Landscape Business “Twenty for 2021” New Product Award Winners
Landscape Business announced its selections for the “Twenty for 2021” New Product Awards. The Landscape Business Twenty for 2021 New Product Awards recognize products for the commercial landscape and irrigation markets.* Products were judged by the EPG Media and Specialty Information staff based on innovation, marketability and application within the market.
The Twenty for 2021 New Product Award winners, in alphabetical order by company name, are as follows:
Altoz TSX 561 i tracked stand-on mower
Altoz released the first tracked stand-on mower, the TSX 561 i. Equipped with the steep-mowing capabilities of the Altoz track system and its combination of speed, stability and maneuverability, the TSX allows operators to safely and effectively mow terrain that traditional mowers cannot. The TSX’s most obvious feature is its 11-inch wide all-terrain track. The patented TSX track system is complemented by TorqFlex front suspension with 13-inch flat-free tires, providing stability, low ground pressure and minimal compaction. The TSX control center features ergonomic, adjustable hand rests and adjustable shock-absorbing rider platform. SmarTrac Pro and electric dial throttle controls are intuitive and within easy reach. The 61-inch HV All-terrain deck is built to take on the toughest assignments. Laminated 7-gauge steel deck with three spindles and six swing blades and a sloped back rear discharge can process heavy and damp material efficiently. The TSX is equipped with a 29.5-hp. Kawasaki FX850V-EFI engine.
ASV MAX-Series
ASV’s MAX-Series compact track loaders and skid-steers provide operators a premium user experience. The line includes the RT-65, VT-70 High Output, RT-75 and RT-75 Heavy-Duty Posi-Track loaders and RS-75 and VS-75 skid-steers. Operators can work in comfort with the MAX-Series’ fully suspended seat, featuring adjustable recline, slide, weight, and four-way armrest settings. A roomier cab includes up to 2 inches more width at the shoulders, 8 inches more width at the knees, and up to 4.5 inches more foot room. The cab also features available Bluetooth radio and improved speakers. Operators can also choose to include an optional state-of-the-art 7-inch touch-screen display. The cab provides premium 360-degree visibility and gives the operator 52 percent more glass area in the optional enclosed cab compared to previous ASV models. Visibility is further improved with standard LED lighting. Additionally, the machines feature the industry’s first compact track loader and skid steer roof escape hatch.
Belgard Artforms
Artforms (Artex) is the hardscapes industry’s first fully finished modular concrete panel system. Artforms offers clean lines, smooth texture and an unmatched aesthetic at a reasonable price. The system allows the pre-formed concrete panels to be cut, configured and affixed with simple, stainless-steel hardware that is adjustable. It installs vertically or horizontally and is versatile in nature with a 3-inch modularity, and can be used for a range of projects, including fireplaces and planters.
Country Clipper Boss XL Commercial Series
Re-engineered from the wheels up, the Boss XL provides turf care professionals with enhanced performance and operator comfort. The Boss XL features a virtually indestructible deck, roomy cockpit and fully articulating deck suspension. A deluxe adjustable suspension seat offers operators exceptional comfort, while smooth joystick or twin-lever steering provides optimum control. The Boss XL features a heavy-duty, 5-inch-deep, fully welded deck available in 60- and 72-inch cutting widths. It is powered by 31-hp. and 35-hp. Kawasaki engines. Country Clipper uses Hydro-Gear’s Commercial ZT-5400 transmission on the Boss XL series, providing speed and torque. The Boss XL is equipped with a panel-mounted electric fuel gauge with a 10-1/4-gallon fuel capacity.
