Kubota Canada Ltd. - Luyckx

Kubota Canada Ltd. - Luyckx Kubota Canada Ltd. - Luyckx

NO.<br />

93<br />

2010<br />

Special Edition


In 2010, <strong>Kubota</strong>’s 120th Anniversary is being celebrated and the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Times resumes publication. From this issue – #93 – it is<br />

distributed as PDF files as well as being available on the official<br />

homepages of affiliated <strong>Kubota</strong> distributors worldwide.<br />

Of special note is the fact that selected articles will be<br />

distributed in multiple languages and appropriately<br />

marked ML in the “Contents”.<br />

For readers living in the corresponding area, such articles<br />

will be in Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Korean,<br />

Spanish, Tamir, Thai, or Vietnamese.<br />

CONTENTS<br />

P. 3-4<br />

P. 5-8<br />

P. 9-10<br />

ML<br />

P. 11-18<br />

ML<br />

ML<br />

P. 19-23<br />

ML<br />

ML<br />

P. 24<br />

P. 25<br />

P. 26-29<br />

120th Anniversary Special Message<br />

120 Years of Growth and Expansion<br />

120th Anniversary Special Interview<br />

Mr. Tetsuji Tomita, Representative Director and<br />

Senior Managing Executive Officer<br />

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

•<br />

•<br />

Model DC-95GM Combine<br />

Mini Excavator Models KX057-4, U55(-4), and U48-4<br />

Dealer in the Spotlight<br />

•<br />

•<br />

•<br />

China: Jiuhui International Construction Machinery, <strong>Ltd</strong>.<br />

Thailand: <strong>Kubota</strong> Kamphaeng Phet (Hua Heng Lee) Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>.<br />

Wales: J. Davies & Son<br />

Special Reports<br />

From <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine America Corporation (KEA ) in the USA<br />

Ads of the TIMES<br />

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

<strong>Kubota</strong> Global Updates<br />

Updates from the global members of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Family


120th Anniversary Special Message<br />

In 2010, <strong>Kubota</strong> Group celebrates its 120th Anniversary.<br />

To commemorate this auspicious occasion,<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> has created a new Global Slogan.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> promises to continue seeking positive solutions<br />

to food, water, and environmental problems<br />

throughits global businesses.<br />

By working to renew and preserve the environment while<br />

contributing to the production of an abundant supply of<br />

food and water, Earth will be beautified and the quality<br />

of humanexistence will be supported for all eternity.


Food<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> plays a vital part<br />

in increasing global food<br />

production by developing<br />

and providing reliable,<br />

high-performance<br />

agricultural machinery.<br />

Environment<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> actively pursues the enhancement<br />

of the global environment by supplying<br />

protective solutions that include sewage<br />

treatment plants, submerged and ceramic<br />

membrane water treatment systems, and<br />

water treatment tanks.<br />

Water<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> contributes to providing access<br />

to clean water globally by<br />

incorporating the advanced water<br />

engineering expertise gained from<br />

producing such products as<br />

ductile cast iron pipes and water<br />

system pumps.


120Years of Growth and Expansion<br />

The Early Period<br />

At nineteen years of age, Gonshiro<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> founded an iron foundry that<br />

manufactured iron castings – the<br />

beginning of what was to become the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation.<br />

He then guided the steady<br />

growth of the firm until<br />

he passed away at<br />

the age of 90.<br />

The founder as the firm’s<br />

Senior Advisor in 1954.<br />

Gonshiro <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

1890<br />

At 19 years of age,<br />

Gonshiro Oode<br />

becomes the founder of<br />

Oode Casting.<br />

1922<br />

Production of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Kerosene<br />

Engine for<br />

agro-industrial<br />

purposes<br />

commences.<br />

1893<br />

The young founder,<br />

Gonshiro Oode<br />

The development of<br />

iron pipes for the<br />

supply of water<br />

commences.<br />

The founder with a<br />

shipment of iron<br />

pipes in 1905.<br />

1930<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Kerosene Engine is selected as an “Excellent<br />

Domestic Product” by Japan’s Ministry of Commerce<br />

and Industry.<br />

Gonshiro <strong>Kubota</strong> is named President of <strong>Kubota</strong> Tekko-sho.<br />

1937<br />

The Sakai Engine Plant (later the<br />

Sakai Plant) commences operations.<br />

1897<br />

Gonshiro is adopted by Toshiro <strong>Kubota</strong>.<br />

As a result he takes the <strong>Kubota</strong> family name and changes the<br />

name of the firm to “<strong>Kubota</strong> Tekko-sho” (<strong>Kubota</strong> Iron Works).


Contributing to Agricultural Modernization<br />

1947<br />

Production and<br />

sales of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Cultivators<br />

commences.<br />

1962<br />

Production of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model L15R<br />

Paddy-Field Tractor<br />

commences in<br />

Japan.<br />

1953<br />

Name of company changes to “<strong>Kubota</strong> Tekko”.<br />

Construction equipment business is established.<br />

1960<br />

The T15<br />

The First Ride-On Tractor<br />

Model in Japan<br />

Production and<br />

sales of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model<br />

T15 Tractor – the<br />

first ride-on<br />

model in Japan –<br />

commences.<br />

1966<br />

The First<br />

Binder Model<br />

Production of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model<br />

HC75 3-Row Binder<br />

commences in<br />

Japan.<br />

1968<br />

Assembly line for <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engines commences<br />

operations at the Sakai Plant.<br />

The First<br />

Combine Model<br />

Production of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model<br />

HT125 5-Row<br />

Combine<br />

commences in<br />

Japan.<br />

1970<br />

Shin Taiwan Agricultural Machinery Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (STA) – base<br />

for the production of agricultural equipment – is established<br />

in Taiwan.<br />

1961<br />

Production and sales of engines and cultivators commences<br />

in Taiwan.<br />

The First<br />

Rice Transplanter Model<br />

Production of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Model<br />

SPS Single-Wheel<br />

2-Row Rice<br />

Transplanter<br />

commences in<br />

Japan.


Global Marketing<br />

1972<br />

Begins full scale global<br />

marketing with the<br />

establishment of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Tractor Corporation (KTC)<br />

in the USA.<br />

1973<br />

1974<br />

1975<br />

1976<br />

1977<br />

1978<br />

1979<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> (U.K.) Limited (KUK) – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor distributor –<br />

is established in the UK.<br />

1983<br />

1987<br />

KTC head office<br />

The Model L175 Tractor<br />

is introduced into<br />

the US market.<br />

P.T. <strong>Kubota</strong> Indonesia (PTKI) – base for engine production and<br />

sales – is established in Indonesia.<br />

Production of the <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Model KH-1 mini-excavator<br />

commences.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Europe S.A.S. (KE) –<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor distributor – is<br />

established in France.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> <strong>Canada</strong> <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KCL) – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor distributor – is<br />

established in <strong>Canada</strong>.<br />

The Sakai Plant wins the Deming Prize<br />

for major advances in quality<br />

improvement.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Australia<br />

(KTA) – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor<br />

distributor – is established in<br />

Australia.<br />

The first M-Series Tractor –<br />

the M4000 – is introduced<br />

into the US market.<br />

The Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Industry Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKI) – base for diesel<br />

engine production and sales – is established in Thailand.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> (Deutschland) GmbH<br />

(KDG) – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor<br />

distributor – is established in<br />

Germany.<br />

Total engine production<br />

exceeds 10 million units.<br />

Model KH-1 mini-excavator<br />

1988<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Manufacturing of America Corporation (KMA) – base for the<br />

production and sales of tractors and implements – is established in<br />

the USA.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Baumaschinen GmbH (KBM) – base for the production of<br />

small-size construction machinery – is established in Germany.<br />

1990<br />

100th Anniversary<br />

is celebrated.<br />

Name is changed to “<strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Corporation” and the new<br />

corporate logo introduced.<br />

Ceremony commemorating<br />

100th Anniversary.<br />

Total tractor production exceeds 1.5 million units.<br />

1993<br />

Becomes the world’s first company certified by the California Air<br />

Resources Board to be in compliance with the Utility, Lawn and<br />

Garden Equipment (ULGE) regulation of utility diesel engines.<br />

1995<br />

The U20 – the first Zero Tail<br />

Swing mini excavator – is<br />

introduced in Japan.<br />

1997<br />

Center Direct Injection Diesel Engines<br />

Models V3300/V3300DI-T are developed.<br />

1998<br />

Model V3300DI-T<br />

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

– <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine distributor – is established in the USA.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Agricultural Machinery<br />

