The Altoz Switch, and distributor G.C. Duke Equipment, snared the equipment innovation award at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show.
The Altoz Switch is the latest in a line of tracked zero-turn equipment that’s finding a fit in the rugged farm environment. It’s is a stand-on zero-till unit with multiple attachments. It can be a snow blower, barn cleaner and everything in between, and it handles rough terrain and tight spaces.
Sean Beane, a sales representative with G.C. Duke, said the machine is a unique fit for farms because of maneuverability in tight spots and its wide array of attachments.
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The Altoz line started its life in the commercial turf management and landscaping sector, but took its own path based on the observations of its Minnesota-based manufacturer.
“They kept seeing this niche market,” Beane said. “Anyone with a large zero-turn mower is always pushing the limits, to go somewhere and take large brush down where it’s not intended to go.”
The company added a track system, which allowed the machines to navigate more rugged terrain and turn on a dime, Beane said. That sparked interest from the agriculture sector.
“It’s because of the maneuverability in the stalls. Whether it’s the poultry sector or horse barns, it’s the maneuverability to get in and get around, whereas some of the other equipment is on wheeled units, and your turning radius is much greater.”
Beane said the attraction for farmers and other buyers is the efficiency the machine brings to operations, allowing faster and safer completion of jobs.