Dewalt X554
The Dewalt X554 54-inch 26-hp. Kawasaki EFI gas hydrostatic commercial stand-on zero-turn mower features stand-on functionality with a large platform for quick on-and-off transitions to remove mowing obstructions with minimal job interruption. It is built for heavy-duty use with a strong frame matched with a premium pump and high-performance wheel motor transmission. The commercial-grade 26-hp. Kawasaki FT EFI engine with electronic throttle provides dependable startup. The large hip pad adjusts and matches the operator’s height for ergonomic, all-day comfort. And a hydrostatic transmission, coupled with smooth controls, provides instant response times. The X554 boasts a two-year, no-hour-limit warranty. Every product in the new lineup of Dewalt gas outdoor power equipment comes with access to the Pro Support Hub available through the app or website. Owners can call, text or go online for one-on-one, dedicated support, including video call capabilities. Landscapers can troubleshoot and diagnose issues, receive parts recommendations, and find local dealers.
Echo PB-9010 backpack blower
Echo’s PB-9010 is powered by a 79.9cc professional-grade, two-stroke engine that generates 48 N of blowing force. The unit also delivers 1,110 cfm of air volume and 220-mph air speed with both measurements coming at the nozzle. The intake system draws cool air across the user’s back for improved comfort in hot weather. A plate is included to block this feature during cooler weather. A large, top-mounted, pleated main air filter is coupled with a foam prefilter for excellent filtration that helps to extend the life of the engine. Echo-exclusive Posi-loc pipes make for a secure connection. A metal ring on the end of the blower pipe reduces wear, and is helpful for dislodging stubborn debris.
Ferris IS 6200
For the spring 2021 season, Ferris introduced its largest and most powerful zero-turn mower yet. The IS 6200 brings Ferris back into the high-horsepower diesel market. Powered by a Cat 48-gross-hp. turbo diesel engine, the 72-inch standard cutting deck will mow easily in the toughest conditions. The IS 6200 is ideal for areas where wet, dense grass is present and high horsepower is needed to easily power through harsh conditions. Features include an interactive three-inch color display screen, a foot-activated hydraulic deck lift, dual commercial Hydro-Gear pumps, next-generation ROPS, suspension seat and patented suspension system come standard. The IS 6200 is built for comfort, durability and quality of cut, and is backed by world-class customer support.
FX Luminaire My Design
FX Luminaire’s My Design is a free digital tool for lighting designers and installers that simplifies the lighting design process. Users can drag and drop images and products to create an elegant lighting design in minutes. All the project information is stored in the Cloud, so users can access it 24/7 from their home, office or truck. With My Design, distributor outside sales reps can provide on-the-spot design tips and recommendations to customers. Designers can produce detailed design proposals. Contractors can generate part lists for faster, more accurate ordering and even use the lighting design as an install plan for their crew.
Hunter EZ-DT handheld wireless diagnostic tool
The Hunter EZ-DT is a handheld, battery-operated device used for field diagnostics and troubleshooting with EZ Decoder Systems. Innovative wireless communication from the EZ-DT to EZ-1 decoders permits fault detection in the field without removing the decoders from the two-wire path. Quickly and easily retrieve a decoder’s status, station address, current draw, and voltage on the two-wire path. EZ-DT can also be used to program station addresses into EZ-1 decoders via the red and blue wired connection to the decoder. This provides flexible options for programming decoders before installation or reprogramming existing decoders in the field.
Hustler Turf X-ONE
The Hustler Turf X-ONE saw two major updates in 2021, starting with more horsepower with a Kawasaki FX850 EFI and a brand-new deck design. Built for the full-time commercial landscaper to provide all day, every day performance, the X-ONE offers a choice of carbureted or fuel-injected engines and a selection of side or rear-discharge decks. Contractors can power through their day with Parker unitized 12cc/rev pumps. And its bolstered suspension seat with 3-inch travel range delivers user comfort. The X-ONE also features the all-new VX Deck, engineered for extreme vacuum power. It more efficiently draws the grass up into the mower blades, providing a cleaner cut and a superior after-cut appearance.
