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Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

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Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot: In 2005, zero-turn mowers accounted for just 5 per cent of the total lawn tractor market in the USA. This figure has now risen to around 52 per cent.

Zero-turn mowers have become the absolute standard there, whether for private or professional users. The demand for zero-turn mowers is also growing strongly in Europe. The reasons are obvious: significant time savings, more comfort, a long service life and, not to be underestimated, more fun when mowing.

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

Ariens zero-turn mower faster on the spot

 Mow 40 per cent faster

In contrast to classic lawn tractors with a steering wheel, Ariens zero-turn mowers are driven by two independently operating wheel motors on the rear wheels. The drive wheels are controlled individually with two steering levers. They can therefore move in the same or in different directions. In practice, this means that you can turn in one go – without having to manoeuvre forwards or backwards. There is no time-consuming turning with a zero-turn mower – obstacles can be circled precisely and in one go. This also means that less uncut grass remains in the turning area. The precision of an Ariens zero-turn mower significantly reduces the need for tedious cleaning out at the end. Another reason why zero-turn mowers are so fast is their low centre of gravity in combination with the large-volume, welded mowing deck. As a result, significantly higher mowing speeds are achieved compared to classic lawn tractors.

The preconception that zero-turn mowers are only worthwhile for professionals who have very large areas to mow can be debunked. We recommend taking a closer look at this option for lawns of 1000 m² or more. Zero-turn mowers are available from a cutting width of 86 cm. The device class with a cutting width of 86 cm – 107 cm, such as the two models Ariens Edge 34 and 42, is aimed at private individuals with larger properties. Especially in gardens with numerous obstacles such as flower beds and bushes and many turning manoeuvres, the time saved is enormous.

Ariens zero-turn mowers provide real mowing pleasure

In addition to the speed, the comfortable operation also speaks in favour of an Ariens zero-turn mower. The greater legroom compared to conventional lawn tractors and the comfortable seats, which can be optimally adjusted to the driver, ensure significantly more comfort. The low effort required for steering movements and the smooth-running controls also contribute to a pleasant working environment.

Ariens mowers are synonymous with durability. Compared to traditional ride-on mowers, Ariens uses significantly less plastic on its zero-turn mowers. High-quality frames and welded steel cutting decks ensure a long service life.  Premium engines and robust hydrostatic transmissions contribute to sustainability and resource conservation.

The fun of mowing

For users who have switched to an Ariens Zero-Turn, the conventional lawn tractor with steering wheel has had its day. And this is not least due to the fun of mowing. The combination of speed, manoeuvrability and comfort clearly contributes to this. 40 per cent faster also means that there is more time for other activities. Mowing without a grass collector also eliminates the tiring and annoying task of disposing of clippings. And the result is also perfect: high blade speeds and a strong airflow produce an excellent cutting pattern.

Anyone can drive a zero-turn

The generalised objection that users would not be able to cope with steering with two driving levers is untrue. Anyone can drive a zero-turning circle mower after a short period of familiarisation. Millions of private users prove it and no longer want to do without the advantages. This is easy to prove with a brief explanation of the functions and a test drive in the yard of a specialist dealer. The shopping trolley comparison is the best way to do this. Depending on the driving manoeuvre, the drive levers are moved accordingly (see diagram 3).

Practical trial and study prove the benefits

In a practical example from the online portal todaysmower.com, a classic lawn tractor and a zero-turn mower were tested on a 4000 m² area with 40 trees and other obstacles. The result was clear. The zero-turn mower was 40 per cent faster than the lawn tractor with the same mowing width (106 cm).

A comparison of the steering modes of conventional ride-on mowers and zero-turn mowers as part of a study conducted by the University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Engineering, also confirmed the aforementioned advantages. A practical comparison test between a conventional lawn tractor (107 cm mowing width) and an Ariens Ikon XD zero-turn mower (107 cm mowing width) showed that not only is the turning manoeuvre significantly faster, but the turning radius is also significantly smaller. The turning manoeuvre on the classic omega-shaped lawn tractor takes 5 seconds. In comparison, the Ariens IKONXD turns in just 3.7 seconds. When asked which of the two mowers the 17 test participants would buy, the answer was also clear. More than twice as many participants would opt for an Ariens zero-turn mower.

