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Dealers attending GIE+EXPO voted on their favorite new products in five categories in the third annual Power Equipment Trade (PET) GIE+EXPO Dealers Choice Awards. Voting commenced on the show’s first two days, with the winners announced on Saturday, October 31st.

The Dealers Choice Awards honor innovation and new technology at GIE+EXPO in five product categories: wheeled, handheld, business service, powersports/recreation and  accessory/attachment. The 2009 PET GIE+EXPO Dealers Choice Awards winners are:

•  Accessory/Attachments—TecMate OptiMate Pro-S Battery Charger

•  Business Services—ARI Footsteps Lead Management Software

•  Handheld—Husqvarna 576XP AutoTune Chain Saw

•  Powersports/Recreation—Alum-Line Xtreme Pro Hauler

•  Wheeled—Husqvarna PZ Mower Series




Wheeled

Business Services

Handheld

Powersports/Recreation

Accessory & Attachment




ACCESSORY/ATTACHMENTS WINNER

TecMate OptiMate Pro-S Battery Charger

accatt_winnerThe Optimate shop charger initializes new, sealed and filler cap batteries in 1 hour and desulfates and recovers neglected batteries: simply decide between a new or used battery selection. Select new and battery receives the correct initialization charge within 1 hour. The used program allows optional selection between 2 sizes of battery, and the rest is automatically done for you. The high voltage and pulsing recovery mode is able to save a neglected sulfated 12V lead-acid battery, unable to accept charge from a standard charger. Battery power is optimized during bulk, absorption and cell balancing charge modes by the micro processor controlled AMP-MATIC program, an innovative feature that automatically ensures the battery receives optimal current every second, and then tests to verify charge retention. Automatic safety features include quick identification of a severely shorted battery, 12 hour maximum program for used batteries, and electronic reverse polarity protection. Wall mounts are integrated for easy and convenient wall placement, and there is a 115V–230V power input selection.

Visit tecmate.com

ACCESSORY/ATTACHMENTS FINALISTS

Cozy Cab Cooling Fan Kit

accatt_finalists_01Achieve total operator comfort with a Cozy Cab ROPS-mounted cooling fan kit from Custom Products. Fan provides air flow of up to 1105 CFM to keep operators cool, plus keeps dust and bugs away, too. The Cozy Cab Cooling Fan Kit mounts directly to your ROPS and features an adjustable mount to accommodate +/- 20° ROPS angles. A wire harness with fuse and universal mounting kit is included. The kit installs in minutes and fits below sunshade options.

Call 320-693-4813; visit 800cabline.com

Fuel Chief Portable Fuel Storage, Handling

accatt_finalists_02Fuel Chief Portable Fuel Storage and Handling products are available in “poly” models ranging from 14 to 26 gallons. The need for safe, effective and portable fuel storage to meet the requirements of a myriad of applications and industries has never been greater, and Fuel Chief meets those needs.

Visit johndow.com

Delta Systems Slope Indicator Module

accatt_finalists_03Delta’s new, patent-pending slope indicator module warns vehicle operators when they travel onto slopes steeper than 15°. The module continuously measures the steepest angle, or fall line, independent of the direction the vehicle is traveling. General purpose outputs activate visual or audible alarms when the slope limit is exceeded. The sealed module is designed for reliability in rough terrain or high vibration/shock conditions.

Call 330-626-2811; visit deltasystemsinc.com

Snow-Way Mega Blade Revolution

accatt_finalists_04The Sno-Way Mega Blade Revolution plow is designed to move more snow than anything in its class. You will move so much snow that you will want at least a 1 ton truck  and larger. We measured our competitor “wing” plows at around 2.4 cubic yards of snow-moving capacity. Then we pulled the Revolution onto the test track with the optional 9” scoop wings and moved 8.1 cubic yards of snow: nearly 4 times the competition. The Sno-Way fits 1-ton to Class V trucks.

Call 262-673-7200; visit snoway.com


Business Services Winner

ARI Footsteps Lead Management Software

bus_winnerWith a proven track record in the marine and RV industry since 2001, ARI Network Services’ Footsteps helps dealers create efficient sales processes to better follow up with leads and customers. Since inception, over 6,000 users have adopted Footsteps and have increased sales and customer loyalty as a result. Key benefits include: automatic lead assignment to salespeople based on make, category, source, lead type, length and more; e-mail notification of un-replied leads to managers to ensure quick and proper follow up; auto responders and scheduled e-mails provide automatic communication triggered by lead type with the ability to select any time frame; leads from WebsiteSmart Pro automatically populate into footsteps to save time and money on data entry; and much more.

Visit arinet.com


Business Services Finalists

c-Systems ‘Customer Connect’ Software

bus_finalists_01As more people turn to the internet to research products and conduct business, information availability is increasingly important to customers. Now dealerships can offer their customers a link to their business system software, adding new depth to their experience. c-Systems Software’s new “Customer Connect” can allow customers to securely log onto their business system and review account information and more.