John Deere Fastback PRO rear-discharge mower deck
Built to increase productivity and improve operator comfort, the John Deere Fastback PRO rear-discharge mower deck provides a rear-discharge solution for the John Deere Z900 ZTrak gas and diesel zero-turn mower line. As a result of the rear-discharge design, the chance of damage from objects being thrown from the mower deck is decreased. The design also helps minimize the amount of debris blown onto the operator, resulting in a cleaner mowing experience. Additionally, the rear-discharge mower deck saves time by allowing operators to mow closely around fixed objects with either side of the deck. The Fastback PRO rear-discharge mower deck is available in both 60- or 72-inch cutting widths.
Kioti CK2610SE HST Cab compact tractor
The Kioti CK2610SE HST Cab compact tractor allows landscaping and other professionals to tackle tough jobs with comfort and ease. The model features a 24.5-hp. engine with hydrostatic transmission, and boasts a factory-installed cab with A/C and heat and a deluxe suspension seat, allowing operators to perform tasks comfortably year-round. The three-range transmission with twin pedal operation makes tasks easier, smoother and safer. The Tier 4-compliant Kioti diesel engine, combined with the premium cab, offers powerful performance in a quiet work environment. The CK2610SE HST Cab was designed with compatibility in mind, incorporating a standard rear three-point adjustment lever to easily raise and lower the telescopic lower links and stabilizers from outside the tractor when attaching implements. Dual rear remote valves also allow for easy accommodation of a wide variety of implements.
Kubota next generation SZ Series commercial stand-on mowers
Kubota Tractor Corporation introduced the next generation of its SZ Series commercial stand-on mowers. The Kubota SZ Series includes the SZ19NC-36-2 with a 36-inch cutting deck, SZ22NC-48-2 with a 48-inch cutting deck, SZ26NC-52-2 with a 52-in cutting deck, and the SZ26NC-61-2 with a 61-inch cutting deck. Improvements include adjustable cutting deck baffles, improved serviceability, and better tire performance. All SZ Series mowers are equipped with Kawasaki FX and FT Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) commercial engines and hydro-gear transmissions. The SZ Series was designed with a low center of gravity for exceptional stability and fast travel speeds of up to 11 mph, depending on the model. The New SZ Series models replace the original line of SZ mowers.
Mecalac 6MCR
Mecalac’s 6MCR crawler skid-excavator gives operators superior speed, productivity and compact operation. The 6MCR, part of the MCR Series, provides the swiftness of a skid-steer with the 360-degree rotation of an excavator for versatility and travel speeds up to 6.2 mph, two times faster than any small excavator. The machine is truly multifunctional, acting as a skid-steer, excavator or rough terrain forklift, depending on the attachment — which is easily connected with Mecalac’s patented quick coupler, Connect. The 6MCR combines Mecalac’s three-part arm and a rotating ability to deliver superior performance as part of the company’s signature 360-degree compactness. Additionally, the boom system gives the 6MCR unprecedented lifting capacities.
Scag Turf Storm
The Scag Turf Storm stand-on spreader/sprayer is ideal for serious landscape chemical applicators, as well as anyone looking to expand their lawn care offerings. A natural fit for large commercial properties, the Turf Storm is also at home while treating residential lawns. With right-sized liquid (60 total gallons) and dry/granular (220 pounds) capacities, the Turf Storm will help operators get more done per day for maximum productivity and profitability. An 8-foot wide fold-away spray boom with five nozzles delivers spraying widths of 2, 6, 8 or 10 feet. Dry/granular materials can be spread up to 25-feet wide thanks to a high-torque electric spreader motor. A powerful and efficient 21-hp. Vanguard engine delivers ample power, exceptional efficiency and dependable performance. The machine’s 50-amp charging system ensures dependable spreader operation and battery life.
