Linamar (Epic, Solaris, Utopia) Solar Charged Brushless Motor Lawn Mower

We acquired our 19" mower from Linamar Consumer Products primarily because it had an optional solar charging station. Only when we had the product did we fully understand how great it is.

It does, as advertised, have cutting and self-propelling power of any gas-mower I have used.

I like the idea of the brushless type of motor which will require next to no maintenance. The manufacturer claims no maintenance, but never say never, right? :-)

We actually have put together a series of articles on our blog, Daily Home Renovation Tips, outlining in detail the mower and our experiences with it (including lots and lots of pictures). We are continuing to add a new article on different aspects of it throughout the spring.

What we don't care for is that the solar charging station does not come with a pair of 45 degree angle brackets upon which the solar panel can be placed. This causes the panel to be either flat horizontal or vertical. I haven't found a building supply store that has such brackets yet (to allow the solar panel to get the full exposure to the sun).

It recharges in 2 to 5 days per the manufacturer. Our's so far requires 5 days with the panel fully horizontal.

I would also be nice if the mulching blade was included in the cost, but then again not every one wants to mulch their grass so I can understand it being 'extra'.

Here's the link to the first article on our blog on this mower: http://dailyhomerenotips.com/2008/04/16/solar-power-lawn-mower-part-1-no-more-excuses/

It sells in Canada at 3 nation wide retailers, including Home Depot. In the USA it also is sold through Home Depot but only in the Seattle and Boston areas this year as a test market.

However, I don't understand the 'test market' part. It's a fabulous lawn mower that is the most environmentally friendly together with all of the bells and whistles that any gas-power mower provides.