Equip Exposition — the international landscape, outdoor living and equipment exposition — was held October 21-24 in Louisville, Kentucky, and posted another year of record attendance with nearly 30,000 registered attendees.
“Now in our fourth year as Equip, we continue to break records in both attendance and exhibit space,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of OPEI, which owns and manages Equip Exposition. “The show continues to serve as the most important gathering for the global industry, with attendance from all 50 states and 52 countries.”
This year’s show featured a standing-room-only keynote address from Jesse Cole, creator of the Savannah Bananas, sponsored by Kress. Attendees also opened the show with a welcome reception at the Churchill Downs raceway, took in a concert featuring Big and Rich with Gretchen Wilson, and took part in the annual TurfMutt Fun Run and 5K.
Also new in 2025 was the Equip Creator Space, which allowed attendees to connect with industry influencers on the trade show floor. And the event again hosted Mulligan’s Mutt Madness, a national dog adoption event held in conjunction with the Kentucky Humane Society, which found forever homes for 13 dogs.
Equip offered attendees a broad lineup of education in both English and Spanish. Meanwhile, the Equip Expo exhibit hall and Outdoor Demo Area showcased the latest outdoor power equipment for industry professionals. Our recap of some of the new product highlights is as follows:
Altoz expanded its lineup with two new high-performance zero-turn mowers: the XC SSi Series and the XP 610 SSi.
Both models combine industry-leading drive trains, advanced suspension systems, and ergonomic comfort to handle demanding conditions while delivering precision cut quality and dependable performance.
XC SSi Series
Kawasaki FX 1000V EFI — 38.5-hp., 999cc displacement
61" or 72" finish cut aero deck options
Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 high/low transmission
Tri-axis front suspension with adjustable coil spring over oil shock
Power deck lift for easy operation
High-visibility safety color
Flat-free front tires
14-gallon fuel capacity
12-way adjustable suspension seat
XP 610 SSi
Kawasaki FX 820V EVO EFI – 34.5-hp., 822cc displacement
61" finish cut aero deck
Hydro-Gear ZT-4400 transmission
Tri-Axis front suspension with adjustable coil spring over oil shock
High-visibility safety color
Flat-free front tires
14-gallon fuel capacity
12-way adjustable suspension seat
Billy Goat launched the new Z3002 and X3002 Hurricane stand-on blowers. These models are built upon the performance of the prior 3001 series, incorporating significant new and carried-over upgrades focused on increasing durability, enhancing operator comfort, and improving ease of use.
The new Hurricane series incorporates key structural and comfort enhancements that were recently applied to the 3001 series, ensuring a longer service life and better field performance.
Stronger front axles, foam-filled caster tires, and improved bearings to withstand the toughest commercial environments.
A convenient side fill fuel tank with gauge for easier refueling and monitoring.
Updated operator console and heavier throttle and choke cables for more reliable control.
The new module offers improved protection and eliminates temporary control resets, ensuring consistent operation throughout the workday. The operator now has a more responsive, intuitive tap-to-adjust gate control — a short tap for minor adjustments or a longer tap for full open/close — providing precise control over airflow. The control system is no longer tied to the engine start and brake functions, streamlining the start-up sequence and boosting overall reliability.
Exmark announced several product updates.
Turf Tracer with XiQ Technology
Looking to refine and expand the performance of its autonomous commercial mower — the Turf Tracer with XiQ Technology — Exmark released a number of updates to the machine’s operating system.
Exmark focused the operating system updates around improving the consistency of path planning and providing quicker response to heavy cutting conditions. RTK coverage has been improved as well, and the machine now selects the best network to use automatically.
Remote stop functionality has been added to the Exmark XiQ app, eliminating the need for crews to charge and carry a separate remote stop device.
New service reminders have been incorporated into the operating system, so they now appear on the machine’s 4.3-inch color display. This makes it easier for operators to track the service needs of each machine. In addition, new Spanish and French language options have been launched both for the machine’s operating system and Exmark’s XiQ app.
2026 Radius E- and S-Series zero-turn mowers
Exmark unveiled redesigned 2026 Radius E- and S-Series zero-turn mowers.
The 2026 Radius E-Series features a new Exmark Series 2+ cutting deck in a choice of 48- 54- or 60-inch cutting widths. Fabricated and fully welded of high-strength steel, with maintenance-free sealed bearing blade spindles, the Series 2+ cutting deck is durable and low maintenance. Exmark’s Adapt system is available as an accessory. Adapt enables quick, tools-free deck rake adjustments from the operator seat, so the operator can tailor deck performance for specific turf types and cutting conditions.