Stihl professional battery 135 platform
The Stihl professional battery 135 platform is packed with quality and durability to deliver true commercial-grade power and performance comparable to gasoline-powered tools but with zero exhaust emissions and low noise. New tools in the 135 platform include the Stihl FSA 135 loop and bike handle trimmers, the Stihl HLA 135 extended-reach hedge trimmers, and the Stihl KMA 135 R KombiMotor that accepts more than a dozen attachments. Additional tools on this platform are anticipated. These new professional tools are assembled in America, and feature an on-board battery slot, weather-resistant design and the same drive and cutting components used in Stihl professional gasoline-powered equipment. The variable speed trigger featured on all 135 platform tools gives users the ability to optimize performance with runtime. Featuring a brushless electric motor, the Stihl 135 platform virtually eliminates maintenance.
Toro Horizon360 software system
Horizon360 is a powerful all-in-one software suite that allows landscape contractors to track the productivity of their crews and equipment, automate their billing process, and enhance the time management of their business from the start to finish of every day and every season.
• More than 100 contractors tested this all-in-one software suite over 18 months, and, with their feedback, Toro fine-tuned the software to meet landscape contractors’ needs.
• Horizon360 offers proof of service, job notes and office notes, along with real-time equipment tracking and an intuitive bilingual phone app, managing complex scheduling, challenging weather events and multiple crews.
• With Horizon360, there are no sign-on fees and no yearly contracts. Landscape contractors can take their business to new heights with the basic tier ($99/month with a 30-day free trial) or the enhanced tier ($199/month with a 60-day free trial) pricing categories.
Turfco T5000 spreader/sprayer
The T5000 spreader/sprayer high-capacity riding applicator from Turfco features a 60-gallon sprayer and 325-pound spreader capacity coupled with a 22-hp. engine delivering speeds up to 7 mph. The intuitive steering wheel drive system provides outstanding stability on hills, eliminates turf tearing, and reduces training time to save thousands of dollars per year. New operators can be trained and fully operational in less than a week. The T5000’s two-nozzle boomless spray system delivers an industry-best spray width of 13 feet, increasing productivity up to 29 percent over existing units. The boomless design eliminates some of the maneuverability challenges of spray booms by letting operators glide past obstacles such as signposts and fire hydrants without slowing down. With optional 3-In-1 tank, covering up to 300,000 sq. ft. per fill, operators can make quick work of any property. The hydraulically driven spreader provides infinite control up to 25 feet wide. The T5000 fits through a 48-inch gate.
Sound by Vista outdoor audio system
The Sound by Vista outdoor audio system maintains the aesthetics of any outdoor space with components that are either hidden or blended in during installation for a truly seamless experience. The standard system includes four speakers and one dual subwoofer with the option to purchase two additional speakers, available separately. The 10-inch Dual VC Long Throw Driver subwoofer and the four included 4-inch satellite speakers feature a PP waterproof cone with rubber surround. The 150W subwoofer has a frequency response of 40-85Hz + 3 dB and measures approximately 12.68-inches x 16.54 inches. The 100W satellite speakers have a 0.75-inch marine-grade PEI tweeter with a frequency response of 80Hz-20kHz. They are made with acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) to withstand harsh weather conditions and come with 11-inch ground stakes. Sound by Vista provides landscape, irrigation and lighting contractors with an opportunity to enhance their revenue streams while providing their clients with the benefits of a fun, easy-to-use sound system.
Walker Model B23
Perfect for users looking for carbureted, commercial mowing power, the Walker B23 packs a lot of muscle into a compact footprint. The B23 features a new chassis and body design, reducing weight and accentuating hillside stability. Year-round capabilities include versatile winter attachments and a variety of deck options. The Model B is compact and fast. It is a Walker Mower designed to run side discharge and mulch decks on difficult properties with hills, uneven terrain and obstacles, while leaving a beautiful cut. With four different models to choose from, the Model B is configurable and versatile to meet the professionals’ expectations.
* Manufacturers were allowed to submit more than one new product for consideration, as long as the product was introduced to the market between June 2, 2020, and June 1, 2021. The 20 winners were selected from among qualifying nominations.
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