The STIHL 135 Battery-powered platform includes: trimmers, edgers, pruners and more.
The STIHL FCA 135 curved shaft edger and FCA 140 straight shaft edger are built for extended use in noise-sensitive environments. With the high blade speed of the FCA 135 and the high torque of the FCA 140, these edgers offer commercial-grade power and durability. The FCA 135 offers maneuverability ideal for flower beds or well-maintained edges while the FCA 140 is built for uncut edges or packed soil.
These edgers feature durable construction with weather-resistant designs. Made in America with a brushless motor and the same shaft and gearbox as the gasoline models; you can count on the FCA 135 and FCA 140 to perform with the same high power and dependability of professional gas-powered products. With their robust design and variable-speed trigger, these edgers are perfect for putting the finishing touches on a job well done.
“Whether you choose the FCA 135 curved shaft or the FCA 140 straight shaft, these edgers are sure to be a welcome addition to your professional fleet of STIHL products.” said Mike Poluka, STIHL Inc. product manager. “Equipped with an onboard battery slot and a range of product features, you’ll have everything needed to cut through packed soil or simply maintain existing flower beds.”
Additional features of the FCA 135 and FCA 140 include:
Part of the new STIHL 135 professional battery platform, the FSA 135 and FSA 135 R battery-powered trimmers are also assembled in America. The trimmers feature an on-board battery slot that can support both an on-board battery or a backpack battery for even longer run times. Paired with a brushless motor and the same drive and cutting components used in proven STIHL professional gas trimmers, these units deliver professional cutting performance comparable to STIHL gas units with zero exhaust emissions and low noise. These trimmers are versatile for different cutting applications, including trimming, cutting and weed clearing.
“With three performance settings, the STIHL FSA 135 trimmers give users maximum versatility and run times,” Poluka said. “Additionally, their quiet operation gives professionals the flexibility to extend working hours during early mornings and evenings.”
The STIHL FSA 135 trimmers include the following additional features:
As part of the 135 platform, the STIHL HLA 135, STIHL HLA 135 K (0°) and STIHL HLA 135 K (145°) extended reach hedge trimmers let professionals enjoy the clean, quiet benefits of battery-powered equipment without compromising performance. Made in America and built using the same shaft, gearbox and blades as the gasoline-powered HL 94, these trimmers combine a weather-resistant design with Battery Power. For professionals seeking optimal control and uncompromising performance in a battery-powered tool, the HLA 135 is equipped with a long shaft and a 145° adjustable blade, the HLA 135 K (145°) features a short shaft and delivers with 12 cutting positions to maximize adaptability, and the HLA 135 K (0°) is equipped with a short shaft and 0° fixed blade for precision trimming. All three models feature a variable-speed trigger with three performance levels, optimizing performance and run times.
The STIHL HLA 135 extended reach hedge trimmers include the following features:
With its high-performance design, the made in America STIHL HTA 135 pole pruner trims overhead branches with the same commercial-grade power and durability of its gas-powered counterparts. It also provides users with quiet performance and zero exhaust emissions. Featuring a similar durable and field-proven magnesium gearbox as the gas-powered STIHL HT 131 and the same shaft as the STIHL HT 135, the HTA 135 delivers the cutting performance you have come to expect from STIHL. The balanced design and ability to extend up to 13 feet quickly and easily helps minimize operator fatigue. With a host of professional features, such as brushless motor, translucent bar and chain oil tank, the included foot mount and variable-speed trigger, the HTA 135 is ideal for landscape professionals.
The STIHL HTA 135 pole pruner includes the following additional features:
The battery-powered STIHL KMA 135 R KombiMotor delivers professional performance on par with gas-powered products with reduced noise and zero exhaust emissions. With 14 attachments, the KMA 135 R provides users the ability to tackle a range of landscaping jobs without loading the trailer with a pile of tools. The on-board battery slot can support both an on-board battery or a backpack battery for even longer run times. Its quiet operation provides flexibility and extended working hours during early mornings and evenings, and it is durably constructed with a weather-resistant design.
