Service Personnel.<br />

According to Mr. Nietfeld, "Sales efforts are responsible for a customer purchasing the first excavator.<br />

Thereafter, service is the key factor to achieve and maintain customer satisfaction.”<br />

Service staff at work.<br />

Hand-in-hand with <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

<strong>Kubota</strong>, as the equipment manufacturer, and TSC, as the dealer, have forged a strong partnership to ensure<br />

maximum customer satisfaction.<br />

– 16 –


C<br />

T<br />

Customer T estimonials: India<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Compact Tractor<br />

B2420<br />

“Customer Testimonials” is a section highlighting the high level of appreciation<br />

felt for <strong>Kubota</strong> products by various customers from around the world.<br />

Featured in this issue are “Customer Testimonials” from professional users<br />

of the model B2420 <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor in various parts of India.<br />

“I am now enjoying higher<br />

yield and higher income<br />

as well.”<br />

The primary reason for choosing <strong>Kubota</strong> is the<br />

combination of high output, large horsepower, and<br />

high ground clearance. Thanks to these features,<br />

I can now make fullest use of the European-made<br />

high-performance sprayer with the result that I no<br />

longer have to worry about bad field conditions or<br />

even about sinking when it rains.<br />

Vineyard<br />

Mr. Rajesh<br />

Bhaurath Deshmane<br />

Fitted with Power Steering and 4WD, Model<br />

B2420 is easy to handle and also moves around<br />

swiftly. Since I bought this <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor, I am<br />

able to raise healthier vines so that I am now<br />

enjoying higher yield and higher income as well.<br />

Location: Pimpalgaon Baswant Nashik District<br />

Crop: Grapes<br />

Cultivation Area: 25 acres<br />

Implements: Sprayer, Rotary tiller, Cultivator, Trailer<br />

– 17 –


“I can keep operating costs<br />

fairly low thanks to the superb<br />

spraying performance<br />

with the B2420.”<br />

Vineyard<br />

Mr. Madan<br />

Daguji Pawar<br />

Location: Mukhed Nashik District<br />

Crops: Grapes, Corn, Wheat, and Sugarcane<br />

Cultivation Area: 90 acres<br />

Implements: Sprayer, Cultivator, and Trailer<br />

I use the model B2420 <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor primarily<br />

for spraying operations. Making turns within the<br />

vineyard are easy and efficient as this model is<br />

fitted with Power Steering and 4WD. In fact,<br />

operations are happily quite comfortable with a<br />

significant reduction of fatigue. In addition, fuel<br />

efficiency is optimal compared with other<br />

similar tractors.<br />

Since I started using the B2420, operating costs are<br />

relatively low because all operations are completed<br />

far more efficiently. Further, the amount of<br />

fertilizer used and the frequency of spraying have<br />

been significantly reduced.<br />

“Since I started using the<br />

B2420, yield has risen to<br />

between 10% and 15%.”<br />

It makes me very glad that the B2420 is so easy to<br />

handle due to the fact that it is fitted with Power<br />

Steering and 4WD. I can complete neater rotary<br />

operations more efficiently than ever before.<br />

Further, the resulting ideal condition of the soil<br />

contributes to crops growing better.<br />

Indeed, since I started using the B2420, yield has<br />

risen to between 10% and 15%. In addition, the<br />

ease and simplicity of handling operations along<br />

with lower maintenance costs has resulted in<br />

overall expenses becoming significantly lower.<br />

Sugarcane<br />

Fields<br />

Mr. Balasaheb<br />

Tukaram More<br />

Location: Malwadi-2 Pune District<br />

Crop: Sugarcane<br />

Cultivation Area: 100 acres<br />

Implements: Rotary Tiller, Sprayer, and Ridger<br />

– 18 –


“As I am hoping to add<br />

several more <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors,<br />

I need to start working out a<br />

purchase plan.”<br />

Banana<br />

Plantation<br />

Mr. Raghuver<br />

Singh M. Suratya<br />

Location: Chanwada-Chitpur Vadodara District<br />

Crops: Bananas<br />

Cultivation Area: 50 acres<br />

Implements: Rotary Tiller<br />

Since this plantation covers an extensive area,<br />

I was constantly looking for a high-performance<br />

tractor. Finally, I found the Model B2402 <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Tractor to be ideal when using with a rotary. In<br />

contrast to tractors I previously used, its engine<br />

never overheats – even after prolonged hours of<br />

operation. Moreover, Power Steering and 4WD<br />

contribute to the operational speed being<br />

much faster.<br />

In spite of a slightly higher price tag, I’m sure I<br />

made the right decision in choosing this <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Tractor. And as I am hoping to add several more<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors, I need to start working out a<br />

