What do you think of the Raven?

[Jack Straw]

I actually thought this was a pretty good idea for certain applications, ie homeowners with a little land.

http://m.youtube.com/#/watch?v=QO2TNIF6j6s&desktop_uri=/watch?v=QO2TNIF6j6s

I would want a slightly bigger 4 wheel drive model.

 

[FrankMA]

At a rumoured price tag of about $3K, I'd be a bit concerned about build quality and longevity. A quasi tractor and generator all rolled up into one package seems like a stretch but I guess time will tell.

 

[begreen]

Generator is only 120V this year. That's a shortcoming for sure. Sounds like they realize this and are planning a 240v version for 2014.

 

[heat seeker]

Meh.

 

[tbuff]

Pretty interesting idea. I think I'd be a little to rough on it, but is still give it a whirl.

 

[Badfish740]

Interesting idea, but it kind of looks like a toy. My dream is to build one of these:

I'd want to incorporate an onboard generator and air compressor.

 

[MasterMech]

Meh.

Pretty much my sentiments exactly.

I worry about parts/service availability with those too. Since it's exclusively sold @ Lowes, who is going to provide parts and service for the machine? Lowes? we know their track record with that.

If you want a mower that can haul, we call those garden tractors. Which BTW, can move waaaay more weight than the Raven ever will. I wonder how fuel efficiency is, I can't see it being superior to what's available now.

Deere put out a GT235E garden tractor about 10-12 years ago that had enough of an on-board generator built in that would run about 15 amps @ 120V IIRC. It never took off and the 120V system didn't take well to all the dirt and debris generated by mowing. I wouldn't want to subject the Raven's generator to that either.

I still think a small utility vehicle like the Gator CX will do everything the Raven will do (minus mowing) and do it better. Throw a small genny in the back, hook on a trailer and get to work. Mow with a dedicated mower. It's more $$ of course but I'm betting the whole system would last 2x or longer.