Call 800-334-3114; e-mail: sales@csystemssoftware.com

InvenTrakk Business Management System

bus_finalists_02InvenTrakk is a leading business management system for power equipment dealerships. Today, InvenTrakk is ran by hundreds of dealerships across North America to manage all major areas of their business from point of sale transactions and repairs to major unit management, inventory, purchasing, receiving, financial reporting and more. The newest version of InvenTrakk supports 11 InvenTrakk add-on systems, making InvenTrakk expansive and flexible. These add-ons offer a wide range of functionality, ranging from wireless handheld inventory auditing devices and QuickBooks exporting to scheduling, credit card processing and integration with all major electronic part lookup suppliers.

Visit paulsonsoft.com

QXpress Online Scheduling Software

bus_finalists_03QXpress Online, a customizable, web-based version of QXpress Scheduling Software, is now available. QXpress Online is a solution for every field service company using QuickBooks, and is the first and only web-based field service app to sync with QuickBooks in real-time. QXpress Online is ideal for field service companies that require a business management system that can grow with their company. QXpress Online is completely customizable, so it can continuously adapt as the company’s needs change. The user can create screens, tables, fields, forms, buttons and entire business processes, or just alter one of the existing screens to add a personal touch. This is a first for small business software. Best of all, customizations are made using drag and drop wizards—no coding.

In addition to customization abilities, QXpress Online makes it possible for users to access their QXpress Online and QuickBooks data from anywhere with an internet connection. Using patent-pending real-time sync technology, QXpress Online offers the same great integration with QuickBooks offered in desktop versions of QXpress. The only difference is that now the synchronization occurs over the web—technology that is the very first of its kind.

Visit qxpress.com/qxpressonline.aspx


Handheld Winner

Husqvarna 576XP AutoTune Chain Saw

hand_winnerHusqvarna, the global leader in outdoor powered products, is introducing the 576XP AutoTune chain saw. Coupled with a fuel-efficient X-Torq engine, the AutoTune feature guarantees that the saw consistently exhibits optimal performance with good acceleration and allows maximum operating speed. AutoTune is an intuitive new feature added to a popular saw for the professional user. The saw’s self-adjusting carburetor compensates for differences in altitude, temperature, and variations in fuel composition due to seasonality. When the chain saw engine has been running for 2 to 3 minutes, the optimal settings are saved in AutoTune. Each time the chain saw is started, these optimal settings are employed upon starting the engine.

Visit husqvarna.com


Handheld Finalists

Kawasaki ‘Prosumer’ Trimmer

hand_finalist_01The new Kawasaki Prosumer String Trimmer is powered by Kawasaki’s commercial grade TJ207E engine and features a flex cable drive shaft and a 3 bearing residential gearhead. This unit is lightweight (11.4 lbs) with low noise, low vibration and an easy to start recoil. The engine uses new air/fuel technology, which uses 25% less fuel than previous engine models. The Prosumer Trimmer is EPA and CARB Tier III approved.

Visit kawasaki.com

Stihl MS 230 C-BE Duro Chain Saw


hand_finalist_02The new MS 230 C-BE Duro is the first Stihl chain saw to feature Stihl Picco Duro saw chain. With its carbide-tipped cutters, this chain extends the edge life of the cutter up to 4 times, quite possibly making it the last chain your customers may need to buy. The MS 230 C-BE Duro also comes standard with Stihl designed features. These features streamline customer maintenance and improve ease of use. New Stihl Picco Duro carbide-tipped saw chain stays sharp longer and requires less sharpening.

Visit stihl.com

Tanaka TCG25EUS 4-stroke Trimmer

hand_finalist_03The Tanaka TCG25EUS 4-stroke grass trimmer features 25cc, 1.1 HP Tanaka Commercial Grade 4-stroke Engine; weight of 11.7 lbs. (without cutting head); hollow steel drive shaft; heavy-duty anti-vibration system; and 5” semi-automatic trimmer head.

Visit tanakapowerequipment.com

WORX Electric Trimmer/Edger

hand_finalist_04The WORX Grass Trimmer with lithium, #WG151.5, weighs only 5.3 lbs. This auto-feed trimmer cuts a 10” diameter swath and its telescoping shaft adjusts to the user’s height. The cutting head adjusts 90° for varied terrain and managing those hard-to-reach areas. This 2-in-1 workhorse is great for trimming around trees, shrubs, fences, decks and patios.

Visit worxyardtools.com


Powersports/Recreation Winner

Alum-Line Xtreme Pro Hauler

powrec_winnerAlum-Line introduces the latest addition to its truck body line up, the new Xtreme body, specifically designed for individuals who want the classy look of a hauler body with lots of added storage space in the side packs. The low profile design enables the customer to pull fifth-wheel trailers and haul other cargo in the bed area. The entire body is heavy gauge aluminum construction. Its quality built design will give the user many years of worry-free use. Models are available to fit any make or model of truck up to 26,000 lb. GVW. Other standard features include louvers and lights in the bulkhead, louvered tailgate, rear step bumper and all stainless steel hardware. The body can be painted to match any color. All bodies meet NTEA quality and safety standards.

