From the floor of the GIE+Expo in Louisville, Ky., Kubota Tractor Corporation unveiled its newest addition to its ZD-Series with the introduction of the ZD1500. The ZD1500 includes three model options: a side-discharge 72-inch mower, a rear-discharge 72-inch mower and a rear-discharge 60-inch mower, all powered by a Tier 4-compliant Kubota diesel engine. The new ZD1500 mower is the most powerful of Kubota’s highly coveted ZD-Series, delivering high-volume cutting efficiency and professional performance for large turf acreages, from residential estate owners to schools and municipalities.

“The new ZD1500 is an exceptional mower that provides the horsepower needed to tackle the biggest jobs with ease and precision,” said Tom Vachal, Kubota senior turf product manager. “Built in the U.S. along with the rest of the ZD-Series, the ZD1500 is now our largest zero-turn mower on the market and it’s already earning the reputation as the ‘star’ of our zero-turn line.”

More Power, Exceptional Performance

The ZD1500 features a wide mower deck and a 30.8 horsepower Kubota diesel engine with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) for stand-out power; the Kubota diesel engine with DPF is Tier 4-compliant, a superior emissions standard attained by few in this mower class. Low profile tires reduce ground pressure by increasing tread contact area, while helping the ZD1500 efficiently navigate the toughest turf conditions, even on challenging slopes and hilly terrain.

Featuring Innovative Aerodynamic Cutting System

The entire ZD-Series features Kubota’s latest innovative Aerodynamic Cutting System. This state-of-the-art cutting system provides for smoother airflow and a more powerful blade rotation resulting in less clumping of clippings, better fuel efficiency and faster cutting performance. New patented clean-cut blades are designed to improve cutting efficiency and overall load balance. The hands-free hydraulic deck lift pedal system makes deck adjustment access easy with a quick response.

Engineered for Ease of Use and Operator Comfort

The ZD1500 continues the solid reputation of Kubota’s zero-turn line for superior usability and outstanding ergonomics. A custom air-ride suspension seat improves operator comfort while helping reduce potential fatigue on the job. A new large 3.5 -inch LCD panel, the largest in-class, makes it easier to monitor machine performance including an hour meter, engine oil and pressure gauge, water temperature gauge, fuel gauge and maintenance indicators. User-friendly ergonomically designed controls are grouped on the right side of the mower, keeping controls within easy reach. A new thicker platform mat will reduce noise and vibration during mowing, with a durable grip pattern for easily getting on and off in between jobs. A foldable ROPS conveniently folds for easy storing the mower at the end of the day.

All told, the new ZD1500 offers unsurpassed levels of comfort, convenience and performance while remaining true to the ZD Series’ no-nonsense, workhorse nature. The new ZD1500 will be available at Kubota dealerships beginning in December 2016.