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AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead From the coming 2027 season, selected AS-Motor machines will be available with the Stihl Powerhead. This will allow users to choose between two established battery systems in future and integrate AS-Motor machines even more easily into their existing fleets of equipment. Users have the batteries […]

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026 The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Jacobsen have announced the delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI). Each year, 15 up-and-coming BIGGA members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers. First […]

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

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AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

From the coming 2027 season, selected AS-Motor machines will be available with the Stihl Powerhead. This will allow users to choose between two established battery systems in future and integrate AS-Motor machines even more easily into their existing fleets of equipment.

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

Users have the batteries – AS-Motor has the professional machines

Choosing a battery system is a long-term investment. Today’s professional users expect not only high-performance machines, but also the ability to use batteries across as many applications as possible.

With the Stihl Powerhead, AS-Motor is expanding its battery portfolio and giving users of the widely used Stihl battery system access to selected specialist machines for professional landscape maintenance. Existing batteries can continue to be used, eliminating the need for additional investment in a separate battery system.

The new solution also opens up additional opportunities for specialist retailers. Many specialist retailers stock both the AS-Motor and Stihl brands. These retailers have relevant experience with the battery system. The new
AS-Motor models can therefore be easily integrated into existing product ranges. At the same time, end customers benefit from a solution that fits seamlessly into their existing equipment fleets.

The new Powerhead variant specifically complements AS-Motor’s existing battery range by offering a further choice. Not every user works with the same battery system or has the same requirements. This allows customers to choose the solution that best suits their fleet of machines and their workflows.

The new Stihl Allpro battery system

The new Stihl Allpro battery system forms the basis of the new powerhead, which delivers a peak power output of 2950 watts. This new generation of batteries has been specially developed for professional applications and, thanks to modern tabless cell technology, offers significantly higher power output across the entire charge range. This ensures that consistently high power is available, even as the charge level drops, particularly during power-intensive tasks.

At the same time, the new powerheads are fully compatible with the batteries from the previous Stihl AP system. Users can therefore utilise both the new Allpro batteries and their existing AP batteries, continuing to make full use of their existing investments without any restrictions.

With charging times of just nine minutes to 80 per cent battery capacity (using a fast charger), more than 3,000 charge cycles and IPX5 certification for professional outdoor use, the Allpro system meets the requirements of service providers, local authorities and landscape maintenance professionals. Its high performance, short charging times and long service life make the system an attractive solution for continuous professional use.

The Stihl battery ecosystem already comprises around 80 tools, including hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws and other professional applications. The new AS-Motor machines expand this range of applications to include solutions for professional weed control and lawn care. For users, this means a single battery system for even more applications in day-to-day use.

The AS-Motor specialists powered by Stihl

Three AS-Motor Electric models featuring the Stihl Powerhead will be available for the new 2027 season: the two weed brush models, the AS 30 E-WeedHex AP and AS 60 E-WeedHex AP, and the professional mulching lawnmower, the AS 510 E-ProClip A AP.

AS 30 E-WeedHex AP

The AS 30 E-WeedHex AP is the compact solution for professional weed removal on pavements, paved areas and in confined spaces. Its electric drive combines high torque with exceptionally quiet operation, produces no exhaust emissions and ensures comfortable handling. This makes the machine ideal for use in noise-sensitive environments such as residential estates, hospitals, care homes or nurseries. Thanks to its compact design and high manoeuvrability, it really comes into its own on uneven surfaces, cobblestones and along walls, kerbs and edges.

AS 60 E-WeedHex AP

The AS 60 E-WeedHex AP has been developed for the efficient removal of weeds over larger areas and is aimed in particular at municipal works departments, local authorities and professional service providers. Mechanical weed control is carried out entirely without chemicals and delivers immediately visible results. Thanks to its compact design and balanced weight distribution, the machine can be used safely and comfortably even in confined areas of public spaces. At the same time, users benefit from high area coverage and the advantages of modern battery technology: emission-free operation, low noise levels, minimal maintenance requirements and high torque, available at the touch of a button.