purchase plan.<br />

“The operational efficiency<br />

of the B2420 is incomparably<br />

superior to previous experience.”<br />

With plenty of legroom, the model B2420 is very<br />

easy and comfortable to operate. Besides, the<br />

operational speed is fast. Mainly for these reasons<br />

I finally settled on the B2420 even though its price<br />

is a bit higher.<br />

I previously used oxen so that it was never<br />

possible to cultivate deeply enough. On the other<br />

hand, the weight and greater horsepower of this<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor now makes perfect cultivation<br />

possible. Finally, operational efficiency is<br />

incomparably superior so that yield and profit<br />

have been enhanced.<br />

Cotton<br />

Plantation<br />

Mr. Maheshbhai<br />

Jagdishbhai Patel<br />

Location: Por Vadodara District<br />

Crops: Cotton<br />

Cultivation Area: 10 acres<br />

Implements: Cultivator<br />

– 19 –


<strong>Kubota</strong> Aids Reconstruction<br />

in Disaster Stricken Northeastern Japan<br />

Ever since the 11th of March 2011 when the Great East Japan Earthquake<br />

and the resulting tsunami struck Northeastern Japan, the entire nation<br />

has been contributing to the reconstruction of disaster stricken areas.<br />

The damage is so extensive, however, that much still remains to be done.<br />

As one of Japan’s leading firms, <strong>Kubota</strong> is actively aiding in those<br />

reconstruction efforts by uniting the energy of the varied parts of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Group and its employees.<br />

Donations<br />

With a total value of approximately 500,000,000<br />

JPY (6,400,000 USD), <strong>Kubota</strong> donated cash along<br />

with twenty (20) units of construction equipment<br />

to assist in dismantling damaged structures,<br />

removing debris, etc.<br />

The Promotion of Economic<br />

Recovery in the Agricultural Sector<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong>-related cafeterias in 14 locations around<br />

the nation – including in Tokyo and Osaka – serve<br />

rice, vegetables, and other approved agricultural<br />

products from the disaster stricken areas as part<br />

of the efforts being made to promote economic<br />

recover in the agricultural sector.<br />

Providing Job Opportunities<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> provides job opportunities for recent high school graduates to help ease the tough<br />

employment situation in affected areas. During the first step of this process, twelve (12)<br />

jobs were provided to recent technical high school graduates in the coastal area of the<br />

Tohoku region. Providing such job opportunities is planned to continue indefinitely.<br />

– 20 –


Forces of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Group United<br />

The entire <strong>Kubota</strong> Group considers the preservation of the global environment to be a<br />

vital theme. Under the Water & Environment Systems Consolidated Division are the<br />

Pumps Division, the Pipe System Division, the Water Engineering & Solution Division,<br />

and <strong>Kubota</strong>-C.I. Co., Ltd. Under the Social Infrastructure Consolidated Division are the<br />

Electronic Machinery Division, the Materials Division, and the Steel Pipe Division.<br />

Together, they took action to positively contribute to the smooth rehabilitation of<br />

structures and facilities, the improvement of the environment as it effects daily life,<br />

and the implementation of social infrastructure in disaster-hit areas.<br />

The Water & Environment Systems Consolidated Division<br />

Pumps Division<br />

Donated Two Water Distribution Pump<br />

Cars to the Agriculture, Forestry,<br />

and Fisheries Department of Miyagi<br />

Prefecture to provide support to Water<br />

Distribution Plants in affected areas.<br />

Pipe System Division<br />

Promptly undertook the<br />

repair of pipelines to<br />

ensure a life supporting<br />

supply of water.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong>-C.I. Co., Ltd.<br />

Promptly undertook repairs to water<br />

and gas lines. In addition, supplied<br />

portable toilets<br />

that proved to<br />

be extremely<br />

useful.<br />

Water Engineering & Solution Division<br />

(Sewage Treatment Plant Business Unit)<br />

Delivered sewage disposal facilities to the<br />

temporary housing locations in disaster-hit areas<br />

and thereby contribute to a hygienic living<br />

environment.<br />

– 21 –


The Social Infrastructure Consolidated Division<br />

Electronic Equipped<br />

Machinery Division<br />

Prompt action to repair the tracks of JR East – the<br />

East Japan Railway Company – was indispensable<br />

to reconstruction of the bullet train system.<br />

Materials Division<br />

Putting <strong>Kubota</strong> G piles in place prevented<br />

landslides.<br />

Steel Pipe Division<br />

Featuring an outstanding Load Force coupled<br />

with easy installation, <strong>Kubota</strong> Steel Pipe Piles<br />

contributed to the ability to form reliable<br />

structure foundations.<br />

– 22 –


The Volunteer Activities of Sakai Plant Trainees<br />

A total of 58 volunteers from the <strong>Kubota</strong> Sakai Plant – trainees who joined the company<br />

in 2011 and their instructors – were dispatched to Kamaishi City in Iwate Prefecture from<br />

the 23rd to the 28th of October 2011 as part of the company-wide aid being provided to<br />