The new Radius S-Series features Exmark’s UltraCut Series 3 cutting deck, with available Adapt tools-free deck rake adjustment as an accessory. Fabricated and welded of high-strength steel, with a 10-gauge top and 7-gauge steel skirts, the UltraCut Series 3 cutting deck offers higher capacity while preserving the cut quality Exmark owners expect. When combined with the higher capacity HydroGear ZT-3100 transmission, the Radius S-Series can mow at speeds of up to 9 mph, with pinpoint control for maximum efficiency on any property. Large 23-inch drive tires and a deluxe suspension seat offer increased operator comfort by reducing bumps and vibrations that reach the operator.
Tractus drive tire system
Exmark launched its second generation Tractus non-
pneumatic tire system. The revamped Tractus system features an increased load rating to more easily handle the loads landscape pros put on them. The non-pneumatic Tractus design eliminates flat tires, while delivering up to five times longer lifespan than conventional pneumatic tires. The larger contact patch Tractus tires provide increased traction while reducing ground pressure for reduced turf compaction. The lambda design of the new Tractus system also offers a smoother ride quality than pneumatic tires over rough terrain.
Gravely expanded its commercial stand-on portfolio with the introduction of the Gravely Pro-Stance Ultra. The new platform features 52- and 60-inch deck offerings, plus a 72-inch EFI model.
Pro-Stance Ultra features:
A wide, curved operator pad extending below knee height eliminates the potential for knee impact.
15-inch caster wheels.
An adjustable platform accommodates a variety of operators.
The pitched, forward-facing controls are angled to reduce wrist strain.
A 16-gallon fuel tank.
A trio of Gravely’s new commercial spindles are cast from cold-forged aluminum, serviceable, and more resilient to moisture penetration and debris ingestion.
The Pro-Stance Ultra also carries over the proprietary deck-lift assist pedal from the existing Pro-Stance platform. This feature allows the operator to float the deck over roots and ruts without the need to remove their hands from the controls and it makes changing cutting height easier.
It’s powered exclusively by 35- and 38.5-horsepower Kawasaki FX1000 and FX1000 EFI engines, and comes with a pair of Parker HTG integrated transaxles to move the machine to a top speed of 12.5 mph.
Hydro-Gear introduced the Smartec Hybrid Commercial ZT system, which combines the power and reliability of an electric machine with the technology of traditional gas machines. Hydro-Gear partnered with Kawasaki to offer the FT730V EFI engine in this system.
The system can deliver 40 hp. to deck so the blade speed remains constant regardless of the deck load. The Smartec Hybrid ZT Commercial system relies on the patented 3-in-1 hybrid deck motor, which acts like a mechanical deck spindle, electric deck motor or generator depending on the load and battery charge status.
With three operating modes to choose from (EV, Hybrid, Power), the user can select the most appropriate for the job. No worries if you forget to plug it in overnight, just start the day in Hybrid or Power Mode and charge the battery while you work.
Ignite Attachments added to its lineup a new soil conditioner designed to make cleanup, grading and seedbed preparation easier and more efficient. Compatible with compact tractors in the 18-to-60-horsepower range, the implement is available in 48-, 60- and 72-inch widths.
Key features include:
Spiral-pattern drum for consistent ground contact and a smooth finish, even on hardpack or uneven terrain.
Slip clutch protection instead of shear pins to reduce downtime and protect tractor and implement during operation.
Quick hitch compatibility and 540 PTO driveline for fast, hassle-free hookup.
Flip-up wing kits to increase surface coverage or allow rocks and debris to pass to the side.
Adjustable rubber deflector with single-pin tilt-away action to control material flow without tools.
Manual or optional hydraulic angle adjustment to create windrows or shift material as needed.
Fiber-reinforced rubber deflector and sealed chain box with external tension adjustment for reduced maintenance and longer life.
John Deere expanded its lineup of Diesel ZTrak zero-turn mowers, and also unveiled its new independent E-Cut wing deck design with the introduction of the FastBack Pro 100, available exclusively on the Z998R model. The John Deere lineup of commercial mowers is welcoming three models, including the debut of the brand new Z998R. In addition, the existing Z997R model received a full design upgrade and is now available in two trim levels, including the Z997R and Z997M.
