GIE+EXPO Is This Week, and Here Are the Hot New Products at the Nation’s Biggest Green Industry Show
Just like its green industry attendees, GIE+EXPO continues to find ways to make things grow. With the combination of new Wednesday hours, ever-evolving educational tracks, increased exhibitors and awesome entertainment, the biggest lawn and landscape show in America is shaping up to maybe be even bigger than the last three record-setting years. The annual trade show, held in Louisville, is set for October 17-19 at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Online registration is available at gie-expo.com. Attendees can expect to see more new products than ever as the number of new exhibitors at GIE+EXPO and the co-located Hardscape North America increases each year. In addition, the Outdoor Demonstration Area, which offers the opportunity to test new products from both shows, is expected to meet or exceed last years’ record-breaking 20 acres.
As a result of the show’s continued growth, a new format will be implemented, allowing contractors an extra day on the show floor. Following an earlier dealer preview on Wednesday, the indoor exhibits will open for the entire industry from 3 to 7 p.m., including a welcome reception on the show floor beginning at 5 p.m. The indoor exhibits and Outdoor Demonstration Area will be open Thursday and Friday for all industry members.
Back by popular demand, the GIE+EXPO Workshops will feature 10 sessions to help landscape pros grow their businesses. This year’s lineup will include two hardscape sessions with insights and tips for contractors interested in tapping into that market. Other workshops, which are sponsored by the National Association of Landscape Professionals, include topics such as marketing strategies, safety programs, developing a new generation of professionals and more.
Not to be forgotten: GIE+EXPO boasts some of the best entertainment in trade shows. Attendees can enjoy three nights of free concerts at Fourth Street Live! in downtown Louisville: The Crashers (Oct. 16); Kelleigh Bannen and Colt Ford (Oct. 17); and Mackenzie Porter and Jana Kramer (Oct. 18). For a complete schedule, visit gie-expo.com.
John Deere SS30 Stump Shredder
Optimized for the new mid- and large-frame G-Series skid steers and compact track loaders, the new SS30 model Stump Shredder removes stumps from 8 to 28 in. in one pass. Larger stumps are easily removed with multiple bores. It’s low-speed, high-torque auger planetary drive shreds tree stumps with reduced incidence of high-speed flying debris when compared to conventional stump grinders, says John Deere. Despite its slower operating speeds, stump removal is also faster than conventional grinders. Site cleanup is easy thanks to the small, contained chip pile produced by the attachment. Operators can bore up to 20 in. into the ground to remove stump feeder roots. For more info, visit booth 1110.
ASV RT-25 Compact Track Loader
ASV Holdings Inc. recently introduced the new RT-25 Posi-Track compact track loader. Featuring similar dimensions as its more powerful cousin, the RT-40, the RT-25 serves as an economical alternative for contractors, rental centers and homeowners working in tight spaces in applications such as landscaping, construction and snow removal. Its size makes the loader the industry’s smallest sit-in track loader. The machine is safer and more productive than walk-behind and stand-on mini loaders. The RT-25 measures just 48 in. wide for performance in tight spaces and weighs 3,755 lbs for less damage on sensitive surfaces. It achieves productivity with a 25-hp Perkins diesel engine and 5.1 mph. For more info, visit indoor booth 10134.
New Holland Compact Excavators
With seven new models ranging from 1.7 to 6.0 metric tons, New Holland compact excavators are designed for power, productivity and precision. Advanced and standard auxiliary hydraulics offer a speedy, yet smooth operation while the hydraulic spools, located in the control valve, are engineered to provide more precise flow to each function with less effort. New Holland excavators offer versatility as operators can choose between zero, short or conventional tail swing models to suit the applications. Control levers are easily accessible, and the instrument display is positioned within the line of sight. All models provide a clear all-direction view, ergonomically-designed suspension seat and adjustable arm rests. For more info, visit booth 1054.
Bobcat R-Series Compact Excavators
The new R-Series compact excavators from Bobcat Co. feature a distinct design, helping boost operator productivity and comfort, as well as machine uptime protection. A new dual-flange track roller system has been added to provide up to 15 percent increase in over-the-side capacity for greater digging performance and slewing ability. Operators will also experience improved ride quality, high-quality finish and a redesigned cab for an improved operator experience. The Bobcat E32 and E35 in the popular 3- to 4-ton size class were the first R-Series excavators to launch. Bobcat is a global brand with more than 550 dealer locations in North America. For more info, visit booth 1088.