Disaster Stricken Northeastern Japan.<br />

For these trainees, serving as volunteers provided a valuable opportunity to experience the<br />

importance of helping disaster victims as they go about reconstructing their lives.<br />

It also enabled the volunteers to contemplate the significance of the overall<br />

company-wide contributions to reconstruction efforts in the disaster stricken areas.<br />

The manual removal and sorting of debris<br />

that construction equipment cannot deal<br />

with in places where only the concrete<br />

foundations of structures survived the effects<br />

of the tsunami.<br />

The rehabilitation of farmland requires the<br />

particularly difficult process of removing<br />

and sorting debris in order to be able to<br />

resume planting in the future.<br />

Undertaking the removal and sorting of debris at factory sites.<br />

– 23 –


<strong>Kubota</strong> Generated Power in<br />

a Miami Food Truck<br />

From<br />

the USA<br />

One of the latest trends sweeping the USA is the Food Truck industry – a mobile kitchen that makes it<br />

possible to prepare and vend food wherever and whenever.<br />

A distributor of <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America Corporation (KEA), Southeastern Power Products<br />

[http://www.southeasternpower.com/] located in Pompano Beach, Florida, sold a <strong>Kubota</strong> Model<br />

GL11000-USA Generator to Grill Master Cafe [http://www.grillmastercafe.com/] located in<br />

Miami, Florida.<br />

Compact, quiet, and fuel-efficient, this generator in the GL-Series of Generators – commonly called the<br />

Lowboy II – is used to power the Food Truck lighting, air conditioning, freezers, refrigerators, fryers,<br />

blenders, etc.<br />

As the Food Truck craze continues to gain in popularity, so does the sale of <strong>Kubota</strong> Lowboy II Generators.<br />

For more information about the <strong>Kubota</strong> GL-Series [Lowboy II] Generators, please visit the official<br />

website: http://generator.kubota.jp/gl/spec_gl_usa.html<br />

The Grill Master Cafe Food Truck.<br />

– 24 –


VP Forklifts<br />

From<br />

Russia<br />

Volzhskiy Pogruzchik, Ltd. (VP) – an exclusive manufacturer of diesel and electric forklifts – is located in<br />

Nizhny Novgorod; colloquially shortened to Nizhny. Not only is it the fifth largest city in Russia as well as<br />

the economic and cultural center of Central Russia’s vast Volga-Vyatka economic region, it is also the<br />

administrative center of the Nizhny Novgorod Oblast and the Volga Federal District.<br />

Designed specifically for the realities of operations in Russia, VP Forklifts are renowned for their quality<br />

and reliability. Incorporating <strong>Kubota</strong>’s state-of-the-art Diesel Technology, <strong>Kubota</strong> Engines Models<br />

D1803M, V2403M, V3300, and V3800-T in the range from 28 kW to 74 kW deliver all the power<br />

required in several of the VP Forklift models and thereby contribute to excellent operational performances<br />

during daily use in tough operating conditions.<br />

VP selected these <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engines for their exceptional reliability, low fuel consumption, and<br />

remarkable durability. With both VP and <strong>Kubota</strong> maintaining such high standards, this is<br />

an ideal partnership.<br />

Line-up of VP Forklifts.<br />

– 25 –


The <strong>Kubota</strong> presence in advertising media around the world<br />

From the USA<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Corporation (KTC) has constantly and<br />

consistently been committed to the maximum support of its<br />

customers by providing the highest levels of product quality,<br />

customer satisfaction, and marketing sales support.<br />

The following campaigns are examples of recent KTC<br />

marketing activities.<br />

“Milestones and Money Back”<br />

When KTC passed the important milestone of having<br />

sold 1.5 million <strong>Kubota</strong> products in the USA, it<br />

celebrated by proposing to give money back to its<br />

customers through rebates. Specifically, this special<br />

campaign offered customers throughout the USA<br />

valuable Instant Customer Rebates on select new<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> products through the 31st of December 2011.<br />

– 26 –


“Time to Buy: Year-End <strong>Kubota</strong> Deal Days”<br />

It is, of course, always a good time to buy a <strong>Kubota</strong> product. However, the “Time to Buy” ad revealed that<br />

“Now is a great time to buy – during the Year-End <strong>Kubota</strong> Deal Days.” This campaign succeeded in<br />

positive sales during 4th Quarter of 2011 through a special finance offer of US$0 down along with 0%<br />

A.P.R. financing for up to 5 years.<br />

“Make the Cut, Keep Your Cash”<br />

For both professional users and<br />

homeowners alike, the top-quality <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