(Suzhou) Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KAMS) is<br />

established and production of<br />

combine harvesters<br />

commences in China.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> España SA (KES) – <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor distributor – is<br />

established in Spain.<br />

2000<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Korea Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KKR) –<br />

agricultural equipment<br />

distributor – is established in<br />

Korea.<br />

The first innovative Zero-Turn<br />

Mower Model ZD18 is<br />

introduced in the USA.<br />

2002<br />

Model PRO488 Combine is<br />

introduced into the Chinese market.<br />

Total engine<br />

production exceeds<br />

20 million units.<br />

Ceremony commemorating<br />

engine production at the Sakai Plant<br />

exceeding 20 million units.<br />

Model ZG23


Spreading the <strong>Kubota</strong> Brand Across the World<br />

2003<br />

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

(Shanghai) Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KCS) –<br />

construction machinery distributor –<br />

is established in China.<br />

Model U-50 mini excavator<br />

is introduced into<br />

the Chinese market.<br />

2007<br />

Introduction of DC-Series Combines in Asian markets<br />

commences. In 2007 the DC-60 is introduced in Thailand, in<br />

2008 the DC-68G is introduced in India, in 2009 the DC-60 is<br />

introduced in Vietnam, and in 2010 the DC-95GM is<br />

introduced in Thailand.<br />

Center Direct Injection<br />

Diesel Engines Models<br />

V3800/V3800DI-T and New<br />

Super Mini Series Models<br />

D902/Z602 are developed.<br />

2004<br />

The multi-purpose Utility Vehicle (UV) –specifically<br />

developed for the North American market – becomes a big<br />

hit upon being introduced.<br />

2005<br />

Utility Vehicle models in the RTV-Series have an extensive<br />

range of applications for a wide variety of users.<br />

Total tractor<br />

production exceeds<br />

3 million units.<br />

Model V3800DI-T<br />

Model D902<br />

Model DC-60<br />

2008<br />

2009<br />

Model DC-95GM<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Engine (SHANGHAI) Co.,<strong>Ltd</strong>. (KESCO) – <strong>Kubota</strong> engine<br />

and generator distributor – is established in China.<br />

Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Metal Technology Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKMT) – the foundry<br />

manufacturing castings – is established in Thailand.<br />

Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKT) - the first plant for the<br />

production of Japanese tractors is established in Thailand.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Agricultural Machinery India Pvt. <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KAI) – agricultural<br />

equipment distributor – is established in India.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Vietnam Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KVC) – agricultural equipment<br />

distributor – is established in Vietnam.<br />

The line ups of the KX Series and the U Series of mini<br />

excavators – renowned for Tight Tail Swing and Zero Tail<br />

Swing respectively – are significantly reinforced. In 2009,<br />

the KX057 is introduced in North America while the KX057-4<br />

is launched in Europe.<br />

Commemorative models<br />

celebrate tractor<br />

production exceeding<br />

3-million units.<br />

2006<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Industrial Equipment Corporation (KIE) – tractor<br />

implement distributor – is established in the USA.<br />

Widespread introduction in global markets of the broad<br />

range of New M40-Series Tractors commences – in North<br />

America and Australia in 2006, in Thailand in 2007, and<br />

then in Europe in 2008.<br />

2010<br />

The KX057-4 and U55-4 mini excavators.<br />

SKT commences production of combine harvesters in Thailand.<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation<br />

celebrates its 120th<br />

Anniversary.<br />

The first Compact Track<br />

Loaders - Models SVL75 and<br />

SVL90 – are introduced in<br />

North America.<br />

The Model SVL75 Compact Track Loader.<br />

Model M6040<br />

Model M9540<br />

The NSPU-68C – the first ride-on<br />

type Rice Transplanter in such<br />

Asian countries as India and<br />

Malaysia – is introduced.<br />

Model NSPU-68C<br />

The Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Industry Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKI) and Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor<br />

Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKT) unite to become SIAM KUBOTA Corporation Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>.<br />

(SKC) for the sales and production of <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors and Combines<br />

in Thailand.


“Work Together,<br />

Grow Together”<br />

Enhance Recognition of the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Brand in the<br />

International Marketplace<br />

Comprehensive Development of<br />

Products, Technologies, and Services<br />

Mr. Tetsuji Tomita [TT]<br />

Representative Director and<br />

Senior Managing<br />

Executive Officer<br />

KT: What has been the main focus of <strong>Kubota</strong>’s business<br />

development throughout its history?<br />

TT: For 120 years, <strong>Kubota</strong> has focused on providing the<br />

quality products, innovative technologies, and the<br />

widespread range of services required by society and its<br />

individual members. In this way, <strong>Kubota</strong> makes positive<br />

contributions to the realization of ever greater prosperity<br />

wherever it makes its presence felt around the globe.<br />

With the attainment of nutritional sufficiency an eternal<br />

theme facing mankind, providing leading-edge<br />

agricultural equipment that enhances the production of<br />

better crops of ever greater volume is the fundamental<br />

mission – in fact, the very raison d’être – of <strong>Kubota</strong>’s<br />

Farm and Industrial Machinery Consolidated Division.<br />

That being the case, I am determined to lead this division<br />

to fulfill this role with ever greater efficiency in the future.<br />

KT: To continue <strong>Kubota</strong>’s contributions in the attainment<br />

of outstanding results in the field of agriculture, what do<br />

you think will be required in order to overcome the many<br />

harsh business realities facing the world today?<br />

TT: Due to the fact that the world’s population continues<br />

to grow while at the same time an increasing number of<br />

people are leaving rural areas behind in the hope of<br />

finding greater prosperity in urban areas, the need to<br />

secure a stable supply of foodstuffs will be further<br />

intensified in the future. In such a situation, <strong>Kubota</strong> will<br />

play an increasingly vital role with its “Three Core<br />

Businesses” – Agriculture, Water Environment, and<br />

Social Infrastructure. In today’s exceptionally<br />

competitive world, <strong>Kubota</strong> will continue to lead the field


y focusing on the comprehensive and systematic<br />

development of its core businesses both individually<br />

and in combination.<br />

Interactive Energetic Relationship<br />

Is Important<br />

KT: What movements or trends do you foresee in the<br />

international marketplace?<br />

TT: The world’s economies are constantly undergoing<br />

change and development – particularly among nations in<br />

Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Not only<br />

is it essential to take the emerging needs of those<br />

economies into consideration in the development of<br />

suitable agricultural equipment, but also to establish<br />

energetic interactive relationships between <strong>Kubota</strong> and<br />

those markets in order to make a positive contribution<br />

towards achieving a stable supply of foodstuffs.<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Role<br />

in the Asian Market<br />

KT: What is the role of <strong>Kubota</strong> in helping to provide for the<br />

agricultural needs of emerging Asian economies?<br />

TT: Asia is currently home to approximately half of the<br />

world’s population, and that percentage is predicted to<br />

continue growing in the future. Asia produces nearly 90%<br />

of the world’s rice as well as nearly 50% of its wheat.<br />

However, farming in Asia is predominantly on a<br />

small-scale, labor intensive basis as opposed to the<br />

mechanized agricultural practices of Western nations. And<br />

yet, the times are changing so that there is an ever<br />

increasing need for agricultural mechanization to take the<br />

place of manual labor. Meeting that need are <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

products incorporating innovative technology and long<br />

years of accumulated experience. As a result, the <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

brand is steadily advancing in the Asian market. In fact, it is<br />

expected that our business in that part of the world will<br />

expand significantly over the next ten years so that it will<br />

become our largest market.<br />

KT: In product development, what are problems that need<br />

to be overcome?<br />

TT: First of all, it has to be realized that it will still take<br />

time for customers to recognize the <strong>Kubota</strong> brand and to<br />

fully understand that <strong>Kubota</strong> products offer outstanding<br />

quality at an exceptionally reasonable cost. In today’s very<br />

competitive market, earning greater market share requires<br />

establishing an appealing balance between price and<br />

quality. Although many manufacturers have chosen to<br />

squeeze costs and compromise product quality in order to<br />

bring down product price, <strong>Kubota</strong> has not! Rather, we rely<br />

on offering superior quality, reliability, and value compared<br />

to competitors’ models in the same price range.<br />

Earning Recognition as the Absolutely<br />

Superior Brand in its Field<br />

KT: What is the strategy for the <strong>Kubota</strong> Family around the<br />

world to overcome the current harsh market conditions<br />

while achieving ever greater results?<br />

TT: I consider the next ten years as vital to our growth<br />

strategy. During that time, we will focus efforts to spread<br />

brand recognition and thereby enhance sales. Assisting to<br />

achieve our goals are the following slogans for our<br />

individual areas of business:<br />

Tractors: Cultivate the World<br />

Farm Machinery: Plant and Harvest the World<br />

Engines: Driving Force for the World<br />

Construction Machinery: Constructively<br />

Excavate the World<br />

Related Products: From Japan to the Global Marketplace<br />

Parts: Connect to the World Part-by-Part<br />

I rely on the support and understanding of the entire <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Family to help earn recognition of <strong>Kubota</strong> as the absolutely<br />

superior brand in its field. We can accomplish anything if<br />

only we “Work Together, Grow Together”.


