MAE Develops Ultra-Lightweight Tow Dynamometer for Kubota UTVs

Mustang Advanced Engineering (MAE)—an American manufacturer of testing equipment, dynamometers and related products—has announced the successful delivery of a custom-engineered, lightweight tow dynamometer to Kubota Tractor Corporation, headquartered in Grapevine, Texas. The goal was to enhance Kubota’s research and development capabilities for its consumer-level utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and recreational powersport vehicles. MAE’s suggested solution was a high-performance, portable dynamometer that redefines how real-world towing loads are simulated in a controlled environment.

The Challenge: Creating a Compact, Mobile Dynamometer

Kubota stated that it required a compact and efficient dynamometer capable of simulating realistic towing conditions without sacrificing precision or mobility. The ideal solution would not only deliver high testing accuracy and durability but also be light enough to easily integrate into various R&D settings, according to company officials in a press release.

The Solution: The MDT-8KN-UL

MAE said that it responded by engineering the MDT-8KN-UL, a custom, ultra-lightweight tow dynamometer tailored to meet Kubota’s specific testing requirements. Features of the tow dyno are: 1,000 lbs. lighter than the standard MAE MDT-8KN tow dyno, speed range of 1-60 mph, grade simulation of up to 80% for vehicles weighing up to 4,200 lbs., and advanced data acquisition system for real-time performance analysis.

The Control Modes are Manual Control, Constant Force (Draw Bar), Constant Speed, Constant Power, and Vehicle Simulation (A, Bv, Cv², weight, grade). Additionally, MAE stated that its solution includes script testing capabilities, enabling test engineers to automate and customize test cycles based on time or distance. Operators can seamlessly transition between control modes mid-test, offering unmatched flexibility and functionality.

The Results: Improvements in R&D Efficiency

MAE claims the deployment of the MDT-8KN-UL has delivered measurable improvements in Kubota’s R&D efficiency, including enhanced testing precision for UTVs and recreational vehicles; realistic load simulation in a lab-controlled setting; and a scalable, cost-effective platform for future product innovation.

This successful project underscores MAE’s dedication to delivering innovative, customer-focused testing solutions, noted the release. MAE says the MDT-8KN-UL represents a new benchmark in portable dynamometer technology, empowering Kubota to push the boundaries of high-performance, consumer-ready vehicle development.