ZD Series Zero-Turn Mowers are an<br />

excellent investment. The primary goal of<br />

this print and digital campaign was to<br />

stimulate sales with a special delayed<br />

payment plan. Through it, customers were<br />

enabled to place US$0 down while also<br />

receiving 0% A.P.R. financing. In addition,<br />

there would be zero payments due until<br />

April 2012. This campaign, which began<br />

on the 25th of September, continued<br />

through the 31st of December 2011.<br />

– 27 –


The 6th and 7th<br />

Service Manager Meetings<br />

At the facilities of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Farm and Industrial<br />

Machinery Service Ltd. (KS) in Sakai City near<br />

Osaka, the 6th Service Manager Meeting took<br />

place from the 23rd through the 27th of January<br />

2012 while the 7th Service Manager Meeting was<br />

held from the 27th of February through the 2nd<br />

of March.<br />

Participating in the first meeting were 13<br />

representatives not only from <strong>Kubota</strong> distributors<br />

in Europe (KUK, KE, KDG, and KES), North<br />

America (KTC, KEA, and KCL), and Australia<br />

(KTA), but also from <strong>Kubota</strong> manufacturing firms<br />

in the USA (KMA) and Germany (KTSE). Taking<br />

part in the second meeting were 16<br />

representatives from <strong>Kubota</strong> distributors in Asia<br />

(KKR, KAMS, STA, SKC, SKSB, KVC, KPI,<br />

and KESCO).<br />

Participants of the 6th Service Manager Meeting<br />

(Europe, North America, Australia).<br />

Participants of the 7th Service Manager Meeting (Asia).<br />

On the agenda of both meetings were reports from<br />

KS staff as well as from distributor representatives<br />

in attendance regarding the implementation of<br />

decisions made at the previous Service Manager<br />

Meetings. Following that, there were presentations<br />

and discussions on a variety of topics including<br />

“Challenges to be Undertaken”, “Quality Assurance<br />

Businesses”, and the new theme of “Comparisons to<br />

the Service Systems of Competitors”.<br />

At all times it was clear that each and every one<br />

of the participants was striving positively to<br />

successfully achieve the goals set for<br />

these meetings.<br />

Participants pay keen attention to the presentation being made.<br />

– 28 –


Topics<br />

From Vietnam<br />

The First <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Mekong Delta Cup Competition<br />

The 11 teams at the opening ceremony.<br />

On the 8 th and 9 th of October 2011, <strong>Kubota</strong> Vietnam Co., Ltd. (KVC) sponsored its first <strong>Kubota</strong> Mekong Delta<br />

Cup Competition for football. Taking place at Long Xuyen City in An Giang Province, <strong>Kubota</strong> dealer<br />

representatives from around the Mekong Delta were divided into 11 teams.<br />

While all the games were generally quite energetic, the final three matches were particularly hard fought.<br />

Playing heated<br />

games.<br />

– 29 –


The Truong Phu Team won the championship.<br />

The final match pitted the Truong Phu Team<br />

against the Tan Khoa Team. As the victor<br />

with a score of 4 to 1, the Truong Phu Team<br />

was declared the <strong>Kubota</strong> Mekong Delta<br />

Cup Champion for 2011.<br />

The final match.<br />

Mr. Satoshi Suzuki, KVC President, commented, “I am very happy that<br />

we could promote positive communication among dealers in<br />

circumstances somewhat different from those of business meetings. For<br />

this event, dealers from around the Mekong Delta alone took part, but I<br />

would like to invite many more teams from other areas to participate in<br />

the future.”<br />

Mr. Suzuki delivers greetings in Vietnamese.<br />

– 30 –


KUBOTA GLOBAL UPDATES<br />

KTC National Dealer Conference<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

U S A<br />

Held for the first time in three years, the <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Corporation (KTC) National Dealer Conference took place from<br />

the 28th of September through the 4th of October 2011 in San Antonio, Texas. It was attended by 1,705 representatives<br />

of 899 dealerships supporting the appeal to all related parties – including dealers and affiliates – to join efforts to realize an<br />

ever-brighter future under the main theme of “Growing into the future together.”<br />

Special guests from the <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation – including Mr. Yasuo Masumoto (Representative Director, Chairman,<br />

President, and CEO), Mr. Tetsuji Tomita (Representative Director and Vice President), Mr. Toshihiro Kubo (Director and<br />

Managing Executive Officer), Mr. Satoshi Iida (Managing Executive Officer), Mr. Shigeru Kimura (Managing Executive<br />

Officer), and Mr. Satoshi Machida (General Manager of Tractor Division) – unanimously stressed the growth strategy of<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> for the near future.<br />