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

Setting the Standard for Professionals<br />

Model DC-95GM Combine<br />

T<br />

he DC-Series of <strong>Kubota</strong> Combines has<br />

earned renown among a broad range of<br />

customers – primarily in Asia – for their exceptional<br />

operational performance. Taking its place at<br />

the high end of this series is the DC-95GM that<br />

incorporates leading-edge technology along with a<br />

long list of features made possible by over forty<br />

years of experience in the development of combines.<br />

In fact, this model delivers a remarkable<br />

level of power and maneuverability that specifically<br />

fulfills the stringent requirements of large-scale<br />

professional users – particularly those undertaking<br />

operations in wet rice paddy conditions.<br />

To learn more about the <strong>Kubota</strong> Model DC-95GM<br />

Combine, the <strong>Kubota</strong> Times interviewed five<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> engineers who played an important role in<br />

its development.<br />

Adding a New Dimension to<br />

the DC-Series<br />

KT: Where is the Model DC-95GM Combine positioned within<br />

the DC-Series?<br />

KY: The Model DC-60 Combine featuring Grain Hopper<br />

specifications was introduced in 2007. Next, the Model DC-68G<br />

Combine featuring Grain Tank specifications entered the market<br />

in 2009. And now, the Model DC-95GM Combine with its<br />

enhanced Grain Tank specifications joins the DC-Series in the<br />

top position.<br />

Production of the DC-95GM commenced in Thailand in March<br />

2010. In fact, it is still only available in that country. However, it<br />

will eventually be exported to such other nations as ASEAN<br />

members and India.<br />

KT: Who are the target customers?<br />

KY: Models DC-60 and DC-68G have earned a level of acceptance<br />

that has translated into steadily increasing sales figures primarily<br />

in northeastern Thailand. In other areas – such as in the central and<br />

northern regions where very wet paddies abound – large-scale<br />

contract harvesters have expressed the need for an enhanced<br />

wet-field performance together with a large-capacity Grain Tank.<br />

Responding positively, <strong>Kubota</strong> developed Model DC-95GM.


Mr. Koji Yamagata (KY)<br />

Project Leader<br />

Mr. Takashi Arimoto (TA)<br />

Performance Evaluation<br />

Testing<br />

Mr. Tamaki Naka (TN)<br />

Development of<br />

Electric Components<br />

Mr. Takafumi Mitsui (TM)<br />

Threshing Unit Design<br />

and Development<br />

Mr. Junta Kuwae (JK)<br />

Overall Design<br />

KT: How does the DC-95GM differ from the DC-68G?<br />

KY: The operational performance of the Model DC-95GM is<br />

nearly 1.5 times greater than that of the DC-68G while its price is<br />

only about 1.4 times higher. This combination translates into a<br />

clearly superior cost performance.<br />

As for the specifications, the force of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Engine is up<br />

42% to 95 hp, the Cutting Width is up 25% to 2.5 m [98.4 in.],<br />

Grain Tank Capacity has been boosted 133% to 1400 kg [2350 L],<br />

and the Threshing Cylinder at 1790 mm [70.5 in.] is 8.5% longer.<br />

The Wide-Diameter, Long Threshing<br />

Cylinder with Axial Flow Significantly<br />

Enhances Operational Performance<br />

KT: What was the basic development concept for the DC-95GM?<br />

KY: The aim was to develop an easy-to-maintain <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Combine featuring exceptional maneuverability contributing to a<br />

noteworthy operational performance – especially in wet-paddy<br />

applications – at an extremely reasonable cost. Regarding<br />

operational performance, the development team paid particular<br />

attention to finding ways to ensure superior threshing and grain<br />

selection capabilities.<br />

TM: As with the other models in the DC-Series models, the<br />

DC-95GM employs the Wide-Diameter, Long Threshing Cylinder<br />

with Axial Flow. With a diameter of 620 mm [24.4 in.] and a<br />

length of 1790 mm [70.5 in.], it continually and steadily carries out<br />

threshing operations with minimal damage to grain. In fact, it is<br />

designed to minimize loss even when crop volume is quite large.<br />

KT: Did the enhanced length of the Threshing Cylinder require<br />

any other adjustments to maximize results?<br />

TM: Yes. Adjustments were made to optimize the Threshing<br />

Cylinder Top Cover, the size of the Concave Mesh, and the pitch<br />

of Threshing Teeth to ensure the best possible threshing performance.<br />

In fact, repeated testing was undertaken until the ideal<br />

combination was realized.<br />

As for the Selection Unit, the adjusting-type Chaffer Sleeve is<br />

employed rather than the fixed type utilized by the two previous<br />

models. This improves the precision of the selection process due<br />

to the fact that adjustments take place depending upon the<br />

identified size of the individual grains as they pass.<br />

TA: Another major factor that significantly enhances operational<br />

performance is the 2350 L / 1400 kg capacity of the Grain Tank.<br />

This contributes to being able to undertake operations even in<br />

large fields with fewer halts being required for discharge.<br />

KY: Discharge is quick and efficient due to the fact that the<br />

contents of the Grain Tank are delivered directly via the 3.6 m<br />

[142 in.] long Unloading Auger that can be rotated up to 235<br />

degrees. Further contributing to exceptionally efficient<br />

discharge operations even when working along a canal or over<br />

an elevated bank is the fact that Discharge Height can be finely<br />

adjusted between 1.93 m [76 in.] to 4.81 m [189 in.] according to<br />

ambient conditions.<br />

The Large Capacity Grain Tank.<br />

1790mm<br />

Threshing<br />

Teeth<br />

Cone-Shaped<br />

Entrance<br />

The Wide-Diameter, Long Threshing Cylinder with Axial Flow.<br />

620mm<br />

Concave<br />

The position<br />

of the<br />

Unloading<br />

Auger is easily<br />

adjusted for<br />

maximum<br />

discharge<br />

efficiency.


<strong>Kubota</strong>’s Unique Automatic Body<br />

Horizontal Control Mechanism<br />

KT: It is significant that wet-paddy performance has been enhanced.<br />

KY: Yes, it is. To accomplish this, the microcomputer-controlled<br />

Automatic Body Horizontal Mechanism is a special feature on the<br />

Model DC-95GM Combine. The Crawlers are automatically<br />

controlled to ensure that the body is constantly maintained in the<br />

horizontal position. When either side of the body is threatened with<br />

tilting in wet paddies during operations, such stability contributes to<br />

an outstanding travel performance.<br />

TA: This mechanism is adapted for the first time to the DC-Series.<br />

Combines in this class from other manufactures are liable to tilting<br />

with the result that the Cutting Unit could drag in the mud and<br />

thereby possibly cause grain damage. The stability of the DC-95GM,<br />

however, means that the harvested grain is clean and of the highest<br />

possible quality.<br />

TN: The unique Automatic Body Horizontal Mechanism mounted<br />

on the DC-95GM is comprised of the Rolling Sensors that detect<br />

tilting either to the right or to the left, the Left- and Right Independent<br />

