Challenge

Golf courses in Europe, Asia, and North America rely on advanced equipment to maintain perfect greens and fairways for their members. But there have been few new advancements since 1968. Jacobsen, a Charlotte-based industry leader, wanted to transform the industry with a revolutionary mower. One that met the broad needs of users around the globe and set a new environmental sustainability standard with battery power rather than gas. The ergonomic design would need to accommodate the various sizes, shapes, and cultural backgrounds of operators around the world. And the aesthetic design must convey the exciting technology embodied in the product.

Solution

BOLTGROUP started with in-depth research, including human factors studies in the U.S., Asia, and Europe. Using those findings, the product design team developed a strategy for improving comfort, safety, and productivity for operators. BOLTGROUP created an ergonomic cab design—suitable for operators around the world—that wraps the operator for safety and adjusts for individual comfort. The cab design features easy to use, intuitive arm position controls that pivot for a quick emergency exit. A mower deck, molded with a non-slip surface and integrated fenders, provides a convenient step-in to the cab. Finally, the sculpted exterior styling enhances the Jacobsen brand by establishing a strong product design language, now applied to the Truckster utility vehicle and Jacobsen’s entire family of mowers.

Result

The Eclipse 322 is a resounding success and quickly became Jacobsen’s top selling product in the category. The new design provides increased safety, comfort, and performance for international users, and a strong aesthetic statement that enriches the Jacobsen brand.

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