During the course of the conference, those in<br />

attendance were introduced to new products, welcomed<br />

to demonstrations and test rides, and given the<br />

opportunity to place orders. In fact, the number of<br />

resulting orders was unexpectedly high as a result of<br />

emphasizing the main sales points and the competitive<br />

edge of the new models.<br />

This National Dealer Conference provided positive<br />

momentum for KTC to tackle business expansion as a<br />

result of further strengthening its relationship with dealers<br />

in spite of tough business conditions resulting from a<br />

hazy, unstable economic climate.<br />

Mr. Masumoto (L) and Mr. Tomita address a conference.<br />

Conducting a<br />

field demonstration.<br />

Participants pay keen attention to new products being introduced.<br />

– 31 –


BOI Fair 2012<br />

From<br />

2012<br />

Thailand<br />

The BOI Fair is held under the auspices of the Thai Board of Investment (BOI) with the purpose of stimulating trust in Thai<br />

industries through the demonstration of cutting-edge and innovative technologies with the goal of alluring further<br />

investment to Thailand. Being held for the third time in 2012 after a hiatus of twelve years, it took place with the theme of<br />

“Going Green for the Future” at the Impact Exhibition and Convention Center outside Bangkok and drew nearly 2.6<br />

million visitors admitted free during the 16-day period from the 5th to the 22nd of January.<br />

For this event, pavilions in the Outdoor Area beside Muang Thong Thani Lake included the Royal Pavilion, the Thailand<br />

Pavilion, the BOI Pavilion, and outdoor pavilions operated by 39 global businesses. Indoors, 3,000 booths were set up for<br />

participating companies to display their latest technologies. In addition, there were various seminars and business<br />

conferences.<br />

At the <strong>Kubota</strong> Pavilion, a wide range of products featuring <strong>Kubota</strong>’s innovative and cutting-edge technologies were<br />

displayed and demonstrated under the theme of “For Earth, For Life”. Further, there were films introducing a broad range<br />

of technologies and products that demonstrate the utmost attention paid by <strong>Kubota</strong> to achieve ever greater progress in<br />

the areas of food, water, and the environment. Enjoying particular success among the well over 73,000 visitors to the<br />

popular <strong>Kubota</strong> Pavilion was the demonstration of The Rice Color Sorter and Rice Cookers during which Sushi was<br />

offered to one and all free of charge.<br />

At BOI Fair 2012, awareness of <strong>Kubota</strong> agricultural<br />

machinery was enhanced. Also enhanced was the<br />

understanding of <strong>Kubota</strong>’s dedication in the areas of food,<br />

water, and the environment.<br />

Visitors gathered for the Sushi<br />

offered by <strong>Kubota</strong>.<br />

Inside and outside of<br />

the <strong>Kubota</strong> Pavilion.<br />

– 32 –


AGRITECHNICA 2011<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

Germany<br />

AGRITECHNICA is the world's leading exhibition for agricultural machinery. In 2011, this prestigious event took place<br />

from November 13th to 19th at the world’s largest exhibition grounds that are located in Hanover. Altogether,<br />

there were 2,704 exhibitors from 47 countries and a grand total of 419,212 visitors – 97,676 of them from nations outside<br />

of Germany.<br />

The Tractor Department of <strong>Kubota</strong> (Deutschland) GmbH (KDG) – participating for the first time – attracted avid visitor<br />

attention to its 600m 2 booth showcasing several M-Series Tractors: six standard models ranging from 48 kW to 100 kW<br />

and three special crop models ranging from 48 kW to 73 kW. Highlighting the maneuverability, power, features, and<br />

operational performance of these machines was the slogan “Agile. Strong. Orange. <strong>Kubota</strong>.” along with various<br />

eye-catching graphics.<br />

Making its global premiere and projected to be launched in the German market towards the end of 2012 was the model<br />

M135GX <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Tractor that is in the over 74 kW range and incorporates various innovative features including the<br />

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) that contributes to minimizing emissions. In fact, this model is already in full compliance of<br />

the new stage IIIB European Emission Standards.<br />

The KDG Engine Division has taken part in<br />

AGRITECHNICA for the past 28 years. In 2011,<br />

its participation was in cooperation with I.M.A.<br />

H.-D. Groeschler GmbH, the exclusive <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Engine distributor in Germany. The main focus<br />

of their booth was the model V3800-CR-TE4<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engine that complies with the<br />

stringent EPA Interim 4 and EU Stage IIIB<br />

emissions regulations.<br />

Building on its success in 2011, KDG is already<br />

looking forward to the next AGRITECHNICA<br />

show in 2013.<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor booth.<br />

