Husqvarna has expanded its autonomous mowing offer for golf courses with the launch of a new ‘First Cut’ function for its CEORA and Automower 580L EPOS models, giving clubs a new way to maintain transition areas between fairway and rough using existing robotic systems.
The new functionality enables courses to create and manage first cut areas as part of their existing autonomous mowing setup, removing the need for additional dedicated machinery.
Traditionally, maintaining a first cut has required investment in specialist equipment, adding further cost on top of increased time and resource. The free software update can be incorporated into an existing robotic mowing programme and is designed to help golf courses improve presentation, playability and course definition while keeping day-to-day maintenance operations more efficient, without additional operational cost.
“First cut has been a regular request from golf course managers as clubs look to get more from autonomous mowing technology,” said Andrew Lees, Global Segment Manager – Professional Robotics at Husqvarna. “This update gives courses the ability to improve the visual definition and playability of key areas whilst freeing up machinery and resources for other tasks.”
The feature allows users to define a first cut area within Husqvarna Fleet Services, the company’s digital platform for managing connected equipment. By copying and expanding an existing fairway, the system automatically creates a transition zone, which can then be adjusted to account for features such as bunkers or changes in hole layout. Each first cut area can be set with its own cutting height and mowing schedule while remaining fully integrated within the wider mowing setup.
The functionality is compatible with all CEORA and Automower 580L EPOS units. As a free software update, it requires no additional hardware, making it a straightforward addition for existing customers.
The launch comes as many courses prepare for the busiest part of the maintenance calendar, when turf growth accelerates and pressure increases to present courses in peak condition for the season ahead. By extending the role of autonomous mowing beyond fairways and rough, Husqvarna is continuing to develop its golf course offering in response to practical customer demand and the wider need for more efficient, scalable maintenance solutions.
To learn more about Husqvarna’s Golf Course solutions visit https://www.husqvarna.com/uk/industries-and-solutions/golf-courses/