Press Release

KOHLER, Wis. – October 29, 2009  –  Adding to its initial small diesel engine offering launched for the North American market in 2008, Kohler Co. debuts a combination diesel engine/transmission package with CVT (continuous variable transmission) – ideal for powering off-road utility vehicles.

The KOHLER KDW 1003 diesel power train with CVT is a complete propulsion system that combines the simplicity of driving a traditional automatic transmission with continuously variable ratio with the precision of a typical automotive gear box. Rated at 26.1 horsepower (1,028 cc) and 3600 RPM, this three-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel package delivers a smooth and quiet power source for multiple off-road vehicles such as UTVs, quads, snowmobiles and other applications. The KDW 1003 also meets current EPA and CARB emission requirements.

“This combination engine and transmission is relatively new to the North American small engine market,” said Cam Litt, marketing manager for Kohler Engines. “Kohler’s mechanical CVT product was developed by our Lombardini diesel engine brand in Italy, whose similar product has already been specified by OEMs in Europe and India to power off-road vehicles. We’re excited to offer our North American OEM customers with this added value – a complete engine/transmission solution in one diesel package that powers vehicles easily and comfortably.”

The advantage of a CVT is the ability to keep the engine RPM in its optimum power output range for all operating conditions. Unlike a conventional transmission which changes the ratio in stages by shifting gears, the CVT continuously varies the ratio. Currently used in the automotive market, a CVT provides more useable power, better fuel economy and smoother driving experience than a traditional automatic transmission. And, the KOHLER KDW 1003 CVT power train requires no maintenance because of a simple design with minimal parts. OEMs can expect greater stability because the KDW 1003 power train’s overall compact size allows it to be positioned between the vehicle’s four wheels. It also features an engine braking system available in a slowing-down phase right up to the vehicle completely stopping.

The KDW 1003’s gear box incorporates two forward gears (low/high) and a reverse reduction gear specifically designed for off-road work vehicles. It also features an integrated oil breather system and an optional speed sensor. Users have the option of 2- or 4-wheel drive functionality.

All KOHLER diesel engines are supported by the company’s far-reaching dealer and distributor service network and application engineering team, ready to work with OEMs in a responsive and creative manner.

KOHLER KDW 1003 Power Train with CVT – Product Specifications

• 26.1 horsepower, 19.5 kW
• 3600 RPM
• 1028 cc displacement
• Liquid-cooled, 3 cylinder, diesel
• 3:1 suggested differential ratio
• Gear ratio – low forward 5.28:1, high forward 9.38:1, reverse 7:1

About Kohler Co. (www.KohlerEngines.com)

Within the Kohler Global Power Group, Kohler Co. and its affiliate Lombardini, Srl manufacture gasoline engines from 3.5-40 horsepower, and diesel engines from 6.7-64.4 horsepower marketed worldwide under the brand names KOHLER and LOMBARDINI.

Also within the Kohler Global Power Group are Kohler Power Systems and affiliate SDMO Industries S.A.S, manufacturing generators (marine, residential, industrial and mobile) that are marketed worldwide under the brands KOHLER and SDMO. The group’s Kohler Rental business provides temporary power, climate control and luxury restrooms to the industrial, commercial, disaster recovery and event markets throughout the U.S. 

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin-USA, Kohler Co. is one of the oldest and largest privately-held companies in the United States.  Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.

Editor's Note: 
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