New to the market, the Z998R operates as a traditional 100-inch zero-turn mower or adapts on the fly with the touch of a button. Thanks to its independently controlled E-Cut wing decks and electric drive motors, operators can raise or lower each wing deck to navigate around trees, fences, gates and other obstacles without interrupting mowing. You can even mow with just one wing deck down, giving you flexible cutting widths of 60, 80, or 100 inches to suit the job at hand. Additionally, the electric spindle motors are designed for easy serviceability and are well protected from jobsite elements.
Making for a more customized experience, operators using a Z997R or Z998R can benefit from the smart powertrain system that offers multiple mowing settings including Eco, Cut Quality and Productivity modes. Controlled through a new, advanced touchscreen display, operators can easily manage setting to meet their desired mowing needs. The new LoadMatch feature helps maintain consistent blade tip speed under heavy loads by adjusting traction speed automatically, allowing for a higher cut quality overall. Additionally, drive-by-wire electronic controls enable automated throttle, transmission and enhanced steering control for increased efficiency.
Designed strategically with the operator in mind, the Z998R and Z998M models received various operator station improvements, including enhancements that deliver a more ergonomic operator experience. The premium air ride seat enables a smoother ride and decreased strain on the operator, while the new steering levers provide optimal control. In addition, the integrated park brake makes for easy and intuitive operator transitions.
The Height of Cut (HoC) system has been enhanced to offer center deck adjustment ranges from 1.0 to 5.5 inches in 0.25-inch increments. The wing deck height adjustment features a front caster system, which allows for tool-free field adjustment using magnetic locking keys. This simplified design enables the operator to seamlessly adjust the mower’s cut height on the go.
Lastly, a newly improved cooling package has been repositioned to be housed behind the operator. The relocation of the cooling package significantly reduces debris accumulation, allowing for longer operations in hot weather conditions.
Kress Commercial unveiled its latest breakthrough in autonomous mowing technology. The Kress Robotics KR800, or “Voyager,” is designed specifically for route-based landscaping operations.
Voyager is an autonomous, 40-inch robotic mower equipped with a fusion of real time kinematic (RTK) technology, LiDAR, VisionAI and high-tech sensors. Voyager operates boundary-wire-free with centimeter-level accuracy and the sophistication typical of autonomous cars. After a simple, one-time mapping process, Voyager travels with the crew from property to property with infinite map memory capability. While crews focus on highly-skilled, detailed landscaping tasks, Voyager handles the bulk work in the background autonomously, efficiently and emission-free.
Voyager mows up to seven acres or eight hours per charge and operates at a rate comparable to, or faster than, traditional on-site crew tasks. With a mowing speed of 5.6 mph, it can also travel between properties in dense HOA-style neighborhoods, trailer-free, making it ideal for high-efficiency route work.
Voyager will be available at Kress dealer locations across North America in early 2026.
Kubota Tractor Corporation unveiled three new additions to its equipment lineup: the SVL65-2s compact track loader, the RTV-X Long Bed, and the F2510 commercial front-mount mower.
SVL65-2s
Building on the SVL65-2 platform, the SVL65-2s retains its core specs, including a 68.4-horsepower Kubota engine, 2,100-pound rated operating capacity at 35 percent tipping load, and available high-flow auxiliary hydraulics up to 27 gallons per minute on select configurations. Inside the cab, operators will find a standard high-back seat with an available heated air-ride option, an LCD monitor with jog dial control, keyless start, an integrated backup camera, and an integrated Bluetooth radio. LED front and rear work lights and backlit switches further enhance visibility and ease of operation.
RTV-X Long Bed
The new RTV-X Long Bed model boasts a powerful Kubota diesel engine, VHT-X transmission, and, most importantly, a robust six-foot steel cargo bed with a 1,212-pound capacity. The RTV-X Long Bed features a ProKonvert flatbed conversion, a hydraulic dump box, and exclusive cargo bed accessories. The RTV-X is available in Kubota orange with HDMP tires or ATV tires, or a factory-assembled RealTree Camo package that comes equipped with LED cargo lights, a cargo winch, and a tailgate extender.
F2510 front-mount mower
Kubota’s F Series adds the updated F2510, a 23.3-horsepower model. Updates include a new LCD display with white backlight and battery meter for improved visibility, a relocated parking brake lock conveniently positioned on the dash, and a new push-button light switch that replaces the former toggle design. Additional upgrades include an LED headlight, orange front guard, and a safety valve added to the lift cylinder. Access to the fuse box has also been improved, making maintenance easier, especially when the grass catcher is installed.