“Assembled in America, the battery-powered STIHL KMA 135 R KombiMotor is part of the new STIHL 135 Battery Platform,” Poluka said. “The KMA 135 R provides professional users legendary STIHL quality and performance in a commercial-grade battery package and is compatible with the same attachments available for the gas-powered KombiSystem.”
The STIHL KMA 135 R KombiMotor includes the following additional features:
To learn more about STIHL products, visit www.STIHLusa.com.
In addition to unveiling new mowers, the company has made enhancements to its zero-turn line.
Further building on Kubota’s one-stop-shop of equipment solutions for today’s busy commercial landscaper, Kubota is unveiling its new line of Hydro Walk Behind Mowers and new product enhancements within two of its powerful zero-turn lines — all designed to reduce costs and maximize uptime – from the show floor at GIE+ Expo.
Fist up, Kubota unveiled an all-new Power Grass Catcher for the Z400 Series 54- and 60-inch steel-welded mower deck zero-turn models. Engineered for both residential users who want outstanding professional level mowing results and landscapers who demand durability and top performance at a faster speed to reduce time on the job. With its all-steel blower construction and 10-bushel carrying capacity, the all-new Power Grass Catcher leaves no debris behind as it easily takes on top-level mowing performance even with the most challenging mowing tasks.
Early in 2021, Kubota announced the introduction of two new models to the Z400 Series: the Z412KW- 48, Z422KW-54 and Z422KWT-60. The newest models come standard with 6.5-inch-wide front caster tires and a deluxe adjustable suspension seat with 3 inches of travel designed to maximize operator comfort. Delivering the same performance, durability and traveling speed customers expect from the Z400 Series is made possible thanks to an exclusive Hydro-Gear ZT-3600 transmission, 24-inch low profile rear tires, and 22-24 horsepower Kawasaki engines. The series features durable 48-, 54- or 60-inch decks, providing superior cut quality for a variety of property sizes across different turf and terrain for professionals and homeowners alike.
Next, Kubota builds on the performance of its popular Z700 Series by introducing Tweel Tires to its Z781 zero- turn mower, powered by Kawasaki FX EFI engines, for both the 54- and 60-inch model decks. The Michelin X Tweel Turf airless radial tire is designed to eliminate service time caused by flat tires and unseated beads. The spokes offer excellent lateral stability on hillsides, sloped surfaces, and even when traveling over curbs and bumps.
When it comes to comfort, the Series features ergonomics with a wide operator station and a premium adjustable suspension seat for reduced fatigue during long jobs. Engineered to create outstanding results, the EFI models with Tweel Tires offer performance and operator comfort even in the most demanding conditions.
With new ergonomic controls, new floating deck design and larger tires, the new W Series Hydro Walk-Behind Mowers offer three new models – the WHF14NC-36-2, WHF15NC-48-2, and WHF19NC-52-2 – and each are built to out-perform when cutting, mulching, and bagging. The new W Series models are tuned to optimize power and cutting width so that mower speed and horsepower increase with each deck size option, across the 36-, 48- or 56-inch decks. Take on properties up to 3 acres with a resilient five-hour run time and increase your performance with these newly improved, great durability mowers.
New products include a chainsaw, pruner, rear wheel drive mower and electric pressure washer.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – DEWALT will preview a range of new outdoor power tools at the 2021 Green Industry and Equipment Expo (GIE+EXPO). Designed to tackle tough landscaping and maintenance jobs, new DEWALT outdoor products include the 60V MAX* 20-In. Chainsaw (DCCS677Z1), 20V MAX* Pruner (DCPR320), 2x20V MAX* Rear Wheel Drive Mower (DCMWSP255U2) and an Electric Jobsite Pressure Washer (DWPW2100).
“The landscaping and outdoor industry is rapidly changing, with more robust and innovative technologies powering equipment,” said Christine Potter, VP, Outdoor Product Development for Stanley Black & Decker. “We are doubling down on our electrification technology to continuously transform outdoor solutions to battery power while delivering the quality and performance professional users expect from DEWALT. All of our new products were designed with the pro in mind and are tough enough to tackle the most challenging outdoor projects.”
