Production of the first Polaris BRUTUS commercial utility vehicles and Bobcat 3600-series UTVs began in Iowa in April 2013, marking an important milestone in the partnership between Polaris Industries and Bobcat Company.
Executives from both companies gathered at Polaris’ Milford, Iowa, assembly facility as the first co-developed vehicles rolled off the production line. Representatives included Bobcat executives Richard Goldsbury, Mike Ballweber, Chuck Krause and Brad Claus, along with Polaris executives Bennett Morgan, David Longren and Marc Tullemans.
Polaris and Bobcat Commercial UTV Partnership
The production launch was the result of a strategic alliance announced by Polaris and Bobcat in 2009. The companies combined Polaris’ experience developing side-by-side vehicles with Bobcat’s expertise in commercial equipment, hydrostatic drive systems and work attachments.
The shared platform produced the Bobcat 3600, Bobcat 3650 and the Polaris BRUTUS family. Although the vehicles carried different branding and equipment packages, each was designed primarily for commercial users, property maintenance, agriculture and demanding jobsite work.
Commercial Utility Vehicles Built for Work
The Bobcat 3600, Bobcat 3650 and Polaris BRUTUS used diesel power, hydrostatic transmissions and heavy-duty suspension systems engineered to carry substantial loads. Their common platform offered a 1,250-pound cargo-box capacity, a 2,000-pound towing rating and a top speed of approximately 30 mph.
The most advanced models expanded the conventional UTV formula with front-mounted implements. The Bobcat 3650 and Polaris BRUTUS HDPTO could operate attachments including an angle broom, finishing mower and snow blower, giving commercial users capabilities normally associated with larger compact equipment.
For complete specifications and additional details, see our original introductions of the Bobcat 3600 and 3650 utility vehicles and the Polaris BRUTUS lineup.
Originally published April 16, 2013. Updated to provide additional historical context and links to related UTV Guide coverage.