Visitors drawn to the <strong>Kubota</strong> products on display.<br />

– 33 –


EIMA Agrimach India 2011<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

i a<br />

I n d<br />

Over a period of three days from the 8th to the 10th of<br />

December 2011, EIMA Agrimach India – a comprehensive<br />

trade show of agricultural machinery – took place in Delhi<br />

with the participation of numerous agricultural machinery<br />

firms including <strong>Kubota</strong> Agricultural Machinery India Pvt.<br />

Ltd. (KAI). Testifying to the ever-expanding market in India<br />

for agricultural machinery, this trade show drew<br />

approximately 25,000 visitors as compared to<br />

approximately 18,000 previously.<br />

At the <strong>Kubota</strong> booth that attracted numerous visitors<br />

throughout the show, KAI displayed tractors, rice<br />

transplanters, and combine harvesters. In fact, an<br />

emphasis was placed on demonstrating and explaining<br />

the rice transplanters that are expected to experience a<br />

significant boost in sales throughout India.<br />

Eager visitors crowd the <strong>Kubota</strong> booth.<br />

A welcome outcome of this event is that the <strong>Kubota</strong> brand<br />

successfully gained greater popularity. Looking to the<br />

future, KAI plans to continue expanding its business with<br />

the aim of making an ever more positive contribution to<br />

the advancement of Indian agricultural mechanization.<br />

CIAME 2011<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

China<br />

Demonstrations drew keen attention.<br />

The China International Agricultural Machinery Exhibition (CIAME) has the longest history for such events in that country<br />

as a result of having occurred regularly for over 50 years. From the 26th through the 29th of October, CIAME 2011 took<br />

place at the Zhengzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Altogether, there were over 1,600 domestic and<br />

international exhibitors welcoming more than 114,000 visitors – a new record high.<br />

At the <strong>Kubota</strong> booth, crowds of visitors were drawn to the line-up of displayed <strong>Kubota</strong> products that included tractors,<br />

combine harvesters, rice transplanters, and other related products such as vegetable transplanters. Drawing special<br />

attention were the demonstrations of the vegetable transplanters.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> products on display.<br />

– 34 –


BICES 2011<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

China<br />

BICES – the Beijing International Construction Machinery<br />

Exhibition & Seminar – is the second largest construction<br />

trade fair in China. In 2011, it was held from the 18th to the<br />

21st of October with <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine (SHANGHAI) Co., Ltd.<br />

(KESCO) taking part.<br />

Drawing the attention of visitors to the bright, eye-catching<br />

KESCO booth was an ample lineup of engines including<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engine Models V3800DICR-TIE3 and<br />

V3307DI-T-E3B as well as models mounted on <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

construction machinery. In addition, KESCO displayed the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engine Model V3800-CR-TE4 that had<br />

received Tier 4 Interim Certification from the California Air<br />

Resources Board on 1 July 2011 in compliance with<br />

the Tier 4 Interim regulations coming into effect in 2012.<br />

It should be noted that <strong>Kubota</strong> thus became the first engine<br />

manufacturer in the world to receive this certification for<br />

engines with a displacement of 4 liters or less.<br />

BICES also provided an excellent opportunity for KESCO<br />

executives to meet with representatives of leading Chinese<br />

OEM firms – a positive step in KESCO’s sales promotion<br />

activities aimed at achieving top share in the Chinese<br />

engine market.<br />

Enthusiastic<br />

attention paid<br />

to <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

engines on<br />

display.<br />

STA Commended as an Excellent<br />

Japanese Business<br />

Currently, 169 Japanese firms conduct business<br />

operations in Kaohsiung City – the largest number of all<br />

the foreign businesses located in that part of Taiwan.<br />

On the 17th of November 2011, the Excellent Japanese<br />

Business Commendation Ceremony – the second annual<br />

event recognizing the contributions of Japanese firms to<br />

exports, job creation, and society – took place in<br />

Kaohsiung City. Selected to be honored were five firms<br />

including Shin Taiwan Agricultural Machinery Co., Ltd.<br />

(STA) – the <strong>Kubota</strong> distributor in Taiwan.<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

Taiwan<br />

Mr. Fujitani delivers<br />

his greetings.<br />

During the ceremony, the Mayor of Kaohsiung, the<br />

Honorable Chen Ju, asserted “The growth of Japanese<br />

businesses contributes positively to the growth of<br />

Kaohsiung.” STA President, Mr. Teruo Fujitani, informed<br />

those in attendance “STA has successfully been doing<br />

business for 50 years counting on the kind support of<br />

Taiwanese society. For the next 50 years, we aim at being<br />

able to double our efforts in order to make further<br />

contributions to the development of agriculture in Taiwan.”<br />

Mr. Fujitani (4th from R) poses with the other<br />

commendation winners.<br />

– 35 –


<strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engines Receive<br />

Tier-4 Interim Certification<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

