Hydro-Gear Launches Smartec Hybrid ZT Commercial System

At Equip Exposition, Hydro-Gear again showed it understands landscapers’ needs for productivity, reliability and performance. With those needs in mind, the Smartec Hybrid Commercial ZT system was born. The system combines the power and reliability of an electric machine with the proven technology of traditional gas machines. Hydro-Gear partnered with Kawasaki to offer the FT730V EFI engine in this system resulting in a commercial machine experience unmatched by anything on the market.

“It’s got all the power you need to mow through tall grass without slowing down yet it can mix use of the engine and battery so you use half the gas. You can mow all day without refueling, never slow down, reduce emissions and maintenance – all for a fraction of the cost of a full electric machine,” explained Mike McCoy, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing.

McCoy noted the system can deliver 40 hp to deck so the blade speed remains constant regardless of the deck load, “which results in the best cut of any machine on the market.”

Hydro-Gear

Unlike other hybrid systems that carry a separate generator for the sole purpose of charging a battery in an attempt to extend run time, the Smartec Hybrid ZT Commercial system requires no such extra expensive components. It 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.

“In typical mowing conditions, a machine can run in EV mode up to 50% of the time which also means you get 50% savings on fuel and emissions. The engine runs less often so you save on maintenance and extend engine life as well. And operators benefit from lower noise and less vibration,” explained Scott Wilmoth, Marketing Manager.