WENDELL, NC – The Wendell Fire Department and Police Department each received a donated MECHRON 2200 UTV from KIOTI Tractor, a division of Daedong-USA, Inc., and an active business member of the local Wendell community. Both departments had a growing need for a UTV to assist in preserving public safety throughout the Wendell area, according to a release from the company.

KIOTI’s MECHRON 2200 UTV was first introduced in 2011 and has become popular for its capabilities in both work and recreational settings. Standard features include 4-wheel drive, a 22 hp Daedong diesel engine, and 56-inch wide cargo bed capable of holding up to 1,100 lbs.

 “When we spoke to KIOTI Tractor and told them about our needs, they were more than willing to help,” stated Fire Chief Tom Vaughan. The Wendell Fire Department plans to add a water tank to the rear of the UTV for use in fighting wood fires. Additionally, they will use it for rescues in areas that are difficult to reach with larger vehicles and for managing special events such as parades and festivals.

The Wendell Police Department’s UTV will be the first UTV the department has ever owned. With the UTV’s 25-inch tires and 12-inch ground clearance, it will be especially beneficial to police officers when conducting searches for missing persons or fugitives in wooded areas and along trails. Other uses will include deployment during special events such as festivals and parades, patrolling during potential natural disasters, and crisis situations such as ice storms and hurricanes when use of traditional patrol vehicles might not be feasible, but calls for assistance increase and still need to be handled.

Both the Wendell Fire and Police Departments plan to share the use of their MECHRON 2200 UTVs with other local organizations.