Precise Mower - the robots are taking over!

Electric mowers are becoming more popular because of their quietness, consistent reel speed and the cost of fuel. Some companies are looking at going even further and offering a robotic product that is pre-programed to mow at particular heights, speeds, patterns and frequencies.

The RG3 (Robotic Greens Mower 3) uses two lead acid batteries to run its 24-volt DC motor, and one to run its computer, offering about three hours of mowing before needing to be recharged. It weighs 650 pounds and goes 3.5 miles per hour. What do you think?

Electric and Fuel Efficient Equipment - Chainsaws

We've discussed this before but not in much detail, and although this post only provides links, I plan on sourcing more information on this important topic area. You may not of considered it before, but emission restrictions will be implemented in many major metropolitan areas, the state of California has already come out with legislation that has restricted the sale of many brands. Its happening elsewhere in the states and in Canada.

But don't worry too much, the beauty of the free-market is providing many options before you'll have to dust off that Ol'Bow Saw.

Electric Chainsaws
The previous post got me thinking about electric equipment, specifically asking the question: Would it withstand the pressures that a woodland course demands of its chainsaws?
Whether they're battery powered or rely on a cord (there's lots of battery pack options now for field work) electric equipment has improved drastically in recent years. Keep in mind that electric equipment, although smaller, unable to tackle the big stuff and cannot be used while it's raining, fulfills an extremely beneficial role at urban golf courses - they are quite!
A review of Common Brand Electric Chainsaws, Here and Here (this ones better)
A review of Remington Electric Chainsaws, here
A review of Poulan Electric Chainsaws, here
A review of Makita Electric Chainsaws, here


What about the "Low Emission"/ "Fuel Efficient" options?
I know, a Treehugging Chainsaw is hard to picture, but these companies are trying:
John Deere Chainsaw Options here
A "Greener Shade of Orange" by STIHL: Products, STIHLs Mission EXCELLENT EFFORT STIHL!!!
Husqvarna offers up solutions here

EPA to issue new round of emission requirements for outdoor equipment

The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) announced that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will issue Phase 3 emission standards for new nonroad spark ignition engines later this month that will further reduce emissions and include some key requests from OPEI.

Products with non-road spark ignition engines include lawnmowers, garden tractors, utility vehicles, trimmers, edgers, chain saws, snow throwers, tillers, leaf blowers and other related products.

The new EPA Phase 3 Regulations include the following provisions:

• An additional 35% reduction in exhaust emissions and a 45% reduction in total evaporative emissions beginning in 2009 and fully implemented by 2015.
• Stronger EPA enforcement authority to prevent importation and retail of non-compliant equipment, with safeguards to assure equal compliance for U.S. and off-shore manufacturers.
• Ability to certify engines on E10 fuel, ensuring products can operate more efficiently using fuels currently in the marketplace.