In conclusion, for a slightly higher purchase price, zero-turn mowers offer the user the time savings described above, a much more comfortable driving experience, a considerably more durable machine and not to forget – more fun when mowing.

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The loader market turns electric

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The loader market turns electric: The electrification of the non-road machinery market starts most strongly in the compact machine sector. Finnish loader manufacturer Avant Tecno Oy responds to the change by taking another significant step as a pioneer in the loader world.

The new third-generation fully electric Avant loaders have batteries that are manufactured at Avant Power’s new battery factory in Ylöjärvi, Finland. Full investments have been made to develop the unique battery technology. “In five years, half of the loaders we sell may be electric,” says Jani Käkelä, CEO of Avant Tecno and Avant Power.

The loader market turns electric

The loader market turns electric

The compact machine market has been growing rapidly in recent years, especially in developed countries. Problems with the availability of labour and constantly tightening occupational safety regulations create more demand, to which multi-purpose compact loaders respond well.

Compact loaders can be used to work efficiently all year round, and their versatility is enhanced by a wide range of attachments. Another megatrend related to compact machines is zero emissions, which is becoming more and more prominent. This is due to the pressure created by general national and international emission targets to reduce coal use. In addition, small machines are often used partly or entirely indoors, and the work is naturally best-done emission-free for health reasons alone.

Avant Tecno has been developing electric loaders for four decades, and the company is now responding to the change with a huge development step. Avant Power, the newest subsidiary of the Avant Group, designs and manufactures batteries optimized for Avant compact loaders at the Avant factory site in Ylöjärvi, Finland. The new third-generation electric loaders have just entered production, and their lithium-ion batteries are the best on the compact loader market.

“Our own battery production gives us a unique head start in the electric loader market now and in the future. According to the fastest scenario, up to half of the loaders we sell could be electric in as little as five years. However, diesel loaders will still be needed for a long time, as some market areas will switch to electric loaders on a much slower schedule,” says Jani Käkelä, CEO of Avant Tecno and Avant Power.

The loader market turns electric

The loader market turns electric

The world’s only loader manufacturer with its own battery factory

Avant made the decision to start its own battery development because there was not yet a good enough battery in the world that would be a perfect fit for Avant loaders. Under Avant’s roof, there were people with the expertise required for the bold project, and eventually, these experts formed the core team of the new subsidiary.

“Now, a solid foundation for battery production has been built through hard work. We have invested heavily in product development, and we also have partners with world-class expertise. The exceptional solutions in our battery technology bring many benefits to our customers, and we will be able to respond to strong international growth in the future,” says Mikko Piepponen, COO of Avant Power, who is also responsible for creating the new technology.

Avant Power’s current facilities have served as a production development laboratory, where battery testing and manufacturing technology have been fine-tuned. Both the new battery technology and the battery factory production line have been designed by Avant Power. The same goes for most of the production equipment, which is exceptional on a global scale. Since production and the product have been designed at the same time, the whole is as simple and uncompromising as possible.

“We have used the most modern possibilities in automation and developed the production line solutions ourselves. We started production at a moderate pace, and towards the end of the year we will increase it to full speed. Next year we will manufacture 700 to 800 batteries.

“The self-designed and implemented production line enables, above all, agility, and scalability. At the same time, all expertise related to batteries and loaders is under the same roof,” says Santu Tyynelä, Chief Design Officer at Avant Power.

Currently, batteries are manufactured on one production line, but another production line has already been ordered and its installation is awaited.

The best battery on the loader market

Avant Power’s globally unique Avant OptiTemp® battery technology further improves the working time, capacity, pricing, safety, durability, and lifespan of electric loaders.

