Engineering Technician

Does battery-powered equipment pay off? Understanding total cost of ownership before making the investment. Sep 24, 2026 It's no secret that battery-powered outdoor power equipment has vastly improved since its introduction into the green industry. So, why don't you see battery-powered equipment on every landscaping job yet? Before more landscapers readily adopt these machines across their fleets, they need to understand the return on investment. The key to evaluating battery-powered equipment is to look at how the costs of ownership shift over the life of the machine, viewing it as a long-term investment rather than just an upfront expense. Look beyond the purchase price. While businesses already budget for general maintenance and fuel costs, these ongoing operational burdens can be significantly offset by the long-term savings of electric power. By focusing on the total cost of ownership (TCO) over the product's lifetime, the perspective shifts from initial "sticker shock" or infrastructure needs toward the substantial operational ROI that battery-powered fleets provide. Online TCO calculators can help contractors estimate the potential operational ROI of investing in battery-powered equipment through variables specific to their business. Toro developed a Total Cost Calculator to help contractors estimate potential ROI. @AliFuat - stock.adobe.com * Current fuel and electricity costs * Equipment purchase prices (both gas and battery) * Financing term * Estimated annual operating hours * Annual maintenance costs for comparable gas equipment * Available rebates, incentives or tax credits Using those inputs, the calculator estimates the initial investment difference, projected annual operating savings, monthly savings and the estimated break-even point. Rather than focusing solely on the sticker price, contractors can see when lower fuel and maintenance costs begin offsetting the purchase price over time. Every operation is different, but having a data-driven estimate allows fleet managers to make purchasing decisions based on their own operating conditions. Plan your charging infrastructure. Charging infrastructure is another consideration when transitioning to battery-powered equipment, but it doesn't necessarily require a complete shop renovation. The most important consideration is balancing the electrical load across available circuits. Many commercial battery products can charge using electrical service already available in most facilities. Some options can charge using a standard 120-volt outlet rated for 15 or 20 amps, while larger equipment will require a dedicated 240-volt, 30-amp outlet with a neutral and ground wire for safe operation. Understanding these differences before purchasing equipment helps contractors anticipate any electrical upgrades that may be necessary. The most important consideration is balancing the electrical load across available circuits. Every circuit has a maximum capacity, so charging multiple machines on the same circuit without proper planning can overload breakers and prevent equipment from charging overnight. Check your electrical system. The Toro GrandStand Revolution can charge using a standard 120-volt outlet rated for 15 or 20 amps. The Z Master Revolution (pictured), will need a 240-volt, 30-amp outlet with a neutral and ground wire for safe operation.The Toro Company Before introducing battery-powered equipment to the fleet, landscape contractors should review their facility's electrical capacity by: * Identifying existing electrical loads throughout the shop. * Calculating the electrical demand of each charger. * Confirming sufficient capacity exists to charge equipment overnight. * Consulting a qualified electrician if additional circuits or service upgrades may be required. A quick review of your electrical service panel and a conversation with an electrician before purchasing equipment can help avoid unexpected installation costs and ensure your fleet is ready to work each morning. Beyond the financial benefits. The advantages of battery-powered equipment extend beyond operating costs. Battery-powered equipment reduces the fueling and routine engine maintenance associated with gas-powered equipment, helping crews spend more time on revenue-generating work. The right approach may not be a full fleet replacement but rather identifying where battery-powered equipment can deliver the greatest operational and financial benefits. Battery-powered equipment also operates significantly quieter than comparable gas models, making it easier to work in neighborhoods, municipalities, and commercial properties with strict noise ordinances. At the same time, zero engine exhaust emissions help contractors meet growing environmental requirements and position their businesses for customers seeking more sustainable landscaping practices. For many, the right approach may not be a full fleet replacement but rather identifying where battery-powered equipment can deliver the greatest operational and financial benefits. By evaluating TCO alongside facility charging requirements, contractors should be able to make more informed purchasing decisions based on long-term value - not just the initial purchase price. Stay in the Know Get industry news updates and product information to help you stay up to date. I accept that the data provided on this form will be processed, stored, and used in accordance with the terms set out in IRONMARKETS Privacy Policy. * By submitting your mobile number, you agree to receive text messages from IRONMARKETS regarding your subscriptions or other industry related information. You can opt-out anytime. Message & data rates may apply. View Mobile Terms. View Privacy Policy. Latest in Fleet Management