Visit alumline.com


Powersports/Recreation Finalists

George Mills and Son ATV Parts

powrec_finalist_01ATV parts, featuring  new Motormaster u-joints for Kubota  RTV900 utility vehicles.

Visit georgemillsandson.com

Gravely Treker UV


powrec_finalist_02Ariens Co. introduces the new Gravely Treker UV, an all-around vehicle to assist with hauling, moving and dumping. The Gravely Treker is added to a full line of Gravely landscape machinery and is also available through the Gravely Turf product distribution network. The Gravely Treker offers standard equipment typically not found on most UVs. Without leaving their seat, operators can push a button on the standard electric bed lift and the actuator elevates the bed to deposit payload where needed. Also standard is the front brush guard, which provides added durability and offers protection against front impact damage to the vehicle. Additional features include a 4-wheel independent suspension integrated to deliver a comfortable ride, and an auto-lock rear differential which works when the rear tires slip. The differential takes hold of both wheels so they rotate together at different rates for effortless turning. Operated with a Honda 2-cylinder, 20 HP, OHV engine, the Treker is designed to transport up to 3 passengers and 900 lbs. in its 15.9 cu. ft. dumping cargo bed for a total payload capacity of 1,300 lbs. Gravely Treker’s 9.5″ ground clearance enhances maneuverability. Optional accessories and attachments include: 2″ hitch (less ball); 60″ blade; back screen; back-up alarm kit; back-up light kit; bed liner mat; boot guards; canopy; dual mirror kit (hard cab); fan (hard cab); front bumper; front rack; grab light; gun rack; headrest (for use with backscreen); hour meter; lift motor for blade; mud flaps; seat belt kit; semi-soft cab; skid plate; soft-cab; tire chains; turf tires; winch kit and a windshield.

Visit gravely.com


Wheeled Winner

Husqvarna PZ Mower Series

wheel_winnerThe PZ Series, available at Husqvarna retailers consists of 5 models with Kohler and Kawasaki engines, ranging from 54″ to 72″, including a 60″ LPG (propane)

model. Focal areas for the design and engineering team included 5 components that commercial landscapers consider paramount to operating a successful business and productive and profitable crews: productivity, best quality cut, durability, comfort, and simplified serviceability.

Visit husqvarna.com


Wheeled Finalists

Cub Cadet Commercial Tank S D

wheel_finalist_01The new Tank S D and Tank S LP not only include best-in-class features like Synchro Steer technology, an easy-to-use steering wheel and dual foot pedal controls, but also offer consumers a diesel and liquid propane powered unit for increased fuel efficiency. Both alternative fuel options offer users increased fuel economy, extended engine life and lower fuel costs.

The Tank S D utilizes a clean and efficient, 32 HP Yanmar diesel engine. For improved comfort, the new Tank S D’s engine also reduces vibration and noise emissions thanks to its robust design.

Visit cubcadet.com

Dixie Chopper Xcaliber Eco-Eagle

wheel_finalist_02The next great Dixie Chopper innovation is the world’s first compressed natural gas (CNG) lawn mower, the Xcaliber Eco-Eagle. Powered by a 990cc Generac engine, the Eco-Eagle comes with a 66″ cutting deck, assuring the unrivaled Xcaliber quality of cut. The new Eco-Eagle embodies the Xcaliber experience with the same features that make the Xcaliber series Dixie Chopper’s most powerful and rugged. Natural gas is a cleaner burning fuel and many cities and towns are changing over their fleets of vehicles and machines to run on this fuel.

Visit dixiechopper.com

Hustler Commercial Z-Rider

wheel_finalist_03The Hustler Z4 is the industry’s most compact commercial duty Z-rider. The Z4 is available in: 48″ deck, 23 HP Kawasaki engine; 54″ deck, 25 HP Kawasaki engine; 60″ deck, 27 HP Kawasaki engine. All are commercial V-twin engines. A full line of accessories is available. Other features include: welded steel deck; toughest frame, front forks, and deck in the industry; heavy-duty remote air cleaner for increased engine protection; heavy-duty 7-gauge full-height rear bumper, to protect the engine and exhaust and retain ease of maintenance; SmoothTrak steering with patented automatic park brake system; “drive straight” adjustment; and limited lifetime warranty on the leading edge of the deck and tractor frame.

Visit hustlerturf.com

Ferris Evolution Mower

wheel_finalist_04The Ferris Evolution mower is a new compact zero-turn mower in a category all its own. Featuring patent-pending operator forward design and suspended operator platform, this mower places the operator in the most ideal ergonomic position for mowing. With its overall compact low stance, the Ferris Evolution provides the operator with excellent visibility and allows for mowing in tight places or highly landscaped areas. The footprint of the Evolution is smaller than a commercial walk-behind of similar deck width. Available in 36″, 48″ and 52″ cutting widths, a hand-operated deck lift provides the operator with variable cutting heights from 1.5″ to 4.5″.

Visit mowingevolution.com

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