Steel Green Manufacturing announced two new zero-turn spreader/sprayers.
The SG48EV can carry 50 gallons of liquid and 150 pounds of granular product. When you’re done for the day, it can fully recharge in eight hours, so it’ll be ready to go again in the morning. It is available to pre-order.
Steel Green is also taking pre-orders for the smaller SG36EV with 30-gallon liquid capacity, 150-pound electric hopper, and ability to fit through a 36-inch gate.
With an electric spreader/sprayer, there’s no oil to change, and there’s no risk of hydraulic failures or leaks, either.
Toro highlighted its latest products from nearly every Toro division.
GrandStand Multi Force Evo
The new GrandStand Multi Force Evo is powered by a Kawasaki Evo 34.5-hp. engine and can be equipped with various attachments for year-round efficiency and revenue. For hands-free precision, the new Autonomous Proline AMI uses intelligent technology to deliver consistent results, freeing up operators for other tasks. Similarly, the TurfMaster HDX features a new caster front end on its 30-inch deck, giving operators the mobility to work in tight spaces and navigate diverse properties with ease.
Dingo compact utility loaders
Toro’s lineup of Dingo compact utility loaders provide the power and versatility to dig, haul, trench, grade, auger and more. Whether it’s the nimble TX 525, the high-torque TX 1000 Turbo, or the powerful TXL 2000, there’s a model to meet every crew and jobsite need. Paired with the Ultra Buggy 2500, users can overcome the toughest jobsite demands.
Workman UTX
Customize the Workman UTX to meet the exact needs of each operation. This versatile 4-wheel drive utility vehicle is made for tough work, featuring commercial-grade components and the highest payload in its class.
Eagle Plus irrigation controller
The Eagle Plus irrigation controller delivers superior efficiency and water savings. An enhanced and intuitive internet-connected interface equips the user with real-time irrigation control from anywhere. Plus, the Eagle Plus controller comes in a variety of configurations, including multiple enclosure options.
Battery-powered solutions
The Toro eDingo and electric Ultra Buggy family offer compact, clean and quiet solutions for high-output tasks. The eDingo 500 and eDingo TX 750 are built to navigate tight spaces while powering through hauling and loading jobs. For material transport, the electric Ultra Buggy 2500-TS offers precise placement with a 180-degree swiveling tub, while the 2500-THL adds high-lift capability — easily clearing a 30-yard dumpster for fast, efficient debris removal. Toro’s battery solutions also extend to grounds care with the Groundsmaster e3300. Built on the same rugged chassis and commercial-grade deck as its diesel-powered predecessor, it can be equipped with up to 17 HyperCell batteries for all-day power and productivity in the most demanding conditions.
Vermeer launched its next-generation mini loaders with the introduction of the ML series. The new streamlined lineup includes four models: the ML80, ML100, ML130 and ML150.
The ML series’ updated hydraulic system operates a wide range of Vermeer-compatible attachments, offering flexible solutions for various jobsite needs. The ML100, ML130 and ML150 models also feature turbocharged engines for added torque when under load. To match the machine to the application, the lineup offers both radial lift path models (ML80 and ML100) for tough digging and loading tasks and vertical lift path models (ML130 and ML150) for optimal loading and material handling at height.
The chariot-style operator station is designed with comfort and safety in mind. A cushioned platform and supportive padding enhance operator comfort, supporting productivity during long hours on the job, while the integrated operator presence system suspends the ground drive and hydraulics if the operator steps off the platform. A single pilot-operated joystick provides intuitive control for precise maneuvering. The ML series is also built with top-tier ground drive components and Vermeer Fleet standard telematics.
The new Vermeer ML series offers a machine for every application, from light tree work in residential settings to heavy-duty construction.
With a 760-lb. rated operating capacity (ROC) and a 25-hp. diesel engine, the ML80 is ideal for replacing manual labor in residential landscape settings, light tree work and rental applications.
The ML100 steps up to a 950-lb. ROC and adds a turbocharged 25-hp. diesel engine. The ML100 is a versatile radial lift path performer for the demanding rental, landscape and urban tree care markets, providing additional torque for more power when running attachments.
The ML130 delivers serious power with its 40-hp. turbocharged diesel engine and 1,270-lb. ROC. Its vertical lift path design tackles larger-scale projects, demanding tree care and truck-loading applications.
The ML150 features a powerful 1,530-lb. ROC and 40-hp. turbocharged diesel engine. The ML150 handles trenching, hauling, digging and grading applications.