In this article, we are going to shed light on an important topic that affects both our environment and our wallet: the cost comparison between electric and fuel-powered lawnmowers.
As Vector Machines, we strive to be a leading provider of sustainable lawn care solutions. It is therefore our responsibility to adopt environmentally friendly practices that not only improve our environment, but also provide tangible benefits in terms of cost savings.
Electric or hybrid
Electrically powered machines can no longer be ignored in the green sector. Manufacturers often choose to convert an existing fuel machine to electric, for example by simply replacing the fuel engine with an electric drive unit, which then supplies the existing hydraulic drive with energy. In our opinion, that is not the right way. Firstly, a hydraulic pump and drive system quickly results in a loss of 20-30% of power. In addition, you leave many maintenance-sensitive components in the machine, which partly negates the real advantage of low maintenance costs.
For this reason we have our Vector Autonomous Tool Carrier electrically designed from the drawing board, with the entire drive line of the machine and the attached tools consisting of electric motors.
Vector WD2.0 autonomous implement carrier with mowing function
We take the opportunity to take a short trip to the Vector we developed. This has been specially developed for green managers of complex areas.
Embrace efficiency with autonomous precision:
Say goodbye to manual labor and welcome a new era of efficiency. Our autonomous tool carrier performs monotonous and time-consuming mowing tasks with incredible precision. Powered by advanced technology and equipped with intelligent sensors, it effortlessly navigates complex terrain, adapts to changing conditions and ensures uniform mowing patterns.
Improve productivity and cost-effectiveness:
We understand the importance of maximizing productivity and minimizing costs. With our autonomous tool carrier you achieve both: by streamlining operations and reducing manual labour. The carrier's optimized energy consumption and precise cutting capabilities minimize waste and contribute to significant cost savings over time.
Unleash the power of customization:
No two green spaces are the same, and that's where our autonomous tool carrier really shines. Tailored to meet the unique requirements of, for example, solar farms and orchards, it offers customizable features and attachments. From adjustable cutting heights to specialized mowing patterns, the user has full control over how the green areas are maintained.
Increase safety and reliability:
Safety is our top priority. Our autonomous tool carrier is designed with extensive safety features, including obstacle detection, emergency braking mechanisms and intelligent collision avoidance. So you can be confident that it will operate smoothly and safely in all environments, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the well-being of people, animals and the environment.
Embrace sustainability and environmental stewardship:
As green managers, we share a common goal: to preserve and protect our environment. Our autonomous tool carrier fits in perfectly with this objective. It works on clean energy, produces no emissions and reduces noise pollution.
Back to electrical control, which was taken into account right from the drawing board. In addition to a very efficient use of energy, the use of electric motors also has the advantage that maximum torque is immediately available on all components.
Electric lawn care more economical
Let's dive into the numbers and explore the financial benefits of electric lawnmowers compared to their fuel-powered counterparts:
- Insiderële cost:
Electric lawnmowers may have a slightly higher initial cost than their fuel-powered counterparts. However, the initial investment is quickly offset by long-term savings.
- Operating costs:
This is where electric mowers really shine! Electric mowers are significantly more efficient and require less energy to operate. While fuel-powered mowers charge ongoing costs for gasoline or diesel, electric mowers rely on electricity, which is often cheaper per unit of energy consumed. This translates into substantial savings in the long term.
In the current market, we see that fuel prices are falling again. Although electricity prices are also showing a downward trend, we increasingly hear the question whether it is still so interesting to work with electrical machines.
Two years ago we already made a comparison between a fuel and electrically powered mower, which were comparable in capacity. The conclusion was then that with a use of 400 hours per year, the savings quickly amount to € 1.650.
Savings in electrical maintenance with current energy prices
The average energy consumption of our Vector tool carrier with cutting deck is approximately 2,0 kW per hour. The cost of a kWh is currently (April 2023) € 0,45 (consumer price excluding VAT). The costs are then € 0,90 per hour.
A comparable fuel machine has a fuel consumption of 3,5 ltr/hour. The gasoline price April 2023 excl. VAT is € 1,45 / liter. Calculated this comes to € 5,08 / hour.
This means that the saving per hour is € 4,18. With a use of 400 hours per year, this still yields the same savings.
Our autonomous tool carrier with mowing deck is now widely used on solar parks. When you also apply smart routing there, for example through placing multiple docking stations on a solar park for autonomous lawn mowing, you will see that you can use electric lawn care even more efficiently.
- Maintenance and repairs:
Electric mowers have fewer moving parts compared to their fuel-powered counterparts, resulting in less maintenance and fewer potential repairs. This leads to extra cost savings in the long run.
- Longer life of electronic components
Directly in line with the (less) maintenance, the lifespan of electronic components is longer than the fuel-driven parts. This leads to
- Environmental impact:
Let's not forget the significant environmental benefits of electric mowers. They produce no emissions and thus contribute to cleaner air and a healthier ecosystem. By choosing electric, you actively participate in the fight against climate change. We wrote about it earlier autonomous implement carriers with a mowing deck: a positive contribution to the world.
At Vector Machines, we are at the forefront of developing innovative electric lawnmowers that combine superior performance with durability. Our commitment to producing high-quality, durable and cost-effective (autonomous) electric mowers has been praised by both our customers and industry experts.
Together we can make the difference. We can not only save money, but also contribute to building a greener and more sustainable future for future generations.