Electric mowing has arrived at Hampden Park
Electric mowing has arrived at Hampden Park, Scotland’s national stadium, bringing everything Stephen Bache, Head Groundsman, could want from the next generation of turfcare technology.
It was a case of when not if this new way of mowing would arrive at Scotland’s national stadium in Glasgow, and as a long-term Toro machinery and irrigation customer, it’s no surprise the brand trusted to deliver the cutting-edge technology is Toro.
The Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 lithium-ion battery powered ride-on greensmower at Hampden Park.
Reducing emissions is a key part of almost all sustainability strategies and with the industry being encouraged to unite in a bid to reduce environmental impact, choosing battery-powered or hybrid machines is one small but significant step now that can result in a huge impact later.
The Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 lithium-ion battery powered ride-on greensmower is the quietest mower there is and there are no emissions, pollution, or hydraulic leaks. Stephen says: “We want to provide the best possible surface for our players in the most sustainable way, but also, we are keen to play our part in the collective effort to make a credible contribution to the sustainable future for the next generations of football players and fans.”
This latest machinery order sees us continue doing that as we welcome battery powered mowers to our stadium for the first time and that is quite a milestone.
It was simply the next logical step and I hope we pave the way for others by demonstrating the capabilities and benefits electric mowing brings to responsible pitch management.
Stephen Bache, Head Groundsman at Hampden Park, right, with the Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370, and Reesink’s new Branch Manager for Scotland Mike Turnbull.
Despite its new status at the stadium, the benefits are already being widely noticed, says Stephen: “I expected the quality of the cut from the eTriFlex to be outstanding and it is, but what stands out is just how convenient this method of mowing is.
“We’re an urban site southside of Glasgow with flats and houses neighbouring the stadium. Residents have been known to complain about mowing noise. The quietness of the eTriFlex almost takes you by surprise, a bit like an electric car when you don’t hear it coming up behind you, you genuinely can’t believe how quiet it is.”
Continuing with the benefits of noiseless mowing, Stephen can confirm how much easier it makes time management on match days: “There’s no rush with filming, interviews and broadcaster set up now, they can take as long as they need, and we work around them if need be.”
Next up, Stephen can alleviate infrastructure concerns: “It wasn’t a problem for us and unless you’re buying a fleet of them, I can’t imagine it would be for anyone else. They use a standard socket and charge overnight, it’s very straightforward.”
The eTriFlex 3370 is part of a wider order from Toro distributor Reesink Scotland that includes electric utility vehicles, pedestrian mowers, a sprayer and the ProStripe known for its famous sports pitch striping effect.
Stephen, centre right, with Mike, centre left, and some of the grounds team with the new Toro machines.
With Stephen’s term in post at Hampden Park stretching back to 2002, he’s overseen many changes to the famous turf and now he’s presiding over a new era of new technology and mowing practices, and one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.