AS 510 E-ProClip A AP

The AS 510 E-ProClip A AP professional mulching lawnmower combines the robust construction of the tried-and-tested ProClip series with the benefits of modern battery technology. With a cutting width of 51 centimetres, the machine achieves a clean cut and excellent mulching results even under demanding conditions. The sturdy steel mulching bell, the triple-bearing crankshaft and the high traction ensure reliability and durability in daily professional use. At the same time, users benefit from particularly quiet and low-vibration operation, reduced maintenance requirements and the low running costs of an electric drive.

The new AS-Motor models powered by Stihl will be available from the 2027 season.

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BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

July 9, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) and Jacobsen have announced the delegates for the 2026 Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI).

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

Each year, 15 up-and-coming BIGGA members are chosen to participate in the training programme credited with developing some of the most influential course managers and head greenkeepers.

First hosted in 2013 as a two-day education event, FTMI has since expanded around the world, with similar schemes now operating in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand.

Deb Burnett, BIGGA’s Head of Professional Development, underlined the quality of this year’s cohort, who hail from clubs across the UK and represent a broad range of roles within the greenkeeping profession.

“FTMI continues to attract outstanding applications from ambitious BIGGA members who are already making a real impact at their clubs and within their regions,” she said.

“The class of 2026 reflects the strength and depth of talent coming through the industry, and we are excited to support them as they build the skills, confidence and networks that will help them take the next step in their careers.”

“FTMI is a cornerstone of Jacobsen’s commitment to building a bright future for the sport of golf and the greater golf industry,” said Barry McTavish, Vice President and General Manager for Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd.

“Alongside BIGGA, we are identifying and developing the next generation of leaders, to better equip and prepare them to manage our industry’s critical assets – our golf courses – responsibly, sustainably, and in a manner that supports the growth of our sport,” McTavish said.

The initiative has benefited over 200 BIGGA members, with many citing their FTMI experience as key to their development. Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper at Loch Lomond, is excited to join such esteemed company.

“Being selected for FTMI means a great deal to me,” he said. “Developing as a turf manager is something I’m passionate about, and this is a fantastic opportunity to learn from some of the best people in the industry while building relationships with like-minded professionals. I’m excited to make the most of every experience over the next year.”

The programme has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help candidates pursue their career aspirations. Working with professional trainers, mentors, Jacobsen and BIGGA staff, graduates gain a clear understanding of what the future holds and a realistic overview of the expectations that come with the role of manager.

Toby Smith, deputy course manager at Redlibbets, said: “When I found out I had been selected for FTMI I was very proud and excited. It was something that was recommended to me and I knew right away that it was a brilliant initiative and I definitely wanted to apply.

“I’m thrilled to have been selected and we have some great mentors. I’m really looking forward to working with everyone and pushing towards where I want to be, and making new friends and connections along the way.”

FTMI begins at Ransomes Jacobsen’s headquarters in Ipswich and is followed by a series of online education sessions before culminating in two days of education at BTME in January.

Candidates are selected based upon an anonymous judging criterion, with the panel gaining an insight into the achievements of each application, who must be educationally active on a national and regional level.

FTMI class of 2026

Ruben Aitchison, deputy head greenkeeper, Tain Golf Club

Matthew Cox, deputy course manager, Whitecraigs Golf Club

Jonathan Dykes, assistant greenkeeper, Harleyford Golf Club

Harry Glover, first assistant greenkeeper, Lee Park Golf Club

Oliver Hopkin, first assistant, Hollinwell

Ruaridh Marshall, assistant greenkeeper, Sunningdale Golf Club

Laurie Owen, course supervisor/first assistant, Gog Magog Golf Club

Harvey Sims, first assistant, Hayling Golf Club

Gregory Smith, first assistant, The Berkshire Golf Club

Toby Smith, deputy course manager, Redlibbets Golf Club

Tommy Spender, greenkeeper, Highwoods Golf Club

Harlie Stokes, assistant greenkeeper/irrigation technician, Sandiway Golf Club

Bradley Taylor, first assistant, Beau Desert Golf Club

Jethro Wilson, senior greenkeeper, Loch Lomond Golf Club

Dominic Wright, spray technician/senior greenkeeper, Fulford Golf Club

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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You can also find us on Facebook for more of your must-see news, features, videos and pictures from Turf Matters

Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

AS-Motor Electric – Now also available with the Stihl Powerhead

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

BIGGA and Jacobsen announce FTMI class of 2026

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