Hybrid mowers for Singapore club

16 June 2011

Warren Golf & Country Club in Singapore has upgraded to the new generation of hybrid greens mowers from Jacobsen, the Eclipse 322.

Superintendent Michael Cabel said: “One of the unique features of the Eclipse 322 is the complete absence of hydraulic oil, which means total elimination of hydraulic leaks on the greens which is the bane of any course manager. Additionally, with the frequency of clip control, we can ensure that all the greens are cut to the same immaculate standards. I also like the fact that the 13hp diesel engine is very much quieter than conventional ride-on greens mowers.”

Last year, the club replaced its ageing Jacobsen PGM22s with seven Eclipse 122F walking greens mowers; these walkers provided the proving ground for the technology which later transferred into the Eclipse 322 ride-ons.

Launched at the Golf Industry Show in San Diego in 2010, the Jacobsen Eclipse 322’s main systems on the mower are electrically driven using either diesel or gas engines powering a 48 volt generator or by storing the energy in batteries. Jacobsen says fuel savings, using the gas or diesel versions, are in the region of 50 per cent and in excess of 80 per cent when using the all-electric model.

Warren was founded by Brigadier Derek Warren in 1962 when he was the commanding officer of the 18th Signal Regiment of the British Army. It started with a four-hole golf course for the officers and quickly expanded to nine holes along with a driving range. The club has since evolved over the years and now has an 18-hole championship course.