Made for professional landscape use, the 60V MAX* 20-In. Chainsaw (DCCS677Z1) delivers 20% more peak power and more than 2X the max torque than a 50.2 cc gas chainsaw. Capable of cutting through 17-In. white oak logs as fast as 15 seconds using a DCB615 battery, the chainsaw features robust chain tensioning for reliable chain retention, auto-oiling for longevity of use, a chain brake and an onboard wrench for quick chain adjustments. The unit will be demonstrated at the DEWALT booth (#7068) throughout the show and comes kitted with a FLEXVOLT® battery (DCB615), charger, bar sheath, rugged carrying case, sharpening file and tension tool.
The 20V MAX* Pruner (DCPR320) joins the 250+ products in the DEWALT 20V MAX* System and requires 16X less effort on average to make cuts than a manual pruner. Weighing just 3 lbs. (tool only), this lightweight tool was designed to cut unwanted branches, trim bushes and clip flowers throughout the day. It delivers up to 1,100 cuts per charge∆ with a 1-1/2-In. cut capacity for thick stems and shrubs and features an on-board LED work light for improved visibility. The pruner makes smooth and swift cuts with its non-stick coating and easy to switch blades and comes equipped with a tool for blade changes.
2x20V MAX* Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled 21.5-In. Mower Kit
In addition, DEWALT will be displaying the new 2x20V MAX* Rear Wheel Drive Self-Propelled 21.5-In. Mower Kit (DCMWSP255U2). Designed to quickly mow large yards, the rear wheel drive mower cuts grass from 1-1/2-In. to 4-In. tall with auto-sensing technology that helps maintain high revolutions per minute (RPM) when tackling demanding yardwork. With 3-IN-1 functionality, the mower can mulch, bag, or discharge clippings and features a fold-over handle for convenient and trouble-free transport when the job is done. The unit is sold with two 20V MAX® batteries (DCB210), two chargers, a side discharge attachment and a grass collection bag.
2100 MAX* PSIΩ 1.2 GPM† 13 Amp Electric Jobsite Pressure Washer
Power through outdoor cleaning jobs with ease using the 2100 MAX* PSIΩ 1.2 GPM† 13 Amp Electric Jobsite Pressure Washer (DWPW2100). Designed with internal storage capability to seamlessly stow and retrieve the included wand and nozzles, the unit has a durable frame for stacking‡ and is 3X smaller when stored in the closed position β. Weighing just 24 lbs. (tool only), its compact design allows the unit to be stored vertically or horizontally and includes multiple grab points for loading and unloading, wheels for ease of movement and a retractable handle for hassle-free mobility. Accessories include a 25- Ft. high pressure hose, turbo nozzle for up to 2.4X cleaning width§, 15-degree nozzle, 40-degree nozzle, a soap nozzle, wand with nozzle storage and a built-in removable soap tank for projects that require detergent for a full clean. In addition, the pressure washer is Cleaning Equipment Trade Association (CETA) certified adhering to the CPC100 performance standard.
Also debuting at GIE+EXPO is the DEWALT 60V MAX* 18-In. Chainsaw (DCCS672), 60V MAX* 26-In. Hedge Trimmer (DCHT870) and 20V MAX* Edger (DCED400). All of these new outdoor power tools will be available where DEWALT products are sold beginning in Spring 2022. More details on both kitted and bare units are below. For more information on DEWALT tools, visit www.DEWALT.com.
The tradeshow will have a new look and feel in 2022.
LOUISVILLE – The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) announces that GIE+EXPO will rebrand and relaunch in 2022 as Equip Exposition, evolving the industry’s largest tradeshow and starting a new chapter for the event while reinvesting in its host city.
“We’re excited to announce this evolution of our industry-leading tradeshow,” said Kris Kiser, president of OPEI. “The opening of our new office shows the investment our industry has in the event and in its long-standing location of Louisville. With OPEI bringing the management of the show wholly under the association’s umbrella, it was time to re-envision the event while honoring its long history.”
