Introducing the Next Generation: The NERA Automower Range

29 Sept

Why “NERA”? What’s New

The name “NERA” hints at a new era — and the technology certainly delivers.

1. Wire-Free (and Hybrid) Boundaries

One of the biggest breakthroughs: NERA supports wireless boundary control via the EPOS (Exact Positioning Operating System) satellite navigation system. That means no more laborious looping of perimeter wire around your garden (though traditional wire remains an option).

With EPOS, boundaries, “no-go zones,” and mowing areas can be defined virtually via the Automower Connect app.

2. EdgeCut: Cleaner Borders with Less Fuss

NERA’s EdgeCut feature puts a smaller dedicated blade disc toward the rear (or side, depending on model) to trim closer along edges, fences, and borders. This reduces the need for manual trimming along garden edges.

3. Systematic Mowing Modes

For the 2025 series, Husqvarna is upgrading performance with systematic mowing, letting the mower cut in strips or checkerboard patterns (instead of a purely random pattern). This can increase effective area coverage and deliver a tidier aesthetic.

4. Object Avoidance & Smart Sensing

Some NERA models, such as the 405XE, include radar / ultrasonic sensing to detect obstacles (toys, garden tools, etc.) and steer around them, reducing unwanted stops in operation.

5. Terrain Handling & Slopes

NERA mowers are built to tackle modest slopes. For instance, many models handle inclines up to ~30 %. For more aggressive terrain, the higher-end 435X AWD NERA version steps in with all-wheel drive and slope capacity up to ~70 %.

6. Remote Control & Connectivity

Built-in connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular depending on model) enables you to monitor, adjust schedules, set virtual zones, or pause mowing directly via the Automower Connect app.

What This Means for Homeowners & Landscapers

Here’s why the NERA line could be a gamechanger:

Simplified Installation & Flexibility
Without needing to bury wires, setup is faster and less disruptive — plus virtual zones can be updated later without rewiring.
Cleaner Aesthetics, Less Manual Trimming
With EdgeCut and virtual boundaries, there’s less need to edge by hand, saving time and maintaining a neater appearance.
Scalability & Adaptability
Whether you have a small suburban yard or challenging terrain, there’s a NERA model designed to adapt. As needs or layouts change, you can reconfigure zones virtually.
Smarter & More Efficient Mowing
Systematic patterns can increase area capacity, reduce redundant passes, and deliver more consistent outcomes.
Reducing Human Labor, Protecting the Lawn
The mower can operate continuously (weather permitting), keeping grass shorter and healthier, and reducing strain on you or your staff.
Advanced Obstacle Navigation
Especially useful in real-world lawns strewn with toys, garden tools or pet items — object detection helps reduce jams and interruptions.
Sustainable & Quiet
Electric and battery-powered, NERA mowers operate quietly and without the emissions of petrol mowers. Over time, the environmental and noise benefits can be significant.

Considerations & Challenges

While NERA is impressive, it’s not without constraints. Here are some important caveats and things to watch:

Cost Premium & Add‑ons: The base mower may require additional modules (EPOS kit, reference station) to unlock full wire-free functionality.
Satellite / Signal Dependency: For EPOS positioning to function reliably, strong signal reception is needed. Dense tree cover, metallic structures, or interference might degrade accuracy.
Complex Software & Updates: As the system becomes more advanced (pattern mowing, navigation, avoidance), firmware updates, calibrations, and occasional glitches might occur — especially early in a product’s lifecycle.
Slope & Terrain Limits: Only the AWD model is built for very steep terrain; most models can manage moderate inclines (≈ 30 %).
Coverage Limits: Each model is rated for a maximum working area. Choosing a model under‑spec’d for your lawn can lead to poor performance or missed zones.
Support & Service: As with any advanced tech, local support, parts, and firmware updates are critical. Ensure your region (e.g. Australia) will get full support for NERA models.

Looking Ahead & Final Thoughts

The NERA series marks a turning point in robotic lawn care. By removing the constraints of physical wiring and putting control directly in your hand (via the app), it gives homeowners and landscapers more flexibility, intelligence, and convenience than ever before.

If I were buying one, I’d evaluate:

My lawn’s size, slope, and complexity
My tolerance for paying extra (for modules, upgrades)
The importance of edge trimming and obstacle handling
Local availability and servicing

Let me know if you’d like me to convert this into a version tailored to your market (e.g. Australia), add images, or pitch it for homeowners vs pro landscapers.

Hayden O'Kane