How is the Swardman Electra operated?
Basic functions – drive and mowing
Electra is operated using just two levers – one for the drive and one for the cutting reel. The controls are sensitive and respond to the lever’s position. The more you squeeze the lever, the faster the mower goes. The reel rotates proportionally to the drive speed to maintain the correct number of cuts per meter. This means the 5-blade reel cuts 60 times per meter, the 6-blade reel cuts 72 times, and the 10-blade reel delivers a perfect 120 cuts per meter.
If the reel is started while stationary, it only spins at a reduced speed – 20% of the maximum power – for safety reasons. Full cutting speed is activated when the mower accelerates. The reel is engaged by pressing the “LOCK” button. Once pressed, the user has 1.5 seconds to activate the reel using the control lever. If the lever is not pressed within this timeframe, the reel will not spin – again, for safety.
Because Electra is energy-efficient and doesn’t like to waste power, it automatically enters standby mode after 60 seconds of inactivity.
Adjust the speed to your liking
The electric motors and control unit allow you to set the maximum driving speed – that is, the speed Electra reaches when the drive lever is fully pressed. Use the “+” button to increase the speed or “–” to decrease it. Each press changes the maximum speed by 0.3 km/h. The speed can be set anywhere between 0 and 5.6 km/h, so everyone can adjust it to their ideal pace.
The first reel mower with reverse gear
One of Electra’s unique features is its ability to reverse. Yes, Electra can move backward. Simply press and hold the “R” button (from “reverse”) to activate it. The reverse speed is fixed at a slow walking pace, and the mower will move backward as long as you hold the button. This unusual feature is especially useful for trimming along walls, hedges, pools, or other garden features – and for parking or maneuvering the mower in tight spaces like garages or sheds.
Advanced features
For experienced lawn enthusiasts, Electra offers a special regeneration mode. This allows the mower to move at a minimal speed while running the reel at maximum RPM – perfect for verticutting or thorough dethatching. Even in this mode, the speed can be adjusted as needed.
When extra weight is a benefit
The base model of Electra with a 45 cm cutting width and standard lead-acid battery weighs 53 kg. The 55 cm model weighs 59 kg. When equipped with double-capacity batteries, the weight increases by 5 kg. The most powerful battery version, labeled “Extra,” brings the Electra’s weight to 53 kg (45 cm model) or 59 kg (55 cm model).
Although Electra is slightly heavier than a petrol mower, its weight is evenly distributed between the front and rear rollers. This actually improves ground leveling and directional stability. Thanks to electronic controls, handling the mower is easier than with the petrol-powered Swardman Edwin – despite the added weight.
4-in-1 multifunctionality
Just like its older sibling Edwin, Electra features a 4-in-1 interchangeable cartridge system. In less than 2 minutes, the mower can be transformed into a verticutter, scarifier, or rotary brush for topdressing. This makes it a versatile machine that provides complete lawn care and saves you a lot of money on gardening services – all while giving your lawn the premium care it deserves.