The loader market turns electric

The loader market turns electric

Thanks to immersion cooling technology, the batteries have excellent thermal management, which has long been one of the biggest challenges in battery technology, especially in mobile machines and equipment exposed to fluctuations in outdoor temperature. Avant OptiTemp® battery technology makes the operation of an electric loader more efficient than ever before, both in severe frosts and hot working conditions. In addition, the batteries have multi-level protection, which makes them very safe.

The operating time of electric loaders has now reached a completely new level. The new fully electric Avant e527 loader has a working time of 6 hours in optimal conditions, which is up to double compared to the previous Avant e6 electric loader. On a single charge, you can drive the new e-loader for 21 kilometres. The range is more than 60% longer than the range of the previous Avant e6.

Due to Avant’s own battery production, the new electric loaders are very competitively priced. “The loader battery is the largest single price component of the machine, and the price of battery cells is the most significant price component of batteries. With our own battery manufacturing and efficient procurement of battery cells directly from the cell manufacturer, we can significantly reduce the price of the loader. With our own company focusing on battery technology, we can also develop the battery for future needs in the best possible way,” says CEO Jani Käkelä.

New Avant e series available now

The fully electric loaders from Avant’s renewed e series – the Avant e513 (battery capacity 13 kWh) and Avant e527 (battery capacity 27 kWh) – are now in production. The domestic delivery time is about 10 weeks from the order. In export countries, the delivery time varies from country to country. More detailed information on delivery times is provided by importers.

For more information, please visit www.avanttecno.com/uk

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The weed brush for every application

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The weed brush for every application:  With its mechanical weed brushes, AS-Motor offers a method for sustainable, cost-effective and efficient weed removal on paved surfaces. The familiar portfolio is now being usefully supplemented by a new top model: the AS 60 WeedHex with a working width of 60 cm and the reliable Honda GCV 200 with 5.6 hp maximum power.

The AS 60 WeedHex was developed to meet the requirements of construction yards and service providers and is therefore extremely versatile. Its working width makes it ideal for cleaning large areas. However, its compact design also allows it to be used in confined and uneven areas in public spaces and along walls and kerbs. For this purpose, the brush can be adjusted sideways to work even better in joints or crevices.

The weed brush for every application

The weed brush for every application

The torque is multiplied by a mechanical reduction gear on the brush. This allows the brush speed to be reduced to just 190 revolutions per minute. The low brush speed ensures a very long brush service life and minimises the risk of stone chipping. The brush therefore comes without a protective cloth as standard. An adjustable protective cloth is available as an option, which holds the swept material together in a swath and makes subsequent sweeping easier. A metal ring around the brush holder prevents the brushes from hitting corners, edges and obstacles.

Thanks to a blade clutch, the brush head can be conveniently switched on or off even when the motor is running. The even weight distribution of the AS 60 WeedHex makes it easier to push the machine, which can also negotiate steps and landings thanks to its large pneumatic tyres with ball bearings.

The AS 60 WeedHex is available to order now and will be delivered from May 2024.

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Book tickets for horticulture’s party of the year!

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Book tickets for horticulture’s party of the year!: Party for Perennial this spring at your charity party of the year! Let’s come together to make a difference for all those working with plants, trees, flowers or grass.

Gather your friends and colleagues from across the industry and mark your calendars for Thursday 9 May, 7pm at Core Bar, London. Get ready for an evening buzzing with camaraderie, excitement and generosity in support of Perennial, the charity helping people in horticulture.

Book tickets for horticulture’s party of the year!

Book tickets for horticulture’s party of the year!

In the charity’s 185th year, the fundraiser, proudly sponsored by Core Landscape Products, is a memorable way to dig deep for your industry peers while making new connections and catching up with familiar faces. The ticket price of £35 includes bubbles on arrival and some delicious nibbles, plus the chance to win some great prizes in the Party for Perennial raffle.