Hydraulic Cylinders that regulate Body Height, and the Stroke<br />

Sensor that monitors the Hydraulic Cylinders.<br />

While the basic structure adheres to that of various field-tested<br />

domestic models, durability has been significantly enhanced to<br />

contend with such challenging conditions in Thailand as high<br />

temperatures, extreme humidity, and muddy paddy fields. This<br />

required a special attention to the layout design of the Rolling<br />

Sensors and the Wiring Harness to minimize the effects of high<br />

temperature, mud, and dust.<br />

One of the primary sales points of the DC-95GM is the largecapacity<br />

Grain Tank. As it fills, the change in weight of up to a ton or<br />

more gradually acts upon the Piston Movement Speed of the<br />

Hydraulic Cylinders to affect operational performance. In consideration<br />

of this, it was necessary to check many different combinations<br />

of Hydraulic Cylinder and Orifice in order to realize an optimal<br />

control performance.<br />

Long, Wide Rubber Crawlers Ideal for<br />

Muddy Paddy Fields<br />

TA: The length, width, and shape of the Crawlers are vital<br />

considerations in achieving the optimal travel performance in<br />

muddy paddy fields that is so essential in the target regions.<br />

Therefore, repeated testing was undertaken until arriving at the<br />

optimum configuration of these factors.<br />

KT: How does the DC-95GM compare to other manufacturers’<br />

models for weight and size?<br />

The Automatic Body Horizontal Mechanism.<br />

TA: The weight of the compact body is less than half of that of<br />

comparative models available from other manufacturers in<br />

Thailand. The lighter weight translates into significantly less<br />

Ground Contact Pressure along with a reduction of the possibility<br />

that the Crawlers will sink so that potential damage to ground<br />

surfaces is minimized. On the other hand, the long, wide Crawlers<br />

have a notably powerful traction force that is a significant factor in<br />

delivering an outstanding wet-paddy performance.<br />

KT: What was the basic design concept for the DC-95GM?<br />

JK: Befitting <strong>Kubota</strong>’s position as the leader in its field, the basic<br />

design concept was to bring forth a distinguished design complementing<br />

a simple, powerful, and smooth operational performance.<br />

Looking to the future, there will be further evolvements as business<br />

needs and opportunities unfold in the global market.<br />

KT: Enhanced strength and durability also seem to be recurring themes.<br />

TA: Yes, they are. The strength and durability of the Frame, for<br />

example, have been enhanced as an outcome of applying the<br />

information gathered by computer analyses and then – through the<br />

use of GPS – undertaking unmanned travel endurance testing to<br />

ensure the best results.<br />

KY: Regarding the effects of abrasion on the parts of the Crawlers<br />

that come into contact with the Rollers, the incorporation of<br />

wear-resistant materials of increased thickness has successfully<br />

enhanced durability.<br />

Outstanding Maneuverability Not Offered<br />

by Competitors’ Models<br />

KT: What about maneuverability?<br />

KY: Not available on the models available from other manufacturers<br />

is the multifunctional Maneuvering Lever. Only simple<br />

movements of this single lever with the right hand are required to<br />

easily and securely make turns as well as to adjust Cutting Height.<br />

Regardless of crop or ground conditions, selecting the most suitable


Average Ground Pressure:<br />

1765mm<br />

550mm<br />

The DC-95GM travels smoothly without<br />

difficulty even through wet or deep paddies<br />

to deliver superb operational efficiency.<br />

The Long, Wide Rubber Crawlers.<br />

operational or travel speed requires only the simple, stepless<br />

movement of the HST (Hydro Static Transmission) Lever with<br />

the left hand. In addition, switching the direction of movement<br />

between Forward and Reverse is easily accomplished without the<br />

use of a clutch so that operations continue smoothly in total ease<br />

without interruption.<br />

KT: How has such low cost for such high quality been achieved?<br />

KY: A contributing factor is that the <strong>Kubota</strong> Model DC-95GM<br />

Combine is produced in Thailand by the SIAM KUBOTA<br />

Corporation Co., <strong>Ltd</strong> [SKC]. In addition, the finest available parts<br />

are procured from such counties as Thailand, Japan, and China.<br />

Already Earning Customer Appreciation<br />

KT: How have customers evaluated the DC-95GM since its introduction?<br />

TA: Those customers have predominantly been professionals<br />

whose main concern is how to quickly and efficiently complete<br />

contracted operations and thereby enhance profits. The<br />

outstanding operational efficiency of the DC-95GM – particularly<br />

in very wet paddies – along with the larger capacity of its<br />

Grain Tank have already<br />

contributed to an extremely<br />

favorable acceptance.<br />

KT: Have there been any<br />

customer requests regarding<br />

future development?<br />

KY: In a part of the world<br />

where the temperatures can<br />

get quite high and where dust<br />

can be a problem, there have<br />

been enquiries about the<br />

possibility of an airconditioned<br />

cabin.<br />

Towards the Global Market<br />

KT: This appears to be yet another example of how <strong>Kubota</strong> – as a<br />

result of incorporating experience and innovation – remains on<br />

the leading-edge of its field in the international marketplace.<br />

KY: In the same manner as the <strong>Kubota</strong> Model DC-95GM<br />

Combine was developed, continual efforts are being made to offer<br />

ever better products able to enhance farming practices through<br />

mechanization in those countries in which manual farming<br />

methods are still practiced. The result is that the scale of such<br />

business is expanding throughout Asia. And yet, consideration is<br />

also being paid to attaining positive results in other global markets.<br />

One of the ways this is being done is by adapting the basic overall<br />

design concept of the DC-Series – the highest possible quality at a<br />

reasonable price in a lightweight, compact body– into the development<br />

of <strong>Kubota</strong> Combines for other crops than rice.<br />

TA: Market research in such countries as India, Indonesia, and<br />

the Philippines where agricultural mechanization is making<br />

headway will help in the development of high-quality consumer<br />

products ideally suited to the varied requirements of each<br />

specific market.<br />

TM: It should be noted that such innovative low-cost, highquality<br />

agricultural equipment is being developed not only for the<br />

global market, but also for Japan’s domestic market.<br />

JK: An important factor in an overall design concept is that the<br />

resulting product should have widespread application and<br />

appeal in the international marketplace. One way to help ensure<br />

maximum operational simplicity and effectiveness would be the<br />

use of universally understood icons for all displays and maneuvering<br />

operations.<br />

KT: Thank you for the insights you have provided today.<br />

Fine Directional<br />

Adjustment<br />

Switches<br />

Left Turn<br />

Cutting Height Down<br />

Cutting Height Up<br />

Reel Height<br />

Adjustment<br />

Switches<br />

Right Turn<br />

The multifunctional Maneuvering Lever enables the operator to maneuver<br />

the DC-95GM with greater security and ease.<br />

The Multifunctional Maneuvering Lever.


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

<strong>Kubota</strong> Mini Excavators<br />

Models KX057-4, U55(-4), and U48-4<br />

Providing the Power to Meet<br />

– and Exceed – Market Demand<br />

Teruo Kunizawa (TK)<br />

Project Leader<br />

Takatoshi Sugimoto (TS)<br />

Design<br />

T<br />

he sincere evaluation of users who appreciate<br />

outstanding basic performance has<br />

contributed to <strong>Kubota</strong> achieving its position as the<br />

world leader in the field of mini excavators rated at<br />

6 tons or less.<br />

Responding to increasing market demand in the 4-6<br />

ton class of construction machinery, <strong>Kubota</strong> now<br />

offers three newly developed mini excavator basic<br />

models in this weight category - KX057-4, U55(-4)<br />

and U48-4*. Incorporating <strong>Kubota</strong>’s innovative<br />

strength in hydraulic and electronic technology,<br />

these outstanding <strong>Kubota</strong> products feature optimal<br />

maneuverability and versatility to deliver a powerful<br />

performance exceeding that of all its competitors.<br />

Two engineers who played a key role in the<br />

development of these three mini excavators were<br />

recently interviewed by the <strong>Kubota</strong> Times (KT).<br />

*[Model KX057-4 is configured for North America, Europe and Australia.<br />

Model U55 is configured for North America and Australia while models U55-4 and U48-4<br />

are configured for Europe.]<br />

Response to User Demand in an<br />

Intensely Competitive Market<br />

KT: What is the development background for these three models?<br />

TK: In recent times there has been a steep rise in the demand for<br />

construction equipment in the 4-6 ton class – particularly in the<br />

over 5-ton category. Judging from current global market trends,<br />

demand will remain strong in the foreseeable future.<br />

Prior to the introduction of these new mini excavators, the<br />

KX161-3 – which is classified as being in the 5-ton or less class –<br />

was the most powerful model available from <strong>Kubota</strong>. Though it<br />

remains highly appreciated for its outstanding operational<br />

performance, there have been requests for more powerful models<br />

better able to compete with those currently available from<br />

competitors. In such an intensely competitive market, however, it<br />

was considered that simply being equal would not be enough!<br />

Rather, it was felt necessary to develop high quality products with<br />

the superior capabilities that would make them leaders in the field.<br />

KT: What are the target markets for these new <strong>Kubota</strong> products?<br />

TK: Weighing in at over 5-tons, the KX057-4 and the U55 are<br />

already available in North America and Australia while the<br />

KX057-4 and the U55-4 are offered in Europe. The KX057-4 and<br />

the U55 are, however, soon to be introduced into China.<br />

In Europe where the U-Series experiences steady demand, the<br />

4.7-ton Model U48-4 succeeds Model U45-3.<br />

KT: When were these models launched?<br />

TK: In October 2009, the KX057-4 was introduced in North America<br />

and Europe. Also in October 2009, the U55 was introduced into the<br />

North American market. In March 2010, the U55-4 and the U48-4 then<br />

made their respective debuts in Europe.<br />

KT: What is the main difference between the KX-Series and<br />

the U-Series?


