Honda recentlyannouncedthe development of the Honda Autonomous Work Mower (AWM), an all-electric mower designed to enhance worksite efficiency. The prototype represents the automotive company’s inaugural battery-powered zero-turn riding mower.
The Honda AWM’s debut follows a successful field test of a proof-of-concept version with an American landscape company.
The zero-emission mower features accurate location and obstacle detection technology. Users can operate the mower in autonomous (playback) or manual (teaching) modes. When used in teaching mode, the mower can record patterns and routes established by the operator and later replicate them autonomously.
According to Honda, the mower can store multiple customizable route maps for diverse work sites on a cloud server. Once an operator downloads a route map with a smartphone or tablet, the Honda AWM can begin autonomous mows according to that specific route.
Other features include omnidirectional sensing and a traction control system that maintains straight tracking on rough terrains and hills. The Honda AWM also automatically adjusts blade rotation to minimize power consumption and avoid grass clogging.
Honda stated that it plans to start a pilot program for the prototype next year. It is looking for businesses interested in participating to help evaluate the mower’s ability to perform in work settings.
Image Credit: Honda