Japan<br />

In keeping with an increasing worldwide awareness of the need to<br />

conserve the global environment, <strong>Kubota</strong> has placed top priority on<br />

ensuring the environmental compatibility of its products through the<br />

reduction of any possible environmental impact.<br />

As of 2012 in North America, Europe, and Japan, the new set of Tier-4<br />

Emission Regulations has come into effect for engines with an output<br />

range between 56 and 130 kW. As a responsible manufacturer, the<br />

off-highway <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engine Model V3800-CR-TE4 was developed<br />

to be in full compliance with these regulations as soon as possible. So<br />

successful were these efforts, in fact, that on 1 July 2011 <strong>Kubota</strong> received<br />

the Tier 4 Interim Certification from the California Air Resources Board –<br />

the first engine manufacturer in the world to receive this certification for<br />

engines with a displacement of 4 liters or less.<br />

At the same time, the <strong>Kubota</strong> 6.1 liter engines (model V6108 engines) also<br />

received Tier 4 Interim Certification.<br />

Liquid cooled diesel engine V3800-CR-TE4<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model FS200 Fertilizer Spreader<br />

Introduced at SKC Dealer Meeting<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

Thailand<br />

Launched at the Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation Co., Ltd. (SKC) Dealer Meeting held in September of 2011, the durable, cost<br />

efficient, and labor saving <strong>Kubota</strong> Model FS200 Fertilizer Spreader is the perfect partner to <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors. As this<br />

implement is expected to play an important role in the expansion of <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor sales in Thailand, its introduction was<br />

given a standing ovation.<br />

The current primary target for this model is to enhance fertilizing efficiency among the palm trees and rubber trees<br />

extensively cultivated in the southern part of Thailand. One outcome of this is that the usage of tractors in that part of the<br />

country is expected to increase. Its versatility is also expected to arouse demand in neighboring Southeast Asian nations<br />

where crop varieties similar to those in Thailand are raised.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> plans to positively introduce this model into those nations based on market surveys, the use of sample sales, and<br />

through any other positive means available. It further plans to offer other such versatile implements able to contribute to<br />

the promotion of agricultural mechanization in Asia. In this way, the sales of <strong>Kubota</strong> products will be enhanced while trust<br />

in the <strong>Kubota</strong> brands is strengthened.<br />

FS200 delivers a superb performance.<br />

Participants pay special attention to demonstrations.<br />

– 36 –


KEA Introduces the New Model WG1605<br />

Industrial Gas Engine at the ICUEE Expo<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

U S A<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America Corporation (KEA) was pleased to introduce the new model WG1605 Industrial Gas Engine in<br />

October of 2011 at the International Construction and Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE) held in Louisville, Kentucky.<br />

This exposition is held in the fall every two years highlighting hands-on demonstrations of both construction and utility<br />

equipment. Attendees are given the opportunity to operate equipment to gain first-hand experience with what is new in<br />

the market.<br />

At the exposition, the WG1605 attracted avid attention and interest proving that it is a significant addition to the lineup of<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Industrial Gas Engines that includes the previously available models WG752 and WG972. Common features<br />

include such high-performance standards as minimal carbon footprints along with low noise and vibration.<br />

The WG1605 is a 1.5 liter engine with<br />

a maximum industrial output of 41<br />

kW at 3600 rpm for the LPG version<br />

and 42.5 kW at 3600 rpm for the<br />

gasoline version. It is also available<br />

with a maximum industrial output of<br />

36 kW at 3000 rpm for the LPG<br />

version and 37 kW at 3000 rpm for<br />

the gasoline version.<br />

KEA is very excited about this new<br />

engine and its future. By adding the<br />

WG1605 to its already highly<br />

regarded engine line, <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

demonstrates its continued growth in<br />

the engine business.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> engines on display.<br />

KEA Hosts Tier 4 Training for U.S. Distributors<br />

In November of 2011, <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America Corporation (KEA) hosted two separate sessions of Tier 4 training for its<br />

U.S. distributors. Each session lasted for three full days, and each welcomed approximately 25 attendees. In addition to<br />

classroom instruction, there were live demonstrations and training labs. Topics included Tier 4 strategy, application<br />

review process requirements, emissions regulations and requirements review, and an introduction to <strong>Kubota</strong>’s new<br />

WG1605 Industrial Gas Engine.<br />

With dedicated engineers from <strong>Kubota</strong>’s Service and Application Departments interactively assisting in the training, the<br />

attending distributors departed with a thorough understanding of the 2012 and 2013 Tier 4 engines as well as having<br />

become familiar with the look and performance of model WG1605. Along with live demonstrations, the WG1605 training<br />

included such topics as engine specifications, installation instructions, the interface panel, and service tools.<br />

