As the professional landscaping industry transitions toward electrification and automation, manufacturers are defining their strategic bets. For Honda Power Equipment, the roadmap emphasizes a legacy of durable internal combustion engines while pragmatically navigating toward a battery-powered and increasingly automated future, with a steadfast focus on the commercial user.

The company acknowledges a significant market shift. “We were the leader in internal combustion engines in the world. We produced more than anybody else,” notes Barry Dlugasz, director of power equipment sales. Yet, regulatory and consumer pressures are driving change. “For us on the landscaping side of it, we are definitely dedicated to focusing on the commercial-grade landscaping products of the future,” Dlugasz states.

Honda observes a stark difference in adoption rates. “There’s a huge difference between residential adoption of battery and commercial adoption of it,” Dlugasz observed, noting the latter is in early stages. Demand is emerging, even in traditional markets like Texas, often due to local noise ordinances. Current hurdles remain significant for professionals. “Cost and runtime are probably the two biggest challenges to overcome,” Dlugasz says. David Horst, senior product planner, adds, “Also, weight: if you want to get the increased power and longer run time, then you, in turn, increase the battery’s weight.”

The company projects a measured timeline. “Battery technology today isn’t completely ready to dominate the market for now, in 15 years that could absolutely be a reality,” Dlugasz reflects. This pragmatic approach extends to product development, where reliability remains the core pitch. “I wouldn’t say we have a specific pitch. I would say that the reliability of our product always speaks for itself,” Dlugasz asserts, attributing loyalty to “60 years of reliability and minimal failure.”

Honda is also advancing on a second frontier: autonomy. Its upcoming ProZision autonomous mower directly targets industry labor shortages. “I’ve had landscapers come up and say, ‘I need 20 of these, just because I know they’re not going to call in sick,’” Dlugasz recounts. Furthermore, AI is accelerating R&D. “AI is going to be a really important part of our future,” Horst confirms, noting its current role in enhancing testing and development to ensure quality from launch.

Through the technological transition, Honda’s guiding principle remains consistent. “The commercial landscaper is our primary target,” states Horst. The bet is that regardless of the power source or operator, professionals will prioritize and pay for proven, uncompromising reliability.

Read the full article in the latest edition of Pro Landscaper USA.