Concurrent with the launch of Equip Exposition, the OPEI Board of Directors and Kiser, joined by Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, Secretary of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet Michael Berry, and other invited guests, cut the ribbon on new show offices on Main Street Tuesday night. Equip Exposition will bring on veteran show management staff and Karen Williams, longtime head of Louisville Tourism, as Senior Vice President of Partnerships and Development.
Plans are already underway to expand education opportunities and enhance the attendee and exhibitor experience in Louisville: • Trace Adkins will headline the concert series • David Feherty will give the opening keynote • Bob Clements International and the Professional Grounds Management Society will host a series of educational workshops • The TurfMutt Foundation will launch the first-ever Mulligan’s 5K and Fun Run in downtown Louisville
“Equip Exposition is where the landscape changes, and is the place for landscape contractors, outdoor power equipment dealers, distributors and manufacturers to connect, learn and grow,” Kiser said. “The tradeshow remains the best place to connect with your peers, network, and gain a competitive business edge. We’re excited to evolve the show and can’t wait to see you in Louisville October 19-21 next year.”
In 2019, the trade show was the 6th largest in the United States according to the Gold 100. It attracts more than 20,000 attendees hailing from all 50 U.S. states and 54 countries. The show has an economic impact on Louisville of more than $20 million, has 20-plus acres of newly renovated outdoor demonstration areas, and more than a thousand exhibits. It co-locates with Hardscape North America.
The OPEI Board of Directors includes: • Chair, Tom Duncan, Executive Board Member, Positec USA, Inc. • Vice Chair, Joe Wright, President and CEO, Excel Industries, Inc. • Secretary/Treasurer, Brian Melka, Group President — Power, Kohler Co. • Immediate Past Chair, Rick Olson, Chairman and CEO, The Toro Company • Equip Exposition Show Chairman, Dan Ariens, Chairman and CEO, Ariens Company • Mike Clancy, CEO, Chervon North America • Tim Dorsey, President, Echo Incorporated • Peter Hampton, President and CEO, Active Exhaust Corporation • Robert McCutcheon, President, Husqvarna North America • Rob Moll, CEO, MTD • Lee Sowell, President, Outdoor Products, Techtronic Industries Power Equipment • David Thorne, Vice President, Turf & Compact Utility Business Unit, John Deere • Will Walton, III, Business Unit Head, Vice President, Honda Power Equipment
The new LANDSCAPES name will launch next September.
The National Association of Landscape Professionals has rebranded their LANDSCAPES event as ELEVATE, which will kick off September 2022 in Orlando.
NALP CEO Britt Wood made the announcement during the opening session of LANDSCAPES 2021. The event will move to November in 2024. You can learn more by clicking here.
Wood also announced 4 NALP awards including Lawn & Landscape columnist, Bruce Wilson of Wilson & Co. consulting group, as the Lifetime Leadership award winner.
2021 Advocacy Award: Brandon Sheppard, Weed Man
2021 Young Entrepreneur: Andrew Ziehler, Ziehler Lawn & Tree Care
Woman Entrepreneur of the Year: Loriena Harrington; Beautiful Bloom
Opening keynote: Kaihan Krippendorff focused on 5 steps to generate the fourth option and outthink your competition.
The "fourth option," as Krippendorff said, is the option that your competition hasn’t considered. He said there is a point where people stop thinking and they stop looking for new options, but you have to go beyond that point to beat your competition.
He used the example of American high-jumper Dick Fosbury, who used a different way to perform a high jump. Prior to Fosbury, there were a few different ways to high-jump until Fosbury came along and did what came to be known as the Fosbury Flop.
Dissect your business mode: Explore multiple points of differentiation.
Expand your strategic options: generate 40-150 options: “You have to prepare for the future while focusing on today,” he said.
Analyze and choose options: Take a crazy idea and work on it. How can you turn it into a winning idea. Competition will laugh at you but use that time to focus on it, he said.