TK: The main feature of the U-Series is the fact that the<br />

counterweight has a minimal amount of edge protruding beyond<br />

the crawlers when making a 90-degree swing. This means that<br />

the operator is able to continue operations totally freed from<br />

having to worry about clearance to the rear. The resulting<br />

operational performance is remarkably superior even when<br />

working in confined spaces or alongside walls.<br />

When working in relative wide open spaces like those at<br />

constructions sites in Germany and North America, models in<br />

the KX-Series prove advantageous because of their larger size<br />

and because they are able to maintain optimal stability even<br />

when fitted with a wide variety of attachments.<br />

KT: How about applications for models in the U-Series?<br />

TK: Common applications include landscaping, demolition,<br />

operations to lay pipes and<br />

cables, civil engineering<br />

works in general, and<br />

operations around<br />

residences. Actual usage<br />

tends to vary significantly<br />

from nation to nation. In<br />

Europe’s main markets of<br />

Germany and Italy, for<br />

instance, individual users<br />

are dominant while in the<br />

U.K. and France rental<br />

usage is high. In North<br />

America, operations are<br />

undertaken by individual<br />

users mainly.<br />

The broad range of hydraulic attachments<br />

enhances versatility.<br />

The Tight Tail Swing model proves to be highly versatile in confined space.<br />

Strategic Models Incorporating <strong>Kubota</strong>’s<br />

Latest Technology<br />

KT: What were the key points of development?<br />

TK: Previously available models have less power, less weight,<br />

and smaller bodies than those offered by other manufacturers.<br />

This caused users to request more competitive models featuring<br />

enhanced performance characteristics be made available.<br />

Responding positively, three goals were established and<br />

development began. Increasing overall weight and boosting<br />

engine output accomplished the first goal of providing a superior<br />

lifting performance. To meet the goal of providing greater<br />

operator comfort, the larger cabin features a deluxe seat and a<br />

wider door that makes entering and exiting much easier.<br />

Optionally available, the second auxiliary circuit contributes to


the achievement of the third goal of improving versatility by<br />

making it possible to use a broad range of hydraulic attachments.<br />

At every step along the way full consideration was given to safety<br />

and environmental-friendliness.<br />

In addition to the above mentioned points, such advantageous<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> standard features as exceptional operational performance,<br />

noteworthy maneuverability, remarkable durability, and<br />

outstanding ease of performing inspection and maintenance have<br />

been enhanced on all three models.<br />

KT: Were there any other special factors to consider?<br />

TK: Yes, there were. Along with the integral development of<br />

these three models to challenge the varying ambient conditions of<br />

Europe, North America, Australia, and Japan, consideration was<br />

simultaneously being given to the upgrading of models<br />

previously introduced into those markets. Success was the result<br />

of the Engineering, Production, Sales, and Customer Support<br />

Departments coming together and coordinating their efforts.<br />

3 Pump Load Sensing System Realizes<br />

Outstanding Operational Performance<br />

KT: Did weight increases require any specific adjustments to<br />

optimize performance?<br />

TK: Yes. To deliver strong, smooth movement even with the<br />

weight increases, the 3 Pump Load Sensing System has been<br />

adapted to the KX057-4, the U55, and the U55-4. As a result,<br />

not only is maneuverability exceptionally smooth during<br />

operations, but there is also a superior travel performance due<br />

to the fact that 2 of the 3 pumps are engaged on a priority basis<br />

to supply hydraulic oil.<br />

Spacious and comfortable Cabin.<br />

Pilot Lever<br />

KT: What can you tell our readers about the cabin which is,<br />

in fact, larger?<br />

TS: The production technology for a car body has been applied<br />

for the first time. Thin iron plates are arranged in multiple layers<br />

while ribs are attached to all parts requiring added strength. The<br />

result is the light-weight, but exceptionally tough cabin.<br />

KT: Were any special considerations given to<br />

enhance maneuverability?<br />

TS: To make the operating levers easier to manipulate, their sizes<br />

and shapes were optimized so as to better fit the hands of any and<br />

all operators. In addition, all switches are in a convenient location<br />

within reach of the fingers for simple manipulation by the operator.<br />

As for the Wrist Rest, its design was finalized only after a series of<br />

trials and errors verified the best combination of position, tilt angle,<br />

form, and component materials.<br />

TK: The large New<br />

Digital Panel placed to<br />

the front-right of the<br />

operator makes it<br />

possible to check<br />

machine conditions at a<br />

glance. The maximum<br />

oil flow setting of the<br />

auxiliary circuit is<br />

New Digital Panel<br />

conveniently adjustable<br />

from the digital panel. From there, it is even possible to program<br />

up to five oil flow rates – corresponding to the specific<br />

attachments most commonly used – into memory so that the<br />

programmed setting can quickly be retrieved for the next job to<br />

be undertaken.<br />

Since it is possible to easily regulate the maximum flow rate of<br />

the optionally available second auxiliary circuit mentioned earlier<br />

to make a wide range of attachments far easier to use, operational<br />

efficiency is significantly improved.<br />

KT: It was mentioned earlier that safety and environmentalfriendliness<br />

were given full consideration at every step along the<br />

way. Could you please give more details about this?<br />

TK: Regarding safety, these models fully comply with European EN<br />

Standards. Further, they are fitted – as standard features – with the<br />

ROPS/FOPS type cabin to comfortably protect the operator, with the<br />

safety lever which locks all actuators to prevent accidental<br />

manipulation, and with <strong>Kubota</strong>’s original Anti-Theft System.<br />

The high output, direct-injection <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engines –<br />

domestically manufactured at reliable <strong>Kubota</strong> plants in Japan and<br />

featuring low levels of emissions, noise, and vibration – deliver all<br />

the power necessary to continue stable operations without sacrificing<br />

efficiency even when working under high-load conditions.


Full-opening Hoods rear and right side.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong>’s Unique<br />

Direct Injection<br />

Diesel Engine.<br />

KT: Isn’t the external appearance a bit different than for<br />

previous models?<br />

TS: Yes, though <strong>Kubota</strong> Orange remains the basic color, black is also<br />

used for the cabin, the side hood, the arm cylinders, the counterweight,<br />

the bucket, and the crawlers to add the feeling of massiveness and<br />

strength. In addition, the design of the Side Hood has been totally<br />

renewed through the inclusion of a distinctive slant curve.<br />

Mentioning the side hood, it should be noted that both it and the<br />

rear hood fully open to enhance the ease of performing<br />

inspections and maintenance. Rather than being shaped from<br />

resin as in previously available models, the rear hood is made of<br />

sheet iron to make repair easier when it becomes necessary.<br />

Considering the width of the side hood, it was decided to<br />

combine sheet iron with resin to reduce its weight.<br />

Overwhelming Presence on Market<br />

KT: What has been the reaction to these models so far?<br />

TK: he reaction has been quite positive. These models are, in<br />

fact, receiving strong evaluation for the feeling of quality they<br />

exude, their larger size, their superior operator comfort, and the<br />

fact that they accept the optionally available second auxiliary<br />

circuit that makes it possible to use a broad range of hydraulic<br />

attachments. As a result of such acceptance, the strong sales trend<br />

is destined to leave competitors’ models in the dust.<br />

Towards Global Launch<br />

KT: Are there any predictions for the future of mini excavators<br />

developed by <strong>Kubota</strong>?<br />

TK: To further spread awareness of the <strong>Kubota</strong> brand throughout<br />

the global market, it is important to expand market share by not<br />

only offering superior products capable of increasing sales in<br />

existing markets, but also by focusing on the emerging<br />

requirements of emerging economies. From the development<br />

point of view, this means it is vital to clearly identify target<br />

market segments and the types of models to be developed. Other<br />

important factors include cost rationalization and the timing of<br />

new product introductions to the various markets.<br />

Due to the fact that competitors operating in newly emerging<br />

economies have recently been improving their competitive edge<br />

from the aspects of quality and cost, <strong>Kubota</strong> must differentiate<br />

itself by relying on its distinctive strengths that include<br />

hydraulics and electronics. In addition, it is necessary to<br />

reinforce brand recognition emphasizing the quality, durability,<br />

and reliable power of <strong>Kubota</strong> products.<br />

TS: To maintain its position as the global leader in the mini<br />

excavator market, it is essential that <strong>Kubota</strong> continually strives to<br />

be on the leading edge of innovation to offer the best possible<br />

performance. Not to be neglected, of course, is making sure that<br />

external appearance and interior features are also up-to-date.<br />

KT: Thank you very much for your input on this subject today.


