Electric Mowers: Benefits and Considerations from Ransomes Jacobsen Training
Turney Group Pro Groundcare Sales Managers, Sam Green and Seb Cooke, and Service Manager Thomas Hogg recently completed the Technical Sales Expert on Cutting Units certification at Ransomes Jacobsen’s innovation centre and factory in Ipswich. We caught up with Seb, pictured centre, to discuss the benefits and considerations of going green and purchasing an electric machine.
What did you learn on the course and was there anything that surprised you?
Focussing mostly on the Jacobsen electric golf range, we learned about the theory of the cutting units and how the cylinders and bottom blades work together from an engineering technical point of view. We also learned about the various bottom blade specifications available, their use for particular applications and how they impact factors like grass quality, clip rate, and aggressiveness of the cut. We discovered that electric machines offer much more adjustability and customisation compared to diesel models, such as how many cuts per inch and infinitely variable clip rates. Electric machines automatically match your forward speed keeping the clip rate the same so there is no risk of inconsistency or user error. There is also a wide range of accessories available, for example, brushes, groomers, and aerators, that can be easily changed; you just press a button on the dashboard to tell the machine and it will adjust the performance accordingly.
What are the key benefits of a battery-powered machine?
Battery-powered machines are a fantastic option for schools, city applications, universities, and anywhere where there is a lot of public footfall because they are so quiet and help towards low emission targets.
If there is an issue with the machine, I was impressed by the ability to test each switch and sensor from the dashboard, rather than having to use lengthy traditional diagnostic techniques. The machine will tell you if each switch is working properly which allows for much quicker and easier diagnosis of issues compared to traditional diesel machines. The workshop’s ability to know exactly what parts are needed for repair after a quick phone call will save a lot of time.
The computer controls also enable users to limit the machine's speed and operation to ensure proper cutting quality and restrict access with a PIN code for making changes to the setup.
What are the potential drawbacks?
On the dealers' side, battery power does reduce the need for some regular maintenance and limits service to an annual sharpening of the cutting units. For owners, the reduction in service cost and fuel savings are substantial but the electric machines are more expensive to purchase upfront compared to diesel models. There is some risk of reduced usage; some users may not be used to the battery life limitations and may not operate the machines as efficiently, leaving them sitting unused for long periods when the battery runs down. Users also need to be diligent about regular in-house maintenance, like greasing and inspections, to avoid premature issues. When purchasing, as a dealer we offer proper advice and guidance for customers to get the most out of their new battery-powered mower.
If you would like to experience Ransomes Jacobsen electrification innovation at your facility, please contact Turney’s Pro Groundcare sales team to arrange a demonstration of the Eclipse 360 Elite, SLF1 Elite, or Aurora Elite today. Contact groundcaresales@turneygroup.com or call 01869 343292.
