MOWER TRENDS
Toro ZMaster 2000
Kioti ZXD-72
able on mowers from Scag and Mean Green as well . Scythe and RC Mowers also offer autonomous technology for mowers , boosting the work capabilities for contractors willing to make the investment . Greenzie features an ROI calculator on its website , working to get potential buyers to see the opportunity in the cost . The cost for an autonomous Wright Stander is more than double a manually operated machine .
Some say the automation and battery power trends are not trendy enough yet — at least on the commercial side .
“ We have a residential ZTR with battery power ,” said Deere ’ s McCormack . “ But across the industry , the adoption will take time . The battery-charging infrastructure is a concern . Commercial buyers have a lot to think about .”
She added that Deere is ready for battery adoption and is waiting for the industry . “ We ’ re watching the regulations in municipal areas and on college campuses .”
Ferris SRSZ3X
Design
Manufacturers noted the importance of design and style as well . During Equip Expo , Toro stated that consumers are demanding zero-turn mowers with more aggressive styling , and ATV-type visual appeal .
Kioti styles its mowers for both functionality and a rugged look . “ We emphasize good sight lines to critical mowing areas ,” said Benedict . “ Customers can see how sturdy our machines are with heavy-duty welded frames and reinforced fabricated decks .”
According to Bobcat , people want more style . “ Years ago , these were boxy , with an old-school , farm-equipment look ,” said Scheffler . “ Today , people are looking for products that look robust and durable , but also look like they ’ re in motion .”
Who decides the trends ?
We often ask manufacturers , “ Who decides these trends ? Are you listening to users or designing what you want ?” Most manufacturers with whom we spoke talked about listening — whether through research data or user groups or dealer panels .
“ We take product out in the field to get VOC ( voice of customers ) in varied conditions and markets nationwide ,” Scheffler said about how Bobcat discovers trends . “ We take some of the competitive units too to find out what people like . Sometimes it ’ s roundtable discussions , and a lot of field work . And ranges of people , sizes and shapes and opinions .”
In case you ’ re wondering where trends come from .
30 OPE + April 2024 www . OPE-Plus . com