Name:<br />

Dealership:<br />

Established:<br />

Main Product Lines:<br />

China<br />

Mr. Ding Zai, President<br />

Jiuhui International Construction<br />

Machinery, <strong>Ltd</strong>. [JICM]<br />

Xian, Shan Xi Province, China<br />

2007<br />

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

Mr. Ding founded his <strong>Kubota</strong> Construction Machinery firm in 2007<br />

and became president.<br />

This motivated organization had only five employees at the beginning.<br />

Business has, however, successfully expanded throughout<br />

Shan Xi Province so that today there are as many as 75 employees.<br />

In 2009, its turnover reached 90,000,000.00 China Yuan Renminbi<br />

(US$13,222,000).<br />

Mr. Ding Zai<br />

The View of Mini Excavators Bearing<br />

the <strong>Kubota</strong> Brand<br />

For Mr. Ding, the main strong points of the <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

brand of mini excavators include their compactness,<br />

agility, and exceptional ease of operation while delivering<br />

an extraordinary performance. Among customers these<br />

outstanding mini excavators have earned respect and<br />

popularity for their leading-edge functions, superb<br />

mobility even in confined spaces, minimal downtime,<br />

and low fuel consumption. Also highly evaluated are the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> support and servicing policies.<br />

For individual investors, these <strong>Kubota</strong> products have a<br />

strong appeal due to the fact that they provide a solid<br />

return on their investment in a timely manner with low<br />

risk. In this way, the <strong>Kubota</strong> products offered by JICM of<br />

Shan Xi Province inspire great confidence.<br />

Accurately Discerning and Responding<br />

to the Needs of Customers<br />

Shan Xi Province is a region in China that is expected<br />

to experience a further expanding market in the future.<br />

Currently, there are still many potential users who lack<br />

experience with <strong>Kubota</strong> Construction Machinery.<br />

It is not enough to simply assume what products to sell.<br />

Under Mr. Ding’s able leadership, JICM boosts sales<br />

volume and wins greater customer satisfaction by first<br />

accurately discerning specific, individual needs and then<br />

sincerely responding to them.<br />

For example, detailed and useful information provided<br />

to prospective customers during product presentation<br />

sessions includes a company outline, product<br />

descriptions, conditions of payment, and a list of<br />

after-sales services. Thereafter, frequent contacts keep<br />

the information up to date.<br />

Mr. Ding constantly urges employees to remain vigilant<br />

of the fact that they share the responsibility and the<br />

obligation to maintain smooth and effective customer<br />

relations. To accomplish this while reinforcing the<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> brand and boosting sales, they:<br />

Prepare and regularly update the “Customer<br />

Satisfaction Manual” used for assisting prospective<br />

customers,<br />

Prepare and regularly update the “Telephone<br />

Enquiry Manual”,<br />

Send out campaign information related to sales<br />

campaigns via cell phone text message,<br />

Provide free inspection services and offer advice of how<br />

to take care of any problem that may be arise,<br />

Organize the ’’Customer Appreciation Party’’,<br />

Organize training sessions for owners and operators.


<strong>Kubota</strong> mini excavators on parade.<br />

JICM staff captured by the camera.<br />

Innovative Sales<br />

There are several examples of how JICM has been<br />

able to supply the right equipment to effectively and<br />

efficiently handle new applications never previously<br />

undertaken. One such is that the KX135-3S is now<br />

being used in a coal mine tunnel excavation site in Shan<br />

Xi Province. This satisfies a need previously unnoticed<br />

until the JICM Sales Team proposed this ingenious<br />

solution. In fact, as many as 12 units are now being<br />

utilized in this way.<br />

Another example is the U15-3S undertaking earth refill<br />

operations in the basement of a high-rise building. In<br />

this case too, such an application had gone totally<br />

unnoticed until a member of the JICM Sales Team<br />

proposed – during routine sales rounds – using this mini<br />

Keeping up-to-date at a training session.<br />

excavator to get the job done smoothly and efficiently.<br />

These innovative sales are the result of JICM Sales<br />

Team personnel devoting at least six days a month to<br />

check for new marketing possibilities. To help with this,<br />

they conduct a Market Survey during a visit to a<br />

customer to accurately grasp any emerging or<br />

previously unfulfilled need.<br />

The Future of <strong>Kubota</strong> in China<br />

The economy of China continues to expand at an<br />

amazingly fast pace. To keep up, JICM suggests that<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> consider further deepening its understanding of<br />

Chinese culture and Chinese ways of thinking. In<br />

addition, it is expected that <strong>Kubota</strong> will shortly start the<br />

local production of products specifically designed to<br />

ideally match the market needs of China.<br />

The President’s Message<br />

Mr. Ding states that, “Together with <strong>Kubota</strong>, I wish to<br />

continue making further contributions to the development<br />

of Shan Xi Province. I will try to do my best by believing<br />

that when I look back 20 years from now, our business<br />

will have securely expanded and realized a long list of<br />

significant achievements”.


Name:<br />

Dealership:<br />

Established:<br />

Main Product Lines:<br />

Thailand<br />

Mrs. Siriporn Leenawatthana, President<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Kamphaeng Phet<br />

(Hua Heng Lee) Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>.<br />

Kamphaeng Phet, 627/4 Charoensuk rd.,<br />

Nai Muang,<br />

Muang Kampaeng Phet,<br />

Kamphaeng Phet 62000, Thailand<br />

1978<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Agricultural equipment<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Kamphaeng Phet (Hua Heng Lee) was established in<br />

Kamphaeng Phet on 16 November 1978 by Mr. Prasit Leenawatthana<br />

and Mrs. Siriporn Leenawatthana to sell agricultural equipment. In<br />

1991, it became an authorized <strong>Kubota</strong> Genuine Parts and Service<br />

Center, and four years later it experienced an impressive growth of<br />

sales as the result of starting to sell <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors. At present, it is<br />

the authorized <strong>Kubota</strong> dealer in three provinces – Kamphaeng Phet,<br />

Nakhon Sawan, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya – with a staff of over<br />

300 employees. It is, in fact, one of the top sales and service performers<br />

among <strong>Kubota</strong> dealers across the country.<br />

Mrs. Siriporn Leenawatthana<br />

Trust and Confidence in<br />

the <strong>Kubota</strong> Brand<br />

Throughout Thailand, a broad spectrum of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

agricultural equipment – such as tractors, rice<br />

transplanters, and combines – is enabling Thai farmers to<br />

develop modern agriculture practices and as a result enjoy<br />

ever higher income. In fact, it can be said that many Thai<br />

farmers have grown up with <strong>Kubota</strong>.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> products have earned the complete trust and<br />

confidence of <strong>Kubota</strong> Kamphaeng Phet (Hua Heng Lee)<br />

customers for the advantages they offer over other<br />

manufacturers such as compactness, innovative design,<br />

ease of operation, exceptional durability, noteworthy<br />

versatility, and ease of maintenance. Other advantages<br />

over rivals include prompt delivery and reliable after-sales<br />

service that skillfully attends to customer’s needs.<br />

In fact, customers are pleased by the attention they are<br />

given following the purchase of their quality <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

products – particularly the suggestions they are offered<br />

regarding maintenance to ensure a long service life. In<br />

the case of M-Series Tractors, for example, users are<br />

especially impressed by such features as excellent fuel<br />

efficiency, reliable quality, and superb maneuverability<br />

that together contribute to an outstanding performance.<br />

The Key to Success<br />

At this company it is felt that the staff – its quality,<br />

training, and experience – is the key to ensuring the<br />

customer satisfaction. Therefore, the recruitment of<br />

highly capable people and the importance of developing<br />

the potential of existing employees are stressed.<br />

Currently, more than 300 employees are encouraged to<br />

share ideas, to assume full responsibility for providing<br />

customer care at every step along the way, and to<br />

constantly seek more ways to achieve ever better results.<br />

One measure of how successfully the needs and<br />

expectations of customers are being met is the<br />

company’s steadily increasing rate of sales.<br />

It is also dedicated to the ideal of being a “White<br />

Company” that adheres to the company ethics and<br />

virtues that are in line with its policy of “To sell<br />

ethically and to provide excellent quality service<br />

to customers”.