The Steiner 450 Tractor
The Steiner 450 tractor is the flagship all-season tractor from the legendary Steiner brand, delivering power and versatility. First, with its unique oscillating and articulating frame, it performs effectively when faced with tight turning or uneven terrain, keeping the operator upright and in control. And when it gets very uneven, the Steiner 450 stays stable, even on hills and steep slopes up to 30 degrees. The versatility comes in the form of 20 plus attachments designed specifically for the Steiner 450 tractor, including the new Flex Deck mowing attachment. The Quick-Hitch System makes it easier than ever to switch from one attachment to another in minutes and with no tools necessary. For more info, visit booth 3052.
Vermeer S925TX Mini Skid Steer
The Vermeer S925TX mini skid steer delivers lifting performance and the power to conquer demanding jobs. With a tip capacity of 2,643 lbs, a rated operating capacity of 925 lbs and maximum hinge pin height reach of 84.5 in., the radial-lift path of the Vermeer S925TX makes easy work of lifting and dumping heavy loads. It also features a dual auxiliary system which allows the operator to switch between high flow for ground-engaging attachments and low flow for maximum control. Vermeer is a world leading manufacturer of agriculture, construction, surface mining, tree care, organic recycling and wood waste processing equipment. For more info, visit booth 7138.
Earthquake Power Earth Augers
GIE+EXPO attendees will want to take time to visit Earthquake to see the Earthquake Power Auger Package. It includes the E43 Earth Auger Powerhead combined with a heavy-duty 8-in. auger and Earthquake’s Flex Coil shock absorber. The centerpiece of the package is the E43 Earth Auger Powerhead. The E43’s ball bearing alloy gear transmission withstands the rigors of drilling into hard ground. Its large, block-style industrial air filter keeps dust and dirt out to protect the engine. The package includes Earthquake’s Flex Coil shock absorber, which makes the tough job of drilling easier on the user, as well as an 8-in. auger with a fishtail point and replaceable cutting blades. For more info, visit booth 4030.
Vanguard 200 Single Cylinder Engine
Vanguard introduces the first in a complete line of all-new single-cylinder horizontal shaft commercial gasoline engines built from the ground up based on customer input. The new line of engines includes an advanced version of TransportGuard, Vanguard’s single ignition and fuel shutoff designed to prevent oil dilution during transport and is backed by the support of 40,000 servicing dealers worldwide. The 6.5-gross hp Vanguard 200 was designed to address customer needs, such as improved starting, reduced maintenance, less noise and vibration and better service and support. All power levels are stated as gross horsepower at 3,600 rpm per SAE J1940. For more info, visit booth 7068.
Dig & Drive
Do Both at Kubota’s 5084 Booth at GIE+EXPO
Kubota U27-4 Compact Excavator
Kubota’s new U27-4 features adjustable auxiliary flow hydraulics, an auxiliary diverter valve, two-speed automatic downshift travel, as well as best-in-class reach and dig depth, says Kubota. The well-balanced arm and bucket design allows the operator to dig faster, deeper and more efficiently even in the toughest conditions. Engineered to prioritize productivity, the U27-4 boasts a working range (including reach and digging depth) that are best in class and a bucket digging force of 7,014 lbs, according to the company. Operators will enjoy a spacious cab with a wider entrance, greater leg room, more floor space and new user-friendly front meter panel. An enclosed cab option with heat only is also available for the new U27-4.
Kubota RTV-X1120
The RTV-X1120 is Kubota Tractor Corp.’s most well-equipped utility vehicle offered at a value price point of $13,999 MSRP. Designed for the commercial customer and daily heavy-duty work, the Kubota RTV-X1120 combines Kubota quality with enhanced power, torque and performance at a never-before price point. Kubota-built and all-terrain proven, the 24.8-hp, three-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine has a well-earned reputation for providing extra acceleration. The engine and VHT-X transmission provide a top speed of 29 mph. The RTV-X1120 features adjustable ergonomically designed 60:40 split bench seats, digital dashboard display, power steering and more.