“Phil and the team at Perennial play a vital role in our industry. We have been big supporters of the charity for the last few years and try to help wherever we can. Party for Perennial is always a great night out and with the chosen venue being called ‘CORE’ it just made sense to sponsor this fantastic event,” says Manni Keates, Managing Director of CORE Landscape Products.

Anita Bates, Perennial’s Director of Marketing and Fundraising comments: “Our popular annual party is a highly rewarding evening spent with friends and colleagues and an entertaining way to help us raise money to support more people in horticulture. Every time our Perennial Partners and supporters buy a ticket and dig deep, people and their families have a chance to build better lives. Whether taking on a Milestone challenge in May or hosting a fundraising event, your wholehearted efforts all year make a difference in the ways we can help. It’s only through growing our partnerships with businesses and organisations that we can reach more people in need. Tickets are on sale now, so please put the date in your diary and join us!”

Perennial knows only too well that times are tough, particularly amidst the current cost of living crisis. Consequently, there’s been a significant 21% increase in individuals seeking personal support. The charity’s online tools have also become more important with a 27% increase in people in need accessing digital resources.

There are lots of reasons why people turn to the charity, such as bereavement, the impact of an accident, health issues or a family breakdown. As the only UK charity helping everyone working in or retired from horticulture and their families, Perennial relies on support from the industry.

All proceeds from Party for Perennial ticket sales and raffle help support people in need. Every time Perennial’s supporters dig deep, they make a difference to the lives of people in horticulture and their families.

Let’s make this an unforgettable event while making a positive impact in our community!

Book tickets and join the fundraising at www.perennial.org.uk/party

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Reesink gives Keys Brothers the keys to Toro

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Reesink gives Keys Brothers the keys to Toro: Keys Brothers Horticulture Ltd in Hillsborough, Northern Ireland, been appointed as the only authorised dealer for Toro fine turf and groundscare machinery in Ulster.

It’s been a record-breaking start for the dealer with eight new members of staff recruited to accommodate the increase in business and further plans for expansion.

Reesink gives Keys Brothers the keys to Toro

Reesink gives Keys Brothers the keys to Toro

Although the appointment is relatively new, the history between Keys Brothers and Reesink Turfcare is enduring. They’ve been in partnership since 2018 when the company was chosen as a service centre for Reesink, delivering customers exceptional support and after-sales services.

Andy Keys, director at Keys Brothers Horticulture Ltd, says: “Working as a service centre for Reesink was a successful endeavour, so it made sense for that relationship to evolve into us becoming a dealer. We’re 12 months into the relationship and delighted to report a record-breaking start with sales numbers exceeding all expectations.”

Keys Brothers Horticulture Ltd has over 25 years of experience in horticultural equipment servicing and repairs, stocking a wide range of new and used machinery as well as an extensive range of spare parts for all its brands.

Reesink and Toro have proven to be an ideal fit for the business’ customer base of golf courses, councils, education authorities and sports centres in Hillsborough, Lisburn and across Northern Ireland.

Andy says: “We focus on delivering high performance, superior quality machines and exceptional after-sale service. The combination of Toro being a leading brand when it comes to quality machines and performance, the backup and service Reesink provides, and the face-to-face contact, social media content and industry training we offer, have all contributed to our success.”

David Timms, national accounts manager for Reesink Turfcare, says its notable how the business has focused its attention on its new customer base for great results already: “Since the appointment Keys Brothers’ has focused on winning back business and nurturing relationships, and has in turn amassed a sizeable order bank. Simply putting themselves back in front of customers on a regular basis is proving its worth.

“Their workshops have grown in strength with the additional workload, and they’ve recently recruited additional technicians to the team. If they continue in the manner, then we will have a terrific outlet for the Toro golf and commercial brands for the future.”

To find out more about the complete collection of turfcare and transport options from Reesink Turfcare, visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk, email info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or call 01480 226800.

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