Benassi shows new L300E prototype electric turf cutter

Benassi L300E electric turf cutter (Photo: Briggs & Stratton)

Benassi, an Italian manufacturer of agricultural and gardening equipment, has unveiled a prototype of the L300E electric turf cutter.

The preview was described as representing a ‘significant step towards standardisation and sustainability in the rental industry’.

The L300E is powered by Briggs & Stratton’s Vanguard 48 V 1.5 kWh swappable commercial battery pack (Si1.5), which offers an environmentally friendly alternative to petrol-powered equipment.

Benassi and Briggs & Stratton have worked to develop and produce various petrol-powered models. But it was customer demand which prompted the partners to use electric power.

The L300E prototype showcases the capability of Benassi to integrate the latest power solutions, while also addressing standardisation, sustainability and cost efficiency.

In addition, the machine is said to be able to manage difficult turf-cutting jobs, which makes it suited to commercial use. It offers a compact design, with features including a height-adjustable handlebar, adjustable working depth settings and anti-vibration technology.

Battery technology also helps to reduce noise levels produced by the turf cutter.

“The future of energy transition in equipment lies in battery technology,” said Roberto Tassinari, president of Benassi. “The expansion of our long-standing partnership with Briggs & Stratton to leverage Vanguard’s cutting-edge lithium-ion technology has enabled us to bring a solution that not only meets the needs of the rental market but also supports a sustainable future.”

The turf cutter will be particularly suited to companies already using Vanguard-powered equipment; the standardised battery packs can be shared across all tools. This should help rental companies reduce the quantity of individual batteries they need to carry, boosting operation efficiency.

Ladislav Poledna, New Business Development manager at Briggs & Stratton/Vanguard, added: “Our mission as power agnostics is to provide the tools and technology that get the job done, while promoting sustainability and affordability. The rental market needs durable, environmentally friendly and standardised solutions, and we believe our battery power solutions are at the forefront of that transformation.”

No details were provided as to when the L300R turf cutter could be made available.