Smartec Hybrid – The Industry’s Most Powerful ZT Commercial System
Louisville, KY – At Equip Exposition, Hydro-Gear once again demonstrated its deep understanding of landscapers’ needs for productivity, reliability, and performance. With those priorities in mind, the Smartec Hybrid Commercial ZT system was created—combining the power and dependability of electric technology with the proven performance of traditional gas machines. In collaboration with Kawasaki, Hydro-Gear integrated the FT730V EFI engine into the system, delivering a commercial-grade experience unlike anything else on the market.
Powerful, Efficient, and Cost-Effective. It’s got all the power you need to cut through tall grass without slowing down—yet it intelligently blends engine and battery use to cut fuel consumption in half,” explained Mike McCoy, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “You can mow all day without refueling, maintain full performance, reduce emissions and maintenance, and do it all at a fraction of the cost of a fully electric machine.
McCoy noted the system can deliver 40 hp to the deck, so the blade speed remains constant regardless of the deck load, “which results in the best cut of any machine on the market.”
Unlike other hybrid systems that carry a separate generator for the sole purpose of charging a battery in an attempt to extend run time, the Smartec Hybrid ZT Commercial system requires no such extra expensive components. It relies on the patented 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.
With three operating modes—EV, Hybrid, and Power—operators can choose the setting that best fits the job at hand. And if you forget to plug it in overnight, no problem, just start the day in Hybrid or Power Mode and the system will charge the battery as you 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,” explained Scott Wilmoth, Marketing Manager.
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 products 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 consistently meet our customers’ rigorous requirements and exceed their expectations.