<strong>Kubota</strong> Nakhon Sawan (Hua Heng Lee) Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>., the 2nd authorized <strong>Kubota</strong> dealer in Hua Heng Lee Group.<br />

Focusing on the Customer<br />

This dedicated dealership has a customer-driven<br />

approach to business that inspires it to constantly strive<br />

to develop ever more ways to fulfill the evolving needs<br />

of customers. Whenever a new challenge is encountered,<br />

the company’s executives and concerned staff pull<br />

together to focus on coming up with a positive solution<br />

that is satisfactory to everyone involved.<br />

Using every available means, the staff keeps in close<br />

contact with customers in order to build and maintain<br />

good relationships. Information is provided by phone,<br />

mail and e-mail, birthday cards are sent, and such<br />

activities as “<strong>Kubota</strong> Day” and the “Customer Thank<br />

You Concert” are organized.<br />

President’s Message<br />

Mrs. Siriporn Leenawatthana, the President of <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Kamphaeng Phet (Hua Heng Lee) states “I hope to see<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> continue to offer an ever wider range of quality<br />

products so that Thai farmers experience higher yields<br />

that contribute to increasing their income”.<br />

Mrs. Siriporn Leenawatthana and her family.


Name:<br />

Dealership:<br />

Established:<br />

Main Product Lines:<br />

Wales<br />

Mr. Vaughan Davies, Managing Director<br />

J. Davies & Son<br />

Gwastod Abbot<br />

New Inn, Pencader<br />

Carmarthenshire, Wales SA39 9AZ<br />

URL: www.jdaviespencader.co.uk<br />

1946<br />

Agricultural Machinery including<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> tractors and mini excavators<br />

The son of the founder of J. Davies & Son, Vaughan Davies has been<br />

married to Barbara for 40 years. The couple’s son, Gary, is a partner in<br />

the family firm while their daughter, Gaynor, follows a career in media.<br />

In addition to these two offspring, the couple has five grandchildren.<br />

In his spare time, Vaughan enjoys rugby and shooting.<br />

Mr. Vaughan Davies<br />

From Then to Now<br />

An agricultural contractor at the time, John Davies<br />

founded J. Davies & Son in 1946. In the years that<br />

followed, the firm expanded its business first to the sales<br />

of hay and straw, and then to selling and repairing<br />

agricultural machinery.<br />

Vaughan Davies took over the company in 1967. In 1987,<br />

Vaughan’s son, Gary, joined the firm and in 1992<br />

became a partner. Becoming a <strong>Kubota</strong> Dealership in<br />

2005, J. Davies & Son today caters not only to<br />

agricultural needs but also to those of the construction,<br />

ground care, and municipal industries. In addition, it has<br />

sub-dealers located all over West Wales.<br />

The <strong>Kubota</strong> Connection<br />

Customer evaluation of the <strong>Kubota</strong> products on offer is<br />

quite positive. In fact, there is a feeling that “if it is<br />

Japanese it must be good”. When compared to<br />

competitors’ products, the advantages of the <strong>Kubota</strong> brand<br />

are considered to be exceptional product quality,<br />

reliability, and comprehensive design. In addition,<br />

customers are pleased with the excellence of maintenance<br />

and service provided by this family oriented firm.<br />

At J. Davies & Son it is stated that “The keys to success<br />

are customer satisfaction and providing the best After<br />

Sales Service possible”. Contributing to making this<br />

happen is the fact that <strong>Kubota</strong> innovation and<br />

The main entrance of<br />

the J. Davies & Son<br />

dealership<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> tractors<br />

on display at<br />

J. Davies & Son<br />

resourcefulness keeps it well ahead of its competitors. In<br />

addition, the dealer support provided by <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

contributes to remaining on the leading-edge of sales.<br />

The large volume of positive customer feedback received<br />

highlights the fact that <strong>Kubota</strong> has a clear and deep<br />

understanding of the marketplace.<br />

In the realization that all customers are different and<br />

through the development of a realistic understanding of<br />

their needs, J. Davies & Sons has been able to build and<br />

maintain good relationships with them. According to<br />

Vaughan Davies, “We are able to grasp the immediate<br />

and emerging needs of our customers as a result of<br />

keeping a close eye on the industry and by developing an<br />

acute awareness of the type of applications in our area.”


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

in the USA<br />

KEA Assists with Haiti Relief Effort<br />

KEA Staff with the generators prior to being shipped.<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> and <strong>Kubota</strong> affiliated firms in the United States<br />

and <strong>Canada</strong> – including <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Corporation<br />

(KTC); <strong>Kubota</strong> Credit Corporation (KCC); <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Manufacturing of America Corporation (KMA);<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> Industrial Equipment Corporation (KIE);<br />

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

<strong>Kubota</strong> <strong>Canada</strong>, <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KCL) –donated cash, equipment,<br />

and supplies to the Haiti relief effort.<br />

In addition to its financial involvement, KEA donated<br />

some computers and was responsible for preparing the<br />

12 generators donated by <strong>Kubota</strong> to make sure that they<br />

would operate immediately and flawlessly as soon as<br />

the key was turned. In fact, those generators have been<br />

in use twenty-four hours a day since they were received.<br />

KEA’s Green Initiative<br />

The KEA head office<br />

Taking <strong>Kubota</strong>’s Global Slogan – “For Earth, For Life”<br />

– quite seriously, KEA is acting positively to protect and<br />

sustain the environment. To cut down the use of electricity,<br />

for example, it has replaced all of the light switches<br />

at its head office in Lincolnshire, Illinois, with<br />

automatic sensors that shut off the lights if there is no<br />

occupancy in that area after a regulated amount of time.<br />

In addition, all of the light bulbs in the warehouse have<br />

been replaced by ones that are more energy efficient<br />

while yet providing all the brightness necessary for the<br />

job-at-hand. To reduce the amount of waste, KEA has<br />

started a company-wide recycling program for paper,<br />

aluminum cans, and metal scrap – items collected on a<br />

weekly basis.<br />

The most noticeable change, however, resulted from<br />

planting more flowers, shrubs, and trees to beautify<br />

the grounds and providing bird feeders that attract an<br />

enhanced variety of feathered friends. It should be<br />

noted that the addition of over 50 trees has contributed<br />

to cleaner air and reduced ozone levels in the<br />

surrounding area.


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

Country: USA<br />

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

Corporation (KEA)<br />

Media: Trade Magazines<br />

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

has released two ads celebrating <strong>Kubota</strong>’s 120th<br />

anniversary. The main focus of these eye-catching<br />

ads is to convey the fact that <strong>Kubota</strong> has –<br />

throughout its history – continually been striving to<br />

provide quality products that are both user- and<br />

environmentally-friendly. As the world becomes<br />

ever more aware of the need to actively protect the<br />

environment, <strong>Kubota</strong> continues making such a<br />

consideration one of its ongoing top priorities.


KUBOTA GLOBAL UPDATES<br />

BAUMA 2010<br />

In Munich from the 19th through the 25th of April,<br />

BAUMA 2010 – the International Trade Fair for Construction<br />

Machinery, Building Material Machines, Construction<br />

Vehicles and Equipment – welcomed 3150 exhibitors from 53<br />

countries along with well over 415,000 visitors from around<br />

the world.<br />

Construction machinery on display by <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Baumaschinen GmbH (KBM) consisted of fifteen mini<br />

excavator models – including the new KX057-4 which was<br />

released in the autumn of 2009 – along with two new<br />

additions to the U-Series – Models U55-4 and U48-4. These<br />

outstanding <strong>Kubota</strong> products especially appealed to visitors<br />

for their exceptional versatility is made possible in part by the<br />

ability to attach a variety of attachments. As the positive<br />

trend toward economic recovery arises, <strong>Kubota</strong> is continuing<br />

its sales expansion activities for these new mini excavators to<br />

further contribute to customer satisfaction.<br />

The display of <strong>Kubota</strong> Diesel Engines by the Engine Division<br />

of <strong>Kubota</strong> (Deutschland) GmbH (KDG) focused on “Solid<br />

Quality” as well as “Common Rail Technology”.<br />

From Germany<br />

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

The 36th FIMA 2010<br />

Taking place biannually, Feria Internacional de la<br />

Maquinaria Agricola (FIMA) is the largest and most<br />

prestigious agricultural machinery show held in Spain. In<br />

2010, the 36th FIMA was held in Zaragoza from the 9th<br />

through the 13th of February.<br />

Exhibiting an extensive lineup of <strong>Kubota</strong> products – including<br />

the M130X tractor which was introduced in Europe earlier this<br />

year – was <strong>Kubota</strong> España, S.A. (KES).<br />

The Sales Managers of <strong>Kubota</strong>’s four major distributors in<br />

Europe also visited the show and held a meeting to discuss<br />

sales plans for M-Series Tractors in Europe.<br />

From Spain<br />

Visitors crowd the <strong>Kubota</strong> booth to view the outstanding products on display.


