For the average South African man, battery-powered equipment might equate to alcohol-free beer; weak and expensive! But that myth’s been busted – to the applause of women, especially those in farming.
“There is so much evidence to validate the current move to battery power, particularly in agriculture, and especially for women,” explains Jenna Robinson, Go to Market Manager for Husqvarna.
Robinson says that whilst there is a massive range of battery-powered equipment on the market, there are three products (chainsaws, brush-cutters and pole saws) that are particularly helpful for farmers, and more specifically women farmers.
“Traditionally, most of this equipment has been operated by men but, with the advent of new technology, women are now also able to productively manage these tools as well. Right from starting the machine (no more arm-breaking pull-cords) to lifting it and using it effectively.”
Robinson offers seven reasons why she believes battery-powered equipment is better for all farmers:
- Lighter and simpler: The weight and complexity of petrol-powered tools has meant that very few women have been able to operate them. But, the introduction of battery-powered versions has changed all that; they are up to 40% lighter and easier to use. Plus, with the current trend of diversified farming, being able to use labour across multiple tasks is invaluable.
- Lower operating costs: When comparing a new purchase of a petrol- and battery-powered machine, the initial outlay is more on battery-powered equipment, but the savings in operating the battery-powered version means you’ll make the money back in approximately six months.
- Less theft: The value of fuel seems to increase daily and that only makes the age-old issue of it being stolen more acute. With battery power, that concern is cancelled. Besides the fuel, there’s also less incentive to steal the equipment itself as it is pretty useless without the charger, which can always be kept apart from the machine.
- Fewer repairs: Petrol machines require a special mix of two-stroke oil with the petrol. Forgetting this oil or getting the ratio wrong will result in engine damage and repair bills. This limits who you can trust to refuel your machines. This does not apply to changing batteries!
- Increase productivity: Simple ergonomics; by using lighter machines that vibrate less you reduce fatigue and operators can work better, for longer.
- Environmentally friendly: Battery machines don’t run on fossil fuels or emit fumes like petrol-powered equipment. They’re also quieter, which means less hearing damage for consistent users.
- Cleaner: If you’ve ever witnessed the refuelling of petrol equipment, you’ll know how much petrol gets sloshed around. Batteries are so much cleaner!
“It’s the same with any new technology; first we baulk at it, then we’re weary of it, finally – we wonder how we ever lived without it! Early adopters of battery-powered equipment are already reaping the benefits and singing it’s praises. Join them; you won’t regret it!” Robinson concludes.
For more information, visit www.husqvarna.com/za/
