Hydro-Gear Showcases its Forward-Thinking at Equip Exposition 2024
Every October, Hydro-Gear heads to Louisville, Kentucky, to support OEM clients, dealers, and landscapers by showcasing the company’s advancements in the industry. Attendees can test-drive Hydro-Gear’s latest innovations in the outdoor demo area. In cooperation with OEM partners, three such innovations were highlighted this year:
• ZT-4400 Drive by Wire system in a current production RC Mowers R-60 enables remote control and autonomous operation. Users could try the remote controls, creating a steady stream of interest throughout the three-day show.
• A Wright electrified stand-on concept featuring Smartec 88V PowerPacks, HGMe drive system, and D4e deck system. “We’ve heard many people comment on how well the system responds to the operator,” said Scott Wilmoth, Marketing Manager at Hydro-Gear.
• An SG-36 Steel Green electrified concept spreader/sprayer with 58V PowerPacks and ZT-2800e drive system demonstrates the flexibility in application and installation of the company’s Smartec product line offering.
Hydro-Gear was quick to credit customers with assistance in making these demonstrations possible. “It’s a credit to the relationships we’ve built that our customers actively participate in this with us. We both gain some additional exposure, and landscapers can get a more detailed explanation of the drive systems and available options,” explained Paul Jones, Market Segment Director.
With the show setting records again for attendance, Hydro-Gear was eager to seek opinions about market direction from visitors. The company collected survey responses to help guide future product development. “Customers have come to expect innovation from Hydro-Gear, so we want to be prepared and have solutions ready for them when they need them,” said Mike McCoy, Vice President. Two lucky participants won YETI coolers for offering their opinions and were notified via the company’s social media channels.
More innovation was on display in the company’s indoor booth. A brand new LTe™ dual axle electric drive debuted. “We’ve designed the LTe for versatility and expect it to be perfect for haulers, spreaders, sprayers, and traditional lawn tractors. Customer interest has been strong,” explained Wilmoth. Recent updates in the company’s hydraulic lineup were also highlighted, including a serviceable EZT® as well as an internal expansion tank and oil cooler option for its ZT product family.
The company is already planning for Equip Exposition 2025 and is looking forward to introducing even more exciting innovations.
About Hydro-Gear - Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Sullivan, IL, Hydro-Gear is a world leader in the design and manufacture of precision drive solutions for the commercial, residential, and electric markets. The company markets residential-grade hydraulic products under its Hydro-Gear brand, commercial-grade hydraulic production under its Hydro-Gear commercial brand, and electric products under its Smartec brand. With multiple manufacturing sites and global operations, Hydro-Gear’s goal is to ensure our products and services always meet our customers’ rigorous requirements and exceed their expectations.
