General Transmissions launches first-ever variable-speed drives for electric walk-behind mowers at GIE+EXPO 2016

General Transmissions introduced the first variable-speed drives for battery-driven, consumer-grade walk-behind lawn mowers at GIE+EXPO 2016. The new drives enable electric mower makers to offer automatic speed adjustment controls on self-propelled machines, so users can mow at their own pace. General Transmissions unveiled two new models of the drives at the show.

The new models, marketed under the Element V Electric banner, make for a powerful way for manufacturers to upgrade their battery-powered mower lines and meet consumer expectations for added convenience and ease of handling. General Transmissions splits the power distribution duties for ground speed and blade speed between two different, independently controlled electric motors. The drive motor controls ground speed, and lets users change mowing speed steplessly and on the fly. The dedicated blade motor delivers optimum blade speed.

Both models feature dual output shafts with integrated differential effect, eliminating vulnerable, free-wheel systems for mower wheels.

Splitting the power duties between the two different motors also increases the overall operating efficiency and performance of the products, making more power available for mowing.

The new drives are available in two different power configurations. The ME 312 model is a 250-watt drive, and the ME 512 model is a 500-watt drive. Features common to both drives include dual automatic clutch, 0- to 470-rpm output speed capacity, and forward and reverse directional capabilities. The ME 312 can accommodate mower weight up to 30 kg, delivers 3 Nm of continuous torque, and is compatible with 36-volt power supplies. The more muscular ME 512 can handle up to 60 kg of mower weight, with 5 Nm of continuous torque. It also works with 36-volt, 56-volt and 72-volt power packs. Other voltage requirements can be addressed upon request as well.

Element V electric drives are virtually indestructible, maintenance free, exhaustively tested, and engineered to bring a high level of operating performance and user delight to the battery-powered lawnmower market.