After reviewing feedback, training sessions were deemed a success due to the fact that the distributors in attendance<br />

found the sessions productive and informative.<br />

– 37 –


Sri Lankan <strong>Kubota</strong> Combine Harvester<br />

Distributor Visits Japan<br />

From<br />

2011<br />

Sri Lanka<br />

Established in 1878, Hayleys Agriculture Holdings Limited – located in Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka – is<br />

one of that nation’s largest and most prestigious firms. In 2011, it became Sri Lanka’s exclusive distributor of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Combine Harvesters.<br />

On the 11th of October 2011, Mr. Upali<br />

Gangoda – the CEO of Hayleys Agriculture<br />

Holdings Limited – was in Japan to visit the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Head Office in Osaka, the Sakai<br />

Plant, and the Western Japan Parts<br />

Center. In addition to meeting with <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

executives, Mr. Gangoda was able to<br />

deepen his understanding of <strong>Kubota</strong>’s<br />

innovative, leading-edge technologies.<br />

In cooperation with <strong>Kubota</strong>, Hayleys<br />

Agriculture Holdings Limited is taking steps<br />

to expand the sales of <strong>Kubota</strong> Combine<br />

Harvesters in Sri Lanka where rice is<br />

primary crop and mechanization is<br />

accelerating as the nation develops.<br />

Mr. Gangoda at the Sakai Plant.<br />

The 65th All Japan Dealer Meeting<br />

From<br />

2012<br />

Japan<br />

Approximately 4,100 dealers, distributors, and visitors from around the world as well as from all parts of Japan gathered<br />

in Kyoto for the 65th All Japan Dealers’ Meeting on the 17th and 18th of January 2012.<br />

Mr. Yasuo Masumoto, the President of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation, delivered opening greetings as well as the Management<br />

Policy for 2012. Special emphasis was placed on the need for the further globalization of <strong>Kubota</strong> business.<br />

Next on the first day agenda was the commendation ceremony that presented Outstanding Sales Performance Awards<br />

for 2011 to deserving dealers and distributors.<br />

On the 2nd day, enthusiastic attention was directed to the innovative <strong>Kubota</strong> products on display and<br />

being demonstrated.<br />

Mr. Masumoto delivers his greetings.<br />

Presentations drew enthusiastic attention.<br />

– 38 –


Submissions to<br />

“READERS’ FORUM” Welcome!<br />

“Local Festivals and Traditional Events”<br />

Readers are cordially invited to submit articles and photos featuring<br />

“Local Festivals and Traditional Events” for publication in the <strong>Kubota</strong> Times.<br />

Please e-mail submissions to madoka_iketani@nk.kubota.co.jp<br />

This ceremony also takes place at temples and shrines<br />

in every part of the country.<br />

The photo below shows such an event with people<br />

seeking to catch the beans that are being scattered<br />

from the stage.<br />

Example<br />

from Japan The Bean-Throwing Ceremony<br />

An integral part of the celebration of spring in Japan<br />

is “Setsubun” – the Bean-Throwing Ceremony –<br />

that occurs annually on the 3 rd of February. In the<br />

evening that day, people chant “Out with the ogre<br />

(evil)! In with the happiness!” while scattering<br />

parched soy beans inside and outside their homes.<br />

KUBOTA TIMES<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> In-Company Staff<br />

Hitoshi Sasaki / Madoka Iketani:<br />

Farm & Industrial Machinery International Planning &<br />

Control Department<br />

Sahori Kamiya / Yoshifumi Misaka / Fumiaki Taniguchi /<br />

Yuichi Okuno: Tractor Export Department.<br />

Kae Kojima: Engine Global Marketing Department<br />

Motonari Asai / Kengo Ota: Construction Machinery Division<br />

Ai Kotani / Hiroshi Shimada: Farm Machinery Division<br />

Mitsuhiro Mitsuhashi:<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Farm & Industrial Machinery Service Ltd.<br />

Fumiyoshi Araki:<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Machinery Trading Co., Ltd.<br />

Yuya Hosono:<br />

Farm & Industrial Machinery Related Products Division Sales Dept.<br />

Creative Staff: Sunrise Proper Co., Ltd.<br />

Editor: Tatsuo Miyoshi<br />

Writer: Paul Faust<br />

Design: Kazuko Iwamoto<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Times<br />

FIM International Planning &<br />

Control Department<br />

KUBOTA Corporation<br />

2-47, Shikitsu-higashi 1-chome, Naniwa-ku,<br />

Osaka, Japan 556-8601<br />

Fax: 81/6/6648-3521<br />

E-Mail: madoka_iketani@nk.kubota.co.jp<br />

– 39 –


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E-mail: madoka_iketani@nk.kubota.co.jp<br />

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