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John Deere Golf, approaching its third decade in the course management industry, gave the media a sneak peak at its ambitious 2014 equipment release at Orlando’s Grand Cypress Golf Course on the eve of the Golf Industry Show.The product launch included:
- Two new PrecisionCore aerators
- PrecisionCut fairway mowers
- E-Cut Hybrid fairway mowers
- Trim and surround mowers
- Rough mowers
Mark Ford, marketing manager for John Deere Golf, called it “the biggest product launch in 25 years,” in line with the company’s bright vision of the future of course management.
“It’s a statement that we believe in the golf industry,” said Ford.
Over the next few days, superintendents got a first-hand look at these machines at the Deere booth, whose signature green and yellow banners sprawled over a huge part of the convention floor.
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The new equipment, set to roll out mid-year, is the result of the total refitting of the Deere assembly line at their plant in Furquay Varina, N.C. The improved technology, said Ford, promises streamlined production and consistent quality across all manufacturing sections. The result: machines that offer increased performance and simplified repair options.
The new equipment, which is Tier-4 compliant, is focused heavily on the operator, allowing superintendents advanced control, simplified training, and unmatched diagnostic feedback.
The most notable feature of the new A Model mowers is the TechControl display, a new joystick operated mini-screen that gives the superintendent the ability to set, and lock, everything from turn speed to service reminders. The system, which Mr. Ford explained was heavily influenced by feedback from industry professionals, is extremely intuitive and easy to use, echoing Deere’s focus on the individual user. Easy to read icons make the system extremely friendly to even the greenest operator, right down to the familiar rabbit and turtle speed meters that have become a Deere staple.
Across the mower line, the new PrecisionCut and E-Cut systems boasted multiple entry-points, improved tire alignment, fuel reduction options, and load-bearing adjustments. The focus: get the job done right, and get it done quickly.
The new trim and surrounds mowers promise better traction on hills and contours, thanks to increased displacement between wheels.
The rough mowers boasted a generous increase in power of about 27 percent thanks to a new four-cylinder engine that clocked in at 55 horse power.
The new PrecisionCore aerators nearly double the amount of tines available in the previous model and offer a forward-centric operating deck that mitigates operator mistakes.
