Hydro-Gear launches Smartec Hybrid Commercial ZT system

At Equip Exposition, Hydro-Gear launched the Smartec Hybrid Commercial ZT system.

© Brian Horn 

Hydro-Gear partnered with Kawasaki to offer the FT730V EFI engine in this system. The system can deliver 40 horsepower to deck so the blade speed remains constant regardless of the deck load. The Smartec Hybrid ZT Commercial system doesn't require a separate generator for charging a battery; instead, it relies on the 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.

“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,” says Mike McCoy, vice president of sales and marketing.

With three operating modes to choose from (EV, Hybrid, Power), the user can select the most appropriate for the job. Operators who forgot to plug in overnight can start the day in Hybrid or Power Mode and charge the battery while they 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,” says Scott Wilmoth, marketing manager.