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Baker Vehicle Systems Donates Electric Mower to Kent State
Posted Sept. 12, 2011
The Grounds Department’s new Zeon
zero-turn lawn mower saves on both
emissions and fuel cost.
The newest addition to Kent State University's lineup of lawn care equipment is as green as the grass it will mow. The Grounds Department’s new Zeon zero-turn lawn mower uses 100 percent electric power to cut grass, making it a green option for environment and budget alike, as it saves on both emissions and fuel cost.
The Zeon was donated to Kent State by Baker Vehicle Systems of Macedonia, Ohio, after the university’s sustainability initiative caught the attention of several employees at Hustler Turf Equipment, manufacturer of the Zeon.
The firm is working with nonprofit organizations around the country to get the word out about the all-electric mower, focusing on organizations with developed sustainability programs.
“Kent State stood out as an institution with a real commitment to sustainability as well as a history of technological innovation," says Terry Schoen, Ohio Territory Manager for Hustler Turf Equipment. “We wanted to recognize and promote these qualities in a way that would have a positive impact both now and in the future.”
The company says the Zeon mower differs from other electric lawn care products because of its commercial-style design, a patented zero turning system and a wide 42-inch cut.
“The Zeon mower has a number of major advantages,” says Schoen. “Obviously, it’s better for the environment. It’s lack of emissions mean fresher air on campus and a cleaner environment in the long term. But it also means significantly lower fuel costs, lower noise and it is about as low maintenance as you can get. No gas, no oil changes and no spark plugs.”
“Baker Vehicle Systems and Hustler Turf Equipment recognize that sustainability is a priority at Kent State,” says Darwin Friend, Fleet Services Superintendent for University Facilities Management. “I like the fact that it is not only cleaner for the environment overall, but it’s also much healthier for our operators.”
For more information on the Zeon mower, visit www.hustlerturf.com.