The rapid advancement of automobile technology appears to have moved to the lawn care industry, specifically lawnmowers. When you shop for a new lawnmower, check out the electric fuel-injected engine, Bluetooth connectivity and perhaps most impressive of all, no emissions.
Welcome to the new era of lawn equipment technology.
Electronic Fuel-Injected Engines
Also referred to as EFI engines, electronic fuel-injected engines became the norm in the automotive industry during the 1980s. For nearly 30 years, manufacturers tried to perfect the technology for lawnmowers. For the first time in production history, 2016 ushered in EFI powered residential lawn tractors, such as XT2 LX42 Cub Cadet. The new engines consume 25% less fuel than their carbureted counterparts.
Home improvement expert, Jason Cameron, says the introduction of EFIs allows operators to perform a one-step start for the engines. The one-step start makes it much easier to start EFI lawnmower engines in every type of weather condition. Carbureted lawnmower engines often succumb to moisture build up caused by precipitation. “According to a recent study, lower fuel consumption is a top benefit to residential lawn mower customers,” Cameron says. “And they have a willingness to pay for fuel-injection technology–more than half surveyed were likely to purchase a riding mower with a fuel-injected engine.”
No Emissions
The development of EFIs for the automobile industry during the 1980s was the response to concerns about the increase in pollutant emissions. With hybrid and electric cars continuing to grow in popularity, it was only a matter of time before the technology became a part of lawn equipment designs. For example, the RZT-S Zero represents the only electric, zero-turn lawnmower that includes four-wheel steering control. The rider doesn’t require the use of oil, gasoline, and oil filters. Zero emissions make the lawnmower the most eco-friendly lawnmower on the market. Battery power gives homeowners up to one hour of mowing, if you charge the machine overnight.
Bluetooth Connectivity
The most exciting technology development for lawn equipment comes in the form of Bluetooth connectivity. By using the same principles applied to cars, manufacturers have installed Bluetooth systems that alert homeowners to the need for oil changes, air filter replacements, and mower blade maintenance. Homeowners connect smartphones to electronic fuel-injected motors to enjoy Bluetooth connectivity. “With so many apps available for things homeowners don’t use, this app can actually help them keep track of maintenance for an important piece of equipment,” says Cameron