Toro Company appoints David Huml to board of directors in strategic leadership expansion. Home business Toro Company appoints David Huml to board of directors in strategic leadership expansion. The Toro Company has elected David Huml to its board of directors, adding seasoned executive leadership to the outdoor equipment manufacturer's governance structure. The appointment reinforces Toro's commitment to strategic oversight as the company navigates evolving market conditions in the professional and residential turf care equipment sectors. Huml brings extensive experience in manufacturing operations, strategic planning, and corporate leadership to the board position. His background in equipment manufacturing and distribution aligns with Toro's core business operations, which span professional grounds maintenance equipment, residential lawn and garden products, and irrigation systems. The company has not disclosed the effective date of the appointment or specific committee assignments for the new board member. The Bloomington, Minnesota-based manufacturer operates as a publicly traded corporation on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol TTC. With annual revenues exceeding three billion dollars, The Toro Company maintains significant market presence across commercial and residential outdoor equipment segments. The company's product portfolio includes zero-turn radius mowers, snow removal equipment, underground irrigation systems, and landscape contractor equipment. Board composition plays a critical role in corporate governance for publicly traded companies. Directors provide oversight of management decisions, strategic direction, and fiduciary responsibility to shareholders. The addition of executives with relevant industry experience strengthens governance capabilities and brings specialized knowledge to board deliberations. Toro's board expansion follows industry trends toward enhanced governance standards and diverse expertise among director candidates. Manufacturing companies face ongoing challenges including supply chain disruptions, raw material cost fluctuations, and shifting consumer demand patterns. Board members with operational experience provide valuable perspective on navigating these complexities while maintaining profitability and market position. The outdoor equipment industry has experienced significant growth in residential segments since 2020, driven by increased homeownership and property maintenance activity. Toro operates manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, and research facilities across North America, Europe, and Asia. The company employs approximately ten thousand people worldwide and maintains dealer networks serving professional contractors, golf courses, sports facilities, and residential customers. Product innovation and distribution efficiency remain key competitive factors in the equipment manufacturing sector. Corporate boards typically meet quarterly to review financial performance, strategic initiatives, risk management protocols, and executive compensation matters. Directors serve as independent oversight authorities ensuring management acts in shareholder interests while balancing stakeholder considerations including employees, customers, and community relationships. The average public company board includes nine to twelve directors with diverse backgrounds spanning finance, operations, technology, and industry-specific expertise. The outdoor power equipment market represents a sixty billion dollar global industry with steady growth projections. Professional landscape contractors, golf course operators, and municipal grounds departments constitute major customer segments for commercial-grade equipment. Residential consumers continue adopting premium lawn care products as property values and landscaping investments increase across suburban markets. Toro has maintained consistent dividend payments to shareholders while investing in product development and strategic acquisitions. The company's financial stability and market leadership position attract experienced executives to board service opportunities. Director compensation typically includes cash retainers, equity grants, and meeting fees structured to align director interests with long-term shareholder value creation. The appointment reflects standard corporate governance practices for publicly traded manufacturers seeking to maintain robust oversight structures. Board refreshment through new director additions ensures fresh perspectives while retaining institutional knowledge from longer-serving members. Shareholders benefit from governance structures that balance continuity with periodic renewal of board composition and expertise.

Toro Company has launched its first full-size, 24-inch Power Max HD two-stage snow blower, part of a four-model upgraded series that began shipping last autumn. The residential equipment features commercial-grade components including a 14-inch auger, heavy-duty frame, Never-Flat tyres and enhanced LED lighting in a compact format. The upgrade aims to bridge the gap between homeowner and professional-grade equipment, potentially strengthening Toro's position in snow and ice management. Alongside the launch, Toro raised its 2026 net sales growth guidance to 6.3-6.6%. Analysts project the company could reach $5.2 billion in revenue and $546.9 million in earnings by 2029, requiring 3.8% annual revenue growth. However, prolonged weak snowfall remains a key risk factor for the equipment manufacturer's performance.