AgriPan Celebrates<br />

Affiliation with <strong>Kubota</strong> From Greece<br />

On the 25th of June 2010, AgriPan – the <strong>Kubota</strong> Distributor in<br />

Greece – celebrated the 30th anniversary of its affiliation with<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong>. Special guests attending the ceremony marking this<br />

auspicious occasion were Mr. Makoto Itoh, Deputy Counselor<br />

of the Japanese Embassy in Athens, as well as<br />

representatives of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation – Mr. Tetsuji<br />

Tomita, Representative Director and Senior Managing<br />

Executive Officer, and Mr. Hiromi Nakanishi, General<br />

Manager of the Tractor Export Department. Other important<br />

guests included local Greek dealers who expressed<br />

satisfaction with the remarkable growth <strong>Kubota</strong> has achieved<br />

to make it the leader in the country’s tractor market.<br />

In his remarks, Mr. Tomita told those gathered that “The<br />

unique landscape of Greece provides various places to test<br />

tractors. In fact, we at <strong>Kubota</strong> believe that tractors approved<br />

in this country will be successful all over Europe. Examples<br />

include the M-Series that did not initially fulfill European<br />

requirements. However, testing in Greece while being<br />

advised by AgriPan’s President, Mr. Panteleimonitis, made it<br />

possible to overcome that problem. <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors have<br />

earned the acceptance of professional farmers so that now<br />

more than 3,000 M-Series tractors are sold in Europe,<br />

whereas 10 years ago total sales were less than 100. I am<br />

very proud of Agripan and its dealers for leading the tractor<br />

market in Greece by making it possible for <strong>Kubota</strong> to earn the<br />

No.1 market share.<br />

Guests at the 30th Anniversary celebration.<br />

Mr. Tomita presents this golden Japanese<br />

folding screen to AgriPan.<br />

Moto Mart S.A. 30th<br />

Anniversary Celebration<br />

From Colombia<br />

In 2010, Moto Mart S.A. observes its 30th anniversary as the<br />

exclusive <strong>Kubota</strong> distributor in Colombia where <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Tractors lead the market. In commemoration, a cocktail party<br />

was held on the 22nd of July at the International Business,<br />

Fairs and Exhibition Centre in the city of Bogota.<br />

In his greetings to those attending the party, Mr. Jaime<br />

Echeverri – Moto Mart’s General Manager – expressively<br />

stated that “Without <strong>Kubota</strong>’s loyalty, support, and exemplary<br />

dedication to business, it would not have been possible to<br />

achieve first place in tractors sales in Colombia”.<br />

At the 30th anniversary celebration.


SKC Established<br />

On the 2nd of August 2010, The Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Industry Co.,<br />

<strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKI) and Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractor Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKT) united to<br />

become a whole new organization – SIAM KUBOTA<br />

Corporation Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKC).<br />

The ceremony commemorating the birth of SKC took place<br />

in Bangkok on the 16th of August. Top executives in<br />

attendance from the <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation were Mr. Yasuo<br />

Masumoto, President, and Mr. Tetsuji Tomita who is<br />

Representative Director and Senior Managing Executive<br />

Officer. Other VIP guests included Mr. Kan Trakulhoon,<br />

President and CEO of SCG (Siam Cement Group), and Mr.<br />

Damri Tunshevavong, President of SCG Investment.<br />

In his greetings, SKC President Mr. Masatoshi Kimata<br />

stated that “SKC undertakes the responsibility for sales that<br />

were previously handled by SKI as well as for the<br />

production of <strong>Kubota</strong> Tractors and Combines that was<br />

formerly the task of SKT. Looking to the future, efforts will<br />

be made to develop SKC into a core firm not only for the<br />

Thailand market, but also for <strong>Kubota</strong>’s agricultural business<br />

in the Asian market”.<br />

From Thailand<br />

Mr. Kimata greets attendees of<br />

the commemorative ceremony.<br />

Training Session for<br />

MX-Series Tractors<br />

Prior to the introduction of MX-Series tractors to the<br />

Australian market in September 2010, a training session<br />

related to Models M100X, M110X, M126X and M135X took<br />

place from the 5th through the 9th of July this year at the<br />

Sakai Plant Training Center. The participants were Mr. Ross<br />

Torrisi and Mr. Adam Mason –representatives from <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Tractor Australia Pty <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KTA) – and Mr. Daniel Magill<br />

representing C.B. Norwood – the <strong>Kubota</strong> distributor in New<br />

Zealand. The agenda also included the Common Rail<br />

Engine newly introduced into their market.<br />

From Japan<br />

(From R) Mr. Torrisi, Mr. Mason,<br />

and Mr. Magill at the training session.


SKMT “First Pouring”<br />

Ceremony<br />

Siam <strong>Kubota</strong> Metal Technology Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKMT) – a<br />

subsidiary of SIAM KUBOTA Corporation Co., <strong>Ltd</strong>. (SKC)<br />

which is itself a joint venture between the <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Corporation and SCG (Siam Cement Group) was<br />

established on 25 December 2008. Its role in the<br />

promotion of the agriculture business in Thailand which is<br />

experiencing increased mechanization is to cast such<br />

parts as engine blocks and transmission cases for<br />

mounting on locally produced <strong>Kubota</strong> Products. Of<br />

interest is the fact that the <strong>Kubota</strong> Corporation originally<br />

began 120 years ago as a foundry manufacturing<br />

castings<br />

On 17 August 2010, SKMT held its “First Pouring”<br />

ceremony witnessed by a large number of guests<br />

including Mr. Yasuo Masumoto, President of the <strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Corporation, and top executives from SCG (Siam<br />

Cement Group) including Mr. Kan Trakulhoon who is<br />

President and CEO.<br />

Looking to the future, SKMT is now making the<br />

necessary preparations to commence mass-production<br />

by the end of 2010 at its plant located in Phanom<br />

Sarakham in the east of Chachoengsao Province in<br />

central Thailand. Its ambitious goal is to apply the energy<br />

and wisdom of its employees towards becoming the<br />

foremost foundry first in Thailand, then throughout Asia,<br />

and eventually in the whole world.<br />

From Thailand<br />

Participants of the SKMT “First Pouring” ceremony.<br />

IN THE NEXT EDITION<br />

In issue #94 of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Times to be published<br />

at the end of March 2011, articles for “<strong>Kubota</strong><br />

Global Updates” will include:<br />

<strong>Kubota</strong> <strong>Canada</strong> <strong>Ltd</strong>. (KCL) Celebrates its 35th Anniversary<br />

The 3rd International Rice Congress (IRC)<br />

For the first time ever, <strong>Kubota</strong> will participate in the IRC which...<br />

and others submitted by members of the <strong>Kubota</strong> Global Family.<br />

KUBOTA TIMES<br />

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

Kazuya Takehisa / Akiko Uchida / Jun Akimoto:<br />

Farm & Industrial Machinery International Planning & Control Department<br />

Sahori Kamiya / Akiko Sasayama / Maki Yanagi:<br />

Tractor Export Department.<br />

Kae Nishimura: Engine Global Marketing Department<br />

Yuta Motegi: Construction Machinery Dvision<br />

Mai Tanaka: Farm Machinery Dvision<br />

Mitsuhiro Mitsuhashi:<br />

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

Tsukasa Wada:<br />

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

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

Editor: Tatsuo Miyoshi<br />

Writer: Paul Faust<br />

Design: Kazuko Iwamoto<br />

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

FIM International Planning & Control Department<br />

KUBOTA Corporation<br />

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

Japan 556-8601<br />

Fax: 81/6/6648-3521 E-Mail: k-takehi@